James Maeyaert

James “Jim” H. Maeyaert, age 82 of Tracy, passed away Monday, March 9, 2026 at the Westbrook Good Samaritan Care Center. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 19, 2026 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Tracy. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at church. Stephens Funeral Service – Tracy Area Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

James “Jim” H. Maeyaert was born on June 17, 1943, in Tracy, Minnesota, to Charles and Julia (Bottelberghe) Maeyaert. He grew up in Tracy and graduated from Tracy High School in 1961, where he proudly lettered in wrestling. Jim was first united in marriage to Rosemary Krueger, and together they were blessed with a daughter, Vernette. The couple later divorced. He later married Karen Jackson, who preceded him in death in 2004. Throughout the years, Jim made his home in Litchfield, Clara City, and eventually returned to Tracy to help care for his mother as her health declined. He spent many years working as a welder at Tebben Manufacturing. He later worked at Jennie-O in Marshall and at Cottonwood Cabinetry. Jim enjoyed watching all kinds of sports and spent time collecting coins and model trains. He also had a fascination with war planes and loved watching old Westerns and World War II movies. Jim raised a vegetable garden every summer and generously shared the produce. He had a special place in his heart for his dogs and loved his family fiercely. Jim will be remembered as a kind-hearted man who cared deeply for those around him.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Vernette Maeyaert (John Keller) of Montevideo; brothers: Lawrence (Phyllis) Maeyaert of Tracy and Tom (Muriel) Maeyaert of St. Michael; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Karen, and former wife Rosemary.