James Edward (Jim) Minette departed this world peacefully on the afternoon of June 24th, 2025. Jim was born November 27th, 1946 in Kalispel, MT to John Arthur (Art) and Wilma Minette. Jim was the fifth of eight children to Art and Wilma. Jim grew up in Kalispel and then Billings, MT and his adventurous spirit inspired him to join the Navy after high school. Jim served in Vietnam as a Navy Intelligence Analyst where he developed a love of photography. After serving 20 years, Jim retired in 1983 and moved to Miles City, MT to be near his sister Eileen’s family. In Miles City Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping with his niece and nephews. Jim worked at the Miles CIty Laundry and served as caretaker at the Custer County Fairgrounds and spent his final years serving those that served as a volunteer for the VA and the VFW. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Jim is survived by a son, James Edward Minette Jr, his six sisters, and many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the VFW Post 1579, 119 N 6th Street, Miles City, MT 59301.
James Minette, age 78, of Miles City
November 27, 1946 – June 24, 2025

Jessie Pierson says
Eileen,
Thinking of you and your family at this time of loss. My sympathies to you all. Jim was a good man.
Jessie Kransky Pierson
Judith Clark says
Eileen,
Just a note to let you know that you and your family are in my prayers–seems like it’s that time of life for us when members of our family pass on– I really did not know your brother very well, but I am sure you will miss him although he lived quite a distance from you in these later years. God’s peace be with you, protect you, and comfort you. Hugs, Judy
Roban Philbrick Bunting says
Jim will be remembered as a special human who cared deeply for his 4 legged family.We had the fun of Grooming Jim’s last 2 dogs! And “Heidi” his last one came every 2 weeks so she could have playtime with her best friend “Chessie” The bulldog. Jim knew a couple weeks ago he would not be around long.He talked to Chad and asked for help finding a home for Heidi.Chad instantly said “we will take her” She won’t go to the pound! Heidi loves everyone,but she was truly drawn to our grand daughter Aurora.And Rory was smitten with her! They both have boundless energy,and neither had siblings.They bonded overnight the first day they brought her home♡ The picture is Aurora sleeping with Heidi the 1st night! I hope Jim was looking down from heaven and smiling.Jim left a very special gift trusting our family..She has a forever home. May God Bless Jim ,he will be missed. WASH N WAG Grooming staff and the Wiltfang family.
Doug Leidholt says
I meet james only a couple of years ago,but i very much enjoyed our talks when i was pumping his septic tank,very nice man. RIP James
Joe Larimore says
Jim will miss running into you and talking. first time we met was working at miles city laundry.
Patti Hughes says
To the Family of Jim,
I enjoyed meeting Jim and will miss his visits to the VA Clinic. He was always nice, patient, and friendly. He always put a smile on my face. It was a pleasure to take care of him.
Linda Wolff says
I got acquainted with Jim with our Toastmasters club. He assisted us at times. He was very interesting to visit with. I visited with Jim at Eagles Manor just before I retired. Jim will be missed.
Donna Orthman says
I am so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. I remember the last time I saw him, the three of us had lunch together. I didn’t see him often, but enjoyed him when I did.
Marc and Denise Hartse says
We were sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He was our landlord for a number of years and we got a long well. Our deepest sympathies and condolences to Eileen and the rest of the family.