James Steffen

James Steffen, 34, of Marion, Iowa, passed away on Monday, December 9, 2024, doing what he loved, sitting in a tree stand waiting for his next big buck. James was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and cherished one to many family members and friends. His life created a lasting legacy and his passing has left grief in many hearts.
James Michael Lee Steffen was born on April 14, 1990, in Keokuk, Iowa, the son of James and Diana (Baldwin) Steffen. Growing up he played football and enjoyed riding horses while learning to love the outdoors. At the age of 17, he joined the Iowa National Guard, embarking on over a decade of service to our country and attaining the rank of First Lieutenant.
He graduated from Central Lee High School in 2008, and the University of Iowa in 2012, with a degree in marketing. His education at Iowa included the ROTC program where he excelled. James also perfected his love for fishing as a member of the University of Iowa Bass Fishing Team, where he served as president.
Interrupting his dream of becoming a professional fisherman was the love of his life, Erin, and the family they created. James and Erin were married on September 1, 2012, in Keokuk. This beautiful marriage brought them two sons, Casey and Levi. Erin and the boys were his everything. James' love for them was part of everything he did.
Soon after graduating from Iowa, James began a sales career with the McGrath Family of Dealerships. He began as a Sales Consultant, quickly proving himself to be promoted to increasing levels of responsibility and leadership. At the time of his passing, he was the General Sales Manager for the Pat McGrath GM Campus.
James was a passionate leader for his team, taking time to be a mentor, motivator, and friend. His care for them on the sales floor extended to their family, making sure the little things were covered and they had the skills necessary to be successful at home and work. James always did the right thing with loyalty, respect, and selfless giving of himself.
His love for fishing and hunting was his hallmark. He loved sharing stories and pictures of his achievements. James and Erin purchased a cabin in Wisconsin just this year with the hope of spending lots of time together and creating memories.
Being a father to his sons was truly his entirety. He encouraged and supported them in everything they did. James will be remembered for coaching with the Metro Youth Football Association. The impact he had on the players will be felt for many years.
Survivors include his wife, Erin; sons, Casey and Levi; parents, Jim and Diana Steffen; siblings, Tamsen (Nathan) Hodson, Darian (Jeffrey) Donaldson, and Jared (Shelby Scott) Steffen; grandparents, Bill and Dixie Baldwin and Janice Robinson; in-laws, Greg and Cheryl Kytola, brothers-in-law, Dylan (Kim) Kytola and Tyler (Jess) Kytola; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
James was preceded in death by his grandfather, Dennis Robinson; and great-grandparents John and Bertha Nicol.
The legacy James leaves behind profoundly reaches beyond these words. Please share your love, support, and memories with his family on his Tribute Wall at www.stewartbaxter.com under Obituaries. Memorials may be directed to Erin and the boys.
Visitation will be from 4 - 7 p.m. on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Marion Methodist Church. Funeral Services and Military Honors will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, December 20, 2024, at Marion Methodist Church. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend. Please find the livestream link on James' obituary page of the funeral home website. Arrangements are with Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.