James E. Bessenbacher Sr.

James E. Bessenbacher, Sr., age 82, of Cleveland, Mo, passed away November 19, 2014 at Menorah Medical Center, Overland Park, KS. James was born February 9, 1932, the son of Edward P. and Margaret A. Bessenbacher. He married Jean M. Spiegelhalter in 1956. They raised six children in St. Francis Xavier parish. Jim attended St. Francis Xavier Grade School. He was an avid Boy Scout and became an Eagle Scout. After graduating from Rockhurst High School, he attended Rockhurst College for three semesters before enlisting in the United States Coast Guard where he served honorably during the Korean War. Following his service, Jim resumed his studies at Rockhurst College where he graduated and then began working for his father"s company, Tyrrell-Bessenbacher Co. As his career began, Jim enrolled in night school at UMKC School of Law, following in the footsteps of his father. After graduating from law school, Jim continued with the family business, eventually becoming President and continuing in that role until the day of his death. Jim always said he wanted to go quick and the Lord was gracious in answering his prayer. Jim had great passion for his wife Jean of 58 years, his Catholic faith, his family and his business. His legacy and charity will live on through his family and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife Jean, of the home; his sisters Helen Colwell (George) of Kansas City, Margaret Mary (Bill) Johnson of St. Louis, MO; six children, Jimmy (Mary) Bessenbacher; Maggie Bessenbacher; Nellie Long (Mike); Cathy Olberding (Bruce); Steve Bessenbacher (Andra) and Jeannie Sopyla (Steve); eighteen grandchildren, Eddie (Katie), Hannah Waters (Andrew), David, Leah Cresswell (A.J.), Abigail (Paul Youmans Fiancee"), Claire and Paul Bessenbacher; Ryan Perkins (Jamie), Luke Perkins ( Jessica), Alison Lagerstrom (Andrew); Erin Mahaffey (B.J.); Laci Olberding; Patrick, Michael and Brian Bessenbacher; Natalie, Paige, and Olivia Sopyla; and eight great-grandchildren Kody, Mason, Owenn, Jacob, Evan, Adyson, Katie, Avery. The family suggests contributions to Rockhurst High School or to Queen of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church Wea. Queen of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church Wea 22779 Metcalf Bucyrus, KS Service: Saturday, November 22, 2014 at 12:00 PM Visitation: Saturday, November 22, 2014 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM