It's been six months since Jim died and I only learned of his passing today when my daughter --who is planning to move home to Iowa City-- sent to me a link and photo showing Jim's house. Daughter rightly pointed out that the house is only a couple houses away from where I lived for ten years, in the little red house on Otto Street. She said the dark brown house for sale is "adorable." Quickly I clicked the link and saw "adorable" in the photo, but I'd already known that the house was such... even though I'd never seen inside.

Jim and I had been friendly neighbors, as in we talked --on the sidewalk or in one driveway or the other-- about the neighborhood, about the University, about our families, health, life experiences, and cats. And although I usually walked to work on campus, a few times throughout the years, during wet or freezing weather and when Jim just happened to be leaving as I walked by, he offered to drive me to EPB. That's the extent of our acquaintance and yet tonight I sat here for over an hour thinking about those talks before I decided to write to you, Jim's family.

I hardly knew him but I heard his concerns for the city, neighborhood, University, and world. I recognized his sincerity. I even sensed his commitment to various issues, but we really didn't go into much depth with those (other than a remark or two and maybe a wink or a nod).

You might wonder why I am asking you to accept my condolences and why I am writing these memories when what I wrote is the extent of Jim's and my association (except accidentally meeting at the mall once). I guess the condolences and memories are important because Jim left an impression. He seemed, to me at least, so pleasant and calm no matter what was happening around him. Then again, he definitely had and followed his own informed positions, to the very end. I'm glad to have read his obituary and glad I now know more about my former neighbor. My sympathy to each of you.

Sincerely,

Lu Ann Dvorak

Iowa City

I wish you solace as you deal with this loss. Over a few decades Jim and I walked hundreds of hours. I know you are aware of his serious study of our world. I benefited much from those talks. I also know he cared about your welfare, both those of you whom I know and those I did not have an opportunity to meet. He also had a genuine concern for the those beyond his direct experience, and acted on that concern with his own effort as well as financial support. His family came up often in our discussions. He really cared for each of you.

I only knew James for a short time but I really enjoyed our conversations and I think he was a wonderful person. I appreciated his careful consideration of people and the way he spoke so kindly of all in his life. I am better to have known him and I am very sorry to hear that he has passed on. This was heartbreaking news. My parents Judy and Jerry Clark were very fond of James and enjoyed their coffees and conversations with him. Our sincere condolences to his family and those close to him.