James William Hamm, Jr. peacefully passed away Friday, October 16, 2020 at Olathe Hospice House.

Jim was born April 25, 1943 in Hannibal, Missouri to James and Irene Hamm. He graduated from Raytown High School and went on to serve in the United State Air Force from 1961-1965. During his time in the Air Force, he developed his love for aviation. He traded working on a farm for pilot lessons. He later obtained an A&P Mechanic License with a IA (inspection authorization) as well as a commercial pilot's license.

Jim worked as an Air Traffic Controller from 1970- 1996. After retiring from the FAA, he went to work as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Oklahoma where he became a diehard Sooner fan. Jim retired from OU spring of 2020.

He loved traveling with Darlene, Corvettes, and the outdoors (hunting, fishing, shooting, and golf). He lived a full and active life.

In 2013, Jim was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. In 2015 he was given a second chance in life with a double lung transplant. Jim and his family will be forever grateful to the donor.

Jim is survived by his wife of 59 years Darlene Hamm, his son Troy (Christi) Hamm, daughter Tracy (Nic) Cook, 4 grandchildren: Travis (Saige) Hamm, Carly Hamm, Jake (Jewell) Hamm, and Miranda Cook, and 2 great-grandchildren Cayson and Logan.

Jim made the world a better place and will be missed by many. Due to COVID the family will be having a private graveside service at Leavenworth National Cemetery. Feel free to raise a glass to honor a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Larry Hamm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Donate Life America or Olathe Hospice House.

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