James D. Deao Sr.

June 19, 1939 - March 30, 2020

James Donald “Jim” Deao, Sr., age 80, of Washington, died Monday, March 30, 2020, at the Washington County Hospital following a brief illness. Private family graveside services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, April 2, 2020, at the West Chester Cemetery with Rev. Melissa Warren officiating. A public celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Memorials have been established for the West Chester Heritage Association. The Jones & Eden Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent for Jim’s family through the web at www.jonesfh.com Jim was born June 19, 1939, in Henry County, Iowa, the son of Archibald and Margaret (Schrader) Deao. He grew up in the Lockridge Community and graduated from Lockridge High School. Jim was married to Bertha L. Hoyle. They later divorced. He moved to the Washington County in 1963 and lived in the Washington and West Chester communities. Jim was a farmer and worked at Modine Manufacturing for 30 years until his retirement in 2001. He previously worked at River Products Rock Quarry for nine years. Jim enjoyed reading, playing cards, collecting Ertl farm toys, and spending time with his family and friends. He was an avid sports fan and especially enjoyed following the Iowa Hawkeyes. Jim is survived by his son, James D. Deao Jr. and wife Kathryn “Kate” of Washington, Iowa; daughter, Charlotte Arbogast and husband Steve of Unionville, Iowa; daughter-in-law, Kathy Deao of Washington, Iowa; six grandchildren; four great grandchildren; step mother, Arlene Deao of Stockport, Iowa; sister, Linda Pohren of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa; two brothers, Roger Deao and wife Carol of Stockport, Iowa; and Randy Deao and wife Kim of Libertyville, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and one son, Darrel Deao; infant twin grandchildren; and two brothers, Bob and Howard Deao.