James Francis Kalina

James Francis Kalina obituary

James Francis Kalina

James Kalina Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by White Funeral Home - Lonsdale on Oct. 23, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

James (Jim) Francis Kalina, age 90 of Lonsdale, MN passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on October 21, 2025. Jim was born in Wheatland Township, MN on January 6, 1935, to Max and Emma (Cecka) Kalina. After high school, he served his country in the U.S. Army, stationed in Korea. Jim married Mary Komarek on June 12, 1958, and they lived in Lonsdale, where they built their home and raised their four children. Jim was the owner and operator of Kalina Trucking, hauling bulk milk for over 50 years until vision problems forced him to step away from his truck. He was the best of the best – a hardworking, humble, honest man that was devoted to his family above all else.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents; siblings, John Kalina, Bob Kalina, and Rose Marie (George) Tuma. Jim is survived by his loving wife, Mary Kalina; children, David (Mary Jane) Kalina, Kathy (Rick) Holtz, Megan (Mark Lasswell) Kalina, and Tom (Noelle) Kalina; grandchildren, Molly (Jeremiah Hales) Kalina-Hales, Robb Kalina, Ted (Hannah) Kalina, Emily (David Behm) Holtz, Claire Holtz, Andrea Holtz, Tessa Lasswell, Bridget (Thomas) Brice, Nina Lasswell, Joe (Dani) Kalina, Max (Gabby) Kalina, and Marty (Emma) Kalina; and 4 great grandchildren, Edwin Kalina, Simon Kalina, Dawson Kalina, and baby Brice due in April. He is also survived by his siblings, Jerry Kalina, Ray (Sheila) Kalina, and Carol (Joe) Sticha; sister-in-law, Shirley Kalina; and many nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday October 29, 2025, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, in Lonsdale, MN with a gathering of family and friends starting at 10 AM at the church. Interment, Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a later date. Jim's family extends thanks to N C Little Memorial Hospice for the amazing care they provided in his final weeks. In lieu of flowers, memorials will be donated to Holy Cross School, Holy Redeemer School, or a Catholic school of your choice.

White Funeral Home, Lonsdale, MN 507-744=2368

Condolences at: www.whitefuneralhomes.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support James's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor James Kalina's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign James Kalina's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?