James D. "Jim" Merchant, Sr.

  James D. “Jim” Merchant, Sr., 56, of Sioux City, passed away Saturday, April 10, 2021.  A memorial service will be 7:00 P.M. Friday, April 16, 2021 at Meyer Brothers Morningside Chapel.  Visitation will begin at 5:00 P.M. Friday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers the family prefers memorials be directed to gf.me/u/zp6at4

  James was born the son of Carl and Donna (Myers) Merchant, Sr. on September 9, 1964 in Sioux City, Iowa.  He attended North High School. James had one previous marriage with Brea Merchant and raised her daughter, Bobbi Jo Merchant, like his own.

  Jim worked as a cement contractor for many years and also enjoyed driving race cars at Park Jefferson and Interstate Speedway.

  Through a passion for stock car racing, you may remember him as ‘Jammin’ Jimmy Merchant’ (11m) or ‘the rollover king’. James won or rolled over most every season of his track years. His dedication for hard work paid off in any aspect he put his mind to. James was still determined to get things done even after suffering multiple strokes. He spent the last years of his life helping friends, working on cars, and playing with his grandchildren. James endured a lifelong battle with mental illness and addiction, but still had a heart of gold. He will be deeply missed.

  Jim is survived by his daughter, Sara Miens of Denver, Colorado and honorary daughter, Bobbi Merchant of Sioux City; siblings, Debra Merchant of Sioux City, Constantine Bruneau of Salt Lake City, Utah, Carl Merchant, Jr. of Sioux City, Franklin Merchant of Wyoming, and Carolyn Merchant Sioux City; half-brother, Travis (Victoria) Merchant of Sioux City; honorary grandchildren, Chase Kruse, Kobe Merchant, and Kai Merchant; step-mother, Lynn Merchant; and many nieces and nephews.

  He was preceded in death by his parents and son, James “Jimmer” Merchant, Jr.; and niece, Stacey Witkowski.