Swisher, Iowa

Brian L. James, 65, formerly of West Liberty passed away Wednesday, August 2, 2023 at Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy in Hiawatha.

Brian Lee James, son of Chad and Corinne James, was born in Iowa City on February 23, 1958.

He attended school K-12 at West Liberty. He graduated from the University of Platteville, Wisconsin earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture Economics. He then completed his Master’s degree in Public Administration at the University of Iowa.  

Brian and his wife Bonnie (Barnhill) James were married on June 20th, 1980 in West Liberty. They have two children, Tyler (wife Kimberly James), and Jaclyn (husband Eric Ostrem). Brian was a loving “Poppy” to his grandchildren, Ada and Miles James, and Aspyn Ostrem. Brian was preceded in death by his parents Chad and Corinne and brother Craig James. 

Brian grew up farming with his father. His family enjoyed hearing all of his farm stories. After earning his Master’s Degree, Brian was a City Manager for five cities across the state. When Brian retired, he and Bonnie became innkeepers at Zuber’s Homestead Hotel in the Amana Colonies. The two enjoyed meeting with their guests from across the world and have been running the B&B for 10 years. Brian continued to tell his guests his favorite stories. Brian enjoyed spending time with his wife Bonnie. The two were highschool sweet hearts and have been married for 43 years. Brian was a thoughtful and loving husband, father, and poppy (grandpa). Brian was a big fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Iowa Hawkeyes. Iowa Hawkeye wrestling and football were his two favorite sports to follow. Brian also enjoyed listening to music, expressing his sense of humor, and most of all taking care of his family. He will be dearly missed. 

Funeral services will be held 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at the First Church United, West Liberty. Visitation will be 5 to 8 P.M. Monday at the Henderson-Barker Funeral Home in West Liberty.