02/01/2015
James Clyde Darnell was born on July 1, 1951 to James W. (Barney) and Goldie (Worley) Darnell in Knoxville, Iowa. He passed away after a short illness on February 1, 2015.
Growing up Jim was very active in all sports. He participated in track, baseball, and basketball and led the Panther football team as a varsity quarterback.
Jim married Diana DeVos on November 1, 1969. They had two sons, James Wallace and Terry John Darnell. The family had many great times and adventures for the next 24 years, including moving to Tennessee and West Virginia while coal mining.
In 1989 Jim took over the helm of Darnell Oil Co., after the passing of his father. He branched out into the racing fuel business, supplying Knoxville Raceway with Methanol, which continues to this day.
Jim was a 20-plus-year member of the Marion County Fair Board. He put great pride and hard work into helping the track and fairgrounds grow and improve. He served with many great friends there over the years.
There was nothing Jim would rather do than play golf with his friends and family. He earned his way into numerous 4th of July Sole Survivor Tournaments over the years and made his trip downhole #9 several times. He and his best friend, brother Don, took many golf vacations together including the yearly Ryder Cup trip to the Ozarks with many incredible friends.
His love and fiancée over the last 7 years was Kim Van WynGarden. The family would like to express our love and gratitude for all she has done and meant to him, especially through his stay in the ICU.
Jim is survived by his siblings: Dick, Linda, Don, and Dixie; his sons, Jimbob and wife Becky Darnell, and Terry and wife Stephanie Darnell.
The highlights of his life were his grandkids: Austin and Taylor, Brooke, Dallas, Blake, and Wyatt. He always looked for ways to put a smile on their faces. He loved them with all of his heart.
Jim’s wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of Jim’s Life will be held at 8:00 P.M., Thursday evening, February 5, 2015, at the Dyer-Hudson Hall, with Swann Juline officiating. Jim’s family will be greeting friends prior to service time at the hall from 5 to 8:00 P.M., Thursday evening. A private family burial will be held at a later date at Graceland Cemetery of Knoxville.
A memorial has been established for the Alzheimer’s Association. Condolences may be sent to www.winfieldfh.com. The Winfield Funeral Home of Knoxville is helping Jim’s family with services.