James Jay Garber, 89, of Rochester, MN, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his beloved wife and family.

Jim was born on March 8, 1935, in Mankato, MN, to Daniel and Gertrude (Hilgers) Garber. He graduated from Loyola High School in 1953 and went on to pursue pre-medical studies at the College of St. Thomas. Jim earned his medical degree from the University of Minnesota in 1960. He completed his internship at Harbor General Hospital in Las Angeles, CA. Following his internship, he joined the Navy and was billeted to a ship out of San Pedro CA, where he met the love of his life, Rachel Ortiz. The couple married in 1962 in Placentia, CA, and together they raised five children in Rochester, MN.

Jim dedicated 40 years to his work at Olmsted Medical Center, where he pioneered treatment for alcoholism and served as the medical director for several treatment centers around Rochester. He was a physician at Guest House, an addiction treatment center for priests and brothers for over 30 years. He wasn't driven by the science of medicine, but by the practice of medicine. Jim retired from Olmsted Medical Center in 2001 but continued his work in treating substance use disorders until he fully retired at the age of 80.

A life-long learner, Jim earned eight degrees during his lifetime, including a Ph.D. in Humanities. He was passionate about a variety of interests; a true Renaissance Man. In his spare time, he painted landscapes and portraits, translated ancient Latin medical texts, published three scholarly books, and enjoyed bicycling and climbing stairs in downtown buildings. He loved engaging in meaningful interaction with anyone in the community, striking up conversation with whomever he came across. Jim will be forever missed and leaves a legacy of love, laughter and compassion for others.

Jim is survived by his wife, Rachel, and their five children: Ann (Steve) Johnson of Coon Rapids, MN; Clare (John) Larsen of Rochester, MN; James D. Garber of Fort Worth, TX; Suzanne M. Garber of Cincinnati, OH; and David (Paknoosh) Garber of Chula Vista, CA. He is also survived by his five grandchildren: Joseph Weis, Ray, Angela, and Hannah Larsen, and Ava Garber, along with nine nieces and nephews, his step-sister, Catherine Klugherz and his special son, Pete Knight. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Robert, and his nephew, Tom Garber.

A visitation will be held from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the River Park Reception Hall at Macken Funeral Home. In accordance with his wishes, Jim donated his body to the University of Minnesota to further the education of future medical students.

The family wishes to thank St. Croix Hospice staff for their love, support and compassionate care.