Josephine Hazel Sims, age 93, passed away peacefully at home with family on August 27th. Born in 1929 to parents Hazel and Joseph Claman. She spent her early childhood living in Gilmore City, Iowa. Josephine reminisced of one fun and very hot summer when the entire family of seven lived in a tent at a roadside park while her father worked construction. The family moved to Des Moines in 1942. She graduated from Lincoln High School in 1947. Josephine met her future husband through her best friend, Barb Butcher and LeRoy Sims. She married Dwight in 1950 and started a family. Dwight built their home and they lived there for sixty-seven years. Before marriage Josephine worked as a secretary at International Harvesters and later worked for DMPS as a lunch server. She also volunteered at her church, Christ the King, where she became a member in 1942.
Josephine was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dwight and two brothers, Dick and Bob Claman. Josephine is survived by her two sons, Michael (Marilyn) and Tom; two grandchildren Kyle and Kristen and two brothers, Jim and Joe (Kitty) Claman.
Josephine loved her family very much. Both sons took turns providing care for Josephine so she could remain in her home. Everyday heroes do exist.
Visitation will be held at Christ the King Catholic Church on August 31st beginning at 9:00am with Christian Mass to follow at 10:00am. Burial at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 7601 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, Iowa.