James Edward Kendzora
Share
Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute
James “Jim” Kendzora, 83, Independence, MO went Home to be with his Lord on Friday, May 10, 2019 after a bout with terminal cancer. He was surrounded by family at his home. A visitation will be held 10-11 AM, Wednesday, May 15, 2019 with a Celebration of Life service to follow at 11 AM at East Side Church, 19901 E. MO Hwy 78, Independence, MO.
James served honorably in the US Navy from 1952-1954, was on-call until 1956 aboard the USS Wasp.
James worked for the Independence Fire Department and retired with 26 years. He was a heavy equipment operator (one of the best). He also worked as a Blacksmith. James was many things, but he was NOT a mechanic!
James was preceded in death by his wife Jane Kendzora of 54 years.
James is survived by his wife Sharon Kendzora of 6 years, siblings Mary Weber and George Kendzora, daughters; Debra (Thomas) Fleming, Kathleen Kendzora, Cynthia (Stevan) Keeney and Judith (Ronald) Radford, step-son Darren (Beth) Groom, step-daughter Dana (Garry) Stevens, 18 grand children, 16 great-grandchildren and numerous other family members and friends.
The family would like to extend their sincere thank yous to Dr. Maliszewski, Crossroads Hospice, the staff at The Sarah Cannon Cancer Center and to all the family and friends for their ongoing support and prayers.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are asked to Life Point Church, 707 S. 1st Street, Odessa, MO 64076
Visits: 2
Condolences sent to Jim’s family. Knew Jim many years as he lived only 2 blocks from me growing up – rode bicycles together with the neighborhood kids, played games in the street with all of them and had a great time. My husband, Paul and I enjoyed many fun times with Jim and Jane. God Bless and may you rest in peace.
Jim and I were very very good friends since third grade along with his wife Jane. We shared so many good times together and still remained close until his passing. Jim was one in a million. Will always remember the fun times we all had along with all our kids so close in age was like one big happy family. My heart goes out to all his family, so very sorry we can’t come up and be with you girls but my heart and love will always be with you
I am so saddened & sorry to hear of your loss , Sharon we have missed so many years of friendship but I hope we can continue our friendship & keep in touch, my heart is with you in the coming days!
My thoughts and prayers to Sharon and her family during this time.
Rip in peace my good friend was proud to know you God bless
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss…our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Jim will always be in our hearts and memories. His stories are forever and he had many.
May peace be with you.
My heart goes out to the entire family. I’m so sorry for your loss. Your dad was a great man, and loved his family dearly. Beautiful tribute video. Cindy Pitts
We met in 2013 as neighbors in Bates City and became friends. We often discussed family, US Navy, boating/fishing, classic cars, heavy equipment and pets. We often called to let him know when his dog, Major, would knock on our front door to visit. We went to the Missouri State Fair and Santa-Cali-Gon but most often would go to the Sedalia gun shows which often included lunch at Lemaire’s for Cajun Catfish. He was a giving soul that offered us shelter during severe weather. We also shared home cooked meals (spaghetti, jambalaya, spicy turkey noodle soup, chili, corned beef-n-cabbage, Beirocks, etc.) joking about us having the only “Drive-thru” in Bates City. He really lit up when we shared a roll of Butter Rum Life Savers. We became close enough friends to clear a driving path through the tree line between our properties allowing us to bypass the Z Hwy.
It is with great admiration for Jim that our deepest sympathy go out to his loving family. He will be truly missed and often remembered.