James Leo Randles

James Leo Randles
Adel, Iowa

James Leo Randles, 79, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, at his home in Van Meter. He was born to Leo and Francis Randles on September 5, 1945.

Jim was self-employed, working through Jim Randles Construction and also with Firestone. He was a proud graduate of Saydel High School and lived in several places throughout his life, including Memphis, Tennessee; Saylorville, Iowa; Elkhart, Iowa; and Van Meter, Iowa.

Jim had a wide range of hobbies that brought him joy—he loved hunting, fishing, woodworking, bird watching, and even mowing the lawn. He was a longtime member of Saylorville Baptist Church, where he found community and faith.

Above all, Jim cherished time with his grandchildren. Watching them play sports and simply spending time with them was one of his greatest joys.

He is survived by his loving wife, Linda; daughter, Jaime (Mark) Smolik; son Michael Randles (deceased); grandchildren, Cameron Smolik, Jaxon Smolik, Shae Smolik, Sidney Smolik and Alexandra Smolik; sisters, Joan (Gary) Rufer; Vicky (Dan) Northup and Willene (Bob) Battles; brother, Jack Randles and brother-in-law, Donald (Mary Jane) Quick.

Jim was preceded in death by his son, Michael; parents, Leo and Francis Randles; siblings, Charles, Gene, Rick Randle and Helen Newby.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 3, 2025 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave., Des Moines. Jim will be laid to rest at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery in Des Moines at a later date.

Memorial contribution may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in loving memory of Jim.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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