James (Jim) Gorsch

Marengo-James “Jim” Orlen Gorsch was born May 3, 1955, in Marengo, Iowa, the son of Lloyd “Bud” and Edith (Hughes) Gorsch. He graduated from Iowa Valley High School. Jim was united in marriage to Linda Newton. They were blessed with two daughters, Jamie and Tina, before later divorcing. Jim then found his best friend, Lori Sykes on October 10, 1991 which brought them two sons, Logan and Travis. Jim was a parts professional for over 50 years. Jim dedicated his career to serving various John Deere dealers across Eastern Iowa. He was employed at Sinclair Tractor, where he was a valued and respected member of the team. Born and raised in Marengo, Jim was a familiar face in the farm community. Beyond his work, Jim’s greatest joy was his family. He cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren. He was also a big Iowa Hawkeyes fan that could often be found watching games on TV or listening to them on the radio. Jim found solace and contentment in the simple pleasures of life, including spending time going to the farm or enjoying a Busch Light. Jim passed away surrounded by his loving children on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospital CVICU in Iowa City after a heart attack at the age of 70 years.

He is survived by his children, Jamie (Jason) Partridge of Blairstown, Tina (Patrick) Crossmon of Victor, Logan (Shyanna) Gorsch of Marengo, Travis Gorsch of Des Moines and step-daughter Brittany (Dusty) York of Belle Plaine; two grandchildren, Jaxson Throgmartin and Colter James Gorsch; siblings, Mary Bloomme of Belle Plaine, Nancy Martinson of Brownsburg, IN, Janice Gorsch of Cedar Rapids, and Robert “Bob” (Sharon) Gorsch of Victor. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Roberta Kleppe, and his best friend Lori Sykes.

Celebration of Life Service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 2, 2025, at the American Legion Hall in Marengo. Burial will be in the Marengo Cemetery. Visitation will be 4:00-7:00 p.m. Friday, August 1, 2025, at the American Legion Hall in Marengo. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The IOWA Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by his son. Go to https://www.theiowafoundation.com/ and click “Donate” under “Get Involved”. Powell Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Marengo is caring for Jim and his family. Messages may be left at www.powellfuneralhomes.com