James "Jim" Dostal

Born in Des Moines, IA
Born on Jun 8, 1964
Departed on Jan 3, 2024

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I am so, so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing and I am thinking of you, Amber. Sending my deepest condolences to you.

My family has known the Dostals going back to my great uncle Ron Dostal (no relation) who played football at Roosevelt High School with Jimmy’s dad Chuck before Jefferson opened in 1957. Jimmy was my football coach at Jefferson circa 1990-1991. We respected his work ethic and physical toughness. He himself had played football with a broken leg one season, him having us run the hill behind the school was small in comparison. He never asked his players to do anything he could not do himself. He referred at football as ‘Collision’ and yes we hit hard. As a teacher he was a positive influence on students, especially those who needed the extra motivation. Not an easy job. Much respect and love. You are in our prayers Jimmy.

Sincere condolences to the Dostal family. Cherish the memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

I've known Jim since 1991 when I first started at Jefferson he's was always very down to earth nice guy my condolences go out to his brother randy and his wife and rest of the distal family.

My condolences to Jim's family. I knew him as a student and later as a colleague at Jefferson High School. He was always good to his students and peers. Later, we used to work out at the same health club. I will miss him. David Horton, retired teacher.

It was heartbreaking news to hear of Jim's passing. My memories of Jim are when my twin brother and I were elementary classmates with him at St. Judes. I have many happy memories of fun and laughter with him in the classroom and on the playground. Even as a child, Jim touched the lives of those around him. He was a special person and will be missed. Godspeed, old friend.

It was my pleasure to know and work with Jim. A fine man, he mad a difference in the lives of many in ways that helped them. I knew him as his principal and friend. I celebrate his life. He made a positive difference in so many ways. He was a great educator. William C. Jacobson Retired Jefferson Principal

Dr. (Coach) James Dostal was among the most influential coaches, teachers and leaders that I was blessed to have known in my youth. He served as our linebackers coach throughout my high school career. On many occasions, I found myself admiring his work ethic and tenacity. E.g., he always wore a "sweat suit" to practice so that he too, should bear the heat of the sun as if he was still wearing pads to that day. In my time with him, he taught me the values of peer interaction, mental fortitude/willpower and ethical leadership. In my senior year, I asked him to draft a letter of recommendation for officer candidacy at the United States Air Force Academy. He humbly (and excitedly) agreed- and not a week later- I had my first LOR. In thanks to God and to Coach Dostal, I was accepted. To coach, As you always said, backers are like a pair of f-16s: flying, attacking and watching over each other wingtip to wingtip. Know that you are always welcome at my side- in the wild blue yonder. Rest peacefully, Coach.

I was a manager on the Coe football team in 1985-1986, when Jim played. When he transferred in, we all wondered if he talked, he was so quiet. What we found out was that was just a leadership quality he had. He quietly led in weight room, on the field and in the class room. He was never a "rah rah" type player, he quietly decleated the opposing ball carrier and returned to the line of scrimmage and did it again. He quietly led us to an undefeated season, conference championship and first ever NCAA playoff berth. I always had to get the equipment out before practice, bring the football's out etc. and without fail, Jim was always out there before me, waiting, and he'd help get the equipment out. It spoke volumes about how he approached life, always prepared, always ready to lend a hand. I had lost contact with him after Coe but always followed him through the sports section and his affiliation as a defensive coach for Coe. He was truly a great guy and I feel blessed that our paths crossed. One thing is for sure, the world needs more Jim Dostal's. RIP my friend.

My advisor, my teacher, my friend who never failed to make me laugh (with dad jokes). Always listened to me rant about work, school, personal stuff & offered advice kindly & humbly. You impacted so many lives with your kind soul and heart. Very grateful I had to opportunity to know you. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with me. I pray you knew how important, impactful & inspiring you truly were. We love you and we miss you! Rest In Paradise Dr. Dostal ❤️

I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Dostal in my last year of High School at Jefferson and what I can say about him is simple: He was one of the two biggest pushes that led me to study college and not give up. Mr. Dostal met me when I was a Latina who had recently arrived in the USA who did not know 100% English and with his patience but also his firm way of giving instructions and explanations he gave me the most valuable thing, which was a class full of challenges, learning and emotion. Every class with this great man was unforgettable, just as he will be for me and my history in this country. A big hug to his family, may God give strength and healing to their hearts. ❤️‍🩹

It is with great sadness to hear of Jim's passing .My sincerest sympathies to his family. Jim went to school at Jefferson with my son Nick and they grew up in Cedar hills together playing sports while growing into the fine young men that they were. Jim was a role model to all of the kids he touched throughout his life. He always had a great smile on his face that lit up the room and made you feel better just looking at him. He will truly be missed by us all, but I am sure he is smiling in heaven, finally at peace.

My deepest condolences to the Dostal family. Jim will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Amy Homan

Our sincere condolences to Charlie, Randy and Amber. May you find comfort in your memories of Jim.

Mr. Dostal, as he will always be, some teachers are just hard to transition to first bame. He was my American Government teacher and he was a tough teacher. I was struggling when midterms came out, I talked to him and he was great about it. He gave me a project and I did it, but than he gave the same assignment to the class. I was so confused but he knew and told me he'd figure it out. Thank you for being a great teacher and one that was really kind and easy to speak with. He will be missed by many who he taught and coached.

Prayers to you and your family he was and will always be a beautiful soul🙏🏽🙏🏽

Dear Dostal Family Earl and I are deeply sorry for your loss Praying for your entire family

Prayers going out to the family 🙏 sorry for your loss God be with u all

Deepest condolences to Jim’s family.

Bob and I are so sad to hear this. Condolences to the Dostal family. I’m sure he touched so many young people just like his father.

I went to high school with Jim and got to watch him teach years later. We worked many track meets together and worked with each other for the good of many students. He always had a smile on his face and never hesitated to do what was best for his students. He will be missed by so many and I know I was influenced by him as a colleague as well. Thoughts are with all who knew him and loved him.

My condolences to Amber and the rest of Jim's family and friends.

I've had the honor to know Jim and his family since we were little. Watching Jim as an athlete, teacher, coach throughout the years, I can't help but think of the 1000's of people who he had an impact on! His desire for coaching and teaching our youth will never be forgotten! Jim has left us but he will still be with all those lives he has touched. God bless. Chris Jennings.

My deepest sympathy to the family at this difficult time.