Jim Woster spent 43 years working in some capacity at the Sioux Falls Stockyards. His work there and visibility on KELO doing market reports made him something of a local (and regional) celebrity. Known for his energy and being quick with a joke, Jim sat down with Keloland Living’s Ashley Thompson to talk about his life.
Watch the interview now or read read some of the highlights below.
The Early Years
Jim grew up in the central part of the state and attended South Dakota State University. “I graduated on a Monday and Tuesday at 6 AM, I started at the Sioux Falls Stockyards.”
Jim worked at the Sioux Falls Stockyards for 43 years in some capacity or another before it closed in 2009.
The Importance of Family
Jim has been married to his wife, Penny, for 55 years and they have three children and five grandchildren. He credits Penny for “everything that happened at home”.
He shared a personal memory of a “perfect” day with all his kids and grandkids in town right here in Sioux Falls just a couple of years ago. “I remember that day well…it was really wonderful.”
Looking Back
Of all the things Jim’s gotten to be a part of, he says his induction into the South Dakota Hall of Fame was the biggest honor of his life. “Not because of what you’ve done, but because of the other people in there.”
When asked which Sioux Falls icon he misses most, Jim said Sylvia Henkin. “She was just a legend.” Her singing and leadership were monumental for our community.
Jim ended the interview with a few great pieces of advice. “If you don’t care what people think, if you aren’t embarrassed by your foolishness – then everything goes good.”
“Whatever you do, make sure you enjoy doing it.”
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