I clean for Jim and Barb and Jim was a very special very kind very funny and just a very nice person. I will truly miss him.
James V. "Jim" Bestick
October 10, 1947 – December 22, 2021
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, January 3, 2022 at St. Mary’s Cathedral (Upper Church) for James Vincent “Jim” Bestick, age 74, of St. Cloud who entered into eternal rest at his home on December 22, 2021. Reverend Brady Keller will officiate. Interment will take place at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls with full military honors.
Visitation will take place from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Sunday at the Daniel Funeral Home in St. Cloud and one hour prior to services on Monday at the church. Parish prayers will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home.
Jim was born on October 10, 1947 in Redwood Falls, MN to Vincent James and Florence Theresa (Kosek) Bestick. He married Barbara Lynn (Patten) on June 24, 1972. Growing up in Redwood Falls, he developed his lasting love of the outdoors, spending endless hours exploring the expansive Redwood Falls Park. In high school his greatest achievements were in wrestling and earning the honor of Eagle Scout. Jim proudly served 4 years in the US Navy- including 2 tours in Vietnam. Following his military service, he attended St. Cloud State University and earned his Bachelors in Biology and a Masters in Aquatic-Microbiology. Jim worked for the MN Pollution Control Agency and the Stearns County Community Health Agency throughout his career.
Jim worked tirelessly serving and supporting veterans. His service began when a student at SCSU and President of the SCSU Vets Club. Later in life he served 10 years as President of the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Chapter 290 and 10 years as the President of the St. Cloud Stand Down.
Jim’s greatest joy in life was found when deer hunting, fishing, spending time with family, friends and watching his grandson’s sporting events. Jim’s quick wit and humor, kindness, and personal attention to people, touched the hearts of everyone.
The family would like to express deep gratitude to all medical personnel, especially those at the St Cloud VA, who have lovingly cared for Jim over the years. He had a special fondness for you all.
He is survived by his wife, Barb of 49 1/2 years; children, Jennifer (Jason) Bernick of Rice, Rachel Bestick of Minneapolis, Lindsey (Steve) Knapp of St. Louis Park; four beloved grandchildren, Marcel and Elliot Testa, Sydney and Amelia Knapp; siblings Tom, Pat (Louise), Mark (Sheila) and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Madonna Baune; and sister-in-laws, Mary Bestick and Ann Bestick.
Guestbook
Barb and family you have our sympathy and prayers for the loss of Jim
Tim and I met Barb and Jim quite a few years ago and instantly felt like we had a connection with this wonderful family. Our love and prayers are with Bestick family.
I worked with Jim at the MPCA,outstanding public employee protecting MN resources. Enjoyed many hunting trips out West with Jim.
I haven’t seen Jim since we worked at the MPCA. We were in grad school together. My condolences to the Bestick family.
Our sincere condolences to you, Barb, and to your entire family.
Jim was the glue that held many of us together. He was my boss and a fellow vet, but above all a caring friend who often showed his caring and humanity for others subtly and without fanfare.
We were better to have known him and lesser with him gone. He will be missed
Services
Visitation
Daniel Funeral Home, St. CloudServices
St. Mary’s CathedralSchedule Details
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, January 3, 2022 at St. Mary’s Cathedral (Upper Church) for James Vincent “Jim” Bestick, age 74, of St. Cloud who entered into eternal rest at his home on December 22, 2021. Reverend Brady Keller will officiate. Interment will take place at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls with full military honors.
Visitation will take place from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Sunday at the Daniel Funeral Home in St. Cloud and one hour prior to services on Monday at the church. Parish prayers will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home.