IN MEMORIAM

EXPANDED EULOGIES

James L. Socolofsky

James L. Socolofsky, 82, Marion, passed away Thursday at St. Luke Hospital.

James’ life began July 28, 1937, in Ramona. He is the son of Clarence and Velma (Meyer) Socolofsky.

James was a graduate of Kansas State University with an engineering degree and earned his master’s degree in reliable engineering while serving in the United States Air Force. James retired as a Lt. Colonel after 20 years of service to our country.

In his retirement, James was the shop foreman for Marion County, and worked at Mack Welling Lumber in Marion and as a local handyman. He was an avid woodworker and made several pieces of furniture for family.

James enjoyed reading and even writing, as he authored training manuals for the Air Force. James was a member of the Strassburg Baptist Church.

His greatest joy was his family, which includes his wife of nearly 59 years Karen Socolofsky of Marion; daughters Denise (Mike Martinez) Spivey of Valley Center and Debbie (Carl) Abbott of Thompson, Missouri; grandchildren Carly Willeford, Kaylee Abbott, Andrew Spivey, and Rebecca Spivey; brother Harold (Pat) Socolofsky of College Station, Texas; and sister-in-law Pat Socolofsky of Colorado Springs; and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and brother Lowell Socolofsky.

James’ family gathered with friends 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Marion Cemetery for his graveside memorial service, led by Pastor Don Mashburn of the Strassburg Baptist Church.

Yazel-Megli-Zeiner Funeral Home is serving the family.

Memorial contributions in can be directed to the Strassburg Baptist Church. Guests can sign his online guestbook and leave a memory of James at www.ymzfh.com