WINTHROP–James Allen Mayer, age 88, of Winthrop, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at Harmony River Living Center in Hutchinson.Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the Church of St. Willibrord’s in Gibbon, with Father Brian Oestreich officiating. Burial will follow in St. Willibrord’s Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9-11 a.m. Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the Church of St. Willibrord’s in Gibbon. To leave an online condolence or sign the guestbook, please visit mvfh.org.

James was born on June 21, 1936, in New Ulm to Arthur and Eva (Heinrich) Mayer. James graduated from Gibbon High School in 1954 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from the College of St. Thomas in 1959. He lived and worked on the family farm in Winthrop until the age of 82, raising sugar beets, wheat, soybeans, and corn. Alongside farming, James was employed at Kraft Foods for 39 years and 5 months.

James dedicated his time and talents to his community, serving as Cornish Township Supervisor for 40 years. He was a committed member of his parish, volunteering for 37 years as a commentator and lector at St. Willibrord’s.

He had a passion for antiquing, watching westerns, and traveling with his fiancée, Dorothea. Together, they documented their travels through photographs, which Dorothea transformed into beautiful paintings. A lifelong learner and avid reader, James always pursued knowledge; and he never hesitated to speak his mind.

James will be remembered for his steady presence, dedication to his work and community, and his kind spirit. Blessed be his memory.

James is survived by Dorothea’s daughter, Beryl Wernberg; Dorothea’s daughters-in-law, Barbara Paul, and Pailin “Ang” Paul. He is also survived by Dorothea’s granddaughter, Char Blashill; as well as his nieces, Mary (Tom) Schroeder and Amy Mayer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Eva Mayer; his fiancée, Dorothea Paul; Dorothea’s sons, George William Paul and Michael Paul; her son-in-law, Myron Wernberg; his brother and sister-in-law, Gail and Gladys Mayer; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Of note are the following who provided James with extra care and support in every way following the loss of Dorothea and during his battle with health issues. Special thanks to Gerald, Karen, Dave, Christine, Emily, Parker, Gabby and Alexandra Revier, as well as lifelong neighbors Mike Rein, LeAnn and Randy Byro and Ervin Huwe. James was so blessed to have all of you in his life.

A special thank you to the staff and residents at Harmony River Living Center for their care, kindness, and support.

Memorials are preferred to the American Cancer Society and or the American Diabetes Association.

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