James Roland Hargrove, 62, of Milton, IA, passed away on February 4, 2024, at MercyOne Hospital in Centerville, IA. As were James’ wishes cremation will take place. A memorial service in his honor will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the Cranston-Pedrick Funeral Home in Keosauqua, IA with Pastor Kevin Mote officiating. Burial will be held in the Sunnyside Cemetery in Milton. A visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the funeral home and will last until the time of service. Memorial contributions in James’ honor may be directed to the family. Friends may also consider donating blood in James’ memory as it was especially important to him. Online condolences may be left at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
James Roland Hargrove was born on January 24, 1962, in Keosauqua, he was the son of the late James W. and Mary Jane Fixmer Hargrove. Though he is predeceased by his parents and siblings, Sue, Lillian, William, as well as the mother of his children, Jodi Hargrove, James’s legacy is carried on through his devoted family.
He is survived by his children, Katie Hargrove of Batavia, IA, and Dakoda Hargrove (Brittany Jones) of Pulaski, IA. James was also the proud grandfather of young Jaxon Hargrove, whose presence added great joy to his later years. In addition, he is lovingly remembered by his brother Andy (Mia) Hargrove of Kahoka, MO, as well as his sisters Joyce Elgi of Longview, TX, and Linda Gittins of Bloomfield, IA.
After graduating from Fox Valley High School in 1980, James pursued higher learning at Indian Hills Community College, where he completed the diesel and auto mechanic programs, which later defined his lifelong career. Upon graduation he worked with Ross & Buckley in Ottumwa until its closing. He worked at several different jobs to support his family before starting his career with Southern Iowa Diesel. He was a devoted employee for over 32 years.
With hands that could skillfully fix anything, James inherited his love for tinkering from his youth. He wasn’t just adept at mechanical tasks; he enjoyed assembling model airplanes, solving puzzles, and had a creative side that found expression in carving intricate walking sticks. James also enjoyed caring for nut trees, a passion he had shared with his father, and collecting old coins.
James will be deeply missed by his family, and the many lucky enough to call him friend.
