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Celebrating the life of

James Gifford Beurle

February 25, 1940 - September 13, 2019

James Gifford Beurle

James Gifford Beurle, age 79, passed away on September 13, 2019 in Augusta, Georgia under the care of Augusta University Health, with family at his bedside.

Jim was born on February 25, 1940 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Arthur and Marian Beurle. Following his graduation from Washington High School in Cedar Rapids, Jim attended DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana for two years. He transferred to the University of Iowa, where he received his BS and DDS from the College of Dentistry. He then joined the US Air Force Dental Corps and was stationed at Scott Air Force Base in Belleville, Illinois.

Following his service, Jim returned to the University of Iowa to study Oral Surgery, earning an MS and completing his residency in 1971. Jim practiced oral surgery in Greensboro, NC while teaching part time in the Department of Oral Surgery at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Jim moved to Des Moines, Iowa with his family in 1976, where he practiced oral surgery until his retirement in 1999.

Jim met Ann Strief at the University of Iowa in 1962, and they were married later that year. Throughout their 57-year marriage, Jim and Ann enjoyed spending time with friends in Iowa, Illinois, North Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia, their home since 2002. Jim was an active member of the Skidaway Island United Methodist Church and the Kiwanis Club, and he also enjoyed tennis, golf, and walking. He loved dogs and the beautiful birds and other wildlife in the marshes of Skidaway Island. Jim cherished his family, including his four granddaughters, who called him “Poppie” and loved his jokes, golf cart rides, and unfailing support and kindness.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Trubell. Jim is survived by his wife, Ann Strief Beurle; daughter Tiffany O’Connor and her husband, John O’Connor, of Darien, CT; son Alex Beurle and his wife, Ann Marie, of Pound Ridge, NY; and granddaughters, Catherine and Clara O’Connor, and Ellis and Claiborne Beurle.

The Memorial Service for Jim will be held on Saturday, September 28 at 10:00 am at the Skidaway Island United Methodist Church in Savannah, Georgia.

The family suggests any remembrances be made in his memory to the Hairy Cell Leukemia Foundation (hairycellleukemia.org), Kiwanis Club of Skidaway Island, or Skidaway Island United Methodist Church.

 

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Disappointed to read today of Jim's passing. Jim grew up next door to me in Cedar Rapids. He was a year ahead of me at Washington High School. A True Gentleman, Jim was consistently kind, funny and interesting. He will be missed and remembered by people at each of the stops in his admirable life.

- Ed Runner, Chicago, IL

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of James. I am confident that his loved ones will experience the words found in the Bible at Philippians 4:6,7. There we are assured “Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving, let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus.” God will help us through any trial we face in life. Stay close to him.

- , ,

A gentleman in every way. Called me "Sparty" and always knew the Michigan State scores, who they were playing that week and how they were doing. We shared a lot of joy with the sports win or loose. Now I will miss the great friend he was to all - shared a smile and saying for each he met. In Only In America he dressed whatever way Ann wanted and looked so patriotic. God Bless You Jim. We have lost a wonderful man in our community. Prayers for you Ann, and your precious family. Carol

- Carol Nickels, Savannah, GA

Jim was a great guy and a good friend. I will always remember our chats about cars, investments, politics, and so many other topics. He was always entertaining, always charming, and always fun to be around. Like all of his family and friends, I miss Jim a lot.

- Brad Lucas, Savannah, GA

We are so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. As 42nd street neighbors of Jim, Ann, Tiffa, and Alex, we have such fond memories of the Beurle's. To this day, whenever Jim's name is mentioned it brings smiles to the faces of our sons. His quick wit and humor will remain with them forever. Our thoughts are with your family at this time.

- Doug and Sue Buchanan and family, West Des Moines, IA

Ann, Tiffa, & Alex, I am so sorry for your loss. Jim had the amazing ability to help anyone around him feel better about themselves and others. His positive, supportive, caring presence and his soft spoken words were always welcoming and afirming. I will remember Jim fondly from afar as you gather for the memorial service.

- Cecil Goettsch, Clive, Iowa

Jim could walk in a room and light it up with his wit, charm and laughter. He was a dear friend and will be greatly missed. Love, Amy

- Amy Blevins, Savannah , GA

Hello Beurle family -- If only I could remember your account number from Des Moines Golf and Country Club, I would have started with that since I saw it so many times throughout the years. I worked at the Tennis Pro Shop (1972 - 86??) and thought the world of all of you. Even when Alex had too much Pepsi and was a little crazy. My favorite Jim memory comes from when I was home from college at Thanksgiving in 1982. I had terrible teeth/jaw pain but my parents didn't know what to do since I needed to return to Iowa City for classes. I bothered Dr. Beurle with a telephone call on Sunday morning, but he acted happy to hear from me. He correctly guessed my wisdom teeth were infected and pulled some strings to get me an 8:00 a.m. appointment with an oral surgeon in Iowa City on Monday. It was the first time I knew more than my mom or dad about how to take care of myself. Mom didn't want me to bother a doctor on a Sunday, but I knew he wouldn't mind. She was so impressed that Dr. B got me referred so quickly. He was a very nice man and it was an honor to serve him at Twilight Tennis on Friday nights.

- Laurie Hill, West Des Moines, IA

My deepest sympathy to the family of Jim Beurle. Jim was a Sigma Nu fraternity brother at DePauw University and was President of our pledge class during our freshman year. Although he transferred to the University of Iowa in his Junior year he kept contact with us ... and attended several of our class reunions. He was loved by all whoo had the pleasure of knowing him ... for his kindness, his gentle way, his quick wit, and that wonderful slight smile always there as he spoke. We are saddened by Jim's passing. He will be missed by all. Jon Larrick

- Jon Larrick, Vero Beach, FL

Dear Ann, We were very saddened to see Jim's obituary in the Des Moines Register. Jim was always a great friend and we had wonderful times together. You take care and know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Jay and Becky Rosenberger

- jay and becky rosenberger, bondurant, ia

My sympathy to Jim's family on this loss. I was a fraternity brother of Jim's at DePauw University where he was our pledge captain. We teamed up in intramural football where he threw and I caught, occasionally. My son-in-law has been diagnosed with Hairy Cell Leukemia and I will make a donation in Jim's name to that foundation.

- Fred Bales, Albuquerque, NM

So sad to hear of Jim's passing. My sympathies and prayers to all. Patty Huston

- Patty Huston, Waukee, IA

My condolences to Dr. Beurle’s family; I worked with Dr. Beurle as a Dental Assistant at Oral Surgeons PC in Des Moines the late 1970’s. He was always a kind person to work with. My Sincere Sympathy, Lori Eggers

- Lori Eggers , Des Moines, Iowa

Ann and Family, We were sorry to see that Jim passed away. We enjoyed knowing him before you guys left town. He was always fun to be around and talk to, on lots of subjects. Enjoy your family and we are saying a prayer for you. Hobie and Dawn

- Hobie and Dawn Bannister, Clive, Iowa

Dear Ann and family, Jim’s lovingly written obituary appeared this morning in our Sunday Register. Bill and I were very saddened to learn of Jim’s passing. Our memories of you and Jim are strong, especially what a solid team you two were together and how much you enjoyed your family. Kathe Mclearn, a Pi Phi pledge sister and part of our wedding party, has so enjoyed your friendship On Skidaway. She admired Jim, as we have. So, Ann, know your many friends here, including us, send love and compassion on your loss. Cynde and Bill Fanter

- Bill and Cynde Fanter, Des Moines, IA

I am deeply saddened by the news of Jim’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Tony Biegler, Fellow Kiwanian

- Tony Biegler, Savannah, GA

Dr. Beurle was one of our most favorite patients. Melany and I just loved him. He was so kind and appreciative. One of a kind. We are gonna miss his stories and gentle personality. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Tonya from Dr. Grill’s office.

- Tonya Murphy , Savannah, Ga

So sorry for your loss. I have the fondest memories of my time working for him at Oral Surgeons, PC and Dental Associates. His work ethics and integrity was was beyond amazing. Dr. B as we called him could take a bad day and make it bearable with his wit and great sense of humor. At the end of every work day he made a point of thanking the staff for all their hard work. I remember his love of Gordon Lightfoot, and Jimmy Buffet’s song “ Come Monday”. He will forever be the best Dr. I had the pleasure of working for. God Bless all of you in this time of loss and sadness. He will be missed but always remembered.

- Diana Fink, St Cloud, Mn

Ann, Alex and Tiffa: Jim will be missed. Always a smile on his face and interested in whatever you were doing. A true gentleman. We will always remember the kindness he showed Tom when he was quite ill in 2003. We will keep you all in our prayers.

- Carol & Tom Barnard, Savannah, GA

Dear Ann and Family, Our hearts are saddened at the news of Jim's passing. He will always be remembered for his kindness, quick wit and warm smile. He was a real treasure as a friend and please know that we will sorely miss him. Our many prayers and loving thoughts are with all of you. hugs, sherre and bill Johnson - ole Savannah friends.

- sherre/bill johnson, indio, ca

Anne Tiffa and Alex. Our whole family was saddened by this news. Jim was such a great friend and neighbor. We have so many great memories of all of you. We are so sorry for your loss ?

- D vandertuig, West Des moines, Ia

i am so sorry to hear of dr. beurle's passing. i enjoyed totally the days i got to work for him. he was so kind and caring. his sense of humor was one of the best. i am glad when he retired when he did and enjoyed the past 20 years. condolences to you all. verla kellar (as he called me "verles"

- verla kellar, retiree/dental associates, ia

Dearest Ann, Tiffany and Alex, as I looked back on all the Scott AFB pictures taken so many years, I remembered the friendships, the parties, the country auctions, Grant's Farm, St. Louis, Drake Relays, Augustine's, Kentucky Lake, Neil Diamond - the list was endless, full of our adventures as young couples. I am sorry for your loss of a husband, best friend, and Father. Thank goodness for the memories. Much love to all of you, Mal

- Mal England, Houston, TX

Dear Ann and family, I just received notice of Jim's passing. I worked with him in the early 1980's at Dental Associates in OS. He was such a jokester- I assisted him chairside and also typed his dictation. He would be dictating a record and right in mid-sentence start to tell a joke. In those days I had to use white correction tape a lot to erase his jokes!! Such fond memories. Thinking and praying God's comfort for you during this sad time. With sympathy,. Nancy Kearn

- Nancy Kearn, Forest Lake , Mn

To Ann, Tiffa , Alex and all of your family........I just learned this news today at lunch with the retired Dental Associates gang......Dr. Beurle was such a delight to work with.....he and I shared a love of Gordon Lightfoot music.... (He knew all of the words to every song!!!!!!!)...We have lost a special man.....no one understands that more than you........sending you all my love, sympathy and prayers for God's comfort and peace......Rosie Gull

- Rosie Gull, Des Moines, Iowa

Dear Ann and family, I am so so sorry to hear about Jim’s passing. I was with some old Dental Associates friends this weekend and we were reminiscing about our days in Oral Surgery. We had planned to call him this weekend. I enjoyed working with him and missed him when you moved. My thoughts and prayers are with you! Love to all, Linda Kleinhesselink

- , ,

Dear Ann and Family, We were so saddened to learn of Jim's passing. You have all been through so much these past weeks. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Bette and Mark Feingold

- Bette & Mark Feingold, Asheville , NC

IDear ANN, Tiffa & Alex I join you in sorrow and friendship over the loss of JIM I’m sure Will hear about all the wonderful things that he meant to people I can only add my comments to the others He was a joy to be around right from the beginning when we all lived in Iowa city and were young married‘s during dental school I know you wouldn’t think it now but we had some wild and crazy weekends College days did not dampen our commitment to our friendship You will not find a better friend, a husband or father for oral surgeon than Jim Beurle. See you on the other side dear Jim. Sending you all love and a huge group Hug. Jan Campbell

- Jan csmobell, Des Moines , Iowa

Dr. Beurle was the sweetest doctor who welcomed me when I joined OSPC! He was so outgoing, knew and remembered the fine details about his patients and always treated the staff with such respect! He has been missed since he retired, and we know that his passing will leave a large hole in many hearts! Our sympathies to the family. Heaven has gained a very amazing angel.

- Ronda Ceynar, Des Moines, Iowa

Disappointed to read today of Jim's passing. Jim grew up next door to me in Cedar Rapids. He was a year ahead of me at Washington High School. A True Gentleman, Jim was consistently kind, funny and interesting. He will be missed and remembered by people at each of the stops in his admirable life.

- Ed Runner, Chicago, IL

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of James. I am confident that his loved ones will experience the words found in the Bible at Philippians 4:6,7. There we are assured “Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving, let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus.” God will help us through any trial we face in life. Stay close to him.

- , ,

A gentleman in every way. Called me "Sparty" and always knew the Michigan State scores, who they were playing that week and how they were doing. We shared a lot of joy with the sports win or loose. Now I will miss the great friend he was to all - shared a smile and saying for each he met. In Only In America he dressed whatever way Ann wanted and looked so patriotic. God Bless You Jim. We have lost a wonderful man in our community. Prayers for you Ann, and your precious family. Carol

- Carol Nickels, Savannah, GA

Jim was a great guy and a good friend. I will always remember our chats about cars, investments, politics, and so many other topics. He was always entertaining, always charming, and always fun to be around. Like all of his family and friends, I miss Jim a lot.

- Brad Lucas, Savannah, GA

We are so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. As 42nd street neighbors of Jim, Ann, Tiffa, and Alex, we have such fond memories of the Beurle's. To this day, whenever Jim's name is mentioned it brings smiles to the faces of our sons. His quick wit and humor will remain with them forever. Our thoughts are with your family at this time.

- Doug and Sue Buchanan and family, West Des Moines, IA

Ann, Tiffa, & Alex, I am so sorry for your loss. Jim had the amazing ability to help anyone around him feel better about themselves and others. His positive, supportive, caring presence and his soft spoken words were always welcoming and afirming. I will remember Jim fondly from afar as you gather for the memorial service.

- Cecil Goettsch, Clive, Iowa

Jim could walk in a room and light it up with his wit, charm and laughter. He was a dear friend and will be greatly missed. Love, Amy

- Amy Blevins, Savannah , GA

Hello Beurle family -- If only I could remember your account number from Des Moines Golf and Country Club, I would have started with that since I saw it so many times throughout the years. I worked at the Tennis Pro Shop (1972 - 86??) and thought the world of all of you. Even when Alex had too much Pepsi and was a little crazy. My favorite Jim memory comes from when I was home from college at Thanksgiving in 1982. I had terrible teeth/jaw pain but my parents didn't know what to do since I needed to return to Iowa City for classes. I bothered Dr. Beurle with a telephone call on Sunday morning, but he acted happy to hear from me. He correctly guessed my wisdom teeth were infected and pulled some strings to get me an 8:00 a.m. appointment with an oral surgeon in Iowa City on Monday. It was the first time I knew more than my mom or dad about how to take care of myself. Mom didn't want me to bother a doctor on a Sunday, but I knew he wouldn't mind. She was so impressed that Dr. B got me referred so quickly. He was a very nice man and it was an honor to serve him at Twilight Tennis on Friday nights.

- Laurie Hill, West Des Moines, IA

My deepest sympathy to the family of Jim Beurle. Jim was a Sigma Nu fraternity brother at DePauw University and was President of our pledge class during our freshman year. Although he transferred to the University of Iowa in his Junior year he kept contact with us ... and attended several of our class reunions. He was loved by all whoo had the pleasure of knowing him ... for his kindness, his gentle way, his quick wit, and that wonderful slight smile always there as he spoke. We are saddened by Jim's passing. He will be missed by all. Jon Larrick

- Jon Larrick, Vero Beach, FL

Dear Ann, We were very saddened to see Jim's obituary in the Des Moines Register. Jim was always a great friend and we had wonderful times together. You take care and know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Jay and Becky Rosenberger

- jay and becky rosenberger, bondurant, ia

My sympathy to Jim's family on this loss. I was a fraternity brother of Jim's at DePauw University where he was our pledge captain. We teamed up in intramural football where he threw and I caught, occasionally. My son-in-law has been diagnosed with Hairy Cell Leukemia and I will make a donation in Jim's name to that foundation.

- Fred Bales, Albuquerque, NM

So sad to hear of Jim's passing. My sympathies and prayers to all. Patty Huston

- Patty Huston, Waukee, IA

My condolences to Dr. Beurle’s family; I worked with Dr. Beurle as a Dental Assistant at Oral Surgeons PC in Des Moines the late 1970’s. He was always a kind person to work with. My Sincere Sympathy, Lori Eggers

- Lori Eggers , Des Moines, Iowa

Ann and Family, We were sorry to see that Jim passed away. We enjoyed knowing him before you guys left town. He was always fun to be around and talk to, on lots of subjects. Enjoy your family and we are saying a prayer for you. Hobie and Dawn

- Hobie and Dawn Bannister, Clive, Iowa

Dear Ann and family, Jim’s lovingly written obituary appeared this morning in our Sunday Register. Bill and I were very saddened to learn of Jim’s passing. Our memories of you and Jim are strong, especially what a solid team you two were together and how much you enjoyed your family. Kathe Mclearn, a Pi Phi pledge sister and part of our wedding party, has so enjoyed your friendship On Skidaway. She admired Jim, as we have. So, Ann, know your many friends here, including us, send love and compassion on your loss. Cynde and Bill Fanter

- Bill and Cynde Fanter, Des Moines, IA

I am deeply saddened by the news of Jim’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Tony Biegler, Fellow Kiwanian

- Tony Biegler, Savannah, GA

Dr. Beurle was one of our most favorite patients. Melany and I just loved him. He was so kind and appreciative. One of a kind. We are gonna miss his stories and gentle personality. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Tonya from Dr. Grill’s office.

- Tonya Murphy , Savannah, Ga

So sorry for your loss. I have the fondest memories of my time working for him at Oral Surgeons, PC and Dental Associates. His work ethics and integrity was was beyond amazing. Dr. B as we called him could take a bad day and make it bearable with his wit and great sense of humor. At the end of every work day he made a point of thanking the staff for all their hard work. I remember his love of Gordon Lightfoot, and Jimmy Buffet’s song “ Come Monday”. He will forever be the best Dr. I had the pleasure of working for. God Bless all of you in this time of loss and sadness. He will be missed but always remembered.

- Diana Fink, St Cloud, Mn

Ann, Alex and Tiffa: Jim will be missed. Always a smile on his face and interested in whatever you were doing. A true gentleman. We will always remember the kindness he showed Tom when he was quite ill in 2003. We will keep you all in our prayers.

- Carol & Tom Barnard, Savannah, GA

Dear Ann and Family, Our hearts are saddened at the news of Jim's passing. He will always be remembered for his kindness, quick wit and warm smile. He was a real treasure as a friend and please know that we will sorely miss him. Our many prayers and loving thoughts are with all of you. hugs, sherre and bill Johnson - ole Savannah friends.

- sherre/bill johnson, indio, ca

Anne Tiffa and Alex. Our whole family was saddened by this news. Jim was such a great friend and neighbor. We have so many great memories of all of you. We are so sorry for your loss ?

- D vandertuig, West Des moines, Ia

i am so sorry to hear of dr. beurle's passing. i enjoyed totally the days i got to work for him. he was so kind and caring. his sense of humor was one of the best. i am glad when he retired when he did and enjoyed the past 20 years. condolences to you all. verla kellar (as he called me "verles"

- verla kellar, retiree/dental associates, ia

Dearest Ann, Tiffany and Alex, as I looked back on all the Scott AFB pictures taken so many years, I remembered the friendships, the parties, the country auctions, Grant's Farm, St. Louis, Drake Relays, Augustine's, Kentucky Lake, Neil Diamond - the list was endless, full of our adventures as young couples. I am sorry for your loss of a husband, best friend, and Father. Thank goodness for the memories. Much love to all of you, Mal

- Mal England, Houston, TX

Dear Ann and family, I just received notice of Jim's passing. I worked with him in the early 1980's at Dental Associates in OS. He was such a jokester- I assisted him chairside and also typed his dictation. He would be dictating a record and right in mid-sentence start to tell a joke. In those days I had to use white correction tape a lot to erase his jokes!! Such fond memories. Thinking and praying God's comfort for you during this sad time. With sympathy,. Nancy Kearn

- Nancy Kearn, Forest Lake , Mn

To Ann, Tiffa , Alex and all of your family........I just learned this news today at lunch with the retired Dental Associates gang......Dr. Beurle was such a delight to work with.....he and I shared a love of Gordon Lightfoot music.... (He knew all of the words to every song!!!!!!!)...We have lost a special man.....no one understands that more than you........sending you all my love, sympathy and prayers for God's comfort and peace......Rosie Gull

- Rosie Gull, Des Moines, Iowa

Dear Ann and family, I am so so sorry to hear about Jim’s passing. I was with some old Dental Associates friends this weekend and we were reminiscing about our days in Oral Surgery. We had planned to call him this weekend. I enjoyed working with him and missed him when you moved. My thoughts and prayers are with you! Love to all, Linda Kleinhesselink

- , ,

Dear Ann and Family, We were so saddened to learn of Jim's passing. You have all been through so much these past weeks. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Bette and Mark Feingold

- Bette & Mark Feingold, Asheville , NC

IDear ANN, Tiffa & Alex I join you in sorrow and friendship over the loss of JIM I’m sure Will hear about all the wonderful things that he meant to people I can only add my comments to the others He was a joy to be around right from the beginning when we all lived in Iowa city and were young married‘s during dental school I know you wouldn’t think it now but we had some wild and crazy weekends College days did not dampen our commitment to our friendship You will not find a better friend, a husband or father for oral surgeon than Jim Beurle. See you on the other side dear Jim. Sending you all love and a huge group Hug. Jan Campbell

- Jan csmobell, Des Moines , Iowa

Dr. Beurle was the sweetest doctor who welcomed me when I joined OSPC! He was so outgoing, knew and remembered the fine details about his patients and always treated the staff with such respect! He has been missed since he retired, and we know that his passing will leave a large hole in many hearts! Our sympathies to the family. Heaven has gained a very amazing angel.

- Ronda Ceynar, Des Moines, Iowa

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200