James R. Onthank, 74, of Grinnell, died on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, at Montezuma Specialty Care.

The Onthank Family will greet friends from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM on Sunday, February 5, 2023 at Smith Funeral Home – Grinnell. A private family burial will be held at Hazelwood Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions, honoring Jim, may be designated to either Ducks Unlimited or Pheasants Forever and mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.

James Richard Onthank was born on February 9, 1948, the son of Marion and Harriett Eichorn Onthank. He was born and raised in Grinnell and graduated from Grinnell High School with the class of 1966. Jim continued his education at Marshalltown Community College, studying business, and continued to work with his father at his autobody shop in Grinnell. Jim's father, Marion, started Onthank Body and Fender in 1947 and Jim assisted in duties at the shop from the age of sixteen. Jim took over as owner and continued operating Onthank Body and Fender until his retirement.

Jim was united in marriage to Lois Jean Raber on May 3, 1978.

Jim cared deeply for the community of Grinnell, he served two terms on the Grinnell City Council and was an Auxiliary Police Officer. He was a member of the Grinnell Eagles and Elks Lodge, the Rotary Club, Isaac Walton League, Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited, and the National Rifle Association.

Jim was an outdoorsman, he enjoyed camping with his family at Rathbun Lake and Lake Red Rock, fishing and hunting. He raised many black labs that became his hunting companions and he held a passion for cars, especially his Corvettes. Jim will be remembered for his strong demeanor, sense of humor, and infectious laughter.

Jim is survived by his wife, Lois; his children, Brian (Kendra Quinn) Onthank, Tina (Jeff Jones) Innis, and Tammy (Scott) Jones; grandchildren, Katelyn and Maisi Onthank, Noah and Zach (Emma Dewey) Innis, and Grace and Nathan Jones. He was preceded in death by his parents.