James E. Bonsall

James Elliott Bonsall, Sr. was born April 21, 1924 in Arnolds Park, Iowa to Arthur and Harriett (Woods) Bonsall. He graduated from Arnolds Park High School. As an 18 year old, he volunteered to the Army for World War II and was honorably discharged at the end of the war. He was recalled to active duty in the Korean War. His job was to train new recruits as an Army drill sergeant. After being honorably discharged for the second time he returned to civilian life. Years later he was commander of the Honor Guard Firing Squad for the VFW. On June 23, 1947 he was married to Ruth Vivian Jones at Spencer, Iowa. In 1957 they moved to Spirit Lake. He retired from Wells Blue Bunny Dairy after 21 years as a sales representative. In retirement he worked for Super America, HyVee, Turner Funeral Home, mowed lawns, did dock work with his best friend, Ed Reiners and enjoyed working along side of his son-in-law, John Wahl, doing construction. Jim enjoyed reading, watching all sports, fishing, especially ice fishing, drives around the lakes to watch people fish, visiting family and friends, dancing, antique tractor pulls and representing the VFW in all aspects. His children, grandchildren and great grandchild brought him great joy. His love of his country and his display of patriotism was mirrored in his daily life. Jim was very proud of his heritage of being born and raised in Arnolds Park. Jim passed away on April 8, 2008 at the Milford Nursing Center at eighty-three years of age. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ruth; son, James Bonsall Jr. and wife, Denise, of Spirit Lake and their children, Jeffrey and wife, Dawn and their daughter, Rylee, of Underwood, Iowa and Kellie Ann Bonsall of Spirit Lake; daughter Janet Bonsall Wahl and husband, John, of Sheldon and their daughter Autumn Leeah Wahl; sister-in-law, Anna Mae Bonsall of Cedar Rapids; and 3 nieces and nephews. Preceeding Jim in death were his parents, Arthur and Harriett Bonsall; son, Ron Bonsall; brothers, Robert and Richard Bonsall and many a brave fish that have fallen victim to his bait and lure.