James Merriam

James Arthur Merriam, “Jim”

January 25, 1938 – August 9, 2025, age 87

Jim is survived by his daughters Shelli (Geno) Farone, Heidi (Mike) Chapman, and Annie (Patrick) Schmitz; 10 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren (with 2 more on the way). He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, LouAnn, and daughter, Kristi.

Jim was born and raised in Monticello, MN. His parents were Swedish Lutherans and fluent in the Swedish language. Jim often shared how his parents would sometimes have disagreements in Swedish when they didn’t want him to know what they were saying!

He was an avid athlete at Monticello High School, where he was elected Homecoming King—a fitting honor for someone so well liked by his peers.

Jim went on to attend Gustavus Adolphus College. While there, he met LouAnn through her cousin, who showed him modeling photos of her. After seeing them, Jim immediately knew he wanted to meet her. Their first meeting was love at first sight, and they never looked back. Six months later, they were married—proof that when you know, you know.

Jim and LouAnn made their home in Monticello, where they raised their four daughters. Jim owned and operated Bridgewater Telephone Company until 1980, when he sold the business and moved to Minneapolis. There, he started Merriam One Hour Photo in 1982 and loved having his daughters help him run it. In 2006, Jim and LouAnn relocated to the Brainerd Lakes area, where they enjoyed time at their cherished cabin on Gull Lake before building a permanent home on the property.

Jim had numerous hobbies, such as, collecting antique and classic cars, sailing, feeding the outdoor birds and you would often find him tinkering in his garage with some sort of gadget.

Throughout their marriage, Jim and LouAnn shared a love for the outdoors, especially skiing. ( water, downhill and cross country). Jim spent countless hours patiently teaching his daughters to ski, and together they enjoyed many family ski trips. Travel was also a passion, and the family made wonderful memories in Hawaii, Mexico, Aspen, and many other places.

Above all, Jim will be remembered for his sense of humor, kindness, and unwavering love for his family. He had a warm smile, a twinkle in his eye, and a gift for making those around him feel loved. A couple of his favorite reminders to his daughters were: “You’ve got to be tough” and “Don’t forget to have some fun!”

After 67 years of marriage, Jim is now reunited with LouAnn, no doubt dancing together once again to their favorite song, Frank Sinatra’s “All the Way.”

Jim will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

We know our Dad is now hugging our Mom and sister, Kris. They are for sure having some FUN!

Thank you, God, for blessing us with the best dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa.

Per Jim’s wishes, a private family memorial will be held.

The family kindly requests no gifts; cards and written remembrances may be sent to, Merriam Family P.O. Box 132 Nisswa, Mn 56468

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Baxter.