James Forrest Fowler
FOWLER, HAWKS, WICKHAM
Posted By: Sarah Fletcher (email)
Date: 5/6/2022 at 12:00:56
James Forrest Fowler, 82, of Iowa City, passed away on April 23, 2022. He was born in Atlantic, Iowa to Floyd and Julia (Hawks) Fowler. Floyd was the owner of Fowler Hatchery for many years on Highway 6. Jim attended Atlantic Public Schools which in turn sparked lifelong special interests including: choral singing, speech/debate, and the National Thespian Society. His father taught him and his friends how to play tennis, which remained a special lifelong hobby. Both parents encouraged gardening and growing vegetables, with a pinch of democratic politics.
Jim graduated in the class of 1957 and chose to further his education at Simpson College in Indianola. After two years and a semester in Liechtenstein, he transferred to the University of Iowa, graduating with a law degree in 1965. He began as a lawyer, working with Legal Aid and the City Attorney Office in Des Moines. Jim joined a law firm in Indianola that became Wilson, Goodhue, Fowler, and Fusco. He later retired to Iowa City.
Jim married Jane Wickham in 1966, his life’s best decision so far, according to him. The couple raised three sons on 44th Street in Des Moines.
The family’s interest learning about birds continued, including reading and purchasing hardcover books, almost singlehandedly keeping Barnes and Noble in business. Most of all, Jim loved getting together with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He often shared his love for birding with them and would frequent raptor centers together. Although it may not have made for the most successful birding experiences, his grandchildren still remember the outings fondly. One of the highlights in Jim’s life was celebrating his 80th birthday celebration in Galena, Illinois.
Jim is survived by his sons: Colin and Cole; sister, Barb; sister-in-law, Ellen; grandchildren: Brittany, James, Jackson, Emma, Olivia, Maddie and Elizabeth as well as two great grandchildren: Jimmy and Silas. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jane; brother, Richard and son, Beau.
Private burial will be in Des Moines next to Jane.
Lensing Funeral & Cremation Service
Johnson Obituaries maintained by Cindy Booth Maher.
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