Jimmy Paul Bodtke, 82, of Jacksonville, passed away peacefully December 28, 2025 after a hard-fought battle with bladder cancer. He was born August 29, 1943 to the late Elmer and Veda Chumbley Bodtke in Osceola, Iowa. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Russell Bodtke.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Donna (Tommy) Taylor; brother, Bob Bodtke; grandchildren, Krystal Morgan, Jimmy Bodtke, and Hannah Bodtke; great grandchildren, Aidan Dodson, Layla Dodson, and Macy Dodson, and his daughter's cats, Indy Taylor and Amelia Taylor.

Jim honorably served his country in the United States Navy for several years where he was in the VP42 Sub Hunter Patrol Squadron. He was also a navigation and electronics maintainer on the P2 Neptune Patrol Plane. Following his military service, while still living in California, he worked on the historic Apollo Project.

After his work in California, Jim returned to his hometown in Iowa, where he enjoyed a life centered on family. He was an avid woodworker who found joy in creating with his hands. He also loved the occasional trips to the casino.

Some of Jim's most treasured moments were spent playing Yahtzee and Left Center Right with his daughter, Donna, son-in-law, Tommy, and his grandchildren. Known for his major sweet tooth, Jim never turned down dessert and delighted in hosting family cookouts during holidays.

Although he claimed he was not a cat person, Jim fell in love with his daughter's cat, Olivia, who preceded him in death. He later formed special bonds with her cats, Indy and Amelia.

Jim will be remembered as a devoted patriot, a supporter of veterans, and a loving father and grandfather.

The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at the VA hospital palliative care unit for their exceptional care during their time there.

A private family gathering will be held at a later date here in Arkansas and in his hometown in Iowa, where he will be laid to rest.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Fisher House Foundation, www.fisherhouse.org