James Nielsen

Donations can be made in Jim’s name to the Marcus Historical Society.

James Lee Nielsen, age 82, of Marcus, Iowa, passed away on November 3, 2025, at Happy Siesta in Remsen, Iowa.

Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 10, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church in Marcus, IA with Pastor Kevin Roop officiating. Burial will be at a later date at Holy Name Cemetery in Marcus, IA. Visitation with family present will be Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025 from 3-5 p.m. at Fisch Funeral Home & Monument, Earnest-Johnson Chapel in Marcus. Visitation will resume 9:30 a.m. Monday at the church. www.fischfh.com

He was born on August 26, 1943, in Iowa City, Iowa, the son of Walter and Rosine (Letsche) Nielsen.Jim graduated from Marcus High School in 1961. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army as a reservist for six years.

On September 10, 1966, Jim was united in marriage to Beverly Sand at Holy Name Catholic Church in Marcus. The couple made their home in Marcus, where they built a life centered around family, faith, and community.

Over the years, Jim worked in several local agricultural businesses, including VC Fertilizer, R & M Feed, Corky & Jim’s, Jim’s Farm Service, Sands of Iowa, and US Feeds. He was known throughout the area for his strong work ethic, friendly nature, and willingness to lend a helping hand. Jim retired on August 1, 2009. After retirement his love became buying and selling antiques across three states. While wintering in Texas, Jim carried his antique fever with him to estate sales, garage sales, and auctions.

Jim was a dedicated member of Peace Lutheran Church, Lions International, and the Marcus Historical Society. He enjoyed pitching softball for several local teams, bowling, watching sports, attending his grandchildren’s events, and traveling with family and friends.

He will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and devotion to those he loved. His greatest joy came from time spent with his family and the community he proudly called home.

Jim is survived by his wife, Beverly of Marcus, IA; his three sons, Wade (Nancy) Nielsen of Waterbury, NE, Chad (Kimberle) Nielsen of Olathe, KS, and Jason Nielsen of Arlington Heights, IL; and six grandchildren, Tyler (Brooke), Amanda, Thomas (Emily), and Nicholas Nielsen; Gabrielle (Lucas) and Garrett Nielsen and one great grandchild, Samuel Nielsen.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Rosine Nielsen; his sister and brother-in-law, Miriam and Vernon Maas; his parent in laws, Bob and Marie Sand; and his brother-in-law, Alan Sand.

Casket bearers will be his grandchildren.

Honorary bearers will be Phil Letsche, Tarris Nielsen, Larry Bird, Leo Unkur, Dave Pick, and Steve Lemky.