James E. Bielser, Sr

James E. Bielser, Sr., age 66 of Oquawka, Illinois, passed away at 1:06 pm on Wednesday, April 1, 2015 at the Veterans Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa. 

He was born on July 24, 1948 in Monmouth, IL. the son of Willie Edward and Vivian Maxine (Boughton) Bielser. Jim attended schools in Gladstone and Henderson County graduating from Union High School with the Class of 1966. Jim proudly served his Country from 1969-1971 during the Vietnam Conflict. He married Linda N. Hinshaw on August 27, 1965 and they divorced in 1979. He was later married to Roberta Diewold. Jim began work at Lehigh Leopold in Burlington, IA. He also worked at the I.A.A.P. in Middletown, IA, Gale Products in Galesburg, IL, Aldi Warehouse in Burlington, IA until its closing, and Burlington Post Office as a sorter and carrier. He also worked as a bartender and lastly as a truck driver. Jim is survived by one son; Jimmy (Donny) Bielser of Oquawka, one daughter; Kimberly L. (Jeff) Ward of Oquawka, two grandsons; Brian and Kevin Ward, three brothers; Junior (Evelyn) Bielser of Gladstone, IL, Danny (Donna) Bielser of Biggsville, IL, and John (Nancy) Bielser of Arkansas, and two sisters; Dixie (Rusty) Lox of Oquawka, IL and Jane (Steve) Mueske of Minnesota. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Maxine.

A gathering of family and friends followed by military rites is planned from 1:00-3:00 pm on Monday, April 6, 2015 at Turnbull Funeral Home in Oquawka, Illinois. Cremation is being accorded. A memorial fund is being established by his family. For more information or to leave a condolence, please visit www.turnbullfuneralhomes.com