Jim Meyers was a pillar of the Bloomington Optimist Club. He was our leader, our compass and the voice of reason. Jim would listen quietly and allow others to share their ideas. When Jim spoke, it was usually a signal that the discussion was over because in very few words he would share his opinion, which was based on decades of experience. If someone didn’t know the answer, the follow up reply was always “Ask Jim.”
Jim believed so strongly in the mission of the Optimist that his service did not stop at our local club. He served in many leadership roles throughout International Optimist and knew other members from all over our district. He also volunteered his time to sponsor new clubs and help them get started. Sitting with Jim at a district meeting or event, you would hear past stories of couples having a great time together all in the name of making our communities a better place for the youth.
Three of Jim’s positions of honor within the DMM / OI:
1992-93 Distinguished District Governor
1995-96 DMM Secretary / Treasurer
2002-03 International Vice President
Jim was nearly at every meeting at our Wednesday morning meetings from 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM. We never kept attendance but if we had he would have set some kind of record. Because of the time of the meetings we originally called ourselves the Bloomington Optimist Breakfast Club. Or, was it the Breakfast Club of Bloomington Optimist? Or, was it the Optimist Breakfast Club of Bloomington? Jim knew. He was always there to remind us of our history. He was our history. We will miss you, Jim.
To honor Jim, please send memorials in lieu of flowers to the Bloomington Optimist Club Youth Foundation.
In memory of Jim Meyers
Attn: Bloomington Optimist Club Youth Foundation
P.O. box 385401
Bloomington, MN 55438
The Bloomington Optimists is a 501C(3) orginization. It’s Tax I D is # 41-1993044.
Obituary:
James “Jim” Paul Meyers, age 80, passed away Saturday September 1, at Fairview Southdale Hospital in Edina, Minnesota. Jim was born in Minneapolis July 18, 1938, the son of Evelyn and Joseph Meyers. He graduated from Minneapolis Vocational High School where he met his wife, Barbara Ferrian. The two married on August 22, 1959. Following high school, Jim joined the US Army and earned an honorable discharge after eight years of service.
His career spanned over forty years working in advertising and printing. Jim devoted significant time to the Optimist Club and to the City of Bloomington. He enjoyed carpentry and fostered this hobby through numerous home improvement projects. Jim was a longstanding member of St. Stephen Lutheran Church where he served in many capacities.
Jim is survived by his wife Barbara, Children Tom (Julie), Kris (John) Bermel, and Kathy (BryanLorence); five grandchildren Anthony (Emily), Kaitlyn, Daniel, Mitchell, Lydia and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Jim and Barb shared their home with many beloved pets including Abby and Tucker.
Jim will be remembered fondly amongst his family, friends and community for his passion, loyalty and commitment. He is missed dearly. The family would like to extend our gratitude to the many health care professionals who cared for Jim so attentively and compassionately. Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. followed by Memorial service on Friday, September 14, 2018, at St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 8400 France Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55431; inturnment onsite at the St. Stephen Columbarium. Visitation will be held one-hour prior. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Jim’s name to Bloomington Optimist Club Youth Foundation.
