James 'Jim' Drechsel, 80

James Elmer “Jim” Drechsel unexpectedly passed away Aug. 23, 2025, at his home in Coeur d’Alene at the age of 80.

Jim was born on Feb. 16, 1945, to Elmer and Bette Drechsel. He spent his early years alongside his family at the family farm north of Worley. Jim graduated from Coeur d’Alene High School in 1963. In 1965, he enlisted in the United States Navy and spent the next four years representing the United States, riding bulls and broncs in Rota, Spain. He left the Navy in 1969 and promptly returned to the United States to marry Janis Joy Kaufman on April 4, 1970. Jim was a car fanatic and spent the next 40 years selling cars and trucks. He was an avid outdoorsman and when he wasn’t running his car lot, he was in the woods either camping or scouting for the next trophy elk. After he sold his car lot, he quickly adapted to retirement by purchasing property on the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River, where he spent his retirement years sinking his heart and soul into his recreational property for family and friends to enjoy. Jim loved spending time on the river with his wife, children, grandchildren and numerous friends who would swing by.  

Jim leaves behind his wife of 55 years, Joy, his two children and their wives, Travis and Katie Drechsel, Tyler and Amber Drechsel, along with his grandchildren Justin and Kandi Drechsel, Keri Drechsel, Parker Drechsel and Paige Drechsel.

Jim loved having dogs and cats around and always made sure to have treats for his four-legged friends. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his name to Companions Animal Center.

Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Home. Online registry and condolences may be found at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.