James Richard Pond
James Richard Pond
May 22nd, 1933 — January 29th, 2012
Interment Service:
12:30pm, Friday, February 3rd, 2012
Leavenworth National Cemetery,
150 Muncie Road,
Leavenworth KS 66048-5501
Map to this location
Obituary:
James Richard Pond of Mission, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, January 29, 2012 with his family by his side. Burial will be held at the Leavenworth National Cemetery on Fri. February 3, at 12:30 pm. Charter Funerals is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, P. O. Box 907, Lee’s Summit, Missouri, 64063.
James was born in Joplin, Missouri, May 22, 1933. He attended school in Joplin and graduated from the University of Arkansas. Upon graduation he received his U S Army commission and served as a helicopter pilot in Germany. After returning to the states, he worked for Western Union and later started his own business.
James is preceded in death by his parents, Polly and Neal Pond of Joplin, Missouri.
He is survived by his wife, Catherine, of 41 years; three daughters, Christy Lagoski and husband Herb; Anna Marie Zinn and Ingrid Gloria Pond; grandchildren; Elaina, Ella Jane, Nora Cate, Phoenix, and Lorena and Klara of Berlin, Germany; sister, Paula Lineback; nieces Cindi and husband J.; Laurie and husband Craig.
He enjoyed traveling and reading about history of WWII. He was a beloved father, husband, neighbor, and grandfather and will be dearly missed by all.
Remembrances:
- Tuesday, January 31st, 2012
He was a great neighbor who was friendly each time he talked to me. Even after I tried his patience a few times and once closed the door on his cat's tail.
Justin Stewart, Overland Park, Kansas
- Wednesday, February 1st, 2012
I remember coming over to work in Jim's "Office" when I was a teenager. I felt so important, being a "secretary" for Data Communications. Christie used to bring me a coke and an english muffin and I'd spend my morning typing. I'll miss him.
Gwen Schmits Davis, Overland Park
- Wednesday, February 1st, 2012
Catherine, Christy, Anna, I am so sorry to hear about Jim. You have my utmost condolences. If there is something I can do for you , please call....Jerry
Jerry L. Schmitz, Overland Park, Kansas
- Wednesday, February 1st, 2012
I'm so sorry for your loss. If there is anything I can do, please let me
Melody Baker (Schmitz), Briggs,TX
know. He will be missed.
- Wednesday, February 1st, 2012
So very sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Janell Schmitz Ryan, Kent Ohio
- Wednesday, February 1st, 2012
I was privileged to take car of James a few different nights during his hospitalization at SMMC. We had some fascinating conversations in the middle of the night about his growing up and his years in the military. I sensed a very brillant man who loved taking on challenges. His love for his family shone through and his love for this country. It was very saddening to see him recognise his waning ability to think through problems. He said, "It's very frustrating, there are things I want to think about and I just can't figure out how to do it". Great sense of humor and wit, even in the midst of all that was frustrating him. I feel honored to have shared a May22 birthdate with him. I know he'll be greatly missed!
Michael Whited, Overland Park, KS
- Wednesday, February 1st, 2012
From the day we moved in to the 'big house' on Horton Street it seems we were adopted by Jim and his family from the get go. Jim, Catherine, Christy, and Anna became family that for some unknown reason lived in the house next door. We had the privilege of having that extended family at such an early age. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. He will be missed.
Marcus Schmitz, Maricopa, Arizona
- Friday, February 3rd, 2012
James was more than a good friend of mine, he was
Teng Thao, Kansas City, Kansas
a strong influence in my life. I felt that I could share
my dreams and accomplishments with him and he
would listen with an honest and open heart. I am
glad to have known him and will miss him deeply,
my thoughts and prayers are with his family.