Watch Pete's Memorial Service

James "Pete" Visser, age 77, of Gary, MN died Thursday, August 27, 2020 at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, MN.

James David Visser was born March 11, 1943 in Ada, Minnesota, the son of Gust and Esther (Merkins) Visser.  He was baptized and confirmed at Grace Lutheran Church. Pete graduated from Ada High School in 1962.  He served in the United States Army Aviation as a Specialist 4 rank flying crew chief from 1964 to 1966.  Pete was united in marriage to Phyllis Diehl on September 28, 1968 at Fosston Methodist Church, Fosston, MN.  They raised registered Holstein cattle until 2000.  In the following years, Pete raised beef cattle.  He also participated as a secretary/treasurer of the Gary American Legion Post, a member of the Gary Lions, Deacon of St. Petri and Gary Lutheran Churches, board member of Gary Lutheran Church, and board member of Strand Township.  Pete was a husband to Phyllis for 51 years and a proud father of three children. He especially cherished the time with his thirteen grandchildren.  He enjoyed family gatherings, many projects around the farm with his grandchildren, playing cards with family, visiting with friends, traveling on many adventurous trips, and participating in the annual Gary parades.  He was excited to attend the Veteran Affair Honor Flight to Washington, DC.

Pete is survived by his wife, Phyllis, Gary, MN; Renae Franke, Thief River Falls, MN; Diane (Sam) Bartholomew, Sterling, CO; David (Sara) Visser, Gary, MN; thirteen grandchildren: Ryan and Alex Franke; Trissten and Elissa Bartholomew; Liam, Daniel, Melanie, MacCraeus, Elenora, Henry, Peter, Collin, and Beric Visser; one brother, Earl Visser, Ada, MN; sisters-in-law: Joan Visser, Ada, Shirley Visser, Ada, Marlys Visser, Gary, and Linda Visser, Ada; several nephews, nieces, and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Gust and Esther Visser; four brothers: Robert, Donald, Gerald, and Richard; one sister, Margaret; and one sister-in-law, Lorayn.