IN MEMORIAM
EXPANDED EULOGIES
“In Memoriam” listings are expanded paid obituaries, phrased as the family requests, and may include enhanced information or photographs that might not fit within free death notices.
Jim Magathan
Graveside services for Jimmy M. “Jim” Magathan Jr., 69, who passed away Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, at his home in Emporia, were at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2024, at Hillcrest Cemetery, Florence.
The family received friends 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 22, 2024, at Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home. Emporia.
Jim was born July 6, 1954, in Marion to Jimmy Martin Magathan Sr. and Lola Earline (Perkins) Magathan.
He married Rita S. Scrivner on June 22, 1995, at Eureka Springs, Arkansas. She survives at home.
Also surviving are brothers Monte Magathan of Marion and Kerry Magathan (and wife Katie) of Wichita; sister Denise Magathan of Whitewater; stepson Ryan A. Magathan and stepdaughter Melinda L. Magathan, both of Hillsboro, Oregon; step grandson Andre J. Caywood; several nieces and nephews; and his favorite aunt, Shirley Nienstedt. His parents died earlier.
Jim attended Marion schools and was active in athletics. He played basketball and ran track during his junior and senior years and was a member of the mile relay team that won the Class 2A state championship, setting a record in the process.
After high school, he attended Emporia State University (then Kansas State Teachers College) on a track scholarship.
After college he was produce manager for Reeble’s South Grocery Store. He owned and operated Magathan Home Repair and was a general contractor, building custom homes and solar installations.
He also was a code enforcement inspector for the City of Emporia for 21 years until retiring seven years ago.
A true KU fan, he enjoyed watching college basketball, bowling, and Chiefs football. His favorite pastime, though, was fishing off his boat in Melvern and Coffey County Lakes. He was an accomplished fishing rod crafter.
A memorial has been established with the What’s in Outdoors fund for youth fishing.
Contributions may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 175, Emporia KS 66801.