James Carl Glidewell Jr.

James Carl Glidewell Jr., age 80, passed away at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, on Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

Jim was born on April 2, 1945, in Wichita, Kansas, the first of three children born to Carl and Myrna Glidewell. He grew up in Wichita and graduated from East High School. It was in middle school that Jim met the love of his life, Lois "Jeannine" Pivonka. The two dated off and on throughout high school before being united in marriage on October 21, 1967, at the Hillside Christian Church in Wichita. Together, they shared nearly 50 years of marriage and built a life centered on their family until Jeannine's passing on November 7, 2016.

In their early married years in Wichita, Jim worked at a car dealership before taking a position at Beech Aircraft. After a brief time in Topeka, the family moved to Garnett in 1973. Jim worked on the farm with his cousin, Dale Fooshee, and his uncle, Claude Fooshee, while also driving a truck for Patterson Trucking. In 1986, the family moved into town, where Jim hauled fuel from Coffeyville to area stations. In his late 40s, Jim made the decision to resume his education, earning a degree from Friends University. This achievement led to his career at Eskridge, where he worked as a machinist for more than 25 years until his retirement.

Jim was an active member of the community and the First United Methodist Church in Garnett, where he enjoyed singing in the choir. He was a constant support to his daughters, helping them with their 4-H horse projects and ensuring their cars were always in good working order. He was a fixture at his children's and grandchildren's events and made it a priority to attend every family graduation, wedding, and reunion, regardless of the distance. Jim was also a passionate reader, enjoying the westerns of Zane Grey and Louis L'Amour and the films of John Wayne; in his later years, he became a fan of the Harry Potter series. Jim loved watching the Chiefs and Royals as well as any football game that was on. He loved working on cars until they became too complex, though those repairs gave him a cherished excuse to visit with his mechanic, Don.

Jim was a devoted father who took immense pride in his family. He worked hard to provide for his loved ones, passing down a legacy of perseverance and character. Those who knew him will remember his kind spirit, his gift for storytelling, and a warm laughter that could brighten any room.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Myrna Glidewell; his beloved wife, Jeannine Glidewell; a stillborn daughter, Rebecca Diane Glidewell, October 16, 1974.

Jim is survived by his three daughters, LaDonna Glidewell of Wichita, Kansas, and Stacie Glidewell of Goddard, Kansas, Patti May and husband David of Nevada, Missouri,. He was "Grandpa Jim" to ten grandchildren, Lynna Hajek and husband Michael, Christian Kneibler, Kaylynne Kneibler, Camaron Kneibler and Alec Dibbons, Lilianna Hastings, Skylar Hastings, Cory Williamson, Michelle Marrs, Dakota Amick and husband Taylor, and J.D. May. He also leaves behind five great-grandchildren, Lilia Hajek, Levi, Ryker, and Walker Amick, and Mason May, with another great-grandchild expected in June 2026. He is also survived by his sister, Carmen Harris and husband Larry; and his brother, Glen Glidewell and wife Tricia.

Funeral services are being planned for later in 2026 and will be announced as plans are finalized. Condolences may be sent to the family atwww.feuerbornfuneral.com.