James A. "Jim" Klukas, age 79, of Bovey, MN, passed away suddenly on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital, Grand Rapids, MN.

James Arthur was born October 16, 1944, in Mankato, Minnesota to Arthur and Roline (Kuehn) Klukas. Jim graduated from St. Paul Park High School and went on to attend the University of Minnesota.

From July 12, 1963, until his honorable discharge on June 29, 1967, Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He returned home and began his career as an engineer with Honeywell in Minneapolis, then went on to work for Alliant Tech Systems until his retirement in 2012. He flew the American flag proudly and strongly backed the "blue."

In 2016, Jim and the love of his life, Kara moved up north to Bovey, MN. The two would later marry in 2019. He loved the outdoors and wanted to be able to see the stars at night and enjoy the sounds of nature, without the noise of the city. He loved traveling and made it a goal to see all "50" states in addition to his travel overseas. Jim loved his family immensely and prioritized staying connected with old friends. He was always ready with a hug and a smile. He was kind and thoughtful with a quick-witted sense of humor. Friends and family will tell you he was a great hunting/fishing partner with a quiet strength about him. He loved strongly and we were lucky to have loved him, and to have been loved by him. He was truly a wonderful man.

Jim was preceded in death by his father Arthur; stepfather Douglas Markwardt, brother Kevin, and brother-in-law, Brian Rudel.
Jim is survived by his wife Kara of Bovey, MN; sons Daniel (Cathy) Klukas of Spokane, WA, Matthew (Melissa) Klukas of Delano, MN; daughter Debbie (Jeff) Rollinger of Winona, MN,  grandchildren Jennifer Bowlin, Crystal (Dakota) Urban, Jordan and Cayden Rollinger; step-son Billy VanKeuren of Custer, SD; mother Roline Markwardt of Cottage Grove, MN, sisters Pamela Rudel of Pocatello, ID, Vicky (Joe) Phillips of Anchorage, AK; godson Brian (Duke) Rudel; nieces and nephews, cousins and other extended family and friends.

A heartfelt thank you to those at Essentia involved in Jim's care. A special thank you to Kristy in the lab and the entire infusion team who made each visit a joy during a difficult time.

Jim's memorial service will be held Monday, June 10, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Libbey Funeral Home, Grand Rapids, MN. Visitation will be held Monday afternoon from 1:00 to 2:00 PM prior to the service, at the funeral home. The rendering of Military Funeral Honors will immediately follow the memorial service. Interment will be in Wildwood Cemetery, Cohasset, MN.

Memorials for Jim may be directed to: Second Harvest Northland - Grand Rapids (secondharvestnorthland.org) or a charity of your choice.