James "Jim" L. Dornfeld

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Lee Dornfeld, 72. He passed peacefully at home on Wednesday, July 1st, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with ALS.

Jim was born on January 17, 1954, to Paul Henry and Hypatia Hope Dornfeld. He graduated from Glenbard West High School in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, in 1971 and earned a BSBA with a degree in Actuarial Science from Drake University in 1975. He went on to enjoy a remarkable career of more than 50 years as an actuary—a profession perfectly suited to someone who appreciated numbers, logic, and getting things right.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Vickie; his daughters, Nicole (Tony) Christoph and Liz (Kyle) Larson; and his cherished grandchildren, Jantz, Bryson, Makayla, Beckett, and Ashton, who knew him simply as the fun-loving “Papa.” He is also survived by his brother, John Dornfeld. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Hypatia Dornfeld; his stepmother, Barbara Dornfeld; and his sister, Anne Dornfeld.

Family was the center of Jim’s world. Whether cheering from the sidelines, making everyone laugh, or creating memories at the lake, he found his greatest joy in the people he loved. Growing up and through some of his adult life he loved playing golf, basketball and hockey. He was a devoted Chicago sports fan through every victory and heartbreak, proving that loyalty truly knows no bounds. In retirement, he treasured time spent at his home at the Lake of the Ozarks, where family gatherings, beautiful sunsets, and laughter were among his favorite things.

Even as ALS challenged his body, it never diminished his quick wit or wonderful sense of humor. Jim continued to make those around him smile right to the very end—a gift his family will cherish forever.

The visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 22nd from 5-8pm and the Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 23rd at 10:00am. Both will be held at Ankeny Funeral Home & Crematory, 1510 W 1st Street, Ankeny, IA 50023.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to ALS research or to Phoenix Home Care & Hospice of Jefferson City, Missouri. ALS is a devastating disease that slowly steals a person’s strength and independence, and these organizations provide vital research, care, and support to those affected.

Jim will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever celebrated for his kindness, humor, unwavering love for his family, and the joy he brought to everyone, fortunate enough to know him.