February 17, 1944 - October 31, 2025
James Thomas “Jim” Stepnes, age 81, of Richfield, passed away October 31, 2025.
Jim was born and raised in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, where he attended St. Patrick’s Grade School and Regis High School. He was a bright young man, though known to be a bit of a goof-off at times.
He went on to study at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, where he worked at the Milwaukee Journal, a job he greatly enjoyed. He often recalled the memorable moment when the newspaper presses came to a halt following the assassination of President Kennedy. Jim later completed his degree at the University of Minnesota.
In 1968, he married Barb, and together they welcomed 3 children and raised their family in Richfield, MN. Jim was deeply devoted to his family and took great pride in providing for and supporting them throughout his life.
Over the course of his career, Jim held various positions in sales and financial planning, earning his CPA certification to further his professional success. Upon retirement, he enjoyed spending time golfing and playing bridge—pursuits that brought him relaxation and lasting friendships.
In later years, Jim faced the challenges of Parkinson’s disease, which limited his ability to enjoy his favorite activities.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara Stepnes; children, Matt Stepnes, Ben (Ali) Stepnes and Sarah (Chad) Sinn; grandchildren, Jack & Taylor Stepnes, Brady, Joel & Lucy Stepnes, Lainey & Hattie Sinn; brothers, John, Tim & Paul; and sisters, Ann, Katy & Mary.
Preceded in death by his parents, Sherman & Elizabeth “Betty” Stepnes; brother, Steve; and sister, Ginny.
Visitation
Saturday, November 8, 2025
10:00-11:00 AM
Morris Nilsen Funeral Chapel
6527 Portland Avenue South
Richfield, Minnesota 55423
Memorial Service
Saturday, November 8, 2025
11:00 AM
Morris Nilsen Funeral Chapel
6527 Portland Avenue South
Richfield, Minnesota 55423
Barb, Matt, Sarah and Ben, my deepest sympathies. Your dad was special in so many ways. I always liked visiting with him and he always knew how to keep the conversation going. I’m so sorry he has left this earth and all of you. Your many fond memories with him will live on through you. Shelley Sullivan and family.
Barb, you guys have been on my mind for weeks. I’m so sorry you’ve had to go through this. I can’t tell you how many times I nearly stopped by to see you, but then thought I should call you first.so sorry, i really miss the guy and his temper!!!
He swore non-stop at my seat-belt, which he never seamed to be able to figure out.
Betty I’m so glad you saw Jim’s
Obit. Maybe you can pass on news of his death to the bridge community. Yes he swore at our seatbelt too. Are you still in town? Barb
All the Hendys love Big Jim & his wonderful family. Lots of great memories! Special trips & holidays! Thanks for the family friendships
Our sympathies to Barb, Matt, Ben and Sarah and their families. I’ve known Jim for 50 years since we worked together at Burroughs and I’ve enjoyed many golf outings with him and an occasional Happy Hour. He was very intelligent and fun to converse with. Barb and family, we’re sure you’ll find comfort in the many treasured memories of your time with Jim. RIP Good Friend.
My deepest condolences to the family. I met Jim in 1980 at computer depot, his last stint in the computer business before taking up accountancy. He was a great guy.
Jim was a consulting manager at McGladrey when I started my career there in 1984. We worked on a number of projects together and he taught me a lot about the consulting business. He loved going to golf at the annual McGladrey outing at Maddens and told me the first year”That’s the only appointment I write IN INK in my appointment calendar!!” Although our paths haven’t crossed much over the past 20 years, it was always fun to connect with Jim. My sympathies to the family
Dear Barb & Family
My deepest condolences to you and yours Barb. My heart is still grieving for my Jim and now the two of them are looking after us from afar. I have moved to WA to be closer to my five grandchildren and younger son Gabriel and his wife. I am grateful for the presence of you and Jim at Jim Collin’s Celebration of Life. Also. I am glad that I met the both of you. May God give you comfort knowing that there are many friends keeping you close in thoughts and prayers.
Although born in Wi, Jim found an adopted home town in Richfield. He was good friends with Bill Davis, perhaps Richfield’s best ever high school athlete who was a star at the U of Mn.
Betty and Barb, Jim would sometimes swear at the cards at the bridge table, keeping things lively. He was a solid player and earned the rank of Gold Life Master. At the very first June 21 “Longest Day” Alzheimer’s fundraiser years ago, Jim and I earned the most masterpoints at the St Paul bridge center. Trophies and t-shirts, so very fun! We did well together at the bridge table.
He was proud of his family and would talk about their baseball accomplishments.
We talked about Jim at today’s bridge game in Roseville. Jim was a great guy who will surely be missed by many.
Bill Voedisch
Barb. So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. It was so good to meet you at our breakfast meetings. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Dolly Opel
Barb, I played a lot of bridge with Jim on and off for about five years. We had our moments together, including going to nationals one year for District 14 with Bill Voedisch and his partner. I did come by the visitation earlier this morning, but couldn’t stay for the service. I looked for you but somehow couldn’t seem to find you among the large crowd in attendance. I did manage to sign the book.
I am sorry that I missed telling you in person how sorry I am, and how much I came to miss those old bridge memories.
Barb, I’m so sorry to learn of Jim’s passing. I know the both of you kept busy with grandchildren the past several years. I will pray for Jim’s and for you. Know that he is at peaceful will live on in your memories. Anne Binczik