HOISINGTON — James R. “Jim” Meitner, 74, passed away peacefully on Oct, 29, 2024, at his home in Hoisington, Kan., surrounded by his devoted family. Born on June 1, 1950, to Robert C. and Loyola A. (Reichuber) Meitner, Jim grew up on the family farm near Olmitz, and he embodied the very best of a close-knit, Kansas upbringing. He made it his life’s mission to share his joy, kindness, and talents with everyone he met. 

A graduate of Hoisington High School’s class of 1969, Jim continued his education at Fort Hays State College, but it was in Hoisington that he planted roots and built a life filled with faith, family, and friendship. On Nov. 6, 1970, he married his high school sweetheart, Celeste Prosser, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Hoisington, and they built nearly 54 beautiful years together.

Jim’s hands were as strong as they were skilled; he was a master carpenter and handyman and could fix or build just about anything. He owned Meitner Cabinet and Home Repair for 43 years, remodeling kitchens, bathrooms, and other spaces for countless clients, often donning his trademark red polo shirt. He was just as beloved for the treasures he made for his family — including a very special treehouse that he built for his ten grandchildren, who called him Opa. Whether crafting the perfect apple pie or barbecuing ribs, Jim poured his heart into every project and act of service.

A lifelong member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Jim’s unwavering faith and deep love for his parish were evident by his involvement on numerous parish boards, the Diocesan Building Committee, and as a long-time member of the Knights of Columbus. Jim’s contributions to his community were just as numerous — whether he was attending ribbon-cuttings as a proud Chamber Ambassador, working security at the Labor Day street dances, or serving as a board member with the Hoisington Jaycees and the Clara Barton Hospital Foundation. In 2022, Jim was honored as the Hoisington Labor Day Grand Marshal, a recognition that made him very proud.

Jim also loved the outdoors, from snow skiing with grandkids, water skiing with family and friends at Lake Wilson, to scuba diving. He was also an avid hunter, sharing many unforgettable elk hunting and fishing trips with close friends. From gardening, boating, and camping to listening to polka music each day during his lunch break, Jim embraced each day with joy and a contagious enthusiasm. He will be missed by many friends, who enjoyed his company at the weekly bowling league, drinking a beer at the Taproom, cheering for the Chiefs, or visiting nearby casinos. But it is his family who will feel his absence most deeply. To them, he was so much more than a husband, father, and Opa — he was their rock, their heart, and their greatest champion. He led with quiet strength, guiding his children with wisdom and setting an example of humility, generosity, and faith. He was the steady hand in moments of stress, and always ready and able to offer help.

Jim was also the reigning family pitch champion during holiday gatherings. He had an easy smile, a knack for jokes, and smooth moves on the dance floor. His legacy will be cherished in the hearts of those who knew him best.

Jim is survived by his wife, Celeste, of Hoisington; his three children, Heather R. Barleen and husband Doug of Wichita, Chad Meitner and wife Sarah of Hays, and James P. “JP” Meitner and wife Leslie Jo of Topeka; and his ten grandchildren, Sean (Mariah Jack) Barleen of Wichita, Rachel Barleen of Hays, Amanda Barleen of Wichita; Julia, Henry, Charles, Leo, and Abe Meitner, all of Hays; Preston and Madeline Meitner, both of Topeka. Other survivors include sister Shirley Schugart (John) of Mokelumne Hill, Calif.; his brother Rocky Meitner (Connie) of Olmitz; and numerous, beloved brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and dear friends who loved and respected him deeply. Preceding him in death were his parents, Robert Meitner and Loyola A. Meitner Steiner.

Friends may call 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday with family to greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Knights of Columbus Rosary will begin at 7 p.m., all at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, celebrated by Father Warren Stecklein. Burial will follow at St. John Catholic Cemetery, Hoisington. Memorials may be made to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church or Clara Barton Hospital Foundation in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544. His family also wants to encourage friends and neighbors to plant a tree in Jim’s memory, a gesture that he would have loved. Notices may be viewed and condolences sent at www.nicholsonrickefh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home

P.O. Box 146

Hoisington, KS 67544

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Oct. 31, 2024