James Richard Colvin, 86, of Ottumwa, IA, passed away peacefully at Ottumwa Regional Hospital on Thursday, January 30, 2025, after a brief illness.
Born on October 22, 1938, in Iowa City, IA, James was the beloved son of Lewis and Edith Colvin. He proudly served his country by joining the Marine Corps in 1955 and retired in 1975 after 20 years of dedicated service. After his military career, James owned Colvin’s Restaurant in downtown Ottumwa, which is now known as the 2nd Street Café. When the restaurant changed ownership, James moved on to work at Indian Hills College until he permanently retired.
James was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Ramona Colvin of Ottumwa, IA; his four children, James C of Ottumwa, IA; Jeff (Suchada) of Woodland Park, CO; Candi of Ottumwa, IA; and Tammy (Kurt) of Raymond, IA. He was a cherished grandfather to Laura Holub (Stephen) of Tripoli, IA; Erica Drummond (Justin) of Ottumwa, IA; Kaci Corder of Ottumwa, IA; Gregory Brush (Alisha) of Waterloo, IA; Felicia Corder of Waukee, IA; Michael Colvin of Great Falls, MT; Emily Colvin of Savannah, GA; and Sara Sales of Ottumwa, IA. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Jayden, Riley, Bayley, Eloise, Landyn, Hailey, Oliver, Everly, and Jesslyn.
James had a passion for family history and woodworking. He was an avid collector of coins and wood-carved figurines, which brought him great joy and satisfaction. He was also an amazing chef, and you could always count on a great meal when James was in the kitchen.
James was preceded in death by his father-in-law Floyd Sammons, father Lewis Colvin, sister Patti Ruchotzke, mother-in-law Gladys Sammons, mother Edith Colvin, brother Jack Maring, brother Mike Colvin, brother-in-law Everett Ruchotzke, brother-in-law Jerry Sammons, brother-in-law Terry Sammons, granddaughter Amber Colvin, daughter-in-law Cindy Colvin, and sister-in-law Paula Colvin.
A celebration of James’s life will be held on Thursday, February 6th, from 1-4 PM at the Ottumwa Hotel in the Fox & Sac Room (1st Floor), 107 E Second St, Ottumwa, IA. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that any donations be sent to Ramona.
James will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family and his country. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
