James F. "Jim" La Velle

James “Jim” Francis La Velle, of Gilmore City, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on May 19, 2025, at the age of 83, surrounded by his children after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was born on August 3, 1941, in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Jim grew up in Fort Dodge and graduated from St. Edmond High School.

In August 1960, Jim answered the call to serve his country by joining the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Germany. Upon returning home, he pursued a career as an electrical union apprentice, then working for Paul Electric for 18 years. He later embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, owning and operating La Velle Sales and Service.

On August 14, 1965, Jim married Sheila (Halligan), at St. John’s Catholic Church in Gilmore City, Iowa. Together, they built a wonderful life, raising their four children on the family farm outside of Gilmore City.

In 1986, Jim began working for Midwest Limestone as general manager, playing an instrumental role in its growth to what is now known as Calcium Products. His dedication and leadership helped shape the company until his retirement in 2013 at the age of 72.

Jim was a devoted family man and a faithful Catholic. He was always willing to lend a hand to his local church and St. Mary’s School, actively volunteering and serving as a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. His commitment to his community extended beyond his faith—he served on the Gilmore City Library Board, was a member of the Gilmore City Lions Club, the Gilmore City Legion Post 239, and was honored to serve as Grand Marshal for Gilmore City Days. He also served as a board member for St. John’s Church in Gilmore City and St. Mary’s Church in Humboldt.

Jim brought joy to many by playing Santa Claus in the Gilmore City Christmas parade for several years. In his retirement years, he enjoyed traveling out of the country with his brother, Casey La Velle, creating cherished memories along the way.

Jim is survived by his four children: Michael (Nancy) La Velle of Norwalk, IA; John La Velle of Fort Dodge, IA; Linda (Sean) McTaggart of Ankeny, IA; and Diane (Chris) Brock of Fort Dodge, IA. He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren: Kyle La Velle, Alec, Austin, and Carter La Velle; Max, Jack, and Josie McTaggart; Miranda (Justin) Andersen; Michael (Brynn) Brock; and Mariah Brock. He was also blessed with four great-grandchildren: River, Reed, and Remi Andersen, and Christopher Brock. Jim is also survived by his brother Richard La Velle of Florida, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Sheila, his parents, V.A. and Gertrude (Ivis) La Velle; his in-laws, Victor and Annis (Topliff) Halligan; his siblings Mary Terese (Robert) Cranny, Patricia (James) Duffy, John “Sonny” (Helen) La Velle, Edward La Velle, and Janet (Richard) McSweeney; and his sister-in-law, Connie La Velle.

Jim will be remembered for his generosity, unwavering faith, and dedication to his family, friends and community. His legacy of kindness and hard work will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 31st at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Humboldt. Visitation will be from 4:00 -7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 30th at the Mason-Lindhart Funeral & Cremation Service in Humboldt with a Parish Rosary at 7:00 p.m. Burial with Military Rites by the Sathers-Odgaard VFW & American Legion will be at 1:00 -1:30 p.m. at St. John’s Cemetery in Gilmore City. www.masonlindhart.com