James Williams

James M. Williams, 71, of Eldora, Iowa, passed away at his home with his family at his side on Wednesday, November 02, 2011, while under the care of Iowa Hospice. Funeral services will be at 2 pm on Monday, November 7, 2011 at the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Eldora with Pastor Corey Larson officiating. Burial will follow in the Hubbard Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church on Sunday, November 6, from 3pm to 6pm. Creps-Abels Funeral Home in Eldora is in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be directed to Iowa Hospice or to the First Congregational United Church of Christ.

James was born on May 11, 1940 to Clifford and Martha (Fraizer) Williams in rural Madrid, Iowa. He graduated from United Community Schools in 1958. In 1960 he was united in marriage to Lola Mae Rutledge at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Jim worked for John Deere in Ankeny for over 30 years and retired in 1989 as a member of the Local 450. During retirement Jim and Lola lived in Arkansas and Missouri where he made many lasting friendships. They returned to Iowa in 2009 when they moved to Eldora.

Jim loved being outdoors, was an avid golfer, enjoyed playing and watching sports and cheering on his favorite teams. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was active on many committees and enjoyed volunteering. He was a member of the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Eldora.

He is survived by his wife, Lola; children, Kevin Williams and his wife Jeannie of Huxley, Lori Gustafson and her husband Rick of Hubbard, Michael Williams of Nevada, and Cheryl Dove of Hubbard; sister, Beverly (Stanley) Erickson of Grimes; brother, Tom (Sharol) Williams of Dallas Center; and by 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Gary Williams.