James “Jim” C. Shoars, 58, of Ionia, died unexpectedly Wednesday, March 29, 2017, at his home in rural Ionia.

A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 4, 2017, at St. John Lutheran Church in Frederika under the direction of Jim’s family. Inurnment will be held at a later date. A visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Monday, April 3, at Rettig Funeral Home in Tripoli and for one hour preceding the services on Tuesday at the church. 

James Charles, son of William Shoars and Patricia Beltz was born on June 24, 1958, in Independence, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Independence. Jim received his education in the Independence Community Schools before graduating from Independence High School in 1977. He honorably served in the United States Army and was stationed in Korea. Jim was a skilled laborer, working as a carpenter, plumber, electrician, and in construction. He enjoyed woodworking, and being outdoors, whether it be gardening, hunting, fishing, or mushroom hunting. Jim was an avid NASCAR fan, loved dogs, and was known as an excellent cook to his family and friends.

In addition to his mother, Patricia Van Auken of Frederika, Jim is survived by his siblings, Johnna (Stephen) Rohmer-Hirt of Andover, Minnesota, David (Jennifer) Shoars of Frederika, Michael Shoars of Ionia, Bill Shoars of Independence,  Paul Harker of Dubuque, and Mark (Sandy) Van Auken of Manchester; half-sisters, Teresa and Amy; aunts and uncles, Chuck Beltz of Independence, Alma Bandy of Independence, John (Bonnie) Beltz of Cedar Rapids, Judy (Tom) Harland of Independence, and Pegg (Terry) Clinton of Marion; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Shoars; his step-dad, John Rohmer; step-father, Burt Van Auken; and grandparents, Charlie (Hilda) Beltz and Orvie (Neva) Shoars.