James (Jim) H. Straughn was born on December 11, 1954 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. (Social Security Administration says it was Kansas City, Kansas-always a bone of contention with him).
He passed from this life on July 4, 2023 doing the things he loved. He had many passions during his life but family, music, inventions and trains were the most loved. However, Hobby Lobby and Amazon were high on his list as well.
He fought hard for his life through the maze of health obstacles, but his resemblance to a cat with nine lives was hard to miss. He never gave up hope for a good, healthy future in his senior years. He was a gentle man and friend to all. One of life’s accomplishments was that he was able to give the gift of sight to others.
He leaves behind Shirley, who was by his side for twenty-two years. Brothers Steve, Dennis, Neal and Mike. Children Katie, Meredith and Larry. Grandchildren Brandon, Lilly, Weston, Sullivan and Jayna. His parents, Lowell and Joan, preceded him in death.
A memorial gathering for family and friends who wish to gather and share in this time of sorrow and remembrance will be held Monday, July 10, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. Calamity Line Park 901 West Santa Fe Street Olathe, Kansas. Condolences may be offered at www.McGilley-Frye.com
“The Great Storm is Over. Lift Up Your Wings and Fly”
John McCutcheon
