James Herman Olberding

James, 91, passed away November 22, 2025 at MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m., Tuesday, December 2 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in West Des Moines, where his family will greet friends beginning at 10 a.m. He will be interred at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.

James Herman Olberding, born December 27, 1933, in Cincinnati, Ohio, lived a long and joy-filled life defined by family, friendship, and a sense of humor. The fifth of seven children born to Paul and Louise Olberding, James graduated from Elder High School and Xavier University before being drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served overseas in Italy.

James met and married Barbara Heller, and they exchanged vows on October 8, 1960, at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Norwood, Ohio. Together they built a life centered around family, hospitality, and shared interests. James enjoyed a long career in beverage sales and distribution, working in both Ohio and Iowa.

Social by nature, James loved card games-particularly poker and bridge-and could always be counted on for a clever remark delivered with perfect timing. He was instrumental in founding the West Des Moines Soccer Club. His interests were wide-ranging: he painted, explored new cuisines as part of a dinner club long before "foodie" was a common word, and enjoyed international travels and Elderhostel trips with Barbara. James had a sharp wit, a generous laugh, and a fondness for good scotch and fine wine.

James is lovingly remembered by his wife, Barbara; sons: Mark James Olberding (Maria Murabito Olberding), Peter Vincent Olberding (Lisa Holst), and Paul Martin Olberding; grandchildren: Allison Holst Olberding, Erica Holst Olberding, Ryan James Rosario Olberding, James Mark Martin Olberding, and Joseph Michael Olberding. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings.