James Alan Deines, 82, died peacefully at home on March 23, 2024, surrounded by family. He was born on the farm in Trego County, April 11, 1941. He was the third son of Herbert and Elma (Freidenberger).

Jim was united in marriage to Glenna Cress in 1964, and of this union, they had 5 children. He later married Linda Dodd and she brought 2 more boys to the family.

Jim graduated from Trego County High School and soon after, he enlisted in the Airforce. He served 4 years, earning the rank of Airman 2nd class (E-3) as a Russian Voice Intercept Processing Specialist.

After he returned home, he earned his bachelor’s and his master’s degree from Fort Hays State University in history and education. He worked as a teacher, counselor, principal, and superintendent. He also coached and spent many years as a referee. His life was devoted to making a difference for children. In his retirement, he kept busy as a Magistrate Judge in Hill City, Kansas.

Though his devotion was to children, his passion was golf. Jim was insanely competitive and strived for golf perfection. He won many awards and was very proud of each one. All vacations in his later years were all planned around getting to different golf courses. He golfed in most states in the USA and was able to golf in 5 different countries.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Leroy and Don, sister Vicky Mai. Sister in laws, Liza Beth Deines, and Vera Deines. Brother-in-law, Don Mai, and grandson Grant White.

Survivors include his wife, Linda, his siblings, Lynetta (Everett) Kellogg, Merlin (Barb) Deines, JDean Ochs and Neil (Pat) Ochs. His children, Yvonne Deines, Michelle (Bob) Tillitson, Jennifer (Jay) Blume, Kalen (Jessie) Deines, Kim Howg, Ryan Campbell, and Raymond (Lyndsey) Campbell. He also has 12 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

A Celebration of life service will be held at 9:30 a.m., Friday, April 5th, at the Zion Lutheran Church, 27005 283 Hwy, WaKeeney, KS, with inurnment following at the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery 403 S 13th St, WaKeeney, KS. Please join the family after the inurnment for lunch at the VFW #3449, 400 N Railroad Ave, WaKeeney, KS.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials can be made to the Kansas Honor Flight, PO Box 2371 Hutchinson, KS 67504 or on their website, kansashonorflight.org