Henry James "Jim" Verdoorn

Henry James “Jim” Verdoorn, 88, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 5, 2026. He was born on June 29, 1938, and grew up in Hollandale, Minnesota.

Jim married the love of his life, Lois Heckes, in April of 1959. Together, they built a life centered around family, and many memories.

Jim worked for many years as a lineman at REA, where he built a career he was proud of and made many lasting friendships along the way.

Jim absolutely loved fishing. It wasn’t just a hobby—it was his favorite sport and something he looked forward to every year. For 50 years, Jim made annual fishing trips to Four Seasons Resort on Lake Winnie with his brothers and family. Those trips became a cherished tradition, filled with countless fish stories, laughter, and memories that his family will treasure for generations to come.

Jim also had a passion for woodworking. He created many beautiful pieces of furniture for family and friends, always taking great pride in making something with his own hands. One of his favorite things to make was picture frames for the residents at the nursing home to display their puzzles. It was just one of the many ways Jim found joy in doing something special for others.

Above all, Jim loved his family. He especially cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating memories that will live on in their hearts.

Jim was blessed with many, many friends whom he treasured dearly. His neighbors meant the world to him, and he was grateful for the friendships and kindness they shared. To those neighbors, he would simply say, “Thank you for being a friend!”

Jim will be lovingly remembered by his children, Kelli Haase (Brad), Konni Crowell (Tim), and Kevin Verdoorn; grandchildren, Katie Brandt (Mike), Brett Haase (Ashley), Tyler Thomsen, and Emily Thomsen; and great-grandchildren, Bryn, Anden, Ledger, Kenna, Gage, Hudson, Nash, Nova, Brysen, and Elliot. His family will forever cherish the memories they shared with him and the love he gave them.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Eva Verdoorn, and his brothers, Gene and Phil.

Jim will be deeply missed by his family, friends, neighbors, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His stories, his love of fishing, his generosity, and the things he lovingly made with his hands will forever be part of the memories he leaves behind.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt and enormous thank you to St. Croix Hospice and St. Mark’s Nursing Home for the amazing job they did and for the excellent care they provided to our dad. Your kindness, compassion, and dedication meant more to our family than words can express. The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to one of Jim’s closest friends, Ron Stangeland, for being his sidekick in life.

A visitation will take place on Wednesday, September 16 at Bonnerup Funeral Service, 2210 East Main Street, Albert Lea, 56007, from 5 to 7 PM. A memorial service will be held the following day, Thursday, September 17 at Bonnerup Funeral Service, 2210 East Main Street, Albert Lea, 56007, beginning at 2 PM, with an hour of visitation prior.

The live stream link below is a complimentary service provided by Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services.

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