James L. Showalter

James L. Showalter, 88, of Britt passed away Thursday, November 5, 2020 at Westview Care Center in Britt.

Funeral services for James Showalter will be held at 2:30 PM on Sunday, November 8, 2020 at Ewing Funeral Home, 178 Center Street West, with Pastor Robert Snitzer officiating. Burial will take place at Madison Township Cemetery rural Forest City.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 8, 2020 from 1:30 - 2:30 PM at Ewing Funeral Chapel, 178 Center Street West in Britt.

Those in attendance will be asked to follow social distancing guidelines and are encouraged to wear a face covering.

James Lee Showalter the son of John and Elvera (Kellberg) Showalter was born May 19, 1932 in Troy, Idaho where he grew up before his family moved to Bolivia for mission work.  Upon returning to the states, Jim attended and graduated from Augustana Academy in Canton, South Dakota before continuing his education at Waldorf College in Forest City.

While at Waldorf, Jim met Patricia Hosier and the couple were united in marriage on May 29, 1955 at the Forest City United Methodist Church. The couple later moved to Crystal Lake.

 Jim was employed at various places in northern Iowa and southern Minnesota including Harold’s Palace of Sweets, Decker’s in Mason City, Blue Earth Schwin’s and a Des Moines Register route.  Jim had a large route for Harold’s Music, and often took family with him when he worked.  Jim was later forced to retire due to Multiple Sclerosis.

Jim was a man of strong faith, always a good listener, cared about people and always thought the best of everyone.  He was a very patient person with a good sense of humor and loved children.  He was enjoyed working in his wood shop behind his house making items for Easter Seals.

He is survived by Patricia Showalter of Garner; his children: Jon (Sandra) Showalter of Eads, Tennessee and their children William, Mario and Cameron;  Janet (Mike) Justice of Boise, Idaho and their children Jeremy, Amanda, Mike and Michelle; Joel (Stacey) Showalter, Sr. and daughter Amy, son Michael, and daughter-in-law Katie; Jeff (Sherri) Showalter of Ackley and their children Brandon and Nick; Jordan Showalter of Ackley and his children Ben, Tim and Alexis; 27 great-grandchildren; brother Jerry Showalter; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, sister-in-law Mary Showalter and grandson Joel Showalter, Jr.