Bill James, 80 of Abilene, passed away Thursday, June 11th, 2015 at the Village Manor Nursing Home in Abilene (Kansas). He was born November 3, 1934 in Clay Center, the son of Raymond and Lenore (Rasiska) James. He graduated from Clay Center High School and attended Kansas State University in 1952. Bill married Carole Martin March 23, 1969 and together they celebrated 46 years of marriage. In 1970 they bought their homestead, known as 3 J Ranch.
Bill showed horses for 50 years, which included eight Supreme APHA Champions, and in 2012 was the recipient of the APHA Hall of Fame. He spent years traveling to horse shows, either showing or judging, which included judging in the world shows nine times. Bill is survived by his loving wife Carole. Daughter, Terry Stover of Abilene, four sons, Kelly and wife Wendy of Clay Center, Dee and wife Anne of Kansas City, Kansas, Lon and wife Pat of Clay Center and Loy and wife Kate of Salina. 18 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Diane Taber and sister, Lynne James.
Funeral Services for Mr. James will be 2:00 P.M., Wednesday, June 17, 2015 at the Lifehouse church with Pastors Kerry Coup and Sam Spence officiating. Burial will follow at the St. Joseph Cemetery in Abilene. Family will receive friends Tuesday evening from 5-7 P.M. at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home. The family of Bill James suggests memorials be made to the Hospice of Dickinson County and may be sent in care to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW third Street, Abilene, Kansas 67410. Online condolences may be sent to www.martinbeckercarlson.com
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