Friday, April 4, 2025 | 11:00 AM
It is with deep sorrow that we mourn the passing of beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, uncle, golf partner, basketball teammate, and friend, James A. Seidel (“Jim Senior”) of Edina, MN. Jim was born December 8, 1932 and peacefully entered eternal life March 4, 2025. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Lucia; parents Richard and Miriam; and 11 siblings. He is survived by his biggest fan and son, Jim (Annie); treasured granddaughters Maggie and Molly, sister, Katy (David) Mechtenberg, and numerous cherished nieces and nephews.
Jim was a devoted husband, an exceptional father and friend to his son Jim, wonderful father-in-law, and deeply dedicated grandfather. Jim was born in Chicago, lived in several cities as a child before the Seidel family moved to St. Paul when Jim was in 5th grade, and made one more move to Minneapolis while he was in high school. Jim graduated from St. Luke’s grade school in St. Paul in 1946, St. Thomas Academy in 1950, and St. Thomas College in 1954. Jim and Lucia Louise Carlin were married in 1958, lived in Minneapolis, and then moved to Edina in 1970. Jim began his career at U.S. Bank (then First Bank), and served two years in the U.S. Army. In 1963, Jim joined Great West Life insurance company where he worked for the rest of his career. Many recall Jim as an All-State basketball player on two St. Thomas Academy State Catholic Championship teams, and as the six-time Men’s Club Champion golfer at his cherished Minikahda Club. Jim was an avid reader, close follower of Minnesota high school, college, and professional sports, and current events. Jim’s life was marked by steadfast faith in God, love for the Catholic Church and the sacraments, a deep devotion to the Blessed Mother as a daily devotee of the Rosary for most of his life, and as a member of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.
Jim’s warm smile, deep gratitude for the many blessings in his life, internal strength, and the joy and love he had for family and lifelong friends will be appreciated forever. Jim was content throughout his entire life, including when he passed at The Glenn in Hopkins in his recliner, not long after attending daily Mass, concluding a life well lived, and a race exceedingly well run.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Thomas Academy or the OLG Father Cassidy Scholarship Endowment.
Visitation one hour prior to Mass of Christian Burial. Rosary at 9:45 AM Interment St. Mary's Cemetery.
