James N. Hackett

James N. Hackett, loving patriarch and consummate friend, died on August 29, 2011 after an abbreviated, but courageous fight with cancer. A gentle, but determined man, he faced his final battle in this life with the same calm composure and positive attitude with which he treated all adversity.

He was born on August 27, 1923 in Mt. Leonard, MO to the late Jodie and Lena Hackett. He celebrated his 88th birthday on Saturday in the company of his immediate family who rejoiced in his life that was forever devoted to the needs of relatives and friends.

Jim was proud of his service to his country having served in WWII in the Pacific Theatre achieving the rank of Sargent in the Army. A cabinet maker by trade, he later used his knowledge in the employ of Pacific Mutual Door where he sold millwork to area custom builders until retiring in 1988.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Maddalena Montesano, whom he married in Falmouth, MA on August 19, 1943; his two sons Ron and Steve along with their wives Diane and Lynn; grandchildren Jennifer, Gina, Brad, Betsy and Brianne; and great grandchildren Dillion, Cayden, Chloe, Cassidy and Alysa. In addition, to his parents, he was preceded in death by his four brothers and three sisters.

A 10:00 am visitation will be held at McGilley Antioch Chapel on Thursday, September 1, 2011 followed by the funeral service at 11:00 am; burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Kansas City, MO. A reception in his honor will take place at 1:30 pm Thursday at Riverstone Suites. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Northland Hospice Care at North Kansas City Hospital. (www.mcgilleyantiochchapel.com)