James Edwin "Jim" Buss

1940 - 2025

James "Jim" Edwin Buss

July 23, 1940 - August 12, 2025

James "Jim" Edwin Buss, 85, of Denver, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella, Iowa.

Jim was born July 23, 1940, in Waterloo, Iowa, the son of Edwin and Dora (Schroeder) Buss. He was proudly raised on the family farm. He was baptized and confirmed at Saint Paul United Church of Christ in Denver. He attended Denver High School where he was active in basketball and baseball, graduating in 1958. He then attended construction apprentice school at Hawkeye Tech. On May 28, 1960, he was united in marriage to Shirley Graeser at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Waverly. Jim was employed at Cardinal Construction where he worked himself up to the position of General Superintendent. In his 50 years in construction, he led teams to build the UNI Dome, McLeod Center, Allen birthing unit, among many other projects. He was proud to be able to use his skills and expertise in the construction industry (and at home for his friends and family).

Jim was a lifelong member of Saint Paul United Church of Christ in Denver. He was active within the Denver community where he served on the City Council and the Denver Fire Department. In addition, he was active with the Waterloo Elks Club and the Denver Jaycees. He enjoyed playing golf, watching westerns and always had a 'project' going on. He attended every one of his children's and grandchildren's sporting events. He enjoyed monthly outings with his cousins as well as regular gatherings with a close group of friends for over 50 years. He thoroughly enjoyed his winter travels to Florida (mainly for the golf) and Arizona (to spend time with great granddaughters).

In 2024, he and Shirley were awarded the Sportsmanship Award at the IGHSAU State Volleyball tournament which honored their commitment to positively supporting athletics. At that same meet, the Denver girls won their first ever state championship title with Jim's granddaughter, Myia, on the court.

Jim is survived by his wife of 65 years, Shirley, of Denver; four children, Randal James Buss of Denver, Suzann Buss Holton of Waukee, Michelle Ann (John) Sager of Denver and Krista Kay (Rick) Rosecrans of Denver; six grandchildren; four great granddaughters; two sisters, MaryAnn Fails of Denver and Viola Fails of Denver. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Richard Buss; brothers-in-law, Duane and Robert Ray Fails and a son-in-law, Skip Holton.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Monday, August 18, 2025, at the Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Denver. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 19, at Saint Paul United Church of Christ in Denver with Pastor David Feltman officiating, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family for a later designation. Online condolences may be left at kaisercorson.com.

Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Denver is in charge of arrangements. 319-984-5379.