Jimmie Lewis Aldren, Sr., 84, of Sturgis, died at his home on December 11, 2016. He was born on August 1, 1932, to Olaf and Beda Aldren in Lennox, SD.

During his early years through his graduation from Rapid City High School in 1950, Jim spent his life on the family farm in Black Hawk, SD. On August 2, 1952, Jim married June Huchendorf and, by this union, had four children. After moving to Sturgis, SD, in 1957, Jim purchased and operated the A & W Drive-In, a venture he continued for twenty-nine years afterward. It was in Sturgis that Jim met his second wife, Emma Draine, whom he married on December 22, 1986. A gifted repairman, Jim also worked as the service manager at Owens Interstate Sales for twenty years and, even after his retirement, stayed busy by helping his wife, Emma, deliver the mail. Apart from his work, Jim's varied interests led him to pursue many diverse undertakings in his church and community. At different points throughout his life, Jim was a business owner, a deputy sheriff, a volunteer firefighter, a licensed pilot, and a city councilman. He truly was a jack of all trades.

The only quality that eclipsed Jim's relentless work ethic was his endless devotion to family and friends. From broken washing machines to unfinished school projects, Jim was always willing to lend a helping hand in order to get a job done, and get it done right. His kind heart and gentle demeanor endeared him to many, as his graciousness became quickly evident to anyone whom he met. However, this cordial compassion did not come from a conscious effort on Jim's part. Instead, it was natural for him, inherent in his personality, and it seemed to physically manifest itself in his rich laugh and big smile. Jim's kindness, however, was not compensation for a weakness of spirit, because behind his amiable exterior was a man of integrity and virtue. His common sense helped him dictate right from wrong, and his strong will helped him to make the honest choice in any situation. Quite simply, Jim was the perfect example of a good man: a loving father and husband, a loyal friend, and a man of the highest personal character.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Emma; his four children, Janice (John) Simons, Jim Jr. (Margie) Aldren, Jerry Aldren, and Jon (Heidi) Aldren; his three stepchildren, Jim Draine, Randy Draine, and Denise (Steve) Shuck; 20 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Olaf and Beda Aldren; his brother, Richard Aldren; his granddaughter, Kristi Simons; his great-grandson, Christian VanHorn; and his daughter-in-law, Shari Aldren.

A memorial service will be held Friday, December 16, 2016, at 2:00 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Sturgis with Pastors Willard Olsen and Herbert Cleveland officiating. Inurnment will follow at Bear Butte Cemetery in Sturgis.

Memorials have been established to Grace Lutheran Church and the Sturgis Senior Center.