James "Jim" Lawrence Gilmore of Highland, KS, was born September 28, 1934 in Knobtown, MO to Lawrence James and Mary Balke Gilmore. He died January 19, 2014 at Heartland Hospital in St. Joseph, MO.

Jim worked various jobs to support his family. Among his favorite jobs were City Superintendent for the City of Highland, working for Tom Miller's John Deere Dealership in Highland, and Dugdales Packing Plant in St. Joseph, MO. Jim was well-known for his contagious smile and his large stature.

His proudest achievement, next to his family, was as First Sgt. in the Service Battery, 2nd Battalion 130th Field Artillery. He served two separate terms with the Kansas National Guard, the first for 9 years and his second term was for 15 years. He was awarded a Meritorious Service Medal in 1994. His favorite pastime was fishing with the Cluck and Whetstine families and friends at Katmandu on the Missouri River. He was also known for his deer processing, catering service and volunteer service. Jim was a founding member of the Highland EMT for which he served as a volunteer many years, and also served as District Fire Chief. He was a member of the American Legion; the Highland Lions Club; and the Highland Christian Church.

Survivors include his wife, Helen, sons Brad (Becky) of Highland, Mark (Rhonda) of Olathe, KS and Michael of Highland, and son-in-law, James Santos, of Denver, CO. Grandchildren: Ben, Andrew, Maggie, Dustin, Haley, Molly, and Austin Gilmore, David and Brianna Santos; a great grandson Brody Santos; and a sister, Sue Gilmore of Overland Park, KS.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter, Lisa Santos in 2009.

A Celebration of Jim’s life is planned for 2:30 Tuesday afternoon, January 21, at the Highland United Methodist-Presbyterian Church of Highland, with Pastor Jerry Petering officiating. Interment will be at the Highland Cemetery, with military honors a courtesy of 2 BN, 130 FA, KARNG.

Friends may call at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland after 12 noon Monday. The family will receive friends at the Church from 1 until 2:30 Tuesday just prior to services.

Memorials are suggested to the Highland EMT Association or the Doniphan West High School Foundation, which may be sent in care of funeral home, PO Box 33, Highland 66035. A special message may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com