James Free

December 11, 2017

James Free

Service Details

James Roderick Free, age 88, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, December 11, 2017.

James was born on August 29, 1929 in Des Moines, the son of James and Ruth Free; he attended Visitation grade school and graduated from Dowling High School, Class of 1947. He was a member of All Saints Catholic Church in Des Moines.

James served in the Army during the Korean War, throughout that time he learned to love the Korean people, especially the children.

James is survived by his wife of 62 years Mary Jane, son Leonard (Christina), daughter Monica (Jerry) Van Cleve, son Kenneth (Marianne), son Gregory, son Victor (Angel), daughter Charlotte Lozano, sister Patricia Free, brother Michael Free, nine grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

James was preceded in death by his parents James William and Ruth Free, stepmother Margaret, and sisters: Betty Krueger, Roseanne Kane, Eileen Reed.

The loves of his life were church and family. He retired in 1992 after working over 40 years as a bookbinder. James was a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, Knights of Columbus, and American Legion. He enjoyed reading, studying Civil War history, the poems of Robert Service, traveling, golfing, watching Jeopardy, sports, and was a life-long avid fan of the Chicago Cubs. He particularly enjoyed time spent with his retired co-workers from Meredith-Donnelley and his card club.

The family appreciates the care and kindness of the staff at Iowa Lutheran Hospital.

Hamilton’s Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Visitation will be held Thursday, December 14th, 4 to 7 pm with a Rosary at 6:45 pm at All Saints Church 650 NE 52nd Avenue. A funeral mass will be held Friday, December 15th at 10 am at All Saints Church with Rev. Robert E. Harris presiding. Private burial will be held on Monday December 18th at 9:30 am at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Vincent de Paul Society or the Shiners Hospitals.

Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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