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James D. Overland

March 17, 1947 - March 4, 2023

James David Overland, 75, of Ankeny, passed away after a long illness on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center, Des Moines.

Jim was born March 17, 1947 to Obert and Gladys (Morgan) Overland in Huxley, graduating from Ballard High School, and Iowa State University. Jim earned an MBA from Drake University. He was a Vietnam era veteran, serving honorably in Korea from 1970 to 1971, and attaining the rank of specialist.

Jim put his business and leadership skills to work during his 37-year career with the Iowa Department of Human Services, where he cared for his co-workers and the people he served like his own family. Always ready for fun and any kind of sporting activity, Jim participated in the State Employees Health and Recreation Committee, organizing a highly competitive softball league during the summer, and bowling league in the winter, which culminated in a massive bowling tournament each year.

In May, 1987, Jim married Karen Kono at Grace United Methodist Church in Des Moines; the wedding had to take place in May so it wouldn’t conflict with either bowling or softball! To this union, two red-haired sons were born: Matthew Boyd in 1988, and Nathaniel Morgan in 1991. While he was a little late to the fatherhood game, he embraced the role with enthusiasm. Jim supported his boys and their soccer, bowling, baseball, football and basketball teams, frequently volunteering his time. He planned special vacations for them, and loved to have their friends gather at his home in Ankeny. He didn’t exactly enjoy the grunge rock band rehearsals in his basement, but he just shook his head, poured another glass of wine, and hoped the walls would still be standing when it was over. Jim just loved having the kids there; he was the best dad.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Virgil Lundy; niece, Debora Lundy Herrera; grand-nephew, Adam Herrera; and a host of aunts and uncles.

Surviving him are his sister, Doris Lundy of Osceola; son, Matthew (Ashley) Overland of Polk City; son, Nathan (Nicole) Overland of Altoona; grandsons, Parker Overland of Altoona, and Matthew Overland of Polk City; nieces, Margaret Lundy of Osceola, and Audrey Major of Des Moines; nephews, Robert (Raquel) Lundy of Osceola, and David Lundy of Truckee, CA; and several grand-nieces and nephews. Jim is also survived by a large circle of longtime friends, including his friend of more than 50 years, Bill Blanchard of Iowa City; and his “favorite ex-wife,” Karen (Keith) Halfpop of Belmond.

A celebration of life for Jim will be held Sunday, March 19, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Benchwarmers Sports Bar & Grill, 705 S. Ankeny Blvd., Ankeny. All who knew and loved Jim are invited to attend.