James Thomas Herken Jr.
October 14, 1938 – August 18, 2025
James Thomas Herken Jr., 86, of Easton, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on October 14, 1938, at the family homestead in Easton, KS, James ("Jim") was the son of James Thomas Herken and Agnes Martha (Schmidt) Herken and one of eight children. He grew up in Easton and graduated from Easton High School in 1957.
Jim proudly served in the United States Army from 1960 to 1964, including a tour in Germany. Upon returning home, he married the love of his life, Virginia Wilbourn, on February 17, 1962. Following his military service, Jim worked for the Easton School District as a maintenance
supervisor. He later built a long and dedicated career with the Kansas City Southern Railroad. Active in his community, Jim served as both a city councilman and mayor for the City of Easton and was a member of the Easton Township Board. He was also a faithful member of both the
Potter Community Church and St. Lawrence Parish.
Jim is survived by his two children, Margie Kirby (Kerry) of San Antonio, TX and James T. Herken III (Kelly) of Easton, KS; five grandchildren, Justin Nelson (Kelly), Evan Herken (Adina), Jordan Nelson (Courtney), Kelsey Burdiek (Bryce), and Madison Hightower (James); and twelve
great-grandchildren.
Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Virginia; his parents, James and Agnes Herken; his siblings, Joseph Francis Herken, Bernadette Agnes Chmidling, Kenneth Leon Herken, Thomas Joseph Herken, Helen Theresa Rowland, Mary Louis Gwartney; and Richard Franklin "Bubba" Herken,  his son-in-law, Kent Nelson; and his great-grandson, Drake Herken.
Known as "Pop", Jim had a deep love for his family and found great joy in teaching his grandchildren how to fish—a tradition that continues to this day. A devoted fan of Kansas sports, he rarely missed a game from his beloved Kansas Jayhawks, Kansas City Chiefs, or Kansas City Royals.
Jim will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his community spirit, and the quiet strength he brought to every aspect of his life.
Visitation will be held at Davis Funeral Chapel on Saturday, August 23, 2025 from 10am-11am, with funeral services beginning at 11am. Burial will be held at Round Prairie Cemetery.
Please honor Jim by wearing your favorite KU attire to services.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Potter Community Church