James Robert Sietsema, better known as Jim, quietly passed away on December 3, 2023. Born in Rochester, MN, USA, on December 20, 1946, Jim lived a fulfilling and accomplished life. Jim served with distinction in the Vietnam War, earning two Purple Hearts, an Army Commendation Medal, a National Defense Service Medal, a Vietnam Service Medal, and a Vietnam Campaign Medal. After leaving the Army as a corporal, he became a dependable IRS agent for many years until his retirement in 2008. Jim was a resident of Aurora, Colorado, where he enjoyed the beauty of the great outdoors, often spending his time fishing, hiking, and camping in the mountains.

Jim was a thoughtful individual who had a deep love for his family. He cherished the moments spent with his sons, Nick and Danny, who were his pride and joy. His desire was to raise his sons to be successful and good people, a task he undertook with all his heart. Jim's annual fish fry was a beloved tradition, where he would share his catches with his family, creating memories that everyone in his life will hold dear. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lorraine and Robert Sietsema.

In the words of John Muir, known as the "Father of National Parks," "The mountains are calling, and I must go." Jim loved the mountains, both the Rockies of Colorado and above all the Black Hills of South Dakota. The mountains were his refuge from the vagaries of life, and he found them especially healing after the traumas of Vietnam. He spent as much of his free time as possible hiking, camping, and fishing in the mountains. When he became physically unable to do the things he loved in the mountains, he enjoyed nothing more than simply driving through them and taking in their breathtaking beauty.

Jim's ashes will be interred with Army honors at Black Hills National Cemetery on June 17th, 2024 at 11:30 AM. All who knew Jim are welcome to attend and pay their respects

We invite all who knew Jim to share your memories and upload photos on his memorial page. Recalling the times spent with him will help us all remember the love and joy he brought into our lives. His legacy of love, loyalty, and reliability will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.