Jim Gaughan

James “Jim” Leo Gaughan was born on December 9, 1941, in Denison, Iowa, the son of Leo and Anna (McKane) Gaughan. He was baptized and later confirmed in the Catholic faith at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Denison. Jim attended St. Rose of Lima Catholic School through the eighth grade before graduating from Denison High School with the Class of 1960. He continued his education at Northwest Missouri State University, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in 1965.

Following college, Jim enlisted in the Iowa Army National Guard, serving his country until receiving his honorable discharge. After his military service, he returned to Denison and joined the family business, Gaughan Motors, a General Motors dealership. A true jack of all trades, Jim spent 46 years with the dealership and he was best known throughout the community as its trusted and friendly car salesman.

On June 17, 1983, Jim was united in marriage with Sharon Miller at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Denison. Together they were blessed with two daughters, LeAnn and Sarah and they made their home in Denison.

Jim was a lifelong member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. He was also active in the Denison Jaycees, the Denison New Car Dealership Association, the West Central Iowa Collector’s Club, and as a charter member of the Denison YMCA. In his younger years, he belonged to the Omaha Ski Club and enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson.

A lifelong car enthusiast, Jim never lost his passion for automobiles. He enjoyed talking about cars, tinkering on his 1950 Pontiac, and proudly driving his green GTO in Denison's St. Patrick’s Day Parade while his daughters tossed candy to the crowd. He also loved spending time outdoors, taking daily walks, and exercising at the wellness center. In 2022, Jim and Sharon purchased a lake home in Okoboji, where they treasured making memories with their children and grandchildren.

Jim passed away at his home on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at the age of 84 years, seven months and 20 days. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Ruth (Leo) Remmes; parents-in-law, Joe and Leona Miller; brothers-in-law, August Hageman Jr. and Denis Miller; sister-in-law, Pam Miller.

He is survived by his wife of over 43 years, Sharon Gaughan of Denison; daughters: LeAnn (Rob) Uhlenhake of Ossian and Sarah Gaughan of Denison; three grandchildren: Kaylee, Brantley and Kora Uhlenhake; many in-laws, nieces, nephews and other family members and friends.

Visitation with family and friends will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with a prayer service at 6:00 p.m., on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Denison. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026, along with his sister, Ruth Remmes, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Denison. Interment with military honors will be held in the St. Rose Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Crawford County YMCA or St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.