James "Jim" Gillitzer, age 67, of Keystone Heights, Florida, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 17, 2026, following a long battle with cancer. He spent his final days in the compassionate care of Haven Hospice in Palatka, Florida.

Services are pending for 2027 in Annandale, Minnesota. Additional details will be announced once arrangements have been finalized.

James Michael Gillitzer was born on November 1, 1958, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Sylvin and Joyce (Aigner) Gillitzer. He grew up with his family on Bass Lake, where he developed a love for the water and waterskiing at an early age. Jim was an excellent waterskier and even enjoyed trying his hand at barefoot skiing.

Jim graduated from Annandale High School in 1976 and enlisted in the United States Army shortly thereafter. He proudly served his country for 18 years, including 10 years with the distinguished 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He attained the rank of Staff Sergeant during his military career. His years in the Army were an important part of his life and a source of great pride.

Following his military service, Jim made his home in several places, including Maryland and Florida. He returned to Minnesota for a few years before eventually moving back to Florida, where he spent his remaining years. In September 2022, Jim was united in marriage to Cathleen, and together they made their home in Keystone Heights.

Jim enjoyed life's simple pleasures. He loved fishing, playing cribbage, and working with his hands. He had a talent for woodworking and enjoyed building and creating things, including his greenhouse. He also had a longtime interest in collecting baseball cards. Whether he was working on a project, enjoying a day of fishing, golfing, or sitting down for a game of cards, Jim appreciated the things that brought him happiness and the time spent with family and friends.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Cathleen, of Keystone Heights, Florida; sons, Jason and Jesse Gillitzer; his stepsons, David Juchniewicz Jr. and Brandon Haines; his grandchildren; sister, Roxane (Neil) Busacker of Buffalo, Minnesota; and brothers, Mike (Jayne) Gillitzer of Olathe, Kansas, and Mark Gillitzer of South Haven, Minnesota. He is also survived by extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sylvin and Joyce Gillitzer, and his former wife, Linda, who passed away in May 2015.

Jim will be remembered for his proud service to his country, his love of family, and the many memories he leaves behind with those who knew and loved him.