James Tazzioli Obituary

James “Jim” Tazzioli, 76, of West Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, after a life well-lived and deeply loved.

Jim was born on March 2, 1949, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Marino and Marian (Spataro) Tazzioli. He was a proud graduate of Roosevelt High School, the University of Iowa (Go Hawks!), and North Carolina State University. As a longtime member of the Vittoria Italian Lodge, Jim remained deeply connected to his Italian heritage and community for more than 50 years.

Jim was an Eagle Scout and joined ROTC before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of First Lieutenant. As a civilian, his career took him down many paths until he found his passion: using his gift for connection to help others find their own careers.

Jim was quite the character. He never met a stranger, no matter where he went. He had an engaging personality, an infectious laugh, and a smile that lit up every room. He was an avid historian with a profound interest in World War II and had a deep love for sports, especially cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes. He treasured his winter home close to the beach in beautiful Bradenton, Florida. In his downtime, you could usually find him on the deck enjoying a cigar and a beverage while listening to 70s rock ‘n’ roll or blues.

Above all, Jim’s greatest love was always his family. He married his beloved wife of 44 years, Linda (Roling) Tazzioli, on May 24, 1980. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Lindsey, in 1989, and son, Stephen, in 1994. He also adored his three “granddogs”: Max and Kona (Lindsey), and Shannon (Stephen).

In addition to his immediate family, Jim is survived by his sister, Jeanne Tazzioli (Paul Gits), and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marino and Marian Tazzioli; his grandparents, Angelica and Stephen Tazzioli; and his step-grandfather, John Bernardi.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, 11:30 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:30 a.m. A luncheon will follow immediately after Mass. Interment at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Des Moines VA Medical Center. The family offers a special and heartfelt thank you to all the nurses and doctors at both the VA and University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for the care and compassion shown to Jim and to all of us during this time.

To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of James Tazzioli, please visit our Tribute Store.