James Dee Hillman, a beloved truck driver with a mischievous spirit and a heart of gold, passed away peacefully at his home on March 24, 2024, at the age of 61. James was born on July 11, 1962, in Charles City, IA to the late Dee Jay and Ruth (Johnson) Hillman.
A service and celebration of James’s life will be held on April 8, 2024, at Hauser Weishaar Funeral Home located in Charles City. Visitation will be from 5:00-6:30 PM followed by a memorial service. All who knew and loved James are invited to attend and share in honoring his memory. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in memory of James Hillman to the James Hillman Memorial.
James graduated from Rudd Rockford Marble Rock Community School District in 1980.
He lived a life full of adventure and was extremely compassionate for those he cared about. James started his career working for his father’s window washing business, Shineway. He worked for several trucking companies over the years and Roling Ford in Shell Rock. For the past eight years, James was employed by Eric Arthur Farms. James resided in Rock Falls and moved to Marble Rock in 2004 where he lived until his passing.
As a truck driver, James navigated the open road with skill and determination, delivering goods with precision, reliability, and a smile that will never be forgotten. His dedication to his work was matched only by his commitment to those around him, always willing to go the extra mile to lend a helping hand. James will be remembered at Eric Arthur Farms for his loyalty and trustworthiness, maintaining a spotless truck, constant treats given to the family dog, and endless traffic violations!
Beyond his professional endeavors, James was known for his playful nature and his love of pranks. His quick wit and infectious laugh brought joy to all who knew him, and his antics will be fondly remembered by friends and family alike along with his unwavering ability to always reach out to those he loved and cared for. Whether it was a listening ear, a quick tall-tale to put you at ease, or a helping hand, James could always be counted on to be there when it mattered most.
James leaves behind a legacy of laughter, warmth, generosity, and kindness that will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and one of his greatest joys: his cat Lucky (Lil Man). We know the man upstairs questioned his early arrival as he was always late for everything and had a story to go along with it. Although he has left us physically, we will ensure his memory lives on while looking for signs of his prankster ways from above. Until we meet again, GIDDY UP, GOTTA GO.
James is survived by his adopted daughter, Natalie (Buster) Seidel; stepmother, Kathlene Hillman; stepsiblings: Curt, Kent, Kendall, and Kaylene; aunts and uncles: Carma Hillman, Linda Taylor, Alvin Klink and David (Linda) Johnson; and numerous cousins. James also leaves behind the special family of Dan & Tammy Pickett along with their children: Miranda Zuck (Justin & Jaxton), Breanna Vobr (Jon), Kayla Pickett (Kevin Leerhoff), and his “little buddy,” Brantley.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Dee Jay and Ruth Hillman; sister, Deb Grarup; Grandparents: Darrell and Rex Hillman, Lester and Marie Johnson; Uncles: Danny Hillman and S. Lee Nash; Aunt, Nancy Klink; and his beloved pets: cat, Tiners and dog, Scooby.
Hauser Weishaar Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, 1205 South Main Street, Charles City, Iowa 50616 is in charge of local arrangements. Online condolences may be left on the Tribute Wall for the family at www.hauserfh.com.
