James Lee "Jim" Ahn

James "Jim" Lee Ahn, age 87, of Albia, IA, passed away on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Northern Mahaska Specialty care in Oskaloosa, IA.

Jim was born in Albia, IA, on March 7, 1938, to Wiley Homer and Lela (Spinks) Ahn. He grew up attending school in Albia, graduating with the Class of 1956. He was united in marriage to Colette Kenworthy and to this union, 3 children- Cindy Lee, Suzanne Marie, and Timothy James, were born. Jim and Colette later divorced. On April 26, 1991, he was united in marriage to Karen Ann Ingle.

Jim's early working career began at Duea Chevrolet in Albia where he detailed cars. He then dedicated his working career to John Deere-Ottumwa Works where he spent many years on the assembly line until his retirement on February 28, 1993. He took great pride in the work he did there and the friendships made along the way. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Albia, the Knights of Columbus, the American Legion Howard Cessna Post #136, and the Albia Eagles. Jim had a lifelong love for old cars and owned many throughout the years, with his favorite being his '38 Coupe. He enjoyed visiting with friends or family over a cold Pepsi or Coke, sharing stories, laughter, and good company. He found joy in the companionship of his beloved puppy, Sugar.

Jim is survived by his wife, Karen Ahn; 3 children, Cindy (Dan) Johnson, Suzanne (Bobby) Williams, and Tim (Sandra) Ahn; a stepdaughter, Sheila (Hoyt) Gentry; a sister, Darlene Beal; 8 grandchildren; 2 step grandchildren; and several great grandchildren. Jim is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Wiley and Lela Ahn; a grandson, Spenser Ahn; and siblings, Albert Ahn, Richard Ahn, Wiley Lloyd Ahn, Linda Falls, and Thomas Heyland.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at St. Mary's Cemetery in Albia, with Chris Davis officiating. A procession will form at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia at 12:45 p.m.