James Pederson

James Pederson, age 66, of Willmar, died Wednesday evening, April 13, at his home in Willmar.

Funeral services will be 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 20, at Peterson Brothers Funeral Home in Willmar with visitation one hour prior to the service. The interment will be 10 a.m. Thursday, April 21, at the Belview City Cemetery.

James Thomas Pederson was born March 4, 1950, at the Redwood Falls Hospital to Peter and Joan (Matson) Pederson. They lived on a farm near Echo and he was baptized on April 23, 1950 at Rock Valle Lutheran Church in Echo. They later moved to the family farm near Belview.

Jimmy stayed home until May 31, 1956 and was moved many places until finally moving to Lakeland II in 1994. Jimmy worked at Crossroads DT & H for many years and started at Sparks Industries in Clara City in 1991.

Jimmy had a love for tractors at an early age. He enjoyed van rides, picnics, Burger King, and stopping at the convenience store for a treat. Jimmy was always helpful to staff when it came to picking up lint on the floor, wiping off the table, closing doors, shutting drawers and he enjoyed hiding his clothes in odd places. Jimmy's favorite drink was coffee or pop. He kept staff on their toes by drinking their coffee or pop too. His favorite foods were ice cream at Dairy Queen, pudding, pie, and most of all pizza.

On Wednesday, April 13, Jimmy passed away at his home with his family of caregivers by his side. We will miss his infectious smile that he gave at all times. Blessed be his memory.

He is survived by his brothers and sisters: Gordon Pederson of Belview, Gail Pederson (and Deb Schroder) of Echo, Lu-Ann (and Dennis) Smith of Granite Falls, Kristine (and Kevin) Meier of Echo, Bonnie (and Jeff) Weiland of Redwood Falls; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his family of caregivers at his Lakeland II Home.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Peter and Joan Pederson; and an infant nephew, Cody.

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