James “Jim” Wallace Munkirs, 88, of Kearney, Mo., peacefully passed from this life surrounded by family at his home on January 13, 2019. Jim was born in Kearney, Mo., on September 25, 1930 to Wallace Fred and Hazel (Harmon) Munkirs, who preceded him in death. Jim was united in marriage to the former Patricia Klepper on December 14, 1958. They were the parents of two children, Michelle Hogerty (Dan) and James Munkirs, and one grandchild, Katherine Overstreet.
Jim was a lifelong Kearney resident, graduating from Kearney High School in 1948. After graduation, he attended Central Missouri State University for three years before enlisting in the Navy during the Korean conflict. He served on the USS Valley Forge and spent time in Japan and Hong Kong. After completing four years of service, he returned to Central Missouri State where he completed his study and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 1956.
After graduation, Jim worked for Watson Construction Company for six years. In 1962, he joined the Kearney Commercial Bank as Cashier, ultimately becoming the President of the bank until 1995 when he retired after 33 years of service.
Jim was active in many civic organizations. He served as a board member and President of the Kearney Board of Education for 12 years. He was an active member of the Kearney, Missouri Chamber of Commerce and also served as President of that organization. He was a Melvin Jones Fellow and Lifetime Member of the Kearney Lions Club, serving as Treasurer for over 20 years. He served as Treasurer of Missouri Public Water District Number 6 for 49 years. He also served as a member of the Clay County Economic Development Council and was a member of the Shrine and Masonic Lodge.
Jim served in numerous capacities at the Kearney First United Methodist Church. He was Chairman of both the Building and Capital Campaign Committees responsible for the original construction and expansion of the new church campus, which opened in 2000.
Services will be at The First United Methodist Church of Kearney on Thursday, January 17, 2019, with visitation from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. and the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. The family requests donations to The First United Methodist Church of Kearney or The Kearney Lions Club in lieu of flowers.
Our Sincere Condolences
Lifting all of you up in our prayers.
Jim is and will be missed. Now Jim is comforted in the gentle, loving arms of Jesus.
Jim & Susan Leuschke
Pat, Michelle, Jamie and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Stacy Croskey
Pat, Michelle, Jamie and Katy
We are so sorry to hear about Jim’s passing. He was one of the most respected people we’ve known. He was a long time friend and we will miss his smile, his energy, his integrity and his genuine kindness. We want to extend our prayers to you, his family.
Vicki and Bob Lawson
Jim made a positive footprint on this earth and the town of Kearney, Missouri through his career, outstanding and undying community service, and the amazingly talented children and grandchild carrying his legacy. My guess is he’s already busy organizing and leading some event on this next part of his soul’s journey. Pat, Michelle, and Jamie, my thoughts are with you during this difficult transition. I know Jim was much loved and meant the world to all of you.
Leslie (McKinley) King
Dear Pat, Michelle, Katie and family,
Jim was always, without fail, friendly and kind to us. He was a respected leader in the church and community. His gentle, honest, kind spirit and presence will be missed. You have my sympathy, thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely, Dana Hackleman
