James Carroll Gauch

James Carroll Gauch, 87, passed away on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at the Ramsey Village in Des Moines.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Jim will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi- St. Henry Catholic Church. Visitation will be on Sunday, January 11, 2026 from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Mitchell Family Funeral Home in Marshalltown. Memorials may be directed to the family. For more information or to send a condolence, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234. Mitchell Family Funeral Home is caring for Jim and his family.

James C. Gauch was born on August 2, 1938 in State Center, Iowa. He was the son of Elmer and Helen Gauch. Jim graduated from high school in State Center and obtained his Engineering degree from Iowa State University. Jim was united in marriage to Marian Dvorak. He had worked for forty plus years as an engineer for Chicago and North Western Railway. Jim also worked on the farm. He was a member of the Chicago and North Western Railway Retiree Club. He enjoyed watching westerns, playing Canasta with Marian, and enjoyed the occasional nap from time to time.

James is survived by his loving wife- Marian and daughter: Deb (Tom) Copeland of Des Moines. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Shane, Daniel and Kellie Copeland; brother: Roger Gauch of Rhodes along with his niece’s: Nicole and Deana and cousins: Susan Gauch and Scott Gauch.

James is preceded in death by his parents: Elmer and Helen and siblings: Russ, Ron, Dick and Esther.