James "Jim" Dean Vietor

James “Jim” Dean Vietor, age 63, of Elkton, Minnesota, passed away on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at his home in Elkton. Jim was born June 17, 1961, in Austin, Minnesota to Lambert “Red” and Margie (Ross) Vietor. He attended Austin High School. On September 16, 2000, he married Sally Hammermeister. Jim dedicated many years of his life to the automotive industry, working as a tow truck driver and mechanic at Midtown Auto. As time went on, he assisted his stepson, Steven in opening Steven’s Auto Performance Center in Chatfield, Minnesota. Most recently, Jim enjoyed driving truck for Watson’s Recycling until his retirement in 2024.

Jim enjoyed spending his free time traveling, camping, boating, and spending time with his grandkids. He found joy in nice scenic walks around locations they camped at and spending time on Lake Superior and the Gunflint Trail. He also cherished the moments spent with his faithful dog, Leo, by his side on countless strolls. 

Jim liked to work on projects and always had the tool to do it. He was the go-to person for anyone in need of advice on fixing a vehicle. Jim also enjoyed spending the holidays with his children and grandchildren, always eager to find fun activities for the grandchildren to do outside. 

Survivors include his wife, Sally Vietor; children, Michelle Vietor, Angela (Chris) Vietor, Carrie (Jill) Pratt, Steven (Krystal) Huper, Natasha (Jim) Rubin, Rebecca (Eric) Jenneke, Carissa (Chris) Rubin; grandchildren, Bradley, Lance, Dakota, Paisely, Lainey, Gracie, Raelynn, Ethan; siblings, Sharon Knutson, Robert Hebl, Jan (Dave) Tentinger, Mary (Jeff) McNiff, Craig Vietor, Ray (Kim) Hammermeister, Delano Hammermeister, Jr., Jewel Andree (Tom Kasel), and Randy Hammermeister. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lambert “Red” and Margie Vietor; siblings, Donald Vietor, Michael Vietor, and John Paul; brother-in-law, Robert Knutson.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Elkton, Minnesota. The visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Interment will be held at a later date in St. John’s Cemetery, Elkton. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes are assisting the family with arrangements.