Adams, James W.

James W. Adams, 67, of Arizona City, Ariz., formerly of Cedar Rapids, passed away April 22, 2011, at the Phoenix VA Health Care System after a short bout with cancer.

Born Sept. 2, 1943, in Champaign, Ill., Jim led an active life. He graduated from Coggon (Iowa) High School and received his undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa and master's degree from Florida International University, with a degree in hotel management.

Following high school Jim enlisted in the United States Navy, serving four years, with most of his service time on an aircraft carrier as a jet mechanic. Jim loved the Pacific Ocean and the time he spent on his ship.

Jim worked as a Realtor, apartment owner, purchasing agent for a large Cedar Rapids company, YMCA camp caretaker and YMCA Food Service director. Jim bought, remodeled and sold several houses and enjoyed carpentry.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers.

He leaves behind his brother, John Adams of Phoenix; and eight nephews and nieces in Arizona, Iowa, Texas, Tennessee and Oregon.

At Jim's request, he has been cremated and his ashes will be scattered in the Pacific Ocean in the San Diego area. Jim's greatest memories were his time in the Navy and he asked that he be returned to the sea.

His family misses him but knows he's in a better place. God speed Jim.