James Parsons

James D. Parsons, son of Alfred Wayne and Verda Arlene (Early) Parsons, was born July 29, 1939. He was a 1957 graduate of Fort Dodge Senior High School. On October 23, 1960, he married Karen Neiford and the couple made their home and raised their family in Fort Dodge. Jim was a hard worker, employed with Hormel in both Fort Dodge and for 10 years in Fremont, NE, until his retirement in 1997. He worked part-time at the Fort Museum, YMCA, Hy-Vee and Friendship Haven.

James never met a stranger. He had the gift of gab and could charm anyone with his smile and wit within moments. He loved watching the Hawkeyes, Cubs and Dodger Softball, and was a huge supporter of everything his children and grandchildren did.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Karen Parsons, his children and grandchildren; daughter Carol Parsons (Arden Svoboda) of Coralville, their children, Autumn (Gabe) Simpson, and Parker Svoboda, daughter Pam (Tim) Harms of Owatonna, MN, children Lyndi (Daniel) Cannistra, and Ryan Ryder, daughter Tricia (Irv) Steenhoek of Hutchinson, MN, their children Stephanie (Aaron) Cameron, and Riley (Kate) Steenhoek, son Tom (Michelle) Parsons of Fort Dodge, their children Emily and Katie Parsons, daughter Amy (Roger) Porter of Fort Dodge, their children Alaina, Aidan and Lucy Porter; 5 great grandchildren and one due this June; his brother Denis Parsons of Leesburg, FL. He was preceded in death by his parents Wayne and Arlene Parsons, sister Janis Nelson and brother Kevin Parsons.

Memorials may be left to the discretion of the family and mailed to Karen Parsons in care of Gunderson Funeral Home, 1615 N. 15th Street, Fort Dodge, IA 50501.