James L. "Jim" Karns

James L. “Jim” Karns, of Plainville, passed away on December 18, 2023, at the Solomon Valley Manor in Stockton at the age of 90.

He was born on November 2, 1933, to Alfred Rolla “A.R.” and Hazel (Jones) Karns in Ada, Kansas. Jim married Geraldine Hake on August 30, 1958, in Plainville. They were blessed with five children: Michelle, Maria, Marianne, Martha, and Melissa.

Jim grew up in Ada and graduated from Salina High School in 1951. After high school, he worked on the farm for his aunt and uncle, and in January 1952, he joined the Air Force. After leaving the service in December 1955, he began his career as a salesman. He worked for Gamble’s Hardware, Button’s Chevrolet, and Nelson Chevrolet, and most notably, spent over 30 years with Schult Mobile Homes, traveling around the Midwest. His good humor and nature sold a lot of houses. He left a lasting impression on many souls throughout this time.

Jim was a member of the V.F.W. Post #8871, Knights of Columbus, and Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Jim liked racing. When in high school, his uncle helped him build a drag car that they raced on the brick streets of Salina. In the service, he loved the fast planes, and as an adult, he went to the races almost every Friday and Saturday night. As he got older, he watched NASCAR. His next favorite sport was watching the Chiefs. When both were on TV at the same time, the remote sure got a workout. He also enjoyed going to Texas on Thanksgiving and watching the Cowboys. During the summer, he liked to go fishing and looked forward to the “boat trip” to Lake Powell. In his later years, he discovered casinos and that they served crab legs!

Jim always said the girls have their mother’s looks, but they’re all mine after that. His humor and witty comments already live on through his kids and grandkids. He loved Jesus and referred to him as JC and the boys. If you were at the right place and time, you may have gotten a ring rosary that he carried in his pocket. He loved his country, wore his flag pin with pride, and had numerous flag shirts in his collection.

He is survived by his children, Michelle (Glen) Hoffman of Gorham, Maria (Stan) Simon of Plainville, Marianne (Jeff) Dix of Stockton, Martha (Don) Blair of Stockton, and Melissa Brack of Hill City; and 18 grandchildren.

Preceding Jim in death are his parents; wife, Geraldine; son-in-law, Larry Brack; and siblings, LaDonna (George) Hensley, Sherrill Karns, and Roger Max Karns.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 22, 2023, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, and a live stream will be available for the public. A public viewing will be on Thursday, from 2 pm until 8 pm, with a Vigil and Rosary Service at 7 pm at the funeral home in Plainville.

Memorials are suggested to Solomon Valley Manor or Sacred Heart Church and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd, Plainville, KS 67663.