James "Jim" Hamilton

James “Jim” Adam Hamilton, age 84, was called home to heaven on October 13, 2025. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, October 17, at First Lutheran Church in Le Sueur. Visitation and prayer service will begin at 9:00 am.

Jim was born on July 5, 1941, in Langdon, North Dakota, to Ken and Marian Hamilton, who raised him in a strong foundation of Christian faith. He graduated from Langdon High School before attending Lutheran Bible Institute where he met his first and great love, Dorothy “Dort” Richardson. Jim proudly served in the United States Navy, completing basic training in San Diego and serving as Corpsman at Portsmouth Naval Hospital in Virginia. After his military service, Jim returned to North Dakota and earned his business degree from North Dakota State University.

Jim and Dort were married in 1968 and together raised three children, Jason, Jenny and James, all of whom inherited Jim’s deep pride in his North Dakota roots.

In the 1980s, the family relocated to Minnesota, eventually making their home in Le Sueur. There, Jim and Dort found not only a church and a home, but also a lasting community and lifelong friendships.

In 2012, Jim experienced the profound loss of his beloved wife, Dort. A couple of years later, he found renewed companionship and love with Sheila Liljander, who brought him comfort, joy and a second chapter of partnership that deeply enriched his life.

Jim was a man of great heart. He was filled with love, laughter and an endless curiosity about the world and people around him. He shared his warmth with neighbors and his broader community through conversation and music. A devoted member of the church choir, Jim, along with Dort, lent his voice to countless weddings and services over the years. His lifelong love of Christian music was both a source of joy and a sustaining force in his faith, especially during life’s trials.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dorothy; his parents Adam “Ken” and Marian Hamilton, brother Robert “Bob” Hamilton; sister-in law Nancy Hamilton; and brother-in-law Donald “Don” Richardson.

He is survived by his children Jason (Amy) Hamilton, Jenny (Chris) Hamilton and James (Marybeth) Hamilton; his brother Eugene “Gene” Hamilton; brother-in-law William “Bill” Richardson and his devoted partner of 11 years, Sheila Liljander. Jim was a proud grandfather to Luka, Max and Stella Hamilton; Parker Willams and Xander Johnson and Haiden and Piper Hamilton. He is also lovingly remembered by the extended family Sheila generously shared with him.

Jim brought joy, laughter and warmth into the lives of everyone who knew him, and we remain grateful for the love he so freely gave.