James (Jim) Rudolph Biermaier Sr., age 87, of Hastings, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2025, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s and dementia. James was born on May 2, 1937, in Little Falls, MN, to Rudolph and Emma Biermaier. He grew up on a farm in Browerville, MN, and was a proud 1956 graduate of Browerville High School. He earned the nickname “The Toe” for his skill as a part-time kicker on the school’s 9-man football team.
In 1961, James married the love of his life, Shirley Farber. Together, they built a beautiful life and celebrated 64 years of marriage filled with adventure. After moving to the Twin Cities metro area, James worked for 10 years at Newport Cold Storage before beginning a 30-year career at the PV Mill in Hastings. He retired in May 1999 and enjoyed many years putzing around his (and other people’s) lawns, always finding creative ways to use zip ties and duct tape.
James and Shirley raised their family in Hastings, where they created a home full of Johnny Cash music and a deep affection for family. They shared a love for motorcycle rides, dancing their hearts out all over town, and trying their luck at local casinos.
James is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley; five children: Larry (Cheryl) Zigan, Lynn (Dave) Nelson, Brian (Heather) Biermaier, Phil (Julia) Biermaier, and Jim (Corie) Biermaier; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings: Janice Gonsior, Bob Biermaier, Ted (Evie) Biermaier, Delores (Larry) Irsfeld, Joyce (Richard) LaVoie, and Virginia (Greg) Zilka; and many cherished nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and family members: Jack (Doris) Biermaier, Jerry (Jane) Biermaier, Rosie (Joe) Iten, Judy Biermaier, Deloris Farber, Janice Farber, Wayne (Margaret) Farber, Doug Noska, Joe Gonsior, Jean Farber, and Julie Biermaier.
James will be remembered for his storytelling, dance moves, and ability to make a room laugh. His legacy lives on in the lives of those he touched and the memories they carry.
A special thank you to the Gondola Group Inc. and their nurses and staff who loved and cared for Jim over the past four years.
An Open House will be held May 20th from 4-7 p.m. with a Celebration of Life Service from 5:30-6 p.m. at The Studio Downtown, 205 2nd St E, Hastings, MN 55033.
