James William Mathern, 75, of Fairfield passed away peacefully with family on July 18 after a nine month battle with brain cancer.

Born on March 14, 1948, Jim grew up in Altoona and attended Southeast Polk schools. He was the son of Elzy Mathern, a WW2 Navy veteran, and Irene Mathern, an advocate for women’s education and athletics. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy Seabees in 1966, where he was stationed in Antarctica and many other places around the world. He is a graduate of Drake University.

Jim’s life was marked by service and care for others. He was a teacher of the mentally disabled in Glenwood, IA; Keosauqua, IA; Ottumwa, IA; Mammoth Springs, AR, and Pocahontas, AR. He spent his life helping the vulnerable and forgotten.

He is succeeded by his wife Deb Mathern, his step-son Ryan, his sister Karlene, his brother-in-law Bill, his sons Andrew and Justin, their partners Kristin and Krystyn, and his grandson Aiden; and many others. 

They will always remember his humor, passion for the outdoors, love of art and history, and so many other things.

Most of all they will remember his friendly and adventurous spirit. Rest in peace, Wolfcrow. 

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