Memorial

James “Jim” LeRoy Caviness, 87, of Fairfax, Iowa was called home by God on December 19, 2023. After facing the challenges of a hemorrhagic stroke in 2017, Jim coped with its effects for his remaining years. His wife, Percy, provided loving care for six years at home before he moved to West Ridge Care Center, where he received excellent care. There will be a Celebration of Life on May 11th from 2 - 4:30 at Shuey’s Restaurant and Lounge in Shueyville.

Jim was born on August 29, 1936, to Forrest and Florence (Briggs) Caviness in Iowa City. He graduated in 1954 from Roosevelt High School in Cedar Rapids. This is where he met Percy Klumpar. They were married in 1956. Jim is a member of Salem United Methodist Church. 

 Jim had a love for softball, earning him a place in both the Iowa and Cedar Rapids Men's Fastpitch Softball Hall of Fame. The highlight was when his team won the USA National Tournament and represented the United States in the World Tournament in Manila, Philippines in 1972. 

Jim co-owned The Westside Lounge for many years, forging lasting friendships while enjoying Hawkeye games and golf outings. 

A member of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 125, Jim spent most of his years working at Modern Piping. 

Vacations with family and friends were a cherished tradition, especially Colorado for skiing and Cancun for sun and margaritas. 

In retirement, Jim kept busy with home improvements and intarsia, creating intricate wooden wall hangings that now adorn the homes of family and friends. He also enjoyed watching his grandchildren in their sporting activities.

Jim is survived by Percy and three children, Ron (Mary), John (Connie), and Carol (Benny) Reiger. He has four grandchildren, Kelly (Bryan) Hamilton, Andrew, Jordan (Kiyla), and Brent (Bryana), as well as six great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Cathy Jo, and his sister, Joanne (Waychoff) Gaffney.

In recent years Jim has wanted to help the homeless. To honor Jim's memory, the family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Willis Dady Homeless Services at 1247 4th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403.