James "Jim" Andrew Pippin, 87, of Coffeyville, passed away on Sunday, August 11, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family.
He was born on October 6, 1936, in rural Miami, Oklahoma to Ira and Julia (Lester) Pippin. Jim grew up in rural Welch, Oklahoma where he attended rural schools, he completed his education at Chetopa High School in Chetopa, Kansas graduating in 1955.
A veteran of the U.S. Army, Jim served his country from October 1955 until receiving his honorable discharge in August 1957.
On December 19, 1955, he married Mary Frances Biggs. Following Jim's discharge from the Army they made their home in Coffeyville where they raised their three children Julie, Tony and John. Mary preceded him in death on September 28, 2001.
Jim married Velma (Ferguson) Rittenhouse on February 14, 2004. Following their marriage, they made their home in rural Coffeyville.
Jim spent his life dedicated to his family and work, creating a legacy that will be remembered by all who knew him. Jim was a proud resident of Coffeyville, Kansas, where he cherished his time spent gardening, raising cattle, and enjoying the peaceful countryside. After retiring from a successful career in the metal fabrication industry, he spent his time nurturing his interests and spending quality time with his family.
Jim began his professional life in the grocery business, where his charisma, dedication, and hard work led him to a managerial position at Foodtown and worked at Kwik-Stop. He also served as a salesman for Keebler Cookies, bringing joy and sweetness to those he encountered. He later transitioned to the metal fabrication industry, working at Jencast and later at Jensen International until his retirement. After retiring, he continued to contribute to his community by working at IBT in Coffeyville. No matter his role, Jim was known for his commitment to excellence and his unwavering integrity.
Jim is survived by his wife, Velma Pippin, his sons Tony (Pam) Pippin and John Pippin, and his step-sons Calvin (Nancy) Rittenhouse and Terry (Karen) Rittenhouse, 15 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ira and Julia Pippin, his wife, Mary Pippin, his daughter, Julia Countryman, his grandson, Dale Hannah, and his step-daughter, Valerie Clark.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at David W. Barnes Funeral Home, 306 North Cline Road, Coffeyville, Kansas.
A funeral service celebrating Jim' life will take place on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Central Church of the Nazarene, 1501 West 9th Street, Coffeyville, Kansas, with Pastor Ford Hall and Pastor David Warren officiating. Burial will follow in Robbins Cemetery west of Coffeyville with Military Honors conducted by V.F.W. Post #1022 and American Legion Post #20.
The family suggests memorials in Jim's honor to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; contributions may be left with or mailed in care off David W. Barnes Funeral Home, 306 North Cline Road, Coffeyville, KS 67337.
We encourage you to share your fondest memories and photos of Jim on his memorial page at www.dwbfh.com.
David W. Barnes Funeral Home of Coffeyville is in charge of arrangements.
