James Henry Rethman, 84, of Corning passed away on Saturday morning, October 22, 2022, at the Community Hospital in Onaga, Kansas.

Jim was born on July 4, 1938, on a farm three miles north of Corning, to Henry “Hank” and Elda Malloy Rethman. Jim attended Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic School in Seneca.

Jim’s love for cars began at an early age. Jim was employed by Mealy’s Hy-Klas for a short time, before working for Gleason Chevrolet in Seneca, where his father also worked as a mechanic.

On November 9, 1957, Jim married Theresa Hochard at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Coal Creek, the couple was just short of celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary. To provide for his young bride, Jim worked for Seneca Wholesale. In 1960, the couple moved to Topeka, and Jim found employment at Van T Chevrolet working autobody repair. In 1965, Jim and Theresa moved back to Corning where he bought a building and opened Jim’s Body Shop. He was proud of the business and ran it until his health wouldn’t let him continue the passion, repairing cars, trucks and doing framework. In 1969, Jim and Theresa continued to become part of the fabric of the Corning community, opening and running Terri’s Bar until they sold it in 1996. Jim and Theresa waited nearly 18 years before welcoming their daughter Nicole Ann Rethman on June 26, 1975.

Jim had a love for working with his hands, whether it was repairing automobiles or making things for his home. He had interests in NASCAR, a good card game and playing softball. Jim did not start playing slow-pitch softball until his 30’s when he started his own teams. He had a special love for music and could be found dancing around; and he enjoyed cheering for K-State, the Royals, and the Chiefs. He loved being a grandfather and seldom missed one of his grandkid’s events.

He was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Corning. He also served on the Corning City Council and was a volunteer fireman.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry on April 18, 1988, and Elda on September 25, 1991.

Jim is survived by his wife Theresa of Corning; a daughter, Nicole (Josh) Bowers of Corning; grandchildren, Peyton, Parker (Collin) Holthaus, Presly and Paxton; a sister, Joan (Ed) Sheley of Corning and a brother, Terry (Elaine) Rethman of Corning.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 PM on Tuesday, October 25, 2022, at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Corning.  

Memorials may be given in Jim’s memory to the Corning Ball Association and sent in care of the family.

To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .