James Alan Grothe, 64, of River Falls, Wisconsin, died Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2014, in his home.

Jim was born Jan. 23, 1950, in Austin, Minnesota, to Ronald and Bernice (Midje) Grothe. While in high school, James enjoyed playing football and pole vaulting. Jim graduated from Austin High School and went on to serve in the US Air Force ending with an honorable discharge. He married Colette Marie Baxter on May 15, 1971. James worked in construction, sales and customer service training. Upon finishing a degree at Minnesota Bible College and starting a family, Jim went on to pastor in Cannon Falls, Minnesota, New Carlisle, Indiana, Madelia, Minnesota, and River Falls, Wisconsin, where he recently retired from Grace Mission Church. Jim enjoyed collecting marbles and coins, camping, fishing, hunting and canoeing. He also enjoyed visiting and sharing jokes hoping to brighten someone’s day. His loves were dancing, he was known for doing the splits, and his grandchildren and family. Above all he loved his wife and the Lord.

Surviving relatives include his wife, Colette Grothe; daughter, Malinda (David) Niswonger; son, Nathan Grothe; brother, Wayne Grothe; seven grandchildren, Joanna, Jarod, Jesse, James, Casey, Mason, and Caylee; and many other relatives and friends who loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald and Bernice Grothe; and brother, John Grothe.

A funeral service was held at 2 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 14, 2014, at Bakken-Young Funeral Home in River Falls. Visitation was held from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, 2014, at the funeral home, and also Sunday from 1 to 2 p.m. before the service. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services of River Falls.