James Folkers

James C. "Jim" Folkers, age 75, of New Hampton, IA, formerly of Lawler, IA, died Thursday, December 7, 2023, at Linn Haven Rehab & Healthcare in New Hampton. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Lawler, with Rev. Nick Radloff celebrating the Mass. Interment will be held at a later date at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Cemetery in Lawler. Friends may greet the family from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. prior to the service on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Lawler. Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton has been entrusted with arrangements. 641.394.4334 James "Jim" Chris Folkers, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2023, in his hometown of New Hampton, Iowa, the very place where his story began on June 18, 1948. Born to loving parents Galen and Pauline (Cramer) Folkers, Jim was the middle child of five siblings, Dickie, Paulette (Nosbisch) Jim, Patrick and Tom. His early years in New Hampton were filled with the joys of small-town life and the close-knit bonds of a bustling household. Jim's formative years were spent in the New Hampton Schools, where he graduated in 1966. It was at a dance in Lawler where fate led him to the love of his life, Jean (Jeannie) Murray. Their connection was undeniable, and they soon became inseparable. Jim and Jean married on November 7, 1970, and built a loving home together in Lawler. Their family grew with the arrival of two sons, Mark and Paul, who were the pride and joy of Jim's life. The family was struck with sorrow when Jean passed away on October 25, 2001, but Jim's strength and love for his family never wavered. Professionally, Jim began his career at Zip's in New Hampton, dedicating 15 years to the company immediately after high school. His entrepreneurial spirit later led him to establish his own venture, "Jim's Paint and Auto Body" in Lawler. Jim concluded his work life at Featherlite Trailers in Cresco, where he applied his skills and work ethic until retirement. Jim's passions reached far beyond his professional endeavors. He was a talented drummer, playing in a band following his high school years. An avid sportsman, Jim relished his time fishing and hunting pheasants. His prowess as a bowler earned him a proud induction into the New Hampton Bowling Hall of Fame, a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport. On game days, Jim could always be found cheering on the Hawkeyes, embodying the spirit of a true fan. His love for card games, boating, and the great outdoors were well-known among his friends and family. Jim's commitment to his community was evident through his volunteer work with the Lawler Fire Department in the 1980s and his service on the Lawler City Council. Above all, Jim was devoted to his family. He took immense pleasure in spending time with his grandchildren, always ready to share in their lives and create lasting memories. His presence was a source of joy and laughter, and his pockets were never without Root Beer Barrels, a sweet treat that became his trademark. Jim's kind, friendly, and handy nature made him a beloved figure in the lives of those he touched. He will be deeply missed by his sons, Mark (Angela) Folkers of Urbandale, Iowa, and Paul (Amy) Folkers of Ankeny, Iowa. His legacy will live on through his grandchildren, Connor, Brooke, Lincoln, Truman, Harrison, Reagan, and Jackson Folkers, who will carry forward the lessons and love he imparted. He is also survived by a sister, Paulette Nosbisch and sister-in -law, Val Folkers both of New Hampton. Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife, Jean; his brothers, Dickie, Patrick, and Tom Folkers; his brother-in-law, Roger Nosbisch; and his nephew, Travis Folkers. Jim's departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his spirit will endure in the kindness, friendship, and handiness he was known for. As we bid farewell to James "Jim" Chris Folkers, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by genuine warmth, enduring connections, and a legacy of love that will continue to inspire for generations to come.