Jim John Struyk

Jim "Spanky" Struyk, age 74, of Austin, passed away surrounded by his family on September 1, 2026, at Our House in Austin, after he faced a battle with Glioblastoma Brain Cancer for over 5 years with incredible strength and dignity. Adrianus John Struyk was born on March 7, 1952, in Albert Lea, MN to Adrianus and Amy (Bure) Struyk. He graduated from Albert Lea High School and continued his education at the Austin VoTech College receiving his certificate from the Automotive Program. He began his career in 1980 working the gas pipelines all around the country. Over the years, Jim owned Spanky's Bar in Austin and Hollandale, Anytime Fitness, and Whispering Pines Assisted Living. But to those who knew him, Jim was so much more than the businesses he owned. He was a friend, a father, a partner, a son, a brother, and a man who had a way of leaving an impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. But perhaps what Jim loved most was his family. Jim loved working with his hands and could often be found fixing cars, doing carpentry, or taking care of something that needed fixing. He loved his Harley, lawn care, reading, old country music, the outdoors, and spending time visiting with people at the local coffee shops. He had a tremendous love for animals and cared for countless horses, chickens, dogs, cats, and goats throughout his life. He cared for his mother Amy during her lengthy illness. Jim battled brain cancer with incredible determination, and through every difficult day, his daughter, Keziah remained one of the biggest things that gave him strength. He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity and quick wit.

Jim is survived by daughters, Crystal (Juliano Alford) Rodewald of Hollandale, and Keziah Struyk of Austin; grandson, Tyler O'Fallon; life partner, Bridgette Britt and bonus daughter Vivian of Austin; siblings, Joy Ness of Waseca, Curt Anderson of Ankorage, Alaska, Jennie Neville of Apple Valley; good friends, Lowell and LaVonne Johnson, Nicole and Ian; many nieces, nephews cousins, other relatives and friends. Jim is preceded in death by parents, Adrianus and Amy Struyk; siblings, Hendrik (Hein) Struyk, Annabelle Peterson, and Lester Anderson.

The Celebration of Life for Jim will be held from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, with a short service at 1:00 p.m. at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home in Austin. Burial will take place in the Hollandale Cemetery in Hollandale, Minnesota. Memorial donations can be made in Jim's name to the Ronald McDonald House.