Irene Helen James

Irene Helen James was born March 22, 1941 to Francis and Ann Gossen on their family farm in Milaca, MN.

She was called to heaven on November 28, 2025 at the age of 84.

Irene attended Milaca High School, Class of 1959. She then went to work in Minneapolis at the Federal Reserve Bank.

Irene married Jim James on April 4, 1964 at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Milaca. Together they raised four children on their hobby farm. Irene enjoyed garage sale-ing, hobby farm animals and her family.

She is survived by her children, Cindy (Brian), Debi (Paul), Jim (Tami), Dan (Heather) and 13 grandchildren, Jenessa, Caleb, Alec, Ella, Nicole, Alicia, Bethany, Adam, Josh, Jenaya, Noah, Sheena and Andi; 19 great-grandchildren; Jackson, Bella, Landyn, Lacey, Alaina, Axton, Avery, Abe, Sybbie, Kameron, Adrienna, Zacharias, Jacob, Austin, Archer, Lily, Stella, Jax and Monroe. Siblings Frances (Delores) Gossen, Jean Trabant and Jack (Marion) Gossen along with many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim; her parents, Frances and Ann Gossen, mother and father-in-law. William and Mabel James and other family members.

On November 28, 2025, we lost our Mom and our very best friend. Not only that, but our family lost their amazing grandma. She valued and treasured her family above all else and she was there for every milestone in her children’s life as well as her grandchildren. Through good times and bad, she stuck by us, championing and supporting us every step of the way. In addition to being a devoted grandma, Mom was also a caregiver, teacher, therapist and best friend. Most of all, Mom was our hero. She was always there when we needed her most and in ways we can’t even begin to describe. Now she is our guardian angel. Mom, you will always be loved, always be missed and always in our hearts.

Memorial Mass for Irene will be at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Milaca on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 11 AM with visitation taking place one hour prior to the service at the church.