James "Jim" Ledwein, age 83, of Annandale, died Monday, June 29, 2026, surrounded by family.

Memorial Services will be held 3 p.m. Monday, July 6, 2026, at Dingmann Funeral Care Chapel in Annandale with visitation one hour prior to the service.

James Jerome Ledwein was born on June 9, 1943, in Waverly, Minnesota to Franklin and Gladys (Jolicoeur) Ledwein. Jim was raised in Annandale, where he graduated from Annandale High School in 1962. During his high school years, he enjoyed playing on the basketball and football teams. On November 30, 1963, he was united in marriage to Jean Marie Jordan at St. Ignatius Catholic Church in Annandale. Together, they made their home in Annandale, where they raised their two children.

Jim carved out a life steeped in hard work and a love for the great outdoors. He worked for his father for several years at Frank's Bait Shop & Ledwein Wholesale Bait, before purchasing the business. In 1981, he sold the minnow business but continued selling other types of bait until 1993. During his time in the bait business, he turned his passion for fishing into a thriving business, fostering connections with fellow anglers and igniting their shared love for the water. Even after selling the bait shop, his enthusiasm for trapping minnows remained until the day he died.

After selling the bait shop, Jim explored various vocations, including carpentry, where he worked for Dick Tickner, and truck driving for Mid-Minnesota. He was a devoted volunteer of the Annandale Fire Department for over 20 years. In the late 1990's, Jim and Jean enjoyed spending the winter months down in Arizona.

Jim's spirit was intertwined with nature, reflecting his deep appreciation for fishing and hunting. Activities that allowed him to find peace and joy amidst the beauty of Minnesota's landscapes. He also took many fishing and hunting trips to Canada and Alaska. Jim was never one to turn down a card game, especially Texas Hold'em.

Jim is survived by his wife of 62 years, Jean of Annandale; daughter, Kim Smith of New Hope; son Matthew (Lucia) Ledwein of Annandale; 3 grandchildren, Jordan Smith, Tristan and James Ledwein; sister, Kathleen (Bob) Smith of Dassel; sisters-in-law, Joanne Ledwein and Janet Knutson; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his dad, Frank; mom, Gladys; step-mom, Harriet; brothers, Bill and Jack; sister, Pat Kittock; step-brothers, Jim and Donnie Knutson; and step-sister, Barb Wiegand.

Arrangements entrusted to Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Annandale.