"I am Judy, Jim's wife of 44 years. I remember visiting you in Ottumwa. Yes it has been a difficult time for both of us as Jim was in the nursing home at Story City for several months; luckily it wasn't too far to drive and I visited him several times a week. But as time went by his health declined and he often know who I was. But I have many good memories that we made during our 44 years of marriage. We bought a small camper and camped in some campgrounds close to home, where we made friends with many other campers. We eventually bought a 5th wheel and traveled to Texas during the winter months; we met many other "winter Texans" some of whom we still stay in touch with. We have also met some of the remaining Denatos during the summer; we always enjoyed that but we are getting older and it's getting harder to find a time when everyone can come."
In loving memory of
James Denato
September 17, 1945 - May 24, 2026
James (Jim) Denato passed away on May 24, 2026, with his loving wife, Judy, at his side.
A memorial Service for Jim will be held Saturday June 6, 2026, at St Andrews Lutheran Church 209 Colorado Ave, Ames, IA at 2:30pm. Visitation with the family will begin at 1:00pm until the time of service.
He was born on September 17, 1945, in Albia, Iowa, to Joseph and Zella Denato, who made their home in Albia.
Jim cheered on the Iowa State Cyclones and the Denver Broncos.
After retirement, Jim and Judy spent time in their camper in Texas during the cold Iowa winters, where they made numerous close friendships.
Jim had a great sense of humor with a twinkle in his eyes and a mischievous grin. Jim enjoyed attending his grandchildren's sports games.
Jim is survived by his adoring wife Judy (of Ames); his loving kitty Cleo; his two loving sons Kevin (of Washington State) and Keith (of California); grandson Cody (of Arizona);
stepdaughter Lynette Peterson (of Jefferson); grandchildren Hannah, Chance, and Victoria (all of Jefferson); sister-in-law Edie (Rod) Samuelson (of Johnston); and niece
Alyssa (of Arizona).
Jim is preceded in death by his parents; sisters Norma, Lena, Bertha, Betty, and Mary; brothers Quinto, Willie, Pete, Joe, Johnny, and Eddie; 3 siblings who died at birth; and stepdaughter Louise.
Tributes
"I am so sorry to hear about jimmy passing my name is Craig Denato and I live in Ottumwa Iowa my fathers name was Joseph he was jimmys brother I have been looking for him for a long time as I wanted to talk with him about his mom and dad or would you say my grand parents. I know this is a very hard time but would love to hear from you. craig843denato@hotmail.com or here is my phone (641) 799-3761 once again I am so sad as he was my last living uncle."
"Bob & I enjoyed seeing them at Meskwaki. Bob & Jim enjoyed visiting. I liked going to their place with my sister & listening to Jim?s stories."
"I will always remember the twinkle in his eye and mischievous little grin when he was telling a story! He will definitely be missed by all who knew him. "
"I miss Jim already. I miss his quick wit, his sense of humor, and listening to the fascinating stories about his life. I enjoyed helping him fix things. He taught me so much. I miss making him Rice Krispie treats on special occasions and ?just because?. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones, especially my dear friend Judy. "
"Working with the Denato family has been a pleasure ~ rest easy Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care Mike and Suzanne"