James “Jim” Allen Springer, 89, Lawrence, passed away on August 12, 2024 at Wellsville Retirement Community. He was born to parents Clarris and Florence (Anderson) Springer on Nov. 18, 1934. He married the love of his life Beverly Elaine Alexander on Oct.6, 1957, she preceded him in death in 2012. Jim was a very easy-going, pleasant man who did not know a stranger and was willing to help anyone if he had the ability to do so. He was a lover of music and enjoyed “kicking up his heels” when he felt the inspiration to do so. That love of music earned him lots of attention and prestige at Wellsville Retirement Community when they brought musicians in to entertain their residents. Jim added to their entertainment by dancing to and trying to conduct their music. There are many videos of him doing just that on their Facebook page.
Jim was a lifelong farmer and cattleman and spent many years working at the Lawrence Sale Barn. He was involved in the Douglas County 4H Fair for many years, mainly working in the auctions and livestock events. He went to work for W.A. Dunbar as a temporary supervisor, which turned into a career. He was an avid gardener and grew many different vegetables and melons, of which, he gave away to friends and family. He owned and operated Riverview Farms with his son, Jimmy, for many years. They eventually began a produce stand to sell the produce they grew.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents and wife of 54 years. His sister and brother-in-law, Mary Lou (Springer) and Mack Gough and their son, Kirk Gough. Brother Eugene “Gene” Springer. Grandson James Alexander Springer Jr. Brother in law Francis Alexander. Niece Rhonda Alexander Busch. Nephew Larry Alexander.
He is survived by sons James “Jimmy” Alexander Springer and wife Julie, Greg Springer and wife Sam, all of Lawrence. Sister-in-law Betty Alexander and nephew Duane Alexander, of Lawrence. Granddaughters: Lynly Evans and husband Gary, Colorado Springs, Colorado. Morgan Hoss and husband Jason, Lawrence. Taylor Hull and husband Bryan, Ottawa. Great grandchildren: Danica and Daxton Craig, Addisyn, Jory and Jhett Hoss, and Lauryn Hull.
Jim and his family would like to give a special thank you to all of the incredible people at Wellsville Retirement Community, where he spent the last year and a half, we couldn’t have asked for a better place for him to live when he could no longer stay at his own home.
Donations in lieu of flowers to: Douglas County 4-H Foundation, Wellsville Retirement Community or Phoenix Home Health and Hospice.
Graveside services will be Monday Aug. 19, 2024 at 10:00 at Memorial Park Cemetery. No visitation is planned though he will “lie in state” at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home Saturday Aug. 17, 2024 5pm to 8pm and all day Sunday Aug. 18, 2024.
Jimmy and Family:
So sorry to hear about Jim’s passing. He truly was a great guy and community icon. He will be deeply missed
Jimmy and Greg so sorry to hear this. I have many fond memories of spending time at your house and in our neighborhood growing up. Your Dad was a one of a kind for sure ! R.I.P. old friend. You will be missed by many…
Jimmy and Greg so sorry to hear this. I have many fond memories of spending time at your house and in our neighborhood growing up. Your dad was a one of a kind for sure 1 R.I.P. old friend. You will be missed by many…
Jimmy,Julie and Taylor… I was so sorry to hear of bp’s passing. He was a great man and you were lucky to have him for so long. My sincere condolences. Teresa Schimmel and girls.
Big Jim was a hell of a fine fella . The type you enjoyed being around . The Kaw bottoms won’t be the same without him . He was a good neighbor. Condolences to family. End of an Era .
Greg,Jimmy and family…I’m so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. The entire Springer family was a big help to me when I began my education career in Lawrence. I was blessed to know them. Jim was a good man and could do many things. He will be missed dearly by those who knew him. He’s in a far better place. May he rest in peace.
Jimmy Julie and Taylor- so sorry to hear about BP – he was a crack up- so sorry for the loss
The days of parents passing is one of memories, mindful images, and sounds. So many cataloged! So many maybe forgotten now found! Shared and personal. May the Springer family know they are embraced by friends and family in this moment of Jim’s passing and the celebration of his life.
Our deepest sympathies to the Springer family. Jim will be missed by many.
Very sorry that Big Jim is gone. He was one of the good ones and we will miss him.😢🙏
Greg, Sam and family-
I always enjoyed you telling me about your dad. I got to work with Bev. You had wonderful parents! Thinking of you.
Sorry for your loss Ron and I really enjoyed Jimmy as a friend
Jimmy and Greg, I am sorry to hear of your loss. I told my dad Dean of Jim’s passing. With Dean’s dementia, he remembered Jim well.
Greg – my sincere sympathy in the passing of your Father. I knew Bev well and had little Jimmy at Centennial Elementary School. May the memories and love of your relationship bring you comfort and surround you during this difficult time. Rest in peace!
I am so very sorry for your loss!
Greg Sam, so sorry to hear of your loss. Thoughts and prayers for you and your family.
We were so sorry to hear about Big Jim. The old-time Riverside/Lakeview family continues to get smaller and that is a loss for everyone. We will keep you in our hearts.
So sorry for Jim’s passing, was one of the best bosses and friend we all had at Dunbar, he will be missed.
Greg sorry for your loss.
Jimmy, Greg and families, I’m so sorry for your loss! Sending prayers for comfort.
To the Springer family, was saddened to read about Big Jim. What a great guy. In rural life I would call him a good old boy. I will always remember him at the Lawrence Sale Barn. Can see him yet sticking his hand through the fence, and shaking them fingers, to try to catch a bid. Douglas County has lost a true friend, and a real deal. Thoughts and prayers to you all.
Doug and I loved your father. He is going to be missed.
Jimmy and Greg. So sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. Sending my love to you and your families! Cherish all your memories! Hugs and love both of you!
Jimmy and Family – Your dad was one-of-a-kind! Thoughts and prayers to you all at this sad time.
My deepest sympathies.
Carol Leffler