June 27, 2024

Kimball honored in “Eight Over 80”

Dr. Jim Kimball is pictured center with Lynette Marshall, left, President & CEO, University of Iowa Center of Advancement and Barbara J. Wilson, right, President, University of Iowa at ‘Eight Over 80’ luncheon. (contributed photo)

Dr. James Kimball of Osceola was honored at a luncheon on May 23 as a University of Iowa ‘8 Over 80′ alumni. According to the University of Iowa’s, the second-annual event recognizes alumni of the University of Iowa aged 80 and over who have continued to stay involved and serve others throughout their lives.

A biography of Kimball that was shared at the luncheon read,

“James Kimball has strong passions for medicine, aviation, the arts, and economic development.

After graduating from Iowa and serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War—receiving a Bronze Star for his service to his country—Kimball worked in family medicine for nearly six decades. He delivered more than 1,000 newborns in Osceola and helped and supervised another 10,000 deliveries at Broadlawns Medical Center in Des Moines. Throughout his medical career, Kimball won various awards and provided leadership to numerous organizations, including winning the Iowa Medical Society Physician’s Community Service Award.

While medicine was his professional passion, Kimball made a big impact in his community. As president of the Clarke County Development Corporation, he worked to have Lakeside Casino and Hotel built in Osceola, which has resulted in millions of dollars in revenue for local communities.

Today, he serves as a senior aviation medical examiner and certifies over 200 pilots per year. He also started the Kimball Foundation, which provides scholarship opportunities for area students who are admitted to an accredited medical school. Kimball continues to host a radio show in Osceola and supports, as well as acts in, local arts productions.”

“The University of Iowa College of Medicine instilled in me the importance of being honest with my patients and myself,” said Kimball in his recipient questionnaire.

Kimball was recognized alongside alumni Elizabeth Clothier, Nancy and Thomas Hanson, Ann Howard Jones, Jean Lloyd-Jones, Paul McKeen, Jerre and Mary Joy Stead and Orville Townsend.

Kimball was nominated for the honor by his wife, Mary Ellen. Son Joseph, a physician in Madison County, accompanied Kimball to the luncheon.