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James
Garner
Aug 23, 1957 — Jul 15, 2026
Tuesday
Wendt Funeral Home
3:00 - 5:00 pm (Central time)
Wednesday
First Evangelical Lutheran Church
10:00 - 11:00 am (Central time)
Casual attire, no jackets required.
James "Jim" Garner, a beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on July 15, 2026, in Bettendorf, IA, at the age of 68. Born on August 23, 1957, in Davenport, IA, Jim was known for his warmth, humor, and meticulous craftsmanship. He married the love of his life, Jenny Eiklor, on April 30, 1988.
Jim graduated from Moline High School in 1975 and pursued his passion for electronics, earning an associate's degree from Black Hawk College. For 35 years, he ran his own business as a sole proprietor, during which he became a legend in the field of consumer electronics installation. A perfectionist at heart, Jim had a keen eye for detail, whether it was in his professional work or his personal projects at home.
After retiring from his business in 2025, Jim embarked on a new adventure with CTI, a role that brought him immense joy during his seven months there. He was not only a wizard at his craft but also a generous teacher, eager to share his knowledge with others.
Jim's love for life extended far beyond his work. He was an avid concert-goer and music enthusiast, often reminiscing about the tunes that shaped his life. His vacations were filled with sightseeing adventures across the United States, creating cherished memories with his wife, Jenny, and his dogs.
His hands were rarely idle, as he built unique wood projects, remodeled his home with precision and care, and enjoyed model railroading with friends. He developed this craftsmanship at a young age and shared his skills generously with others throughout his life.
Jim's heart was filled with love for his black labs, Bogart, Teller, Cutter, Boomer, Banjo, and, most recently, Barney and Mason, who brought him endless joy and companionship.
A devoted storyteller, Jim had a knack for weaving humor and nostalgia into his tales, leaving those around him both entertained and touched.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Mary (Christensen) Garner, and his sister, Carol Garner. He leaves behind his cherished wife, Jenny; his sister, Nancy (James) Ebert of St. Paul, MN, and their daughter, Elizabeth; his brother, David (Jill Seaholm) Garner, of Rock Island, IL; and nieces Alana Opdahl, Jackie Bankert, Brandon McQuaid, Niki Roszkowski, and Carissa Perez. Also mourning his loss are his mother-in-law, Eileen Eiklor; sisters-in-law, Beth McQuaid, and Val Amans; along with his dear labs, Barney and Mason.
A visitation to celebrate Jim's life will be held on Tuesday, July 21, from 3–5 pm at Wendt Funeral Home, Moline, IL. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 22, at 11 am at First Evangelical Lutheran Church, Rock Island, IL, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Per Jim's request, casual attire no jackets required.
Memorials may be made to the Quad City Animal Welfare Center or American Heart Association.
In honoring Jim's legacy, let us remember his laughter, his stories, and his unwavering dedication to the people and passions he loved most.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences online at www.wendtfuneralhome.com.
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