James (Jim) Tersteeg, of Redwood Falls, Minnesota, died peacefully in his home surrounded by family, on Monday, January 12, 2026. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 pm on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church in Redwood Falls. Visitation will precede the service from 10:30 until 12:00 at the church. Lunch will be served following the service. Private burial will be held at a later date with family only. In lieu of flowers and given Jim’s love and service to this community, memorials received will be directed towards local Redwood Falls organizations. The Nelson-Hillestad Funeral and Cremation Services of Redwood Falls is handling the arrangements.
James (Jim) Paul Tersteeg was born in Redwood Falls, MN, on April 10, 1946, to parents Edward N. Tersteeg of Bird Island, MN, and Garnette E. Battershell of Pocahontas, IA. Jim lived his entire life in Redwood Falls, a city he loved dearly. He attended Redwood Falls High School, where his interests included wrestling, riding horses, and working on cars-passions that reflected both his strong work ethic and adventurous spirit. He graduated in 1964 and went on to attend Mankato State University until 1967, when he was called home to take over the family grocery store. He returned to town, was married in 1971 and settled into raising a family and working. Jim took great pride in continuing the legacy of the family’s independent grocery business, which had been established in 1936. Known to many for his kind smile, infectious laugh, and willingness to lend a hand, Jim could often be heard among the aisles of the store or in the back sharing coffee and conversation with good friends. When he wasn’t at the store, he was frequently seen supporting the community in countless meaningful ways. Jim dedicated decades of service to local boards and commissions, including Parks and Recreation, Public Utilities, and the Airport Commission. He was a proud member of the Redwood Falls Lions Club for more than 50 years and a longstanding supporter of the Redwood Valley Booster Club. He especially enjoyed his involvement with Celebrate Redwood Falls. His impact was widely felt and formally recognized with the Redwood Falls Chamber of Commerce Shining Star Award in 2016, and his induction into the Redwood Area School Board Hall of Fame in 2018 for his vast contributions, mentorship, and dedication to the community. After 45 years of service, including many years in leadership on the HomeTown Bank Board of Directors, Jim was recognized on December 12, 2024, for his commitment, contributions, visionary leadership, and years of service. Jim believed in-and taught his children-the value of “work hard, play hard,” a philosophy that guided his life and fueled the many passions he pursued. He developed a lifelong love of motorsports, whether it be on land, in water, or in the air. Flying became one of his greatest joys. He earned his pilot’s license at just 17 and pursued this passion into his 60s. He was especially proud of achieving his instrument and IFR ratings and took every opportunity to share the experience of flight with others. He cherished time outdoors, including trips out West with family and friends. He stayed physically active throughout his life. He earned his first-degree black belt at age 48, enjoyed decades of water-skiing and in recent years, was devoted to weekly boxing. Above all else, Jim’s greatest pride and most meaningful gift was his family. A devoted father and grandfather, he intentionally prioritized time with his children and grandchildren. He spent countless hours teaching, learning alongside, and cheering on his family, taking genuine interest in every activity his 17 grandchildren pursued. Some of his most treasured moments were spent together gathering at the family lake cabin he loved from childhood. The unwavering love Jim shared with his family will forever imprint our hearts, leaving a legacy of devotion and joy that will be cherished for generations.
Jim died on January 12, 2025 at home and surrounded by family. He is preceded in death by his parents and older brother Glenn E. Tersteeg. He is survived by his children, Heather (Scott) Bidinger, Lindsay (Andy) Juntunen, Kendra (Ryan) Rebstock and BJ (Sheila) Tersteeg. Beloved Grandpa to Boe, Aubrey, Cole, Sophia, Luke, Josephine and Olivia Bidinger; Blake, Alexa, Brynna and Cora Juntunen; Ireland, Brecken and Ryker Rebstock; Maddigan, Tessa and Rhylen Tersteeg. Jim’s laughter and smile lit up the room. His strong faith was evident in his acts of service. He was genuinely interested in learning about and caring for others, making each person feel special in his presence.
