Jim Carroll, 79, of Leighton, passed away Thursday, November 2, 2023, at Mahaska Health in Oskaloosa, Iowa.
James L. Carroll, son of Viola Littlejohn, was born March 4, 1944, in Knoxville, Iowa. Growing up, Jim attended Oskaloosa schools and graduated with the class of 1961 from Oskaloosa High School. After his education, Jim began working as a gas jockey at Mayer’s Oil in Oskaloosa. While working at Mayer’s, a young lady named Betty Sytsma introduced herself to Jim, and the two began dating shortly after. Later that year, in July of 1965, Jim and Betty were married in Bussey, Iowa. The couple moved to Boulder, CO for a year before returning to Oskaloosa in 1966. Jim and Betty were blessed with two sons, Scott and Chad.
Jim later began his career with Vermeer Manufacturing as a welder and in the manufacturing side of the business. He also had a small engine repair shop on the side, which he and his son Chad ran out of his garage. Jim also spent time working for Pella Industries. Jim retired from Vermeer in 2008.
Jim enjoyed fishing, camping, and golfing. He loved spending time outdoors and tinkering with anything and everything in his garage. He was a Boy Scout and a member of the Eagles. His most cherished times were spending time with his family.
Jim’s family includes his wife, Betty of Leighton; his sons, Scott (Anita) Carroll of Pella and Chad (Winona) Carroll of Leighton; Jim’s grandchildren: Jeremiah Carroll and his daughters, Brinley and Braylen, Shelby Carroll and her daughters, Nadia and Willow, Lindsy (Bo Lo) Carroll and their son, Arthur, Kayla (Kody) Sillavan and their daughter, Kinzley, and Emily (Cassidy) Blom.
Jim was preceded in death by his mother, Viola.
A visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 11, 2023, with family present from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. to greet friends and family at the Langkamp Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa, IA. As was his wish, Jim’s body has been cremated. Memorials may be made in his name, to be designated later. Langkamp Funeral Chapel and Crematory have been entrusted with the arrangements.
