James Crouse

James Robert Crouse, 75, passed away peacefully with his wife Karen by his side on Thursday, July 27, 2023.

Jim was born February 12, 1948, in Boone, Iowa to Robert Crouse and Margaret Kardell. He graduated from Boone High School in 1966 and went on to art school in Omaha, Nebraska. He began working as a Graphic Artist at the Des Moines Register in 1969, a job he held for 39 years.

Following a cancer diagnosis in March of 2022, Jim demonstrated grace and perseverance in his fight. He stayed positive, never complained, and was always grateful for the friends and family who frequently stopped by to say hello and reminisce. Various caregivers who supported him during the final months of his life identified the traits his friends and family all loved: his kindness, outgoing personality, and sense of humor.

His favorite hobby was classic cars. He loved looking at them, driving them, and working on them. He enjoyed attending car shows and displaying his black cherry 1970 Chevelle SS. Jim had a fondness for dogs and a knack for training them, loved card parties and other gatherings with friends and family, and traveling with Karen to B&B’s. Above all else, he loved his three granddaughters. Rarely missing a dance recital, music recital, or athletic event – you could always count on seeing Jim in the stands.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Robert Crouse and Margaret Kardell. He’s survived by his wife Karen of 22 years; daughter Melissa Dennis, son Chadd Crouse, and stepson Josh (Amanda) Magie; three granddaughters, Mikayla and Kali Dennis, and Kate Magie; sister Vicki (J.D.) Schnabel, brother Craig (Joni) Crouse, and half-sister Janet (Robert) Davis; stepmother Virginia Crouse, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and a dog named Bella.

A private graveside service was held with immediate family present. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, 5452 NE 22nd St., Des Moines, IA 50313.

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