James H. "Jim" Clausen

James Howard Clausen was born December 12, 1936 on the farm three miles northwest of Holstein. He was the first son of Raymond (Bud) Clausen and Alice (Nickelsen) Clausen. Jim attended country school in both Douglas and Griggs before going to Holstein in the 5th grade and graduating from Holstein High School in 1955.

Jim enlisted in the U.S.N.R. in May of 1955 and served active duty on the U.S.S. Des Moines for two years (1956-1957) and was honorably discharged in May 1963 as a Petty Officer 3rd Class.

Jim was united in marriage on June 29, 1958 to Verla Jean Frahm. The couple was blessed with four children, James Alvin, Jerri Jean, Jill Marie and Joni Rae.

After serving in the Navy, Jim farmed with his father and brothers until 1986. He ran for Ida County Recorder in 1986 and was elected and served as Recorder until retiring on December 31, 2005.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church of Holstein. He was a life member and past Commander of the American Legion Dessell-Schmidt Post #225 of Holstein. Jim was also a 50-year Mason, past Master and secretary of Alpine Lodge 471 A.F. & A.M. of Holstein. He was a 50-year member of the Sioux City Scottish Rite and the Abu Bekr Shriners of Sioux City. He served on the Holstein Cooperative Elevator Board for 12 years when he was engaged in farming.

Jim really enjoyed following his children and grandchildren in their extra-curricular activities in school and 4-H. He enjoyed fishing and playing cards; Jim and Jeanne belonged to the same 500 club for over 50 years. Jim’s favorite time of the year was fall when you could find him with family and friends tailgating before Iowa State Cyclone football home games. He didn’t miss many home games and went to several away games including three bowl games.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 58 years, Jeanne of Holstein, IA; children, James A. Clausen (Brown) of Baxter, IA, Jerri (Jeff) Downs of Ames, IA, Jill (Carey) Petermeier of Baxter, IA and Joni (Charlie) Voss of Holstein, IA; grandchildren, Danielle (Jason) Martin, Chase, Dylan, Maddy and Camden Clausen, Gavin (Katie) Downs, Alex Downs, Mackenzie Petermeier, Megan (Stephen) Van Beek, Cameron Petermeier, Jamison (Madeline) Voss, Courtnie Voss; great-grandchildren, Kyra, Aiden, Vada and Jase Martin; brother, Joe (Sharon) Clausen; sister-in-law, Pam Clausen (Bob Kaus); aunt, Florence Clausen (Cliff) Friedrichsen; nieces and nephews, Bobbi Jo Clausen, Brenda (Chuck) Ortner, Nick (Amy) Clausen, Billi (Chad) Niemeier, Terry Sue (Craig) Kemerling, Justin (Steph) Clausen, Michael (Katie) Clausen; and many special great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Dale Clausen; and many dear friends.