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We remember David James "Jim" Kacmarynski, of Dallas, Ore., who departed this earth on April 26, 2025, at the age of 78.
David, a beloved husband and father, was born July 6, 1946, in Storm Lake, a son of Edward and Ruth (Bahr) Kacmarynski. After graduating high school in Storm Lake, David moved to Chicago, Ill., and earned a technical certification from DeVry University. Upon graduation he was drafted into the Army and served two years including time in Vietnam, achieving the rank of Specialist, 4th Class. Following his honorable discharge, David returned to Chicago for a short time before moving to Cedar Falls to continue his education at the University of Northern Iowa, where he obtained a bachelor of arts in social work in 1973.
While attending the University of Northern Iowa he met Ellen (Todey), whom he married at Saint Anthony’s Parish in Rathbun on Aug. 7, 1971. Following graduation David started work as a computer technician at the University of Northern Iowa, where he continued his employment until his retirement in 2003. While in Cedar Falls, David raised two sons, enjoyed fishing, bowling, hunting and family vacations. He was a member of AMVETS Post 49. In 2008 David moved to Dallas, Ore., to enjoy his retirement and be closer to his grandchildren.
David is survived by his cherished wife of 53 years; his sons, Kevin (Jen Cabbage) Kacmarynski of Monmouth, Ore.; and Peter (Krissi) Kacmarynski of Lakeville, Minn.; his siblings: Virginia (Bob) Elston of LaVista, Neb.; Kathy (Mike) Pohl of Papillion, Neb.; and Tom Kacmarynski of Papillion, Neb.; sister-in-law Kathy Kacmarynski of LaVista, Neb.; and grandchildren, Conner and Gwen.
He was predeceased by his parents; his brother Joe; and sister Barbara.
Funeral Mass was held at St. Philip’s Catholic Church in Dallas, Ore., on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Burial was at Dallas Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to David’s family to be used at their discretion or to any charities focused on ophthalmological research.
