Ferguson, James 'Jim'

James “Jim” M. Ferguson, 72, of Chelsea, died Friday, Dec. 11, 2009, at Mercy Medical Center in Cedar Rapids from heart failure. Services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Chelsea by Deacon Joe Behounek. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 3 to 8 p.m. at the church.

Jim was born May 7, 1937, in Vinton to Wesley and Julia Ledvina Ferguson. He graduated from Tama High School and had attended State Teacher's College (UNI) for a short time when he had to return to work on the family farm. On Sept. 5, 1959, he married the love of his life, Margaret Tague, at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Belle Plaine. Margaret died Jan. 13, 2002.

Jim lived most of his life in the family home. He was a feed salesman and co-owner of Larry's Feed and Supply in Tama. He was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Chelsea and served on the church council for several years. He was a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters.

He is survived by a son, Mike (Barb), and daughter, Michelle (Jeff) King, both of Cedar Rapids; and two granddaughters, Cassie and Roxie Ferguson.

Jim loved all things racing, high school and college sports, and the Hawkeyes, but his number one priority was his family and his dog, “Buddy.” Those who knew him will miss his gift of gab and his ability to work with numbers. He never met a stranger.

Jim's family would like to thank Mercy Hospital for all of the loving care given to him.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.

Hrabak Funeral Home in Belle Plaine is serving the family.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hrabakfuneralhome.com under “obituaries.”