James "Jim" Wells

Rock Rapids, Iowa

     James Vernon Wells, age 86, of Rock Rapids, IA, passed away October 18, 2019 at the Sanford Heart Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD, with his family by his side.

     Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 23rd at the Ransom Church (formerly the Congregational United Church of Christ) in Rock Rapids, IA, with Pastor Jason Mueller officiating.

     Burial will follow at the Riverview Cemetery in Rock Rapids.

     Visitation will be Tuesday, October 22nd from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., with family present from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Jurrens Funeral Home of Rock Rapids.

     In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Wells family for later designation.  

     Jim was born December 28, 1932 in Sheldon, IA to Renos and Anne (Groote) Wells. He grew up in Doon, IA and graduated from Doon High School, then farmed with his uncle. He served in the Air Force from 1952-1957.

     In 1957, Jim married Marjorie Berg at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Rock Rapids. The couple moved to Des Moines, IA where Jim attended Drake University and earned a degree in Accounting. Following his graduation, Jim and Marj moved back to Rock Rapids and Jim began a career in public accounting that he enjoyed for the rest of his life. Several years later he opened his own accounting firm and was always humbled and honored by the trust his clients awarded him.  A member of too many boards and foundations to mention, Jim was dedicated to the betterment of his community, most recently serving on the board of Grand Falls Casino.  Through serving his customers and community he made many treasured friendships, for which he was very grateful.         

     Aside from his career and public service, Jim enjoyed golfing, fishing, and time with family and friends.  He loved the outdoors, feeding the birds, and watching nature.  He also deeply loved his country and was a member of both the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.     

     More than anything, he loved his wife, children, and grandchildren. Jim and Marj were blessed to share 63 years of love for each other and were a shining example of a beautiful marriage.  

       Jim is survived by his wife, Marjorie; their children, Jayne and Cameron Greenfield of Sioux Falls, SD and Steve and Jackie Wells of Rock Rapids; his grandchildren, Amanda and Joe Schmunk, Ian Wells and Sydney Wells; his sister, Bonnie Sarff; and other extended family and dear friends.      

     He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Jay; his sister, Leila; and brothers-in-law, Owen Warneke and Jack Sarff.