James “Jim” Burt, 71, of Peterson, Minn., passed away on March 7, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. In his final days, he was surrounded by the love of family, friends, and many visitors who came to share their support.
Jim was born on September 24, 1954, in Winona, Minnesota, to Marvin and Evelyn (Nisbit) Burt. He attended Utica School and later St. Charles High School.
Throughout his life, Jim was known as a hardworking man who could do just about anything. He worked for Central Landscaping and Fiberite, butchered at Kraut’s and spent time painting and doing carpentry alongside his brother Roger. Jim also had a passion for working with his hands, often tackling plumbing and electrical projects and spending time farming dairy cattle, sheep, goats and chickens. A true jack-of-all-trades, he loved working on cars and lawnmowers and was always willing to teach others what he knew. He especially enjoyed passing along life skills to his children.
Jim met the love of his life, Deana Lee and they married in 1990 in Jackson, Minn. Together, they built a life centered around family, hard work, and the simple joys of spending time together.
Jim loved the outdoors and spending time doing the things that brought him joy. He enjoyed hunting deer, ducks, coyotes, and small game, fishing with his wife, kids and grandkids, and participating in fishing tournaments. He had a passion for guns, you could often find him in his gun room tinkering with his collection. Jim took great pride in caring for his lawn and could often be found mowing it to perfection. He loved finding a good deal while going to garage sales or auctions. Some of his happiest moments were spent at family gatherings, standing by the grill and enjoying time with those he loved most. He was well known for his stories and jokes, always able to bring a smile or laughter to the room.
Jim is survived by his wife Deana, and his children: Dulcie (Aaron) Jones, Marshall (Venessa) Burt, Dallas (John) Carini, Dillon (Jessica) Burt, Jared (Lexi) Burt, Heather (Jesse) Rein, Trista (John) Hain, Erin Underbakke, and Tyler (Bekki) Roth. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Brayden, Bryce, Hailey, Brynn, Cole, Jade, Hillary, Hoyt, Harper, Easton, Briar, Ava, Alivia, Riley, Madelyn, Hayden, Meeah, Migel, Caleb and Avery; his sisters Linda (Roger) Duellman, Pat (Tony) Patzner, and Kay (Darald) Sorensen; and many nieces and nephews, including nephew and very close friend Jason Jonsgaard, as well as many good neighbors and hunting buddies.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents Marvin and Evelyn Burt, his baby daughter Jamie, and his siblings: Marlys Schulz, Dorothy Anderson, Donald Burt, Shirley Spitzer, Roger Burt, Judith Sanders, Merlin Burt, and his twin brother, John Burt.
Jim will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his willingness to help anyone in need, and the many skills and lessons he passed on to those around him.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, March 21 at his home: 33679 County Road 25 N, Peterson, MN 55962.
The Mengis Funeral Home in Mabel is assisting with arrangements.
Leave a Reply