James Dewey Haas

James Dewey Haas, known as Jim, a storyteller, fixer of everything, master jokester, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, passed away on June 12, 2025. Born in Peoria, IL, on February 26, 1933, to Otto J. Haas and Lucille McGee Haas, he grew up in East St. Louis, IL with his siblings, Eugene, Mary Jane, and Diana. He served as Master Sergeant in the US Army during the Korean War. After his service, Jim worked for the B&O Railroad for 45 years, starting as a Dispatch Clerk in East St. Louis and advancing to Account Executive, which led to moves to Houston, TX and later to Baton Rouge, LA. In 1955, he married Yvonne Runnalls Haas, raising five children together: Vicki, Leann, Doug, Keith, and Tim.

Jim’s hobbies included bowling, golf, and fishing. A lifelong baseball enthusiast and avid Astros fan, he also coached his three sons’ Little League teams. In retirement, Jim found joy in gardening, participating in church activities, and discovering a passion for painting.

In 2011, Jim and Yvonne returned to the Houston area to be closer to their family, cherishing time with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They moved to Buckner Parkway Place Senior Living Community in early 2020, where Jim continued to paint and actively participated in community activities such as Bingo and the monthly men’s group meetings.

Jim was predeceased by his loving parents, Otto Haas and Lucille McGee Haas Roberts, his dear brother Eugene Haas, and his beloved sister Mary Jane Haas Davies. Jim is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Yvonne Haas. Cherished memories also live on with his children: Vicki Merwin (Rodney), Leann Haas, Doug Haas, Keith Haas (Laura), and Tim Haas (Zhenya). His grandchildren who brought him endless joy are Jenny Todd (Matt), Kate Madden (Frank), Yvonne Mattamal (Robert), Renee Callens, Rion Ridley, Marlie Wuntch (Brandon), Corey Haas, Ethan Haas, Jason Haas, Jake Haas, and Sasha Haas. Jim's legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Collin Todd, Ethan Todd, Merritt Callens, Luke Todd, Tilly Madden, Lainey Wuntch, and Emma Madden. He will also be deeply missed by his sister, Diana Myers of Indiana, sister-in-law, Sharon Wise of Illinois, brother-in-law, Tim Runnalls and wife Linda Runnalls, of Missouri, and many dear nieces and nephews who cherished his guidance and warmth.

The family thanks the Parkway Place staff, Home Instead (Audrey), Highland Hospice (Paula G, Paula R, Lanre, and Jess), and Dr. Tonya Maxwell for their care over the past few years.

Jim’s Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday, June 23, 2025, at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77079. Visitation will start at 9 AM, followed by the service 10 AM, and reception at 11 AM. A private family burial will take place later that day.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society or the charity of your choice.