Jimmy Cecil Paine

Jimmy Cecil Paine (Jim) entered this world in high gear on December 2, 1946, in Sacramento, California - born while his parents, John Paine and Marilyn Schumaker, were vacationing. He raced into life on his own terms: fast, full of fire, and never one to idle.

Raised in Iowa with a love for the outdoors, Jim discovered early that he had a need for speed. Camping turned into short track motorcycle racing and led to a lifetime of practice laps, wrenching, and winning more trophies than his kids could count. He graduated from Orange High School in Orange Township, IA, and on December 3, 1966, he married his life-long sweetheart, Linda Eastman-his co-pilot for nearly 60 years.

Jim was many things: a racer, a car lover, a lumber salesman, a wine taster, a devoted husband, a protective dad, and a papa bear to his grandkids. While Linda and racing were his first loves, he collected many more passions along the way-buying and modifying Mustangs with his son Dan, hitting car shows, and taking wine tasting classes with his daughter Jen. Lunches with his buddy Kenny were often the highlight of his week. The family made memories at their Holiday Lake home where Jim proudly served as "Boat Patrol," beer in hand (shhh, don't tell), and chasing down wake-makers as an excuse to break the speed barrier himself. Before moving from Waterloo to Des Moines in 1985, Jim built homes in the area and never missed an opportunity to take the family to Okoboji each year as a part of the Home Builders Association of Iowa, where he made memories and met lifelong friends.

Once in Des Moines, Jim worked in the millwork industry before finding his work family at Beisser Lumber, where he worked as a salesman for 35 years before retiring. He was quick with a deal and known to make rounds to the construction crews on-site, checking on his products and their progress - delivering critiques and cold beers at the end of a hot day. Jim and Linda also tried their hand at motorhome camping just a few years back-though his version of "roughing it" always included good food, cold drinks, and races or sports on TV. His most recent obsession? Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Women's Basketball team... which evolved into a full-blown Fever fixation.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Linda, three children, and their fur baby Gunny:

Tammy Snyder (Rich) of Des Moines, and their children Kasey Vermillion and Alli Howerton (Ryan) and seven grandchildren.

Jen Carolan (Adam) of Waukee, and their children Riley Goemann (Sam), Jace Goemann (Sammy), Sara Carolan (Danny), and Christian Carolan.

Dan Paine (Lacey) of Cumming, and their children Avery Houk (Jack), Oliver Paine, and Cooper Paine.

Jim was preceded in death by his younger brother Mike Paine and leaves behind his sister-in-law Debbie Paine (wife of the late Mike Paine), niece and nephew Andy Paine (Esther) of Urbandale and their two children and Laura (John Greiner) and their two children. Brothers; Mark Paine (Theresa) and their four children, Christopher Paine (Raquel) and their son. Sisters; Kelly Paine, Sandy Stephens (Brian) and her two children, and Erin Kelley (Matthew) and their two children along with many great nieces, nephews, and great grandchildren. Of all the hats (and helmets) Jim wore in life, he was the proudest Papa Bear to us all-a fierce protector and provider who showed up for his family in the loudest, proudest of ways with a fearless growl when needed. He left us just like he lived: boldly, unapologetically, and completely on his own speedy time.

While we're heartbroken to say goodbye, we know you're already racing across the clouds, where there are no rules, no speed limits, and the track is wide open. We love you, Pops. Save us a seat at the finish line.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, August 8th, at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines IA 50266. Visitation will take place at 10 am, service at 11 am, and a luncheon following.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, an organization long supported by Jim and Linda, and animal lovers alike.