Jim was born May 28, 1935 to August J. and Lea C. (Mueller) List, rural Utica, S.D. He was baptized and confirmed at Martinus Lutheran Church and attended Yankton County rural schools through eighth grade. He graduated from Yankton High School in 1953, after which he earned a degree in Chemistry from Yankton College in 1957. He furthered his education by completing his Master's degree in Physics from The University of South Dakota in 1962, and he received additional education at various Universities including The University of Wisconsin, Superior and The University of Colorado, Boulder. Jim taught at Beresford High School for three years and Spirit Lake High School for one year before teaching in the Math and Science Department at Yankton High School for 33 years.

Jim married Sharon Lee Eggers on August 22, 1959. They raised three children, James Dean, Kimberly and Tamara. Jim loved to play golf with his family and friends. He also bowled in a bowling league for many years, and he could often be found playing cards at the Elks. He was an avid sports fan and a lifelong supporter of the Yankton Bucks and Gazelles. He filmed football games for the Bucks for many years. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports and participate in musical events. Jim was always a hard worker and ready to lend a hand to those in need. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, The American Legion - Roy Anderson Post #12, and The Elks Lodge #994, and he served in the South Dakota Army National Guard.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Sharon, their son Jim, Sioux Falls, and daughters Kim (Jon) Heck, Sioux Falls and Tammy (Ken) Knudtson of Brookings; five grandchildren, Adam, Kari, and Andy Heck, Sioux Falls, and Bridget and Jenna Knudtson, Brookings; and a sister, Mary Lou List, Yankton.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents August and Lea List, and a sister, Virginia Malone.