James Alan Peterson

James Alan Peterson

James Peterson Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Iles Grandview Park Funeral Home on Sep. 19, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

James Alan Peterson, 68, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on August 23, 2025, at Broadlawns Hospital in Des Moines.
James was born on August 24, 1956, in Los Angeles, California, to Jens and Margie (Ellis) Peterson. He began his education in California and later moved to Des Moines, where he graduated from East High School.

In 1977, James married Diane Green. Though they later divorced, they remained close friends throughout the years. James worked at Action Warehouse in Des Moines for over 35 years before retiring.

In his free time, James enjoyed fishing, grilling, boating, and spending time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Chris Peterson; and his brother, John Peterson.

James is survived by his two sons, James (Claressa) Peterson and Joshua Peterson; two granddaughters, Jaden and Kandin Peterson; his brother, Dennis Peterson; his sister, Judy Peterson; and his nephew and son, Jeremy Leeper-Peterson.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 29, 2025, at the Iles Grandview Park Chapel, where visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Des Moines. Everyone is invited to return to the funeral home following the burial for a time of food and fellowship.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor James Peterson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign James Peterson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?