James Hettinger

1944 - 2021

James Hettinger

Johnston - James D. Hettinger 77, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2021, with his wife at his side at MercyOne Johnston Hospice House in Johnston, Iowa.

Jim was born the eldest of five siblings to Francis and Iona (Anderson) Hettinger on January 17, 1944. He was joined by brothers Dick (Mary), Larry, Tom (Roxanne) and sister, Lin (Brian) Hardenbrook. He was the quintessential oldest child - responsible, confident, conscientious, a rule follower. He was a natural leader, teacher and coach.

Jim met the love of his life, Philothea (Malaktaris), and spent 47 years together after their marriage on June 15, 1973. He was stepfather of Bostinelos, Cindy (Steve) Wood, Tena (Adam) Wensman and Penelope (Tom) Craft. Their son, Christopher was born in June 1977. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Stephanie Wood, Zachariah and Zane Wensman, Kalliope (Craft) Amos, David Craft, and Heath and Harrison Hettinger. He was an uncle to many and took on the role of grandfather when his father passed. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Larry and Tom, and grandson, Zachariah.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, March 12, 2021 at the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George in Des Moines, where Jim was a member. Visitation with family will begin at 1pm. Graveside services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, March 13, 2021 at Calvary Cemetery in Sioux City.

The funeral services will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person. A link will appear on Jim's obituary page on Friday beginning at 1:45pm at www.ilescares.com where you may also leave online condolences.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools Athletic Programs in Sioux City, IA, MercyOne Hospice House in Johnston, IA or the MercyOne Richard Deming Cancer Center in Clive, IA.