Jim was born June 26, 1936 in Des Moines , the son of James and Gladys (Mayland) Washburn. He graduated from Mt. Vernon High School in 1954. He married Bonnie Keith on February 14, 1963 in Iowa City . He served in the United States Army. Jim worked for the Iowa – Illinois Gas and Electric Company (MidAmerican Energy) in Iowa City for over thirty four years as a Meter Reader, until retiring in 1995. He was also a part time City Clerk in Solon for 10 years. Jim was a member of the Solon American Legion, as well as St. Mary's Catholic Church.

Jim had a genuine love of sports, sports trivia, NASCAR, and country music. He especially enjoyed college and pro football season making his team picks with his son, Jim, and watching the Hawkeyes, Iowa Women's Basketball and Solon Spartans. He loved spending time with his daughter, Lisa, and her husband, Jerry, watching his granddaughters participate in their school sports and activities. He was a proud Dad and Grandpa. He treasured the time with his loving wife, Bonnie, as they traveled and attended Country and Western music events together. Jim's warm smile, kind heart and generous nature will be greatly missed by those who loved him.

Jim is survived by his wife, Bonnie; children, Lisa (Jerry) Kramer of Solon and Jim Washburn of North Liberty and three grandchildren Lindsey, Karly and Hannah, and a sister in law Ruth Washburn of Sturbridge , Massachusetts .

He was preceded in death by brother, Richard, and his parents.

Memorials may be directed to the either Iowa City Hospice or St. Mary's Catholic Church.