James "Jim" Richard Pyle

Jim was born in St. Joseph, MO on July 2, 1940 to Richard and Dorothy Pyle. Jim spent the majority of his career in transportation operations and retired from YRC. Throughout much of his life he also refereed youth and high school sports, a labor of love that brought him many friendships throughout the entire Kansas City metro community.

Jim was a devout Catholic and lifelong fan of the Chiefs, Royals, and MU Tigers. Jim always had a smile and was quick to point out the positive in any situation. Friends and family came to count on him saying “every day is a good day, some are just better than others.” He was a sports enthusiast who loved to golf with his friends and family, until his body would no longer cooperate. He was a great story teller, and with a cigar and bourbon in hand could “hold court” for hours. Most of all Jim loved being surrounded by, and doting over, his family. We know he will be always with us as we strive to carry on in the example he set.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Carol; children, Mark (Lynette), Allyson DenBeste (Terry); Sean (Stefanie) and Amy Matlins (Alex). He is also survived by ten grandchildren and one great-grandchild; sister, Peggy Carter (Bill); brothers, Pat, Jerry (Jan), and Dennis; brother-in-law Richard Hudson(Sue) and sisters-in-law Bonnie Gunckel (Jerry), Linda McNamara (Pat) and Patricia Bradbury, ; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 10:00am on Thursday, May 19th, with Visitation beginning at 9:00am in Church of the Ascension, 9510 W 127th St, Overland Park, KS 66213. Inurnment will follow at a later date in Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bishop Sullivan Center www.bishopsullivan.org.