James V. Coleman III

James V. Coleman III passed away peacefully on June 25, 2026, at his home with family by his side.

James was born July 20, 1960, to James Coleman, Jr. and Joan (Fruit) Coleman at Olathe Community Hospital.

Jim and Karen (Alexander) Hillbrant married July 11, 1998, at Silver Dollar City Chapel. They were married 28 years.

James went by the names Jim, Dad, Jimbo, and Jimmy.

Jim was our gentle giant. He was a laid back, peaceful, loving and very much a practical joker. He could always put a smile on our faces. Jim was a member of the Elks Lodge for many years. Jim was a Boy Scout leader, receiving an award for outstanding Bear Den leader in 2008. He enjoyed fishing, camping, fixing vehicles, and reading novels. He was an all around handyman. He was always very happy when asked to share his knowledge and being able to help. Jim loved animals, you never knew when he would bring another animal home. and didn't complain too loudly when I brought one home. Jim worked at Quick Silver in Olathe, Kansas, and then Gates Rubber Company in Iola, Kansas. Jim always said he was shy but I don't think he ever met a stranger. Above all he was very proud to be a father to his 3 sons and loved them very much as they loved him.

Jim was forced to quit working in 2010 because of kidney disease. He was on dialysis 3 days a week in Chanute until October 2015 when he was gifted a kidney by a donor's family. His gift of life. To that donor family we will be forever grateful. He endured many trips to KU addressing his multiple medical issues in addition to his kidney disease.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his uncle, Ronnie Fruit; Aunt, Joyce Fruit; and brother, Tony Cisneros.

Jim leaves behind his wife, Karen Coleman, of the home; three sons, Ethan Coleman, Stephen Hillbrant, and Adam (Harlene) Hillbrant; granddaughter, Piper Hillbrant, who was the light of his life; uncle Randy (Virginia) Fruit; siblings Gordon Coleman, Kris Drake, Johanna (Steve) Beets, Betty (Mark) Tirhoff, Roberta (Gary) Pence, and Michelle (Randy) Zimmerman; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins; and lastly, Jim's faithful animals, Little Monkey the cat - his heart animal, Lilly - his happiest dog, and Ripley - his protector.

Jim will be forever loved, missed and remembered. Rest in peace our gentle giant.

We want to thank Good Shepherd hospice and Dr. Neely for their compassionate care.

There will be a celebration of life visitation at a later date in The Venue at Feuerborn Family Funeral Service, 1883, US Highway 54, Iola, Kansas.

Please consider being an organ donor and saving a life.

Memorials are suggested to the donor's choice, and may be left with Feuerborn Family Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com.