James E. Mathes

James E. "Jim" Mathes, 85, of rural Oswego, departed from this world peacefully on the afternoon of Thursday, April 25, 2024, in his home surrounded by his family.

James Edward Mathes was born on August 23, 1938, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Paul Edward and Marjorie (Gamble) Mathes. Jim had fond memories of growing up in the Garden City area of Tulsa surrounded by a strong community and extended family.  Although he spent junior high in Fort Cobb, Oklahoma, he returned to Tulsa to graduate from Daniel Webster High School in 1956.

Jim pursued higher education at NSU in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and later attended NEO in Miami. In 1961 he was drafted into the United States Army and was chosen to be a member of the newly formed surveillance/intelligence unit stationed in Germany, where he served until his honorable discharge in 1963.

Returning to Tulsa, Jim began his career as an ironworker, contributing his skills to various building and road projects with Tulsa Local 584. He earned the reputation among his fellow workers for having an excellent work ethic.  Jim possessed the ability to read and execute complex building plans allowing him to become foreman on a number of jobs beginning at a very young age.  He retired in 2001, seeking the serenity and slower pace of farm life in Labette County, which he often referred to as 'God's country.'

A man of steadfast faith, Jim actively participated in the Edna Assembly of God church and later Community Bible Church in Chetopa. His commitment to Christ was evident in his love for reading and studying the Bible.

Known for his generosity and willingness to lend a helping hand, Jim's legacy extends far beyond his professional achievements. Jim embraced opportunities to use his time and talents to assist in innumerable projects with his church, neighbors and family.  Among his many passions were gardening, tending to his cattle. and spending time with his family.  He found joy in gathering with family around a card table, sharing cherished memories, and indulging in generous servings of ice cream.

Jim married Betty Maxine Crook on July 17, 1965, in Topeka. She survives of the home.

Other survivors include four sons, Shannan Mathes of Oswego, Brent Mathes and his wife, Jennifer, of Bartlett, Todd Mathes and his wife, Sarah, of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and Dane Mathes and his wife, Jane, of Sapulpa, Oklahoma; two daughters, Jettina Richardson and her husband, Dave, of Parsons and Janet Bunch of Miami, Oklahoma; 17 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Curtis Mathes and his wife, Lesha, of Hawaii.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Valeri Elaine Mathes; his sister, Deanie McClaflin; and one son-in-law, Bill Bunch.

The funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the Community Bible Church in Chetopa.  Burial will follow at Lake Creek Cemetery in Bartlett.  The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, at the church.

Memorials are suggested to the Community Bible Church and may be left at or mailed to Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 374, Parsons, KS  67357.