Jim was born in Minneapolis and raised his two daughters there. He began playing the alto sax at 10 and music has always been an integral part of his life. After high school, Jim started his own dance band. It was during a gig where he met his wife. After serving in the Army Reserve Band for seven years, he continued to play in a community band for over 40 years. He has performed at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis including intergenerational concerts with student musicians. While in the community band, he saw a need to provide instruments to students who could not afford an instrument. Over 1000 instruments have been donated and these children are now able to experience the joy of making music. Jim was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives and served in the government until retirement when he and his wife relocated to Anthem, Arizona.