James Wolesky, 77, Owatonna

James “Jim” Robert Wolesky, age 77, died of natural causes at his home on April 20, 2026.

Jim was born on Oct. 23, 1948, in Owatonna, to Robert James Wolesky and Evelyn (Anderson) Wolesky. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School for grade school and graduated from Marian High School in Owatonna. After attending college, Jim returned to Owatonna, where he worked for many years at G & K Services until his retirement in 2010.

Jim had a lifelong love of athletics. In his youth, he played golf, croquet, horseshoes. He was a member of the varsity basketball team in high school. Shortly after graduating, he took up tennis, a sport he continued to play throughout his life and became one of the top tennis players in Owatonna. He was also an avid golfer for decades and proudly achieved a hole-in-one at the Owatonna Par 3 course. Following in his father’s footsteps, Jim was also a skilled bowler and participated in a local league for several years.

Jim owned his home on South Cedar Street for approximately 40 years. He shared the home with his younger brother, Scott, until Scott’s passing in 2017. Jim devotedly cared for his brother at home during the final two years of his life.

Jim enjoyed reading and watching sports on television. Long before smartphones, Jim used video cameras to record family gatherings and school reunions. He remained closely connected with his classmates and faithfully attended reunions over the years. Jim was cherished by his cousins on both sides of his family and maintained a close circle of friends who shared his passion for tennis.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Scott. He is survived by many loving cousins and dear friends who will remember him fondly.

Friends may greet the family Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 512 S Elm Ave., Owatonna. Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11 a.m.

Interment will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Memorials preferred to St. Mary’s Catholic School and United Way of Steele County.

For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.