James “Jim” Mace, 89, of Perry died Wednesday, July 8, 2020, at the Perry Lutheran Homes in Perry, Iowa.
The older of two sons, he was born May 10, 1931, on the family farm outside of Perry to Lester Nelson and Vallie Grace (Karr) Mace.
Jim graduated from Perry High School and Iowa State University with a bachelor’s degree in animal husbandry.
On Aug. 23, 1953, Elsie Margaret Christisen and he united in marriage at the First Presbyterian Church of Perry.
Except for his brief service in the U.S. Army, Jim’s career was spent first working on the family farm outside of Perry and then at Stine Research Farm.
When not in the field tending livestock, processing seed corn or maintaining equipment, Jim volunteered his time at Habitat for Humanity, Perry Community School Board, First Presbyterian Church and regional councils of the Presbyterian Church (USA)
His leisure time was spent behind a camera, taking photos of landscapes, trips and holiday and family gatherings. He was also fond of collecting rocks or constructing something out of wood.
Preceding Jim in death were his parents, Lester and Vallie Mace; and infant son, David Paul Mace.
He is survived by his wife, Elsie; children, Cynthia “Cindy” (Carl Silberman) Mace of Lake Forest, Illinois, Virginia “Ginny” (Mark) Shanda of Lexington, Kentucky, and Christina “Christy” (Scott) Coffman of Perry; granddaughters, Ann and Kay Shanda; and brother, Weldon Mace (Jeanne) of Grand Junction, Colorado.
Memorial services will be held at a later date. If desired, friends may give memorial contributions to the First Presbyterian Church, and these may be left at Carris Family Funeral Home and Cremation Care. Online condolences may be sent at www.carrisfuneralhome.com.
Jim and Elsie were our youth group leaders when I was in junior and senior high. I always liked being around them because they were such neat people and a wonderful couple– a great role model for us young folks. I am so sorry for your loss, Elsie and family. Jim was a terrific guy. I always hoped I’d see you guys at church when I visited my family decades ago.