James "Jim" Gleekel

As I sit, trying to encapsulate the essence of my father, James "Jim" Gleekel, I am reminded of a verse from the Torah, Ecclesiastes 3:1, "To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." Born on July 24, 1963, in Minneapolis, MN, my father lived a life that was compassionate, funny, loving, and resilient. His life was a testament to this verse, filled with purpose and seasons of joy, laughter, and immense love. Jim was a man of many passions, but foremost among them was his love for his family and his faith. His outgoing personality would light up any room he entered, his laughter was infectious, and his resilience was inspiring. He was a man of strong principles, a loving father, and a doting grandfather. He loved spending his time - going to concerts, attending sporting events, and simply hanging out with friends and family, making beautiful memories.

Jim is survived by his children, Sam Gleekel, Maddie (Evan) Compton, and Sophie Gleekel; grandchild, Mikaela Gleekel, who brought immense joy into his life; and his siblings, Janny (Alan) Silver, Bonnie Levy, Cindy Fishman, and David (Tony) Gleekel. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Barbara Gleekel. Each one of us holds a special place in our hearts for Jim, cherishing memories of his vibrant life. We will remember him as a man who loved deeply, lived passionately, and gave generously. He was a man who cherished his Jewish faith, raised his children in it, and gave back to his community through his involvement at the Temple of Aaron.

We invite all who knew and loved Jim to join us for his funeral service 11:00am CST on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at Temple of Aaron, 616 Mississippi River Boulevard, Saint Paul, Minnesota, 55116 and also live streamed: www.hodroffs.com/JimGleekel (direct link below) It will be a time to share memories, to grieve, and to celebrate the life of a man whose life was a testament to faith, family, and resilience. We are grateful for the love and support shown to our family during this time. We encourage everyone to leave memories and upload photos of Jim on the memorial page as a celebration of his life and as a tribute to the joy, laughter, and love he brought to us all.