James Spitzenberger

James J. Spitzenberger, age 96, of Osawatomie, Kansas passed away Friday January 6, 2012 at Vintage Park in Osawatomie. Graveside Service will be 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 10, 2012 at Paola Cemetery. Visitation will be 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 10, 2012 at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home Paola Chapel. Memorial contributions can be made to Osawatomie Plum Creek Church of Christ. James was born in LaCygne, Kansas on December 19, 1915 to George and Pearl Rhynerson Spitzenberger. He graduated from Paola High School. On September 8, 1940 he was united in marriage to Alta M. Barnes. In December of 1945 he enlisted in the United States Army and served until December of 1946. He was employed in his early adult years with the railroad in Osawatomie and later worked for Kaisers Furniture as a tile and carpet installer for over 40 years before retiring in 1980. James was a very active member of the Osawatomie Plum Creek Church of Christ and served as an elder and treasurer for 50 years. James enjoyed woodworking, gardening, and repairing and constructing items for family and friends. He enjoyed visiting with people, lending a helping hand, and never met a stranger. He is preceded in death by his parents; wife Alta; and three sisters Baveta Ulery, Ruby Ogrodnik, and Moricene McBride. He is survived by his children, daughter Judy and husband Ron Blackburn of Lane, Kansas, son Don and his wife Leslie Spitzenberger of Linn Valley Lakes, Kansas; 9 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. He will be greatly missed by family and friends. Paola Cemetery Service: Graveside Services Tuesday, January 10, 2012 at 11:30 AM Visitation: Tuesday, January 10, 2012 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM