John P. St. John Memorial High School
Class of 1948

(March 17, 1930 —           )

James was part of the 1948 medley relay state championship team, which was honored in 2010 at the “100 Years of Kansas High School Track and Field Championships”. After serving in the Marines for several years, and an additional 21 years in the Marine Corps Reserves stationed at the Olathe Naval Air Station, he retired as a master gunnery sergeant. Carpentry and cabinet-making was his career, working both independently and for Quality Wood Products. He helped Ivan Wicke and Hazel Hendrix organize many all-school reunions, and served chuck wagon dinners to hundreds of people. “He’s been a faithful friend to fellow alumni for more than 60 years and he’s always been an advocate for keeping the memories of special times at Olathe High School alive,” said his daughter, Susan Wolfe.