James “Jim” Gaubatz, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 26, 2024, surrounded by his family at Country Meadow Place in Mason City, Iowa. He was 84 years old.
Jim was born on April 8, 1940, in Rockwell, Iowa, to Jacob and Anita (Devereux) Gaubatz. He attended Rockwell High School, where he developed lifelong friendships and a love for his community. On December 31, 1960, Jim married the love of his life, Marla King, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Mason City. Their union was blessed with four children: Monica, Tina, Joseph, and Nicole.
A dedicated farmer, Jim spent many fulfilling years farming in the Rock Falls and Plymouth areas along with his brother, and nephew, Scott Gaubatz. His work ethic and connection to the land instilled values of hard work and perseverance in his children. Jim was known for his quick wit, humor, and unwavering support of his family, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a laugh.
He enjoyed many fishing trips to Canada over the years, watching Nascar, shooting pool and visiting with friends at the elevator. He could always be found sharing a good cup of coffee with his buddies at the shop. He was a true prankster at heart and loved sharing in a good joke.
He was devoted to his faith and was a longtime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church of Epiphany Parish.
Jim is survived by his loving children, Monica (Roy) Penning, Tina Gaubatz, Joe (Kim) Gaubatz, and Nicole (Wayne) Martin. He took great joy in his role as grandfather, leaving behind a legacy of love through his grandchildren: Erin (David) Grimm, Kaitlyn (Danny) Renberg, Heather (Mitch) Redenius, Justin Brady, Bobbie Jo (Brett) Brady-Dahl, Gabby Gaubatz (Griffin Cameron), Grady Gaubatz (Kori Knox), and Kyle (Sarah) Prahm. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Gwendolyn and Gavin Grimm, Lee, Louis, and Lainey Renberg, Ellie and Brenson Dahl, Raelynne Brady, Kolsen, Keaton, and Kallen Prahm.
Jim is also survived by his siblings, Marv (Faye) Gaubatz and Marlene (Roger) Bohl, as well as many nieces and nephews, extended family, and many friends.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marla; his parents, Jacob and Anita Gaubatz; and brother in law, Marv Clifton.
A heartfelt thank you to the staff of Country Meadow Place for their kindness and care provided to Jim in his final months.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at Epiphany Parish – St. Joseph Catholic Church, located at 300 5th St SE, Mason City. Burial will follow at the Rock Falls Cemetery.
Visitation will be held on Monday evening, December 30, at Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd St NE, Mason City, from 4:30 PM until 7 PM. The Rosary will be prayed at 4:00 pm and a Scriptural Wake service will be held at 6:30 pm.
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