James Michael Tinker

James (Jim) Michael Tinker, 77, of Audubon, Iowa, entered his eternal rest on May 18, 2026. He passed peacefully with his sons at his side, ready to be received by Christ and reunited with his beloved wife, Janet.

Jim was born on May 7, 1949 in La Crosse, WI, to Richard and Madonna Tinker. From his earliest days, faith shaped his life. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church, beginning a lifelong walk with Christ that guided, strengthened, and comforted him throughout his years.

Jim’s childhood included many moves across Wisconsin, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa as his father worked for the J.C. Penney Corporation. During his family’s time in Redfield, South Dakota, he discovered his enduring passion for hunting and hunting dogs—an interest that remained with him for the rest of his life.

After graduating from Cherokee High School in 1967, Jim pursued his lifelong love of knowledge and music at Iowa State University where he played saxophone in the symphony band and was a member of the ISU debate team. After completing his B.S and M.S. in Political Science from ISU, Jim earned his law degree from the University of Iowa College of Law in 1977.

On November 2, 1974, Jim and Janet Lynn (Gustafson) Tinker were joined at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Cherokee, Iowa, beginning an eternal bond of 51 earthly years, and continuing now re-united in Heaven. After Jim earned his law degree in 1977, the couple moved to Audubon, Iowa, where Jim practiced law from the same office for 48 years, up until his passing. Jim was a member of the Iowa State Bar Association, and served generations of families with integrity, humility, and compassion.

Jim gave generously to the Audubon community. He served on the Audubon Library Board, the Friendship Home Board, and provided legal guidance to numerous local organizations. While serving on the Audubon Country Club Board, he discovered his love of golfing, and the friendships and fellowship it brought him became a source of great joy. His true impact, however, is found in the countless quiet acts of kindness he offered without recognition—gestures that reflected his character.

Jim and Janet raised two sons, William Richard and Matthew Michael, in their Audubon home. His joy only grew as he welcomed daughters in law Caroline and Emily, and grandchildren Alida, Kerstin, and Charlotte. Jim’s faith lived vibrantly through his service at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, where he served in many roles, including church president, and shared his love of music through choir and special music. The seeds of faith and music he planted continue to flourish in his children and grandchildren.

When Janet went to her eternal home just months before Jim, a part of him went with her. Their marriage was a testament to God’s faithfulness—a love story lived out over five decades. It brings deep comfort to know they now share the joy of Heaven together.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Janet; his parents, Richard and Madonna Tinker; his sister-in-law, Cindy Tinker; and his parents-in-law, Bert and Joyce Gustafson; and his brother-in-law, Mark Gustafson.

He is survived by his son Will (Caroline) and their daughters, Alida and Kerstin; his son Matt (Emily) and granddaughter Charlotte; his sister, Renee Larson; his brother, Joe Tinker; his sister in law Ann Stubbendeck (Dave); his brother in law Grant Gustafson (Joan); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends.

Public visitation will be held Thursday, May 21, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Schmidt Family Funeral Home in Audubon, Iowa; and Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 22 at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Audubon. A private interment will take place at Maple Grove Cemetery in Audubon.

Arrangements are entrusted to Schmidt Family Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 326 Leroy Street, Audubon, IA.

Jim’s family extends heartfelt gratitude for the friendships, support, and community that surrounded him throughout his 48 years in Audubon. His legacy of faith, kindness, and love will continue to shine in all who were blessed to know him.