James "Jim" Valentine

James “Jim” Valentine, age 77, passed away on December 29, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

Jim was born on August 12, 1948, in Newton, Iowa, to Bernard and Lorna (Brandt) Valentine. He graduated from Newton High School in 1966 and later made his home in Bondurant. Jim married Marlene Ault on August 23, 1969, and together they built a life rooted in family, service, and hard work.
Jim began his career as a plumber from 1966 to 1970. He then worked in telecommunications for 40 years, employed by Northwestern Bell, Qwest, and CenturyLink as a cable technician from 1970 until his retirement in 2010. Even after retiring, Jim never slowed down. He stayed busy farming, hanging gutters, working at the bank, playing Santa, owning and operating his own tree removal business, and serving as a scuba diver with Central Iowa Scuba Search and Rescue. Farming was a lifelong passion for Jim.

Jim’s hobbies included woodworking, gardening, farming, hunting, and fishing. Jim was a devoted member of Bondurant Christian Church, where he held many offices. He served on the Bondurant Fire Department for 35 years and was Fire Chief for a time. Jim was also a member of the Bondurant Sons of the American Legion and previously served with the Department of Iowa Sons of the American Legion as Commander, along with holding many other offices and titles. In addition, Jim served on the Bondurant City Council for eight years.

Jim was known for never sitting still, never wearing a shirt in the summer, and for coaching and playing both slow-pitch and fast-pitch softball.

Jim is survived by his children, Darla (Scott) Davidson and Scott (Brianna) Valentine; his grandchildren, Ryan (Jozie) Davidson, Trevor Davidson, Tanner Valentine (Shannon Bierle), and Kylie Valentine; his great-granddaughter, Caraline Davidson; his nieces, JoAnna Huisman, Krista Fellman (Chuck Ohrtman), and Kimberly (Jay) Peters; along with many extended family members and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Marlene Valentine; and his sister, Claudia Wyatt.

Family will greet friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Bondurant Christian Church, 304 Grant Street South, Bondurant, Iowa. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Bondurant Christian Church or the Bondurant Sons of the American Legion Squadron #396 in honor of Jim.

“If there was no love, then there would be no grief.”

Condolences may be expressed online at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com.

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