James Claudius Jansen

James C. Jansen (Jim), 87, of Waterloo, died on Friday, May 29, 2026, at UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital in Waterloo.

He was born on October 18, 1938, in Grundy Center, the son of Max and Gertrude (Haack) Jansen. He graduated from Dike High School in 1956.

James married Doris Marie Hickey in October 1958. They later divorced but of this union they had four children Cathy, Carla, Carol and Cory. Don and Larry Heisler joined their family as well. He then married Doris Ann (Heideman) Gielau in May 1988. Jim helped raise Melissa and John with Doris Ann as they were 3 and 5 when they married. Doris Ann’s children are Mike, Tim and Matt Weichers and Melissa Gielau-Willard and John Gielau. Jim and Doris Ann were married 38 years.

Jim farmed near Dike for most of his life, retiring in 1986. Jim dedicated his life to farming and to the values that define rural Iowa-hard work, integrity and perseverance. As a proud farmer, he was passionate about the weather and working the land. After retiring from farming, he worked numerous other jobs, including painting, mowing lawns, snowplowing, and working for the city of Waterloo.

James was a member of Nazareth Lutheran Church in Cedar Falls. He was a former member of the United Methodist Church in Dike. He was a member of El Kahir Shrine where he enjoyed being part of the Mobile Nobles and driving in parades over the years. He loved to play golf and a proud moment was a hole in one at Byrnes Park in July 1999 – a cherished memory for James.

He is survived by his wife Doris Ann, four children, Doris Ann’s four children, twelve grandchildren, his sister Joan, and many extended family and friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Doris Marie (Schuck); brother, Max Jansen; brother-in-law Dale Lehmkuhl, and son of Doris Ann, Michael Weichers.

A celebration of life memorial will be held in Dike on August 8th. Memorials may be directed to the family or First Tee.

Locke at Tower Park, 4140 Kimball Avenue, is assisting the family. Locke at Tower Park, 319-233-3146.