BOONE, Iowa—James Parke Caffrey, 59, of Boone, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Known affectionately as Jim, Jimmy, Uncle Buster, and Commodore, Jim was a cherished brother, uncle, and friend to all who were fortunate to know him. He was born on June 16, 1964, in Boone, Iowa, the son of Joe and Jane Caffrey. He was a proud graduate of Boone High School and, later, earned his Business degree from the University of Iowa, where he was an esteemed member of the Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) Fraternity.
Jimmy’s professional journey led him to become an integral part of the family business, Caffrey Wholesale. Beyond his professional endeavors, Jimmy was engaged in his community. He was an active member of the Okoboji Yacht Club, the Cadillac Club, and the Boone Historical Society, among other organizations. He proudly participated in the annual RAGBRAI bicycle ride across Iowa with his “Team Gourmet.” Jim split his time between three beloved locations: Okoboji, Boone, and Pompano Beach, Florida.
Jimmy was a true enthusiast of vintage treasures, with an unmatched passion for classic cars (especially Cadillacs), boats, nautical collectibles, and all things mid-century. He cultivated a network of friends across the country who shared his interests, forming tight-knit communities bonded by their shared love for these timeless treasures.
Jimmy’s zest for life and magnetic personality left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. He had a remarkable gift for uniting people and creating lasting connections, serving as the glue that held friendships and communities together. Though Jim may have left this world, his legacy of love and camaraderie will endure for generations to come.
Jimmy is survived by his brother, Kelly (Marcy) McMullan of Polk City, IA; brother, John Caffrey of Moingona, IA; nephew, Mike (Evan) McMullan of Norwalk, IA; great-niece, Marion McMullan; great-nephew, Clark McMullan; and niece, Mary (Topher) Ewing of Dallas, TX.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 28, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Cedar Pointe Golf Course Clubhouse (601 S. Cedar St. Boone, IA). In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Jane Scheerer Caffrey Scholarship or the Boone City Parks Foundation and may be sent to C/O Schroeder-Stark-Welin Funeral Home, PO Box 116, Boone, Iowa 50036.
Rest peacefully, Uncle Buster, knowing that your spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by your remarkable presence. Your memory will forever shine brightly in our lives.
Online condolences can be left at www.schroederfuneral.com
The Schroeder-Stark-Welin Funeral Home, 609 7th Street, Boone is assisting the family with these arrangements.
James Caffrey, 59, Boone, Iowa
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