James “Jim” Lesmeister, 72, entered eternal rest with his loving family by his side on January 15, 2026.

Jim was born on December 30, 1953, in Dickinson, North Dakota and graduated from Halliday High School in 1971. Jim married the love of his life, Marolynn Koehler, on May 31, 1975. Together, they shared more than 50 years of marriage and were blessed with three children, Anthony, Ashley, and Amy, as well as two grandchildren, Johanna and Ethan.

Jim found joy in the simple things. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who appreciated time spent outdoors, but his greatest happiness came from being with his family. He especially treasured time with his grandchildren, enjoyed coffee and conversation with friends, and loved hearing about the adventures and accomplishments of his children. Jim was a steady presence - supportive, kind, and deeply devoted to those he loved.

Jim worked various jobs after high school and served in the US Army. He attended BJC and graduated in automotive technology in 1975. He attended Mary College and received a BS in business administration in 1982. He worked at ANG Coal Gasification during construction and operations. He took a job at MCV in Midland, Michigan, returning to North Dakota in 1991. He also farmed and ranched for many years. He volunteered with the Halliday Fire and Ambulance Department for 26 years alongside his father, Leo.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Marolynn; his children, Anthony (Kayla), Ashley (Dustin), and Amy (Chris); his grandchildren, Johanna and Ethan; his stepfather, Larry Schultz; his brothers and sisters, Janie (Ed) Williams, Janice (Duane) Wolf, Jeff (Marilyn) Lesmeister, and Julie Lesmeister; and sisters-in-law, Karol Lesmeister and Julie Fedje. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo Lesmeister and Joyce Schultz; his mother and father-in-law, Oscar and Mollie Koehler; and his brothers, Jack, John, and Joel.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am, Monday, June 29, at Ascension Catholic Church, 1825 S 3rd St, Bismarck. Family will greet guests one hour prior.

Burial will be held at 2:00 pm MST (3:00 pm CT), Monday, June 29, at Halliday Cemetery, Halliday, ND.