James Siems, 81

 James “Jim” Siems, 81, passed away Sept. 18, 2013, at Brendan House.

Jim was born Aug. 12, 1932, to Walter and Stella (Kafka) Siems at Thief River Falls, Minn. He spent his early years at Williams, Minn. He was a hockey player all of his years, and in high school his team won second place at State two years in a row. Williams is the smallest town to ever win that. He graduated from high school in 1950.

 Jim served in the Army from 1952 to 1954 at Camp Chaffee, Ark. When he returned home he attended Bemidji College for four years.

He then drove the school bus and did mail delivery for over 20 years.

Jim had many interests; one was cars — he loved them. During his life he owned numerous cars and had a collection of model cars. He also enjoyed playing softball for the town of Williams. Jim coached young people’s hockey and, years later, two of his players became coaches and won an award, which they, in turn, gave to Jim. Many of his players sent him letters thanking him, which meant a lot to Jim.

He was a loving son by taking care of his parents until their deaths.

He married his friend Joyce Evenson Styler on July 23, 1988. He not only became a husband, but a father and grandfather, all with one “I do.” They just celebrated their 25th anniversary.

Jim is survived by his wife, Joyce, at their family home in Columbia Falls; one sister, Marilyn Northcott, of Yakima, Wash.; and one brother, Robert Siems, of Bemidji, Minn.; his stepdaughter, Susie (Phillips) Eisenzimer, of Kalispell; and stepson, Rick Styler, of Columbia Falls. He also leaves behind a little four-legged friend, Friskie. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Stephanie and Chase Eisenzimer of Kalispell, Austin Styler of Columbia Falls, and Tiffany and Travis Bell of Billings; two great-grandchildren, Kali and Karsten Bell, of Billings; nieces and nephews, Mike, Noralee, Tina, Bill and Jay Seims of Bemidji; with several other nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Stella Siems; brother, Walter Siems Jr.; daughter-in-law, Lerral Styler; and grandson, Zachary Styler.  

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. today, Sept. 21, at Columbia Falls United Methodist Church, 117 Second St. W. A reception will follow services.