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James
Adams
Jan 24, 1927 — Sep 9, 2026
Ames
Jim lived a long life marked by service, hard work, and deep involvement in the community around him.
James "Jim" Adams, 99, passed away on September 9, 2026, in Nevada, Iowa. He was born on January 24, 1927, in Led Hill, Arkansas.
Jim lived a long life marked by service, hard work, and deep involvement in the community around him. He graduated from North Platte High School in Nebraska. During World War II, he served as a merchant marine, answering a call to serve during a pivotal time in history.
He later made his home in Ames, Iowa, where he became well known through both his work and his many community connections. Jim owned Ames Cycles in Ames for 25 years, a proud accomplishment that reflected his dedication and entrepreneurial spirit. His leadership in the motorcycle community extended beyond his business, as he also served as president of the Iowa Motorcycle Dealers Association.
Motorcycles and the people connected to them were a meaningful part of Jim's life. He enjoyed racing and was a member of The Abate, The Moose, The Legion, Women on Wheels, The AMA, and other motorcycle organizations. He stayed very involved in his community and supported many causes through his charitable giving to numerous organizations.
Motorcycles and the people connected to them were a meaningful part of Jim's life.
Jim will be lovingly remembered by his family. He is survived by his son, Kenny (Jennifer) Adams. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Garrett Adams, Robert (Chris) Adams, and Tonya Habhab; many great-grandchildren; along with a host of other family members and many friends. Their lives carry forward the memory of a man whose years were filled with service, commitment, and strong community ties.
He was preceded in death by his son, Terry Adams; his father, Lester Adams; his mother, Ruby Adams Peak; his brothers, Paul and Billy; and his sisters, Opal and Ruth.
Jim Adams will be remembered with respect for his wartime service, his years as a business owner in Ames, his leadership within Iowa’s motorcycle community, and the lasting impression he made on those who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 1:00 P.M.-4:00 P.M. at The Moose Lodge, 644 West 190th Street, Ames, Iowa 50010.
A motorcycle ride will be held in his honor prior to the Celebration of Life. Ride-in at 11:00 A.M.; meet at the south end of the Zylsta Harley-Davidson parking lot; enter on McCormick Ave. Kick stands up at 12 NOON for a 30-mile ride to Moose Lodge, 644 West 190th St., Ames, Iowa.
Saturday
Zylsta Harley-Davidson parking lot
11:00 am - 1:00 pm (Central time)
Saturday
The Moose Lodge
1:00 - 4:00 pm (Central time)
Visits: 1554
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