James D Andrus

James “Joker Jim” D. Andrus III, passed away on June 1, 2026, surrounded by those who loved him. Leaving behind a legacy as bold and unforgettable as he was. He lived life full throttle, full of heart, and with a joke to tell.

Jim was born March 2, 1949, the son of James Donald II and Mary Marie (Johnson) Andrus. He graduated from Lincoln Tech in Des Moines in 1967 and worked as a welder for the majority of his career. Jim was a longtime employee of Eagle Iron Works and eventually retired from John Deere.

Jim proudly served in the Marine Corps and fought in the Vietnam War. A time that shaped his deep sense of duty and respect. In his younger years, he poured his creativity into welding metal art, crafting a Vietnam Veterans Memorial sculpture that reflected that same respect for his fellow vets.

He absolutely loved his Harley Davidson and was a longtime member of the ABATE Biker Club, where he found camaraderie, adventure and brotherhood that meant the world to him.

Jim had a big heart, bigger than he ever let on. He loved his children- Daughters Dawn Marie Andrus and Jami Dee Andrus, and belated son, Robby Lee Andrus. He was blessed with many grandchildren, Angela, Taylore, Kayla, Derika, Brogan, Natayla, Nate, Jamerica, Wheatie and James….and many great grandchildren. Jim also adored his companion of 16 years, Teresa Seeley.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Donald Leo Andrus and David Ronald Andrus and son, Robby Lee Andrus.

Jim had a love for animals, especially his dogs and cats. He quietly supported the ASPCA and St. Jude’s Hospital. Jim was a man of faith who believed in Jesus Christ, his savior, and that faith stayed with him throughout his life.

Joker Jim was a man who loved to have a good time. He enjoyed his beer and cigarettes, and any gathering that included laughter and music. Known for his sharp but sometimes dark sense of humor, he was brutally honest and had no filter. He wouldn’t have it any other way.

Some of his happiest times were spent fishing on Long Lake at the cabin in Park Rapids, Minnesota, while enjoying nature and the peace of the woods.

A celebration of life will take place on Sunday, June 14th at the Jordan Creek Hilton Garden Inn from 1:00-3:00PM. There will be a burial at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery with Taps and a 21 gun salute on Tuesday, June 16th at 9:30AM.

In lieu of plants or flowers please make any donations payable to Dawn Andrus via check or venmo (https://venmo.com/DawnAndrus) (Code 0881) @DawnAndrus

Jim will forever be loved, greatly missed and never forgotten.