James William Buchholz, 64, son of Paul Henry and Hazel Jane (Ice) Buchholz, was born Oct. 30, 1951, in Cabool, Mo. He passed away after a sudden illness on Sept. 28, 2016, in Springfield, Mo.
James graduated from Cabool High School in 1969. He married Linda Purcell on Aug. 6, 1971, at Cabool First Baptist Church with the Rev. Art Bolderjack performing the ceremony. They recently celebrated 45 years together.
James accepted the Lord as his Savior at an early age.
James was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Larry Buchholz; an infant daughter; and a stepbrother, Hughie Simon.
He is survived by his wife, Linda of the home in Raymondville; two daughters, Janda Jenkins and husband, Mike, of Kansas City, Mo., and Traci Goetz and husband, Tony, of Raymondville; a son, Justin Buchholz of the home; five grandchildren, Austin Goetz, Keaton Goetz, Bryson Goetz, Robert Jenkins and Eva Jenkins; one brother, Jerry Buchholz and wife, Debbie, of Mountain Grove, Mo.; a sister, Patsy Moore and husband, Arlen, of Bado, Mo.; and stepsister, Lana Alexander and husband, Bert, of Tulsa, Okla. James’s dog, Bo, was his constant and beloved companion.
James came from humble beginnings and was employed from a very young age. He believed in hard work, was tireless and could outwork anyone. He took great pride in owning his own land. James lived a selfless life, working multiple jobs and through all kinds of adversity to provide for his family and ensure that his children had opportunities that he never had. He supported his children’s endeavors unconditionally and measured his success by their happiness and accomplishments. His family could always depend on him.
After 43 years driving a truck, James retired in 2013, but did not slow down at all. He made lifelong friends on the road and enjoyed seeing different parts of the country. He began every day with a cup of coffee and by sharing a strawberry frosted Pop-tart with Bo. He spent his time outdoors working on projects around the farm, tinkering with motors and machinery, baling hay, cutting wood, and taking care of his cattle who all had pet names. James constantly looked after his children and enjoyed shooting the breeze with neighbors and friends.
James adored his grandchildren, who were always at his side. It was not uncommon for the boys to come home with bellies full of donuts or candy and covered in grease and dirt from “helping” Papa James. They were spoiled with anything they desired, but most importantly, their Papa’s attention. He will leave a lasting impression on their lives.
James never met a stranger. He was young at heart and always had a story to tell. He will be remembered for his hard work, love of family, his mischievous grin, and his friendly way. He was loved by many and will be dearly missed by all.
Services were 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 3, 2016, at Evans Funeral Home with Pastor Greg Bergland officiating. Burial was in Allen Cemetery under the direction of Evans Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Justin Buchholz, Jarid Purcell, Verlin Moore, Sam Gale, Tim Young, Tony Goetz, Mike Jenkins and Mickey Westbrook. Honorary pallbearers were Austin Goetz, Keaton Goetz, Bryson Goetz and Robert Jenkins.
Online condolences may be made at www.evansfh.com.