James was born May 22, 1943, in Muscatine, Iowa. After high school, he served in the U.S. Navy.
He enjoyed Sunday morning golf and spending time with friends. James was an avid sports fan and followed the Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs, and Iowa Hawkeyes.
Survivors include his sister, Debi Brumbaugh; children, Donald Griffin (Svetla), Janine Ostrander(Jay), Jolene Griffin, Kathy Griffin, Kari Griffin, and Kory Griffin (Hollie); grandchildren, Youlian, Jimmie, Jonathan, Kalyn (Levi), Rylea, Jenna, Kyra, Zander, Kenzie, Griffin, Jaxon, Hannah, Zak, and Zoey; and great-grandchildren, Alayna, Kenlea, Landyn, Kolby, and Melody.
He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings.
A private graveside service will be held Dec. 29, 2025, at Rock Island Arsenal. A celebration of life will follow at 1:30 p.m. at The Office, 116 W. Third St., Davenport, IA 52801.
