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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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Lifting all of you up in our prayers.
\nJim is and will be missed. Now Jim is comforted in the gentle, loving arms of Jesus.
\nJim & Susan Leuschke<\/p>\n
Pat, Michelle, Jamie and family,
\nI am so sorry for your loss. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
\nStacy Croskey<\/p>\n
Pat, Michelle, Jamie and Katy
\nWe are so sorry to hear about Jim\u2019s passing.\u00a0 He was one of the most respected people we\u2019ve known.\u00a0 He was a long time friend and we will miss his smile, his energy, his integrity and his genuine kindness.\u00a0 We want to extend our prayers to you, his family.
\nVicki and Bob Lawson<\/p>\n
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\u2019s already busy organizing and leading some event on this next part of his soul\u2019s 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.
\nLeslie (McKinley) King<\/p>\n
Dear Pat, Michelle, Katie and family,
\nJim was always, without fail, friendly and kind to us.\u00a0 He was a respected leader in the church and community.\u00a0 His gentle, honest, kind spirit and presence will be missed.\u00a0 You have my sympathy, thoughts and prayers.
\nSincerely, Dana Hackleman<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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