Jim Metzen facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Jim Metzen
9th President of the Minnesota Senate
In office January 7, 2003 – January 4, 2011
Preceded by	Don Samuelson
Succeeded by	Michelle Fischbach
Member of the Minnesota Senate from the 52nd district 39th (1987–2013)
In office January 6, 1987 – July 11, 2016
Preceded by	Conrado Vega
Succeeded by	Matt Klein
Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives from the 39B district 52A (1975–1983)
In office January 7, 1975 – January 5, 1987
Preceded by	Ray Pavlak
Succeeded by	Bob Milbert
Personal details
Born	(1943-10-26)October 26, 1943 South St. Paul, Minnesota
Died	July 11, 2016(2016-07-11) (aged 72) South St. Paul, Minnesota
Political party	Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party
Residence	South St. Paul, Minnesota
Alma mater	University of Minnesota
Occupation	retired banker, retired businessman, legislator

James P. Metzen (born October 26, 1943 – died July 11, 2016) was an American politician from Minnesota. He was a member of the Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party (DFL). He represented District 52 in the Minnesota Senate, which included parts of Dakota County in the southeastern Twin Cities area.

Early Career Journey

Metzen began his career in the banking world at Southview Bank. He worked hard and moved up in the company. In 1992, he sold his share in the bank. Later, he became a Vice President at Key Community Bank. This bank has branches in Inver Grove Heights and South St. Paul. Metzen was very important in helping this bank get started. His father, Butch, was a union organizer, which means he helped workers form groups to protect their rights. His father also served as a commissioner for Dakota County.

Serving in Minnesota's Legislature

Before joining the Senate, Metzen served in the Minnesota House of Representatives. He was a representative from 1975 to 1986. During this time, the legislative districts changed. He first represented District 52A and then District 39B. He also served on the South St. Paul City Council from 1967 to 1974.

Key Roles in the Senate

Metzen was first elected to the Minnesota Senate in 1986. He had already served 12 years in the House of Representatives. From 2003 to 2011, he held the important position of President of the Minnesota Senate. This role is similar to a leader who guides discussions and helps manage the Senate's work.

He also led many important committees in the Senate:

• He chaired the Senate Business, Industry and Jobs Committee from 2007 to 2011.
• He led the Senate Telecommunications, Energy and Utilities Committee from 2001 to 2003.
• From 1995 to 2001, he chaired the Senate Governmental Operations and Veterans Committee.
• He also chaired the Senate Governmental Operations and Reform Committee from 1993 to 1995.
• From 1991 to 1993, he led the Senate Economic Development and Housing Committee.

Metzen also chaired several smaller subcommittees. He was the chair of the Senate Commerce Committee. He also served as a member of other committees. These included the Senate Rules and Administration, Capital Investment, and State Department and Veterans Division Committees.

Personal Life and Family

Jim Metzen lived in South St. Paul with his wife, Sandie. His brother, David, was a talented hockey player for the University of Minnesota. David also served as a regent for the University of Minnesota. David's wife, Leslie, was a judge in Dakota County. Jim Metzen had two children, Jeff and John, and two grandchildren.

In September 2015, Metzen was diagnosed with lung cancer again. He began treatment at home. On July 11, 2016, Jim Metzen passed away from cancer.