Memorial

James “Jim” Owara, 85, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away Monday, December 12, 2016.

Private family services will be held at a later date in Hawaii.

Jim was born March 23, 1931 on Maui, Hawaii.  During high school, he was a standout athlete.  Following his service in the United States Air Force, he attended Iowa State Teachers College.  

Jim worked as an elementary school teacher in the Cedar Rapids School District until his retirement.  He started officiating volleyball matches during his military days, and continued to officiate for college, high school, junior high, and church leagues for over fifty years.  He was inducted into the IGCA Volleyball Hall of Fame in 2010.  He was well known for his origami.  Jim will be missed by all those who loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Pat; sons Kris (Theresa) and Karl (Misty); five grandchildren: Megan, Brian, Kathryn, Alex, and Anna; and sister, Eleanor (Takashi) Masuda.