James Steffen

James "Jim" Steffen, 63, of Backus, Minnesota, passed away on November 2, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born on July 30, 1962, in Spencer, Iowa.

Jim owned and operated Trailside Birch Products alongside his wife, Lorraine, where he crafted birch veneered furniture. An avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting, fishing, trapping, and spending time in nature. Jim had a gift for making people laugh and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He took great pride in his family and was always there to lend a hand or listen during both good times and bad.

Jim is survived by his wife, Lorraine; sons, Orlyn (Liz), Hank (Chelsey), and Dallas (Jess); daughter, Loretta (Bill); grandchildren, Kaiden, Myra, Marcus, Maverick, Ford, and Bennett; brothers, Cliff (Sara) and Dean (Sandy); sisters, Shelly (Bruce) and Shannon (Jon); and aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Lenny; sister, Shawn; brother in-law, Tim; and parents,Orlyn and Myra.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the Backus Church of the Nazarene in Backus, Minnesota.

Memorials are preferred to the family. Cards and letters may be sent to

Lorraine Steffen

245 County Rd 49 NW

Pine River, MN 56474