Jim Joseph Dotzler

Jim Joseph Dotzler was born to Donald and Janet (Buckhaus) Dotzler on June 16, 1965, in Harlan, Iowa. As a child, he was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance, Iowa. He attended Harlan Community High School, graduating with the Class of 1984. Following high school, Jim attended Iowa State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business in 1988.

Jim spent most of his life in Defiance, where he valued the friendships and family connections he built over the years. He lived with epilepsy for 45 years, a challenge that imposed limitations but never defined him. In 2024, Jim suffered an accident that required tremendous determination and perseverance as he worked to regain his mobility.

An outdoorsman at heart, Jim found great enjoyment in nature and especially loved hunting with his hunting dogs. He took pride in maintaining a well-kept lawn and appreciated having things neat and organized. Some of his favorite moments were spent working alongside his dad and visiting with his neighbor and friend, John Goeser. In addition, he became a licensed real estate salesman with Ouren Real Estate, taking great pride in helping clients list and show their homes. Jim was also an avid sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite teams.

Jim passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska attaining the age of 60 years, 11 months and 18 days. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Janet (Backhaus) Dotzler.

He is survived by his brother, Dan (Cindy) Dotzler of Ida Grove, IA; nieces and nephews, Ciara (Hunter) Lindgren, Ben (Madison) Dotzler, Ellie (Kaden) Ladwig; great nieces and nephew, Emmy Ladwig, Cal Lindgren, and Ava Lindgren; Aunts, Sandy Gruhn and Rachel Dolby; many cousins; other relatives and friends.