Kirwin resident, James Lee Hunter, passed away at his home in Kirwin on December 7, 2019 at the age of 72.

Jim was born November 5, 1947 in Smith Center, KS the son of Chris and Helen (Rathbun) Hunter.  He graduated from Norton High School in Norton.  He then entered into the United States Army.

Upon his return, he met and married Vergie Albert in 1978 at Howard, KS.  To this union one son was born, Justin.  The couple later divorced.

Jim began trucking, working for Becker Trucking for many years, before purchasing his own trucks.  He continued trucking until in 2003 his health forced him into retirement.  He had moved to Kirwin in 1997, from southeast Kansas, hoping during his retirement he could enjoy fishing and hunting in the area.   Fishing was his passion, he was known locally as "Catfish".

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Everett; sister, Shirley; niece, Sheila Holloway; and 2 nephews, Martin Gretzchel and Randy Hazlett.

Survivors include his son, Justin Hunter and wife, Melissa Bryant of Winfield, KS; a grandson, Trey Bryant; two brothers, Jerald Hunter of Lincoln, NE and Bob Hunter of Kirwin, KS; two sisters, Sharon Oliva of Stockton, KS and Elizabeth Hazlett of Goose Creek, S.C.; and numerous Nieces and Nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 19th, 2019 in the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg, with Pastor Chris Davis officiating.

Friends may sign the book on Wednesday, December 18th, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the funeral chapel.

Memorials have been established to the James Lee Hunter Memorial Fund.