James Herbert Etzel

James "Jim" Herbert Etzel, age 88, of Hopkins, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 29, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Florence Etzel, and his beloved wife of 34 years, Lesly Etzel.

Jim is survived by his three sisters, Barb (Jim) Etzel, Rosey (Mike) Etzel, and Terry (Mike) Reimer; his children, Anne (Charlie) Etzel, Gretchen (Rick) Peterson, and John Etzel; his stepdaughters, Lisa Avaloz and Andrea Avaloz; his grandchildren, Tiara (Ryan) Gowen, Gabrielle (Mike) Oltrogge, Brianna (Dan) Levitz, and Tony McLay; as well as his cherished great-grandchildren, Weston, Ryder, and Carver.

Jim grew up in Hopkins and graduated from Hopkins High School. He joined the US Navy and served 6 years, 2 years active in Beeville, TX as an aircraft mechanic. Jim earned his B.S. in accounting at the University of St. Thomas and spent his career as an investment banker. He had a deep passion for sports, particularly golf, and was an avid Minnesota Gophers fan.

He earned his private pilots license and owned a Cessna Skymaster plane for many years. He was an accomplished cook and baker, sharing his delicious creations with family and friends over the years, leaving a lasting impact through his generosity and love of the kitchen. Jim will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and the love he brought to his family and friends. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A celebration of his life will take place on Friday, April 4th at Rush Creek Golf Club in Maple Grove. Visitation 11:00am with Celebration of Life Ceremony 12:00pm. Lunch follows.

Private interment at a later date.