Jim Kasper

James Andrew Kasper

March 26, 1947 - March 9, 2024

On Saturday, March 9, 2024, James “Jim” Kasper passed away peacefully at the age of 76. Preceded in death by his father, Andrew C. Kasper, mother Dorothy M. (Kane) Kasper, and brother Tom Kasper. Survived by his caring wife Liz of 43 years; daughter Tess (Brandon) Kasper, Clare (Robb) Buche; granddaughter Ava Buche; brothers Mick (Joann) Kasper, Pete (Sheila) Kasper, (Sharon) Kasper, Jack (Irene) Kasper, Will (Susan) Kasper; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Jim graduated from the College of Visual Arts (CVA) and shortly after was drafted into the US Army where he served honorably in Vietnam. He met Liz, a fellow graduate of CVA and they were married in 1981. Living in White Bear Lake, they raised two daughters, Tess and Clare while running their business, “Northern Design Group.”

Jim was a devoted husband, father and friend. He was a proud German whose unwavering determination and strong-willed nature left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Jim embodied the virtues of hard work, integrity, and loyalty throughout his life. He was a man of faith, a devout Catholic and a straight shooter. His family and friends were well aware of Jim’s unwavering core beliefs and opinions, yet his heart overflowed with love and generosity to everyone around him, even those who may have disagreed. He was always a gracious host. At gatherings and dinner parties, and even if you showed up unannounced, he would greet you with his warm smile, inquire about something he knew was important in your life and then offer to make you his signature cocktail, “the Jimlet.” Jim did everything with care and precision — from raising his family to the beautification of his home and yard. He was certainly a ridged rule follower, to the frustration of anyone who played golf with him. Jim was a connoisseur of wine — but not French wine. He had a fascination with insects and creatures of nature, especially birds, and he could provide a three minute overview of just about any creature you asked him about. He had a very quick wit, which he never lost, and was unbeatable at trivia — especially music trivia.

We are all measured by those who respect us, those who trust us, those who rely on us, those for whom we have done good things — those who love us. By these measures, Jim’s time on earth was very well spent. Jim may have closed his last chapter of life on this earth but his legacy will live on forever in the hearts and minds of those who were fortunate enough to have known him. Rest in Peace, Jim. You will be dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Jim’s name to the Lyngblomsten Foundation, St. Pius X Foundation, or the Alzheimer’s Association.