James Willis Peterson

James Willis Peterson age 78 of Humboldt formerly of Osawatomie, KS died Sunday December 31, 2023 at his home.

Jim was born March 24, 1945 in Salina, KS. He was the youngest of three sons born to John Clair and Dorothy Marie Ruth (Prather) Peterson. Jim grew up in Osawatomie.

In the early 60’s, Jim married his first wife Joyce in Wichita, KS. Together they had one daughter, Cindy. They later divorced. Then He married Peggy Johnson in the late 60’s. Together they had a daughter Sally. Later that marriage ended in divorce. In 1994, Jim married the love of his life Carole Stockmeyer. He gained two step sons; Richard and Ronald.

In 1964, Jim enlisted into the United States Army and then transferred to the Army National Guard for 5 years and 4 months. He then went to work as a police officer and then as a dispatcher for the Paola Police Department. For a short time, Jim worked for the railroad and then drove a truck that carried mail for the US Postal Service. In the early 2000’s, he went to work for NAPA Auto parts in Paola.

In his spare time, Jim collected coins and working on puzzles. He liked fishing and listening to country, opera and spiritual music. Jim was a born again Christian. He was always willing to help anyone.

He was preceded in death by his wife Carole, daughter Cindy Peterson, his parents and his brother Dennis Peterson.

Survivors include his daughter, Sally Smith, step sons; Richard Smith and Ronald Smith. Brother Donald Peterson, grandchildren; Kimberly, Michael, Jessika and Eric and great grandchild Giovanni.