James Robert Manard

James Robert "Jim" Manard, 84, of New London, passed away on Sunday, April 27, 2014 at University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City following a brief illness. A native and longtime resident of southeastern Iowa, Jim was well known throughout the area as an accomplished jazz pianist and band leader. Jim also shared his love of music as the host of his own jazz music show on KBUR-Radio for the past ten years. For his musical gift to the community, Jim was honored with the Burlington Steamboat Days Viceroy of Jazz Award in 2001. Jim was born on September 15, 1929 in Fort Madison, Iowa, the only child of Theodore "Ted" and Janie Lancaster Manard. He attended Fort Madison schools, graduating in 1947. He later attended Burlington Junior College, Chillicothe Business College and the University of Iowa. In 1949 he joined the United States Navy, serving on the USS Boxer aircraft carrier. He was recalled into service during the Korean Conflict where he served aboard the USS Leyte. On February 28, 1953 Jim married Maxine Carol Gerdom at the First Church of Christ in Burlington, Iowa. They shared a life together that took them to Fort Madison, IA, Boston, MA, Burlington, IA, Grand Is...[more]

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d, NE and in their final move 40 years ago, to New London, IA. For most of the last fifteen years they enjoyed winters in Naples, FL. Jim and Maxine have four children, Bradley, Timothy, Claire and Jana. Jim began his "day job" at Sears & Roebuck in Burlington. In 1960 he joined the firm of Silas Mason and Hanger, contracted to operate the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant in Middletown, IA as an Employment Specialist. In 1966 he was transferred to Grand Island, NE to reopen a dormant plant there. In 1973 that plant was closed and Jim was transferred back to the facility in Middletown. Jim served the company as Employment Specialist, retiring on November 1, 1991 after31 years. Jim's passion for the piano and jazz music as well as his talent for showmanship made him a local celebrity wherever he lived. He began playing piano professionally at the age of 14 and in his younger days traveled in national music circles and was known to have jammed with such greats as Louie Armstrong, Stan Kenton and many others. After marrying and beginning a family, Jim made the personal choice to not pursue a professional career in music, but to focus on being a loving husband and devoted father. But locally his talent would not be ignored and through the years he led countless bands, combos and jazz groups at area nightclubs, special events and was a favorite for wedding receptions. Also in the community Jim was a member of the New London VFW Post 7641, Elks Lodge #1192 in Fairfield, Travelers Protection Association, Masonic Lodge Claypoole #13 AF and AM of Fort Madison, American Federation of Musicians Local #463 of Lincoln, NE, the Just Jazz Club of Burlington, and Civic Music Association in Burlington. Jim had a strong living faith and was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. He was an active member of the New London United Methodist Church where he was a past board member and participated in the choir and the Methodist Men. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Maxine ; his children, Brad (Carolyn) Manard of Boone, Tim Manard of Champaign, IL, Claire (Rick) Seely of St. Charles, IA, and Jana (Steve) Dingeman of West Des Moines; seven grandchildren, Janina Dingeman, Adam Dingeman, Allison Manard (Taylor Ronk), Alex Manard, Michael Manard, Erin Seely and Anne Seely; three step-grandchildren, Wayne (Lindsey) Rogers, Jonathan Clark and Benjamin Clark; and two great-grandchildren, Leah Ronk and Jonas Rogers. He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter-in-law, Mary Posus Manard. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM, Thursday, May 1, 2014 at Elliott Chapel, New London. Pastor James Roth will officiate. Military Rites will be presented by the Henry County Honor Guard. Burial will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery, Burlington. Visitation will begin after noon on Wednesday, April 30 at the Chapel. Masonic Rites will be given at 5:00 and the family will then greet friends until 7:00 PM. Memorials to remember Jim can be made to the New London United Methodist Church.