James Harold Dierke, 88, of Amery, Wisconsin, peacefully transitioned into eternal rest on April 14, 2024. Born and raised on Edmund Street in St. Paul, Minnesota, James, affectionately known as Jim, was the beloved son of Harold and Florence Dierke.

In his youth, Jim distinguished himself as an Eagle Scout and a standout swimmer, earning recognition as the first all-around top swimmer of St. Paul. After graduating from Wilson High School in 1954, fate intervened when he met his soulmate, Patricia, the sister of his best friend, while she was quietly knitting socks on a couch. Their love story began, leading to their marriage in September of 1960. Jim and Pat began their family soon after when son, Steven, was born in 1962.

Jim's journey continued with pursuits in education and service. He graduated with an engineering degree from the University of Minnesota while also serving in the Marine Corps from 1954 to 1962. It was during this time that his passion for flying took flight, sparked by a radio contest that led him to take flying lessons and eventually become an integral part of an Amery flying club for over six decades.

Professionally, Jim's path led him through various industries, beginning at Harnischfeger in West Allis, Wisconsin, followed by a career at Fabri-Tech of Amery, Wisconsin in 1963. The young trio lived in the family cabin on Bear Trap while building their forever home on Montgomery Street. Soon after son, Gregg, was born in 1964, followed by daughter, Juliann, in 1967. Jim had an unwavering commitment to keeping the family in Amery, even though several job opportunities would lead to many years of long commutes, including nine years to the Arsenal in New Brighton, Minnesota, where he developed his passion for crafting his own ammunition, and ten years to Control Data in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Jim also had short stints at Doughboy in New Richmond, Franklin Signal in Clear Lake, Shirley Just & Co in Amery, and finally NovaTran in Clear Lake where he worked until retirement in 2004.

Jim's interests were as diverse as his experiences. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying activities such as hunting, fishing, and camping, skills honed during his upbringing in a hunting family. His hobbies included golf, bowling, tennis, archery, and trap shooting. His love for trains, instilled during his summers working on the Great Northern Railway, manifested in his vast collection of model train sets.

Community and family were central to Jim's life. He was actively involved in Sons of Norway, Men in Mission, and the Church Council at First Lutheran Church of Amery. Together with Patricia, he cherished square dancing and round dancing, participating in scouting activities, attending AHS events, and hosting gatherings at their beloved family cabin in Northome, Minnesota.

Jim's legacy lives on through his children; Steve(Lori), Gregg, and Juliann (Randy) Johannsen; sister Diane Salls, brother-in-law Jerry (Lee) Shannon; cherished grandchildren Tyler(Taylor), Troy, Bryce(Tori), Austin, Mason(Jordyn), Kennedy, and Carson; niece Staci(Eric), nephews John(Karen), and Lance; as well as extended family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Pat, his parents, and in-laws Roy and Helen Shannon.

James Harold Dierke will be remembered for his unwavering dedication, adventurous spirit, and profound love for his family and community. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will endure for generations to come.

A funeral service will be held at 11am on Sunday, April 28, 2024 at First Lutheran Church (240 Elm St. W) Amery, WI. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church, and a reception will follow after the funeral service.