James Tholen

James Tholen, age 74, of Iola, Kansas, passed away from complications of Pulmonary Fibrosis, on August 16, 2025, at Allen County Hospital, Iola, Kansas.

James Henry Tholen was born on December 9, 1950, in Ft. Scott, Kansas, to Paul and Alice (Bahr) Tholen. He attended school in Moran, Kansas, and graduated with the Class of 1968. He went on to obtain an Associates at Allen County Community College. After college, he joined the Navy. He completed basic training at Great Lakes Naval Station before attending HVAC school in San Diego. He was then assigned to USS Coral Sea where he completed his Navy service. After being honorably discharged he came back to Kansas, where he and Vickie eventually started their own HVAC business, in Iola, in March 1978. They successfully ran the business for 40 years before retirement.

James was united in marriage to Vickie (Roberts) on November 13, 1971, and together they were blessed with four daughters. His hard work and dedication were evident not only in his career but also in the way he devoted himself to his family, his community, and his faith. He gave generously of his time, whether at home, coaching ball, or serving through his church and ministries.

James enjoyed coaching ball and was a proud member of the Christian Motorcycle Association, where he often attended rallies on his bright yellow motorcycle-a true eye-catcher that opened the door to many conversations. He had a heart for ministry, especially in speaking at jails, where he offered hope and encouragement to people from all walks of life, always choosing to see the best in them.

Whether through his work, his love of motorcycles, traveling, or simply connecting with others, James found every opportunity to share the word of God. More than anything, his greatest desire was that everyone he encountered would come to know and love Jesus as he did.

James never met a stranger. He greeted everyone with open arms, a helping hand, and a heart full of compassion. His unwavering faith and genuine kindness touched countless lives.

James's legacy of faith, love, and service will live on in the many lives he influenced and in the hearts of those who loved him most.

James was preceded in death by his parents; older brother, Richard Tholen; infant twin-brother, John Paul Tholen.

He is survived by his wife Vickie Tholen of the home; daughters, Christine and husband Charles Wanker of Iola, Kansas, Tamara and husband Nick Welch of Manhattan, Kansas, Lisa Dunne of Olathe, Kansas, Kimberly and husband Nik Bohac of San Francisco, California; grandchildren, Chloe, Emma, Grace,Travis, Madeleine,Joshua, Lee, Makayla, and Eli; siblings, Carol Bruner and husband Mike, Gary Tholen and wife Karen, Paula Delury, Robert Tholen and wife Julie; and many other friends and family.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, August 22, 2025 at Feuerborn Family Funeral Service Chapel, Iola, Kansas. Burial will follow in Highland Cemetery, Iola. James' family will greet friends Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at The Venue, 1883 US Hwy 54, Iola, Kansas. Memorial contributions are suggested to Honor Flight of LeRoy or Pregnancy and Family Jail Ministries and can be left in the care of the funeral home. Condolences for the family can be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com.