James W. Kaura

James William Kaura
May 17, 1946 – April 9, 2024

James William Kaura was born May 17, 1946, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Dorothy Alice Bentley and Arnold Friedrich Kaura.

His family moved to Aurora, Nebraska, where his father had accepted the position as the Aurora Hospital Administrator.

James attended Aurora schools from early elementary through high school, where he formed many lifelong friendships.

James graduated from AHS in 1964 in a class of 64 students. The phrase “Class of 64 with 64” followed them long into their lives.

Following graduation, he attended Kearney State in Kearney, Nebraska, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in 1969. He went on to earn his Master’s Degree from the University of Nebraska.

Following graduation, he enlisted in the USAF and served until earning his honorable discharge in 1972. He also served in the Iowa State National Guard.

Following his military service, he moved to Iowa, accepting a position with Employers Mutual Insurance as an underwriter and went on to have his own insurance business.

James married his wife, Sharri, on October 12, 2001, and loved watching Go Big Red Husker football together. They loved traveling, and on several wedding anniversaries they planned their trip to include a vow renewal ceremony.

James served on several community boards. He was a volunteer fireman, EMT, and Parks and Recreation board member, and he had received a number of awards.

But the one he was most proud of was being honored by his hometown of Aurora with his “Quilt of Valor,” made and presented by the quilters of Aurora and which now covers him.

His sudden death was very unexpected and a great shock to family and friends, and he will be missed a great deal.

Jim was a kind, loving man with a great sense of humor.

Those left to grieve him are his wife, Sharri; four children; eight grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; two nephews; and a host of friends.

Rest in Peace, James.

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