James W. Dole

Dole, James W. (Jim) passed away at the age of 101 on September 20, 2014. James was the son of Wesley and Elsie (Quinn) Dole. He graduated from Geuda Springs, Kansas High School where he was a member of the men’s basketball team. He also graduated from Southwestern College, Winfield, Kansas, and Vanderbilt Peabody College. He had a Master’s Degree in Education. James taught school forty-four years in several schools around Arkansas City, Kansas and completed his illustrious career in Wichita. He taught many children life values as well as the prescribed curriculum. He was a member of the President’s council on Physical Fitness, and actively encouraged students to be fit for life’s challenges. He has been recognized by Southwester College for his educational achievements, and is a member of its Educators’ Hall of Fame. A center on the campus for developing teachers has been named for him and his wife, Hazel. He also created a scholarship there for deserving students. He was active in church work, and taught Sunday school classes many years at Asbury United Methodist Church, where he was an active member. James was an active member of the Wichita Lions’ Club, participating in and promoting that organization’s causes. Other personal interests include fishing, hunting, guns, music, travel, photography, and horticulture. James loved being outdoors and had a green thumb. He always had a flower and vegetable garden at the house, and was a master gardener. After his retirement from teaching, he spent a lot of time and energy as a Founding Member of Botanica helping to plan, organize, plant and care for the beautiful gardens there. He was an active member of the Wichita Rose Society and participated in their shows for years. In addition to his parents, his wife, Hazel, and his brother, Harold, preceded him in death. His family and friends will miss him. Funeral services are 10:00 am Friday, Sept. 26 at Asbury United Methodist Church under the direction of Resthaven Mortuary.