James Henry Hess

It is with great sadness that the Hess family announces the passing of their beloved James Henry Hess on February 3, 2017. Jamie passed away from complications after treatment for a heart condition. He was a devoted and loving father, grandfather, and brother.

Jamie was born in Fort Riley, Kansas on February 12, 1955. The family later settled in Kansas City, Missouri. Jamie attended Rockhurst High School, graduating in 1973. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving from 1973 to 1975 in Okinawa. Pursuing a similar passion for justice and fairness in the law as his father, Jamie graduated from the University of Missouri at Kansas City with a bachelor’s degree in Administration of Justice. His career as an Investigator in the law field spanned some 35 years with private law firms and in public service with the Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney’s office. Since 2001, he worked for the Accurso Law Firm in Kansas City.

Jamie had many passions. He was an Eagle Scout, and remained a supporter of Scouting. He had an enduring commitment to veterans’ causes, and supported and was involved in various local veterans’ activities. Jamie was accomplished in martial arts, notably karate and taekwondo. He also taught karate for many years. He was a steadfast Royals and Chiefs fan. Jamie was a great story-teller and loved doing impersonations. He loved spending time in the Ozarks at Table Rock Lake. He treasured deep friendships, and was intensely loyal and supportive of his friends. Above all, he was devoted wholeheartedly to his family, and spent as much time as possible with family, and especially his grandchildren.

Jamie is survived by his partner, Ms. Donna Young, his son Alexander and his wife Katie, and his grandchildren John and Judith. Jamie was the fifth child of Frederick W. Hess and Helen Bradford Hess, both of whom predeceased him. His brother Frederick W. Hess, Jr. and sister Anne Hildegarde Hess, also predeceased him. He is survived by his other siblings Bahar Hess, Helen Hess Negretti, John Hess, Peter Hess and Robert Hess.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the James Hess Memorial Fund in care of Paula Harr at United Missouri Bank (1310 Carondelet Drive, Suite 400, Kansas City, MO 64114).