James S. Mooradian

James Stephen Mooradian, 82, passed away on October 23, 2023, in Des Moines, Iowa. He was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, on December 5, 1940, to Jacob Mooradian and Alice (Mirakian) Mooradian. Jim’s life was marked by various significant experiences and accomplishments.

Jim graduated from Classical High School in Worcester and went on to attend Norwich University, a military college, in Northfield, Vermont, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in English.

In September 1962, Jim entered the Army as a 2nd lieutenant and served in Bindlach, Germany until 1965. It was during this time that he reconnected with his high school sweetheart, Alyce Butler. Alyce had seen a poster recruiting teachers to teach the children of American military personnel overseas. Alyce applied, was hired, and approved for Germany in 1963. Jim found out and approached the school principal in Bindlach to see if Alyce could teach at his school. Guess whose face was the first one Alyce saw when she stepped off the train? They were married in June of 1964 in Germany.

They returned to Massachusetts in 1965 and Jim began a new career with Paul Revere Insurance Company. A promotion in 1987 prompted a move to Pittsford, NY where Jim opened and managed a new insurance office. In 1996, a new opportunity at Lincoln National Insurance Company led to a move to Fort Wayne, Indiana where they stayed until Jim retired.

Their favorite move was in 2004. During a visit to see their grandchildren for Halloween, their son and daughter-in-law suggested Jim and Alyce move to Des Moines. Their son surprised them with an appointment with a home builder. Their wagon moved west once again and since then they have lived “happily ever after”.

Jim was never one to sit still. After the move to Des Moines, he lasted 3 months helping Alyce decorate their new home. He, and she, needed him to “find something to do”. A longtime Costco aficionado, he jumped at the opportunity to work at the new Costco in town. He enjoyed 7 years there in his 3rd career.

Throughout his life, Jim enjoyed playing tennis, spending quality time with his children and their families, including many visits to California where his daughter and her family resides.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Alyce; daughter, Kristin (Tom) Morton; son, Dr. Steve (Dr. Dawn) Mooradian; his cherished grandchildren, Jake and Elise Mooradian, Megan and Caitlin Morton; and his first cousin Warren (Sarah) Eresian (growing up together created a bond as strong as brothers); he is also survived by many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his infant granddaughter, Anna Christine Mooradian.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 7075 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines, Iowa, with visitation from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in loving memory of Jim. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Jim Mooradian’s life was filled with love, family, and diverse experiences, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed and remembered with great affection.

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