James Crimmins

James Lewis Crimmins, 87, of Backus, Minnesota, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on November 10, 2026. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He will be greatly missed. 

Jim was born on July 24, 1939, at the Pine River Hospital to Opal and Edward Crimmins. He had three older brothers at the time of his birth. Seven more brothers and three sisters would follow to complete their family. From a young age he learned to work hard and the importance of laughter to lighten the load. He developed a quick wit and always enjoyed visits and a good laugh with family, friends, and neighbors. 

He is survived by his ever doting wife, Karen (Erickson); his son, James D. Crimmins (Sonya) and his favorite daughter, April (Mike Shuneson), both of Backus; and his beloved grandchildren, Aaron (Kristine), Logan (Shannon), and Joel (Melissa) Shuneson; Ethan, Genevieve, Margaret, and Shay Crimmins. He has been blessed with nine rambunctious great-grandchildren, Ivanava, Eleanora, Dahlia, Lorelai, Colten, Riley, Wesley, Drake, and Violet, whom he loved to tease until the very end. He is also survived by his siblings, Patrick (Sandy), Ole (Nancy), Corky (Linda), Ronnie and sisters, Kathy Hanson, and Faye Binman (Perry). There are many nieces and nephews of which are too numerous to mention. He is preceded in death by his parents, Opal and Edward; brothers, Alan, Lowell, Jerry, Bill, Mike, Hoppy, and sister Karen. He is reunited with his grandson Eli Crimmins. 

A remembrance of Jim’s life will be held at the Church of the Nazarene in Backus on November 21, 2026, at 11 AM with visitation one hour before the service. 

The family thanks you for your support and prayers during this time.