James K Meyer

James K. Meyer, 87 of Wayland, IA, passed away Thursday, January 30, 2025, at Halcyon House in Washington, surrounded by his family. 

Funeral Services have been set for 11:00 AM Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at the Wayland Mennonite Church with Micheal Swartzendruber officiating. Burial will follow at the North Hill Cemetery. Live-streaming of the service will be on the Beatty-Peterseim Funeral Home Facebook page and YouTube channel.  Visitation will begin at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at the Wayland Mennonite Church with the family present from 4:00-6:00 PM. Beatty-Peterseim Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the North Hill Cemetery and the Wayland Fire and Rescue Unit.

Jim was born July 9, 1937, in Wayland, IA to Allen (Bill) and Mildred (Kauffman) Meyer. He spent most of his life in the Wayland community. He was a graduate of Wayland High School and attended Iowa State University and Iowa Wesleyan College. While at Iowa State University, He enlisted in the Army Reserves in March 1956 and later joined the 495th Combat Engineering Battalion (Company B) Middleton, IA. In 1961, the battalion was called to active duty, moving the family to Fort Leonard Wood, MO and later Camp McCoy in WI.

Following active duty, Jim spent his career farming in the Wayland area. After retirement, Jim worked at WACO Community Schools and was a strong advocate for education for all.

On October 25, 1958, Jim was united in marriage to Norma Messer, they made their home for nearly 60 years west of Wayland. During their marriage, they welcomed two children, a son Todd and daughter Julie, both of Wayland, IA.

Jim enjoyed being part of a small community, visiting and helping friends and neighbors whenever possible. He loved spending time with his family, attending and watching Iowa Hawkeye sporting events and the Green Bay Packers. He also enjoyed music, especially polka and accordion music. 

Jim is survived by his two children, Todd (Deanna) Meyer and Julie Meyer, Wayland. Brother Richard (Bev) Meyer of Meeker, CO. Grandchildren Jill Meyer, North Liberty, IA, Jennifer (Mike) Giudici, Bettendorf, IA, Joel (Morgan) Meyer, Wayland and five great-grandchildren; Isabella, Grace, and Rose Giudici and Lincoln and Cole Meyer. 

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife Norma, parents Bill and Mildred Meyer, and an infant sister.