James Byrnes

Jim J. Byrnes, 95, of Waukon died Saturday, January 20, 2024 at Good Samaritan Center in Waukon. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, January 24 at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Waukon with Fr. John Moser officiating. Burial will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Waukon. Friends may greet the family from 10 a.m. until the time of services Wednesday at the church.

Martin-Grau Funeral Home in Waukon is handling arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of choice.

James “Jim” Joseph Byrnes was born August 9, 1928 in Waukon, the son of John Francis and Eleanor (Link) Byrnes. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Waukon. Jim graduated from Waukon High School. He served in the United States Army in the early 1950s.

Jim spent his life farming in Jefferson Township, raising Black Angus cattle. He also enjoyed gardening, following college athletics, and was an avid reader. His life could be summarized as, “farm, faith, and family.”

Survivors include a sister, Loretta Tressel of Richfield, MN; and 18 nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: Edna Byrnes Barrell, Lorna Byrnes Wilson, Leo Francis Byrnes and Betty Byrnes Brandt.

Casketbearers are Paul, Thomas and Rachel Brandt, Pete Tressel, and Dan and Natalie Byrnes.

Online condolences may be left at www.martinfunerals.com.