James Arnold Nelson

James Arnold Nelson, 84, of Newton, IA died on Thursday, December 26, 2024, in Newton, IA.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Smith Funeral Home - Grinnell, IA. A time for prayer and sharing of memories will begin the celebration at 2:00 PM.

Jim was born at home in New Windsor, Illinois, on July 22, 1940, the son of Earl C. Nelson and Beulah M. (Higgins) Nelson. A proud graduate of Winola High School’s Class of 1958, he went on to complete a tool and die apprenticeship, which laid the foundation for a successful career. Jim worked as a tool maker and foreman before joining Maytag, where he continued his craft until his retirement.

On September 1, 1962, Jim married JoAnn Eckhardt in New Windsor, Illinois. Together, they built a life filled with love and shared memories. Jim was an avid sports enthusiast who found joy in golfing, playing poker, and cheering on his favorite teams—the St. Louis Cardinals, University of Illinois Fighting Illini, and Chicago Bears. A dedicated coach, he spent time mentoring young athletes in little league football and softball including his daughters.

Known for his stubborn yet endearing personality, Jim was a people person who brought joy to those around him. He cherished following his grandchildren’s activities and successes, making it a priority to speak with them daily.

Jim is survived by his wife JoAnn of Newton, IA; daughters Tammy Nelson of Grimes, IA and her children: Jacinda (Hans) Krueger, Trent (Brittany) Mueting, Zane (Chelsea) Mueting, and Cayden, Avery, and Asher Guidebeck, and Traci (Jim) Kapple of Knoxville, TN and their children: Jordan (Julie) Kapple, and Kolton (Katelyn) Kapple; siblings MaryAnne Potratz, Karen Homer, and Terry Nelson; and 12 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Earl and Beulah Nelson and siblings Stanley, Harry, Ronald, and Clifford Nelson, and Loretta Pfeiffer.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Jim may be designated to St. Jude’s Children Hospital, an organization to which Jim was a dedicated contributor.

Memorials can be mailed to Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.