James Clifford LeMasters, Sr. Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

James Clifford LeMasters Sr., age 67, of Albia, passed away September 11, 2015 at the Monroe County Hospital in Albia. He was born October 11, 1947 to James and Ruth (Thompson) LeMasters in Peoria, Ill. He graduated from the Galesburg High School with the class of 1967 before receiving his Associates Degree from Anoka Ramsey Community College. He enlisted in the United States Army several times between 1966 thru 1983. On December 24, 1973 James married Shirley Foglesong at the Galesburg Faith United Methodist Church in Galesburg, Ill. They shared over 30 years of marriage together before Shirley's passing on February 23, 2009. James was a tour bus driver for most of his working life. He was a member of the VFW Post's 2257 in Galesburg, Ill. and 8729 in Lake City, MN. He was also a member of the American Legion. He enjoyed taking part in Civil War re-enactments, traveling, taking vacations with his family, attending the Minnesota State Fair, and sitting around a good bonfire. His real joy in life was spending time with his family and friends. He is survived by his sons, James LeMasters of Moose Lake, MN. and Ronald LeMasters of Fergus Falls, MN; a daughter, Jessica (Jacob) Hoepker of Creston; grandchildren, Justina Blasi, Jeanette Blasi, Michaela Baker, Dustin Baker, Gretchen Hoepker, and Daphne Hoepker; 2 brothers, James Thompson and Ronald Thompson both of Illinois; and a sister, Mary Rutledge of Galesburg, Ill. James was preceded in death by his parents, James and Ruth, and his wife Shirley. Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, September 17, 2015, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Pastor Neil Montz officiating. Burial will follow at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, IA. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m., Thursday, September 16, 2015 at the Tharp Funeral Home until the time of service at 11:30 a.m. with James' family present. A memorial has been established to James' family.

James Clifford LeMasters, Sr.

October 11, 1947 - September 11, 2015