James Mathias "Jim" Flick

James "Jim" Mathias Flick age 68 of New Hampton, IA died Friday, August 1, 2025, at Mayo Clinic – St. Mary's Campus in Rochester, MN. Friends may greet the family from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday, August 7, 2025, at Hugeback – Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton. A private family inurnment will take place at a later date. James Mathias Flick, known affectionately as Jim to his friends and family, lived a life marked by courage, passion, and an indomitable spirit. Born on February 7, 1957, in the welcoming community of New Hampton, Jim was the third of four children born to Edward Sr. and Dorothy (Mashek) Flick. Jim received his education in the New Hampton public school system, graduating in the class of 1975. His life took a fortuitous turn when he met Raeann Roethler over a game of pool at the local Timeout Lounge. The couple's love blossomed, leading them to exchange vows on July 2, 1983, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in their hometown. The adventure of life took Jim and Raeann to Sulphur Springs, TX, where they made their home for seven years. It was there they celebrated the birth of their daughter, Katie, in 1987. In 1991, seeking the comfort of family and familiar surroundings, they returned to New Hampton due to Jim's health challenges stemming from diabetes. The following year, in a profound act of love, Jim's sister Kathy provided him with a life-saving gift - a kidney transplant at Mayo Rochester. This extraordinary gesture resulted in one of the longest-lasting kidney transplants in the institution's history, 33 years. Jim's health rejuvenated; he found joy in simple pleasures, like enjoying the outdoors, mowing lawns, and being at home with Katie. His renewed vitality was further bolstered in 2006 with a pancreas transplant, which allowed him to pursue a true passion of his-working with kids - as a custodian at a local school and a school bus driver. Jim's passions were as varied as they were intense. He had a love for speed, which he satisfied by driving his Pontiac TransAm, and he held a deep appreciation for John Deere equipment, Beanie Babies, and the Green Bay Packers. Jim was also known to spend time on the hunt for good deals-no matter the distance for the best deal-for himself, as well as others if asked, which humorously earned him the title, "bird dog Jim" by his family. Katie proudly admits that she received her deal hunting ability from her dad. However, the epicenter of Jim's world was his family, especially his granddaughter, Kendall, born in 2013. She was his pride and joy, his #1 obsession. Despite living with chronic illness for the majority of his life, Jim was admired by his family for setting short-term goals and expressing gratitude for each day he was given. He surpassed far more milestones than he ever imagined possible, a testament to his resilience, the loving care of his family, and the expertise of his healthcare teams. Jim is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 42 years, Raeann Flick of New Hampton; his treasured daughter, Katie (Colin) Larsen of New Hampton; and his adored granddaughter, Kendall. He also leaves behind his siblings, Ed and Bill Flick, Kathy Morrissey, his sister-in-law, Mary Kim Hendrickson, and brother-in-law, David Roethler. Preceding him in death were his parents, Ed and Dorothy Flick, and his mother-in-law, Anna Mae Roethler. Jim's legacy is one of perseverance, love, and the joy he found in every new day. His courage in the face of adversity and his passionate embrace of life's moments will continue to inspire all who loved him.