James "Jim" Gelner

May 27, 1935 - February 25, 2016

James "Jim" Henry Gelner, age 80, of Spirit Lake, formerly of Des Moines, passed away Thursday, February 25, 2016, at his home in Spirit Lake. Jim was born on May 27, 1935, in Des Moines. He was united in marriage to Cheryl "Cheri" Wing on June 4, 1960, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Jim graduated from Des Moines Technical High School and attended Grand View College in Des Moines. Always creative he worked as an interior decorator, then began his own business, Visual Communications. Jim shared in ministry with his wife Cheri in several churches and presently is a member of the First Christian Church in Spencer. Jim enjoyed his family, friends, Westerns, being in Craftsman, doing Ham radio, scrapbooking, volunteering at the Playhouse, jazz and reading books. At the church he did children's time as well as leading kindergarten through junior high youth group. He enjoyed family time especially two trips to the Bahamas. Jim is survived by his wife, Cheri, of Spirit Lake; daughter, Jennifer Gelner; son, Jody Gelner both of Des Moines; three grandchildren, Jesse, (Ashley), Taylor and Justine "NeeNee" Gelner, all of Des Moines; and one great-grandchild, Linden Gelner of Des Moines. As well as the Luong and Francic families from Des Moines. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Paul. At this time, no formal services will be held. In honor of Jim's love of kids please consider sending Cheri your memorial contribution made out to Special Olympics or Six Degrees of Separation Removing Barriers to Education in Haiti.