James L. Jarrett

James L. Jarrett, 81, of Stoddard, died on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at his home. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family.

Jim was born on January 15th, 1945, to Robert and Margaret (Matchett) Jarrett in Black River Falls, Wisconsin. He was raised in the Black River Falls and Hixton areas until graduating from Black River Falls High School in 1963. Jim served in the Army following his graduation and was stationed in South Korea; he then served in the Army Reserves following his initial enlistment. Jim married the love of his life, Barbara, in 1984, and they were happily married until her death on September 24, 2026.

Jim had an unmatchable work ethic, working until he was 80 years old. He spent most of his career as a semi driver, traveling to 48 of the 50 states, known to many as “Ranger”. Jim loved to visit with his many friends and knew someone almost everywhere he went, much to the chagrin of his family who just wanted to go home but had to wait for him to finish chatting. Jim had a passion for tractors and old Western movies, and his John Deere A 1937 was his pride and joy. He also loved auctions and rummage sales and showed his affection for his family and friends by presenting them with one of the many treasures he found for them. Stubborn to a fault, but always there for anyone who needed him, Jim will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jim is survived by his sons Troy (Lisa) Jarrett and Mike (Sabrina) Jarrett; stepdaughters Nicole Severson and Sara Eckland; grandchildren Natalie Sellnau, Tyler (Patricia) Jarrett, Hunter (DreamSon) Jarrett, Triston Jarrett, Kyle Eckland, Aubrey Eckland, Alex Fitzpatrick, Lucian Severson, Dawson Jarrett, Zurick Jarrett, Josh (Jocelyn) Flahaut, and Jena (Ian) Fox; and 2 great grandchildren. He is also survived by many friends. Jim was preceded in death by his wife Barb; his parents; his son Dustin; his grandson Gabriel Eckland; his brother Ray Jarrett; his in laws Herbert and Leone Klemp; and a brother-in-law.

The family wants to provide a special thank you to Jim’s granddaughter Natalie and Daughter-in-Law Lisa for the amazing care that they provided for him during his final weeks. The family also wishes to thank the amazing Emplify Health Hospice team, as their compassionate support ensured that the family could care for Jim at home during his final days as he wished.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, October 30, 2026 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church on 6th and Division in La Crosse with a luncheon to follow. A visitation will be from 10 a.m. until service time. Private cemetery committal with military honors will be in Oak Grove Cemetery in La Crosse. The Seland Funeral Home is assisting the family. Condolences may be given at selandsfuneralhome.com.