Longtime Garnavillo Resident James Kann Dies at 78

Kann was a Vietnam War veteran, lawyer, and community leader in northeast Iowa

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:51pm

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James Michael Kann, a 78-year-old resident of Garnavillo, Iowa, passed away on March 24, 2026, at St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids. Kann was a Vietnam War veteran who earned numerous medals, including the Purple Heart and two Bronze Stars. After returning home, he pursued a law degree and practiced law for 40 years. Kann was also an active member of his local community, serving on the St. Joseph's Catholic Church school board and as a director of the Kann St. Michael Cemetery Association.

Why it matters

Kann's life story reflects the experiences of many Vietnam War veterans who returned home and went on to make significant contributions to their local communities. His dedication to public service and community involvement highlight the important role that veterans can play in shaping the fabric of small-town America.

The details

After being wounded twice and spending 2 1/2 months in the VA hospital, Kann was discharged from the Army in 1970. He then enrolled at Upper Iowa University and later earned his law degree from Golden Gate Law School in San Francisco. Kann practiced law for 40 years and was an active member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, and the American Legion Clay-Gar Post #723, where he was a member for 56 years. He also helped start the Northeast Iowa Vietnam Veterans Association in 1980 and served on the St. Joseph's School Board.

  • Kann passed away on March 24, 2026.
  • Visitation was held on March 29, 2026.
  • Funeral services were on March 30, 2026.
  • Kann was born on December 11, 1947.
  • Kann was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1968 and served until 1970, including one year in Vietnam.

The players

James Michael Kann

A 78-year-old resident of Garnavillo, Iowa, who was a Vietnam War veteran, lawyer, and community leader.

Marilyn Berns Kann

Kann's wife of 53 years, with whom he worked in his law practice, tended to the family farm, and attended their grandchildren's activities.

St. Joseph's Catholic Church

The church where Kann was an active member and where his funeral services were held.

American Legion Clay-Gar Post #723

The local American Legion post where Kann was a member for 56 years.

Northeast Iowa Vietnam Veterans Association

The organization that Kann helped start in 1980 to support fellow Vietnam War veterans in the region.

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What they’re saying

“Jim always had a smile when his grandchildren were around.”

— Marilyn Kann, Kann's wife

The takeaway

Kann's life exemplifies the resilience and community-mindedness of many Vietnam War veterans who returned home and went on to make lasting contributions to their local towns and cities. His dedication to public service, veterans' affairs, and family values left a lasting impact on Garnavillo and the surrounding region.