James Wilson Vollmer

James (Jim) Wilson Vollmer died February 2, 2023 at age 80. He was born July 7, 1942 to Leonard and Ruth (Wilson) Vollmer and grew up in Minneapolis, graduating from Southwest High School in 1960 and the University of Minnesota in 1965. After a year of employment in Minneapolis, and then at a ski resort in Colorado, he moved to the San Francisco Bay Area where he was an insurance adjuster for Safeco Insurance. Taking advantage of what the area offered, he enjoyed sailing, biking and running. He was a good host and tour guide to visiting family and friends. And every Christmas he would fly back to Minneapolis to be with family. In 1979, ready for a change and missing the Midwest change of seasons, Jim moved back to Minneapolis and, to the delight of his father, became a partner in Vollmer Packaging. Together the father/son team traveled the territory, calling on accounts and conversing along the way. They managed a showroom at the UMGA Merchandise Mart. Jim often said the times working with his dad were his best years. After his father's death in 1983 Jim continued the business until 2021. Jim liked Minneapolis and his neighborhood of lakes. He ran, played tennis, did some biking, and in later years walked his lakes area. He enjoyed car shows, following Minnesota sports teams, attending various concerts and theater events, checking the stock market, attending senior classes, and watching TV documentaries. Family and friends were important to Jim. After his father died he watched over his mother as she remained in her home. He would take his nephews to movies and sporting events when they were young and became good friends with them as adults. Over the years he went on many short trips with all or part of his sister's family. He enjoyed activities with his many good friends. He was a thoughtful brother. When Jim began experiencing balance problems, he had to limit many of his activities. He made accommodations and tried hard to stay independent. After a fall in his home in June 2021 he moved to Walker Healthcare Center. It was a difficult time for Jim. His days were made better when family or friends could engage him in conversations about old memories or past adventures. He was grateful for visits and for extra help from family, often calling later to again say Thank you. Jim is survived by his sister Joan (Bill) Burkhart of Olivia, MN; Nephews Daniel (Lisamarie) Burkhart of Shoreview and Thomas (Tonette) Burkhart of Minneapolis: Grand nephews Noah and Emerson; Grand nieces Christine and Cynthia; many customers, cousins and friends. Memorial service Friday, April 28 11:00 am, with visitation at 10:00 am. Reception following. All at Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel 5000 W. 50th and Highway 100 Edina, MN Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

Tributes

James Wilson Vollmer

July 7, 1942 - February 2, 2023

Tributes

James Wilson Vollmer

July 7, 1942 - February 2, 2023

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