James E. Luhrs

1934 - 2017

James E. Luhrs

Des Moines

James E. "Jim" Luhrs, 82, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 3, 2017 at his home in Des Moines, IA. Jim was born June 3, 1934 in Primghar, IA to William and Alice Luhrs. He grew up on a farm in Primghar and graduated from high school in 1952. He worked as a telegraph operator for several years before joining the Army in 1953. After being discharged from the Army, he enrolled in college at the University of Northern Iowa where he pursued a major in Business and Distributive Education and a minor in Economics. During college, he met and married Patricia Ann Goebel in 1958. In 1959, while still in college, he began a long career with Equitable of Iowa, eventually becoming President and CEO of the company until his retirement in 1990.

Jim was an exceptionally active philanthropist in the Des Moines community and the surrounding area, serving as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for United Way of Central Iowa, the President of IBPN Foundation Board, the President of the Kirkwood College Facilities Foundation, the Vice Chairman of the Board of the Greater Des Moines Foundation, and Chair of the Trustees for Grandview College, among many others.

Jim's hobbies included golfing, fishing, boating, playing ping pong, and especially spending time with his family. He was an avid outdoor enthusiast and enjoyed long periods of time sitting on his porch at his cabin in the North Woods of Minnesota or on a boat in the water with his favorite fishing pole in his hands.

Jim is survived by his wife, Patricia Luhrs; sister, Arlys Peters; his two sons, Bradley (Aimee) Luhrs and Michael Luhrs; two grandchildren, Kyran and Averee Luhrs; and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by both of his parents; two siblings, Bill Luhrs and Bernita Baumgart; and his stepmother, Nellie Luhrs.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, April 10 at Iles Funeral Homes - Dunn's Chapel, Des Moines. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 11 at Wakonda Christian Church, Des Moines with internment to follow at Norwalk Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to United Way of Central Iowa. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.