James L. Neis

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Visitation began at 10:00 AM, Thursday, September 22, 2005 at Behner Funeral Home, with the family present from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

The Memorial Service followed visitation at 7:00 PM at the funeral home. Mr. Neis' body was cremated according to his wishes and burial will be at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to be made to The Lord's Cupboard, Noah's Ark Pet Shelter or The Children's Miracle Network. Cards and memorials may be sent c/o:
103 B, East Monroe
Fairfield, IA 52556

James L. (Jim) Neis was born in Ottumwa, IA on March 26, 1942. He was the son of Albert Lewis and Maxine (Schwartz) Neis. Jim married Catherine Camille Masterson on August 17, 1966 in Mt. Holly, New Jersey. They were the parents of four children: Terri, Tammy, Tim andTracey.

Jim graduated from Ottumwa High School and attended Northeast Missouri State College, majoring in accounting and small business ownership. He was a USAF veteran of the Vietnam War. Jim was owner and operator of The Handy Pantry, a well-known and popular convenience store on 4th Street in Fairfield for 16 years.

Jim was later employed for 18 1/2 years with the Wal-Mart Distribution Center in Mt. Pleasant. He was also a partner of Jim-Bob's New & Used Furniture in Fairfield. Jim loved to relax by camping and one of his favorite spots was on the river at the campgrounds in Bentonsport. He and Catherine camped in many locations, including Branson, MO and Lake Okobojii.

Jim is survived by his wife, Catherine and their children and their families: Terri Neis of Dearborn, MI, Tammy Carter and husband Jerry of Cedar Rapids, IA, Tim Neis and wife Rachel of Rome, IA. and Tracey Cline and husband Jay of Davenport, IA Jim was grandfather to James and Jake Carter and Jaelyn Cline. Surviving siblings are a brother, Jon Neis of Ottumwa and a sister, Janice Wagner, also of Ottumwa.

Preceding Jim in death are his parents and one brother, Jerry.