James Dean Eden

On Feb. 24, 2024, at approximately 11:15 a.m., James Dean Eden, (Jim), suddenly left us to go stay with his Mother Elaine, Father Howard and Brother Tim in Heaven. With surviving siblings Kathy Hayes (Tom), Atlantic, Mike Eden, Riverside, Calif., and Patty (Trish) Eden, Atlantic, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends, to look after one another.

Jim was born on May 3, 1956, in Atlantic. After getting his GED, he received his Degree in Diesel Mechanics from Iowa Western Community College. He was a Steel Worker for many years and took pride in his accomplishments. Jim led a very adventurous and colorful life as a young man. Many may not know that Jim spent six months traveling with Ringling Brothers circus. He worked alongside the famous Lion Tamer, Gunther Gebel-Williams. He lived in California for a short time but came back to Atlantic which was always "home" to him.

Although Jim never had children of his own, he always considered his nieces and nephews a big part of his life. Jim enjoyed cycling, having lively discussions and of course, his Green Bay Packers. He has been a Packers fan since the age of seven. Jim's love of life included his deep belief in God and Jesus, his Christian faith which he openly shared with all. Jim liked the Natural aspect of life, engaging various forms of relaxation and contemplation. He reveled in sleeping late and napping at any time throughout the day. He was an unencumbered, unfettered free soul. Jim will be sorely missed.

Fortunately, any maybe by divine design, Jim was able to talk or text message many family members the day before he left us.
While "There Are No Bad Days", he left us unexpectedly. We were anticipating having a little more time with him. Yet the Lord had other plans for Jim. Jim would most always say goodbye and follow up with, Peace, Love Jesus…and of course the Peace Sign.

A Service has been planned for Sunday, March 10, at 2 p.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 1011 E 13th. Street, Atlantic, Iowa 50022.