James “Jim” Arthur VanAmberg of Kiester, Minnesota, passed away on September 9, 2025, at Elmore Assisted Living in Elmore, MN. Jim was 81 years, 4 months and 13 days of age.
Jim was born on April 27, 1944, in Stockbridge, Michigan, to Robert Lee and Rhea Belle (Marshall) VanAmberg.
Jim was a proud veteran, enlisting right after high school and serving with honor through two tours in Vietnam and one in Korea. Following his military service, he worked as an over-the-road truck driver, traveling across the United States, meeting people, and seeing many beautiful places. Over the years, he drove for several trucking companies before retiring. Even in retirement, Jim continued trucking locally, helping area farmers, and most recently hauling for Kyle VanHove until his eyesight no longer allowed him to drive.
Jim lived simply and asked for little in life beyond peace and good friends – Yes indeed! He spoke his mind when needed and enjoyed collecting John Deere farm toys, once amassing a very large collection.
He was preceded in death by his parents and by his neighbors and good friends, Larry Knutson and Bruce McLean.
He is survived by his brothers Dale (Billie) VanAmberg of Gregory, MI, and Larry “Skip” VanAmberg of Englewood, FL; along with many close neighbors and friends who became like family to him—Shannon (Dani) McLean, Billy & Tammy Creel, Nic Knutson & kids, Steve & Deanne Walk, and his very dear friend Tessa McLean (David), who not only cared for Jim in his later years but shared a bond of true friendship and family with him. Jim also held a special place in his heart for Tessa’s children, Kyler (Raine), Kadin (Annie), and Taylor Sipple, lovingly calling them his grandkids. All reside in Kiester, MN.
His Kiester family will be holding a private celebration of Jim’s life at a later date.
Jim’s Kiester family would like to express their gratitude for the love, laughter, and friendship he brought into their lives. A very special thank-you from Tessa and family goes to St. Croix Hospice, especially Nurse Erica and Chaplain Wendy, for the compassionate and loving care they provided to Jim during his final weeks.
I met jim years ago driving for randy simonson,he was always fun to drive with. He got to be good friends with my son jacob& took him to toy tractor shows.He at home point was one of not many,to have finished acquiring 2 completed john deere sets of tractors.
What a trip it must have been, literally and figuratively! Jim sure saw his share of the US and even a few wars, all while keeping his truck rolling. Collecting John Deere toys sounds like a blast, though I bet his grandkids probably preferred the truck stories. And living simply? More like living large on stories of adventure! Its nice to hear he found love and laughter, even if his definition of retirement trucking was a bit more active than most. Cheers to a lifetime well traveled, Jim!
Thank you for allowing us to be a part of his journey.
My “Jesus Loves me” buddy. Rest in peace.
You were a great man James! It was an honor helping you through your last days. You touched my heart and am blessed to have crossed paths with you. Sleep in Peace my friend🫡