James Martin "Jim" Yencer

James "Jim" Martin Yencer, 78, passed away on March 6, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals with his family by his side.

Jim was born on July 2, 1947, to Alvina (Severson) and Forest Yencer and was a proud lifelong resident of Des Moines' East Side. He often described himself as a true East Sider, and his deep connection to the community shaped the man he became-loyal, grounded, and dedicated to the people around him.

He graduated from East High School in 1965 and went on to attend Drake University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Education in 1969 and his Graduate Degree in 1973 in Elementary Administration. While in school, Jim played for both Grandview and Drake's Golf Teams. Jim also built a long and respected career with Public Works for the City of Des Moines, working from 1974 until his retirement in 2005.

Jim's love for sports began early; in 1964, he won the City High School Tournament, a memory he carried with pride. Sports remained a central passion throughout his life. Jim played endless rounds of golf at Grandview Golf Course and participated in many tournaments over the years. Beyond golf, he enjoyed softball and basketball and later became a dedicated coach. He coached fast pitch softball with five different teams over 20 years. He loved watching his own kids excel at sports, and his grandkids as well.

Jim met the love of his life, Patty Opperman, in 1968, and the two were married in 1970. They built a family together that became Jim's greatest source of pride. He is survived by his two children, Tricia (Mike) and Kyle (Kris), and by his seven grandchildren Nick Yencer, Nate Yencer, Josh Yencer, Jack Yencer, Carli Bennett, Max Miller, Ty Miller, whose successes brought him immeasurable joy. He is also survived by his step-brother, Steve (Pam) Johnson. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew him.

Jim is preceded in death by his wife, Patty Yencer, his father, Forest Yencer, mother, Alvina Johnson, and step father, Carol Johnson.

Retirement brought Jim the opportunity to travel with Patty, something they treasured deeply. They visited all of the Hawaiian Islands, as well as Mexico and the Bahamas, and Jim spoke fondly of the memories made during these adventures. Betting on horses was a hobby that Jim enjoyed. You could often find Jim at Prairie Meadows, where luck was often on his side.

Jim was thankful he was for all his friends and fellow East Siders. He valued his involvement with the East High Alumni Association and carried the memories of those connections throughout his life.

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at Iles Grandview Park Chapel. A visitation will be from 3:00 PM -5:00 PM and the service will begin at 5:00 PM.

Memorial Contributions may be directed to ALS Association or Alzheimer's Association.

To leave online condolences or view the livestream of the service, please visit Jim's obituary at www.IlesCares.com

Arrangements by Iles Grandview Park Chapel.