James Leroy Handahl, 84 of Rochester died peacefully at his home Sunday, December 7, 2025.

Jim was born on March 8, 1941, in Faribault, Minnesota to Albert and Elsie Handahl.  He graduated from West Concord High School.

On Sept 3 ^rd , 1961, he married Velora Bjerke and the two made their home in West Concord, Minnesota until they moved to Rochester in 1967.

He worked for Goodyear Rubber and Tire for 35 years as a mechanic. After retirement, Jim and Velora started a crafting business.  He also enjoyed gardening, fishing and camping.  Jim was an avid sports fan following the Vikings, Twins, Wild and attending many Rochester Ice Hawks games with the family.

He is survived by his wife, Velora Handahl of Rochester, Minnesota, two children Maryann (Dennis) Jorgenson from Stewartville, Minnesota, Mike (Lynn) Handahl from Milford, Connecticut; 5 grandchildren Teresa Jorgenson, Laura (Rob) Westendorf, Matt Handahl, Sean (Katie) Handahl, Brittany (Ryan) Bouchard; 3 great grandchildren, Aubrey 5-1/2 , Owen 4, Natalie 8 days old and another granddaughter due in April 2026.