James “Jimbob” “Charlie” Zaiser, 70, of Wilton, died Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, at his home after a battle with cancer. Born March 31, 1954, in Burlington, he was the son of George and Mary Zaiser.
He married his high school sweetheart, Teresa Smith, on May 26, 1973, in Burlington.
Jim dedicated 32 years as a skilled welder at J.I. Case Company until his retirement in 2004. Even in retirement, his passion for craftsmanship led him to establish Chicken House Contracting, where he brought homes in Burlington to life with his remodeling and handyman services. Drawn by his deep love for family, Jim moved closer to his grandchildren, and his work ethic never waned - he continued to contribute his talents part-time with ServPro in Iowa City until 2024.
In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, woodworking, hunting and fishing and most importantly spending time with family and friends. For the last decade Jim and Teresa enjoyed being “snowbirds”, spending time with friends in Arizona, where he got to golf every day.
He is survived by his wife Teresa Zaiser of Wilton, formerly of Burlington; children Angie (Ethan) Hoover and Brad (Jenny) Zaiser; grandchildren Jozalynn, Kiersten, George and Charlotte; brother Jeff (Julie) Zaiser; sister Jane (Craig) Broeg and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers John Zaiser and Jay Zaiser.
Visitation will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, March 3 at Lunning Chapel where the family will receive friends. A celebration of life service will begin at 11 a.m. Inurnment to follow at Aspen Grove Cemetery. Join the family for further fellowship afterwards at Roederer’s Pit Stop in Burlington.
Jim’s unwavering commitment to the trades laid the foundation for his family’s success and well-being. In honor of the legacy he built, his loved one’s kindly request that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to The Foundation for the Trades at www.foundationforthetrades.org.
According to his wishes cremation has been accorded and entrusted to the care of Lunning Chapel.