James "Jim" Hamm

James “Jim” Hamm was born on December 9, 1937, in Jamestown, ND, to proud parents, Theodore and Doris (Henning) Hamm. His childhood was filled with many memories made in and around the Jamestown community. The beginning of Jim’s schooling was established at St. John’s Academy, which he attended from kindergarten to high school graduation in 1955. He saw fit to continue his education at Jamestown College (UJ) and North Dakota State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1967.

Resulting from an ardent desire to serve his country, Jim enlisted in the United States Navy and served active duty from 1962 – 1965 in Adak, Alaska. He was incredibly proud to continue serving in the US Navy Reserves for the next 30 years. Having a love for traveling, Jim thoroughly enjoyed visiting the various naval bases for his annual training.

Jim’s work for Osco Drug, transferred him to homes in Twin Falls, ID, Anaconda, MT, and Sioux Falls, SD. He went on to work for White Drug Co. in Detroit Lakes, MN. Returning to his roots, Jim moved back to Jamestown in 1980 and began his career as a rural mail carrier with the United States Postal Service which lasted until 2004.

Jim was united in marriage to Laurie (Baker) Wiest on July 7, 1984. Together they abundantly filled the next 40 years! A long-time coin collector, Jim purchased the Coin Castle in Jamestown. Alongside Laurie, they enjoyed interacting with customers that were hunting for special coins or sports cards. When the time came to close the store, Jim and Laurie chose to open their home and hearts to many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and others, including a foreign exchange student. Jim was a “step” grandpa to these little ones, but you would have never known it. He would often be found on the floor, playing right alongside them. For as long as he was able, Grandpa Jim was a chauffeur extraordinaire, transporting the kids to and from school and after-school activities. The positive impact he had on these youngsters will not soon be forgotten. Jim worked at Hugo’s Marketplace until he fully retired in 2020 due to his failing health.

Laurie fulfilled her marriage vows and cared for Jim at home until the end, despite his years of declining health due to Alzheimer’s disease. On January 31, 2024, God called Jim home to heaven for eternity.

Left to celebrate Jim’s earthly and heavenly life are his wife, Laurie Hamm; nieces, Katherine Shipman, New Hampshire, and Constance Greer, Dallas, TX; nephew, Scott Greer, Los Angeles, CA; and great-niece, Heather Black; Laurie’s family that he claimed as his own: sons, James (Roxanne) Wiest and Curt (JoMarie) Wiest, both of Jamestown; daughter, Leanne Wiest, Valley City, ND; daughter-in-law, Marlene Wiest; ten grandchildren; nineteen great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Ethel Anderson, Carol Hillstrom, and Jean Baker. 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Rogene Greer; son, Darrell Wiest; and great-granddaughter, Madison Hoyt.

Visitation will be from 3:00 to 7:00 pm on Monday, February 5, 2024, at Eddy Funeral Home, Jamestown. Funeral service will be at 10:00 am, Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Jamestown, with Rev. James Naumann officiating. Interment will be in Sunset Memorial Gardens, Jamestown. Lunch and fellowship in the church basement will follow the burial.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials that will be gathered and gifted to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Eddy Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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