Pastor Jim Bzoskie

Pastor James S. “Jim” Bzoskie, D.Th., 76, of Hastings, passed away suddenly on Friday morning, December 19, 2025. A devoted pastor, husband, dad, grandpa, and friend, Jim spent his life caring deeply for others. Through his faith, compassion, and steady presence, he left a lasting mark on countless lives.

Jim was born September 18, 1949, in Owatonna, Minnesota. Because of his father’s work, his childhood included several moves, one of which brought him to Hastings, where he met Charlotte “Charlie” Carroll. Before his family moved away to Pipestone, Jim told her he would come back and marry her someday. He kept that promise, and they were married on March 2, 1971.

Jim’s early career included service in law enforcement, first as a deputy marshal and later as police chief in Woodville, Wisconsin. In 1974, he felt a clear calling into ministry - a calling that would shape the rest of his life. He pursued biblical studies and ministry training, was ordained in 1978, and founded Cornerstone Bible Church in Hastings in 1983, where he served faithfully until his very last breath. He never stopped learning and never stopped teaching. Whether in the pulpit, the classroom, or one-on-one over coffee, he loved helping others grow.

For 47 years, Jim also served as senior chaplain for the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office, Hastings Police Department, and Hastings Fire Department. He maintained his EMT training throughout those years, taking pride in being prepared to help in emergencies. Through jail ministry, crisis response, and classes on anger management and parenting, he showed up - again and again - for people in their hardest moments. He often said he was humbled by the opportunity to serve. Those who knew him would say his true gift was simple but rare: he showed up, and he put others first.

Outside of ministry, Jim found joy in everyday traditions and small delights. He was a devoted Minnesota Wild season ticket holder and proudly attended all 12 days of the Minnesota State Fair every year. He loved adventures with his family and friends, especially his kids and grandkids, including walks at Vermillion Falls or trips to the Mall of America and Minnesota Zoo. He also had a soft spot for the neighborhood squirrels, who were treated to gourmet meals served on a miniature picnic table in his front yard.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Margaret; siblings Larry and Judy; brother-in-law Arlo Becker; and a stillborn brother. He is survived by his beloved wife, Charlotte; his children James Jr. (Jessica Kulla), Sarah (Dan) Lindner, and Isaiah (Alexa) Bzoskie; grandchildren Haley Kulla; Whitney and Noah Bzoskie; Anna (Mason Murphy), Ryan and Mia Lindner; and Frank, Eleanora, and Mack Bzoskie; great-grandchildren Trenton and Jordyn; sisters Janice (Jim) Malone and Nancy (Fred) Fritsch; sister-in-law Jeannie Bzoskie; former sister-in-law Ina Skoglund; and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Pastor Jim’s Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Hastings Middle School. Visitation will take place Friday, January 9, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel in Hastings, with additional visitation Saturday morning from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the school - gathering for coffee and donuts, just as Jim would have wanted. Private family interment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Cornerstone Bible Church or to the donor’s choice.

Pastor Jim’s life was a testament to loving God and loving people well. Well done, good and faithful servant.

Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.