James T. Hulsebus

James Thomas Hulsebus
April 7, 1953 – December 21, 2024
James Thomas Hulsebus, 71, of Rochester, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Cascade Creek Memory Care in Rochester, MN.
Jim was born on April 7, 1953, in Harlan, IA, to John and Virginia (Philson) Hulsebus. He grew up in Harlan, where he was actively involved in sports throughout high school, excelling in track and cross-country. He was also a proud member of the National Honor Society. Jim graduated from Harlan Community High School in 1971 and went on to pursue higher education at A.I.B. in Des Moines, IA, where he earned a business degree. While at A.I.B. he was an active member of the Phi Beta Fraternity.
After his time at A.I.B., Jim worked for Dial Finance for several years before deciding to further his education. He attended Upper Iowa University in Fayette, IA, where he graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration in 1978.
On May 21, 1977, Jim married Pearl Manz at the Methodist Church in Marne, IA. They moved to Des Moines, where Jim began working for Energy Economics Inc. (EEI). After a short while in Des Moines, Jim and Pearl bought their first home in Waukee, IA. In Waukee, Jim was active in his community, serving as president of the Jaycees and a member of the Waukee United Methodist Church. In 1985, Jim and Pearl relocated to Rochester, closer to EEI's headquarters in Dodge Center, where Jim would work for the company for 37 years. He started as a service technician doing gas surveys and later advanced to the position of project manager for Cathodic Protection. Jim retired in 2015.
Jim was passionate about many activities, including golfing, bowling in leagues, and family fishing trips. He also enjoyed coaching his sons, Justin and Joel, in various youth sports. Jim and Pearl cherished their time together, often traveling to national and state parks to hike and ride bikes. A true sports enthusiast, Jim, was a devoted fan of the Minnesota Gophers and had an extensive knowledge of sports trivia. He was a longtime member of Bethany United Methodist Church, which later merged into Evangel United Methodist Church.
Known for his patience, calm demeanor, and great smile, Jim had a wonderful sense of humor that will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Pearl; his sons, Justin (Minelle) and Joel; grandsons, Jackson and Mason; and his brother, Keith Hulsebus. He was preceded in death by his brother, Clinton Hulsebus.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 30, 2024 at Evangel United Methodist Church, 2645 N. Broadway Ave., Rochester with the Rev. Dr. David Werner officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service. The burial will take place at Oakwood East Cemetery in Rochester.