James Emery Atherton

James was born on October 29, 1939, in Carrollton, Missouri to Emery and Opal (Godsey) Atherton. James was the youngest of two brothers, Ronald Godsey Atherton, and Carol Lee Atherton (Rozella).

James served in the US Navy. James served as a Fireman. He was stationed in Kodiak, Alaska, Long Beach, Japan, California and on the USS Princeton (LPG-5). He was honorably discharged in 1960. James was awarded a good Conduct Medal.

James married Carol Darlene (Wood) on May 13, 1974. They resided in Kansas City until Carol’s passing last year. They enjoyed going to their lake home, hunting on their farm, and collecting many things at auctions.

James worked as a body and fender machinist for Bill Sights. James could always be found tinkering in the garage working on a car. He worked for Lake City ammunition plant.

James had a true passion for fishing, boating, hunting, attending auctions and acquiring lots of things. His favorite time was spending it on the shore of Taneycomo, having coffee and a fishing pole in hand with his wife! James enjoyed woodworking where he taught himself to make all kinds of things for his wife and grandkids.

James is proceeded in death by his wife Carol Darlene. Sons, Kevin D. Atherton, James E. Atherton II, his daughter, his Stepson, David Friend. His grandson, Steve Friend, and great-grandson, Myland Hansen.

James is survived by his stepchildren, Doug Friend, Denise Coyazo (John), and Dianne Friend-Adams. His grandchildren Nick Coyazo (Korie), Amy Coyazo, Chrystal Sherwood (Bill), Elizabeth Friend, Tyler Atherton, Samantha Atherton, and Colin Adams. His Great grandchildren, Hallie Coyazo, Daisy Coyazo, Sophia Coyazo, Mackenzie Hansen, JR Hansen, Jakob Hansen, Serenity Lee and Felix Dean, including Niece Marcia and Nephew Steve along with many other friends and family who will miss him deeply.

We are grateful for the team VA Home based healthcare team and also Ignite of Blue Springs that provided the best care.

Graveside services will be at Leavenworth National Cemetery on June 24, 2024 at 9am.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

https://www.vlm.cem.va.gov/JAMESEMERYATHERTON/a6c39e