Pastor James Vanek, age 87, of Pecos, Texas, and formerly of Trade Lake, Wisconsin, entered eternal rest on Dec. 5, 2025.
He was born on May 5, 1938, in Brook Park, Minnesota, the youngest of eight children. His early connection to the church began through release-time classes at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hinckley, Minnesota. He was baptized and publicly confirmed his faith in the tenth grade by Pastor Roegge.
After graduating from Hinckley High School in 1956, Pastor Vanek pursued his calling to ministry through studies at Concordia Junior College in St. Paul, Minnesota, Concordia Senior College in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. He served his vicarage under Pastor Brauer in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and was ordained into the public ministry on June 6, 1965, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hinckley by Pastor Frank Sass.
On July 10, 1965, James was united in marriage to Betty, a registered nurse from Illinois. Together they shared a life of faith, service, and family. In 1965, James accepted his first call to Trinity Lutheran Church in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada, where he served faithfully for twelve years. He later accepted calls to serve congregations: Immanuel Lutheran Church, Frederic; Christ Lutheran Church, Comstock; St John’s Lutheran Church, Cameron in Wisconsin, before retiring from active ministry in August 2003.
Pastor James was devoted to his congregation and community. He made countless hospital visits to comfort the sick, supported youth groups by chaperoning gatherings, and brought the gospel to life through vivid illustrations in his sermons and Bible studies. Beyond his ministry, he cherished time with his wife and children, enjoying simple moments together as a family.
Pastor James Vanek will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his compassionate ministry, and his love for family.
He is survived by his children, Peggy Vanek, Karen Vanek, and Jason (Saundra) Vanek; grandchildren, Collin, Kyle, Alyjah, Luna, Azeekyal, and Josiah. Additionally, numerous nieces and nephews, along with their families. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty.
The memorial service honoring and celebrating the life of James Vanek will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Church, 410 Main St. S., Pine City, Minnesota. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. Lunch will be provided following the service. We will be offering a recording of the service on Pastor Glen Kleppe’s YouTube channel.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home. Online condolences may be expressed at swedberg-taylor.com.
