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James Fender Obituary
In his career, Jim wore many hats, starting as a Graduate Assistant and later becoming a sports color analyst, owner of the Mad Hatter and Turf Masters, sports agent, insurance broker, oil purchaser, and fundraiser. His greatest enjoyment in life was supporting and coaching his sons in their athletic endeavors. He also had a strong connection to Lawrence High School and University of Kansas Athletics.
Jim is survived by his sons Ryan and Jason, as well as his grandchildren Kiana, Kannon, Kalea, and Harlan. He was preceded in death by his father Allen, mother Mildred, brother Allen, and sister Patricia.
A memorial service to honor Jim's life will be arranged at a later date. Contributions in his memory can be made to Lawrence High School Athletics and University of Kansas Athletics.
Rest in peace, Jimbo.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Fender
Britt Hammond
December 18, 2024
in 1985 I was working as a bartender at the Lawrence CC. I enrolled into the Marlboro Country Talent contest in Overland Park in the early spring of that year. From that event I had an independent label wanting me to go to Nashville and produce a 45- a vinyl record. They paid a portion and I had the raise the balance. Jim heard about it and decided to help me raise the balance. When we did - he accompanied me to Nashville and was present the entire time. It was released later on that year (1985) on 150 radio stations throughout the Midwest and southern parts of the US. I put a band together and Jim helped me book a few shows in the western part of Kansas and in Lawrence. Now, if I were a blues or a rock band, you would have a lot more luck in gaining some traction, but a country band? If I were in Manhattan, a country band would have been a better fit. Nevertheless, Jim said, "I like those odds". "You'll just have to work harder".
I was committed and so was Jim. He helped me launch my career.
Some 37 years later I connected with Jim in Lawrence in December of 2022. He took me to a KU Basketball game. I had come across that 45 he helped me with and signed and gave him a copy. He grinned from ear to ear.
I had moved back to Texas in 96 and performed for the next 25 years. I owe a lot to Jim for believing in my dream. Spending time with him in December was so memorable and enjoyable. I'll never forget his kindness, funny personality along with his love for the Jayhawks. What an amazing gentlemen. I went on to record a full 10 song album in 1997 of originals and dedicated part of my success to his belief in my vision back in 1985. Rest in Peace brother. I'll see you again.
Jennifer Woodall
July 17, 2024
I just heard about this. I used to babysit Ryan and Jason when I went to KU. Jim was a great guy! So sorry to hear of his passing.
Randall Kilian
June 25, 2024
I played little league baseball and high school football with Jim. He was always a good athlete. Enjoyed his play at KU v Oklahoma upset. He was always a friend. Great conversationalist. RIP
Doris Ricks
March 16, 2024
My condolences and prayers go out to the family. Jim was kind and always had a great spirit. RIP my friend.
Scott Gyllenborg
March 15, 2024
I met Jim in 1977-78 when I was one of his roommates at his house on Woodgate Place. He had hundreds of friends in Lawrence, and it seemed like all of them were at the house on weekend nights after The Hatter closed. Jim and Allen were a kick to be around, starting new businesses and having a ball. Three years ago, I reconnected with Jim over University of Wyoming football, where Jason played, and our son plays. I met Ryan once in Kansas City years ago and Jason once in Honolulu last season at the Cowboys' game; I saw in each of them the same handsome, gregarious, passionate person I remember Jim to have been. Must be a Fender thing. Rest in peace, Jim.
Marcia Smith
March 15, 2024
Jim was a fun neighbor. My condolences to his sons.
Sharon Eck
March 15, 2024
I love you Jimmie! You were truly a Forrest Gump. Thanks for the memories! We still talk about you and our adventures! Please save us a seat in Heaven. I'm sure you and God are best friends by now and the angels are laughing so hard they have to wipe their tears with their wings.
Britt Hammond
March 14, 2024
I truly appreciate the willingness he had and support he displayed in supporting my music. He had such an original approach to almost any situation that seemed to be a challenge. Thank you for being so supportive. See you again one day my brother
Dan Affalter II
March 14, 2024
You will be missed sir! It was always a pleasure chatting with you!
Gary Laster
March 14, 2024
Enjoyed football practice with you my brother. Remembering the special plane ride with you to Chicago. It was on one of your sports agent's trips. Rest in peace, Jim!
Deb
March 14, 2024
Jim was a social individual, always ensuring there was never a dull moment.
Great description of who Jim was. When he was living in Russell over the last 10 years or so, I'd see him at the annual BBQ contest weekend. It was fun seeing him. I last saw him in January and I'm very happy now that I did. RIP.
Linda Williams
March 14, 2024
Ryan and Jason have my deepest sympathies in the loss of their father. He was a good neighbor and dedicated father to his boys. May he rest in peace.
greg boxberger
March 14, 2024
When I received the sad news about Jim passing, my mind was flooded with memories of growing up with him, I had no closer friend. And yet, through the sadness, i cant help but smile at our many escapades, what a blessing! Rest in Peace Jimmy.
Lucynda (Cyndy) Raben
March 13, 2024
I didn´t ever know a time without you. You and my brother Tony always made life in Russell fun. Look him up in heaven and send us an ornery wink What a great community citizen, and absolutely wonderful and lengthy career as a solid Jayhawk ambassador you had.
Mick Allen
March 13, 2024
I had many good times with the "prince".
Johnny "Moon" Hageman
March 13, 2024
Jim was a Brother in the Bond, liked by all who met him, great athlete and life of the party. Always positive and will be missed. Peace, comfort and prayers for his family.
gary bedo
March 13, 2024
I saw Jim at an NIL event last summer and got to visit with him for about an hour. Great guy, full of amazing stories about KU athletics. Bill Self mentioned Jim and spoke of him fondly on Monday's Hawk Talk radio show. Jim used to work with myself and other Journal-World writers closely when he was Willie Pless' agent, making sure we had contact with Willie and up to date info. Very nice man will tons of friends in Lawrence. I didn't know him well but enjoyed any interaction with him. Rest in peace Mr. Fender. U will be missed.
Lisa Ritchie
March 13, 2024
My summer working with "Fender" at Cassems Men Clothing store in Lawrence was a blast! We got to be good friends that summer - many many fond memories -so thankful Scott and I ran into him at J Wilsons this winter - we had a great visit......praying for his family as he will be missed for sure.........Lisa Cave Ritchie
Stevan
March 13, 2024
My neighbor as a kid growing up in Russell, Kansas. There was always a football or basketball in the air at his home. He took me under his wing as a freshman in high school when we competed together on the golf team at Russell High. He was always the first person to support our football team as an alumni. Later in life, we became closer friends based upon our mutual love of basketball. It was always easy to see that he was a man who loved mixing with people. I will have lasting good memories of Jim and his life touched many and inspired many. Rest in peace my friend.
Scott Fulhage
March 13, 2024
I have so many. Dinners, negotiations, workouts, get togethers, ballgames overnights, most importantly friendship with a individual that always took the time to visit and ask how I was doing and what was going on. RIP Jim, you will be missed. Thanks for all the things you did.
Sean Williams
March 13, 2024
I knew Jim was a KU Quarterback and enjoyed him at the Mad Hatter. He was a rabble rouser and sports enthusiast and super fan. As an LHS graduate and proud Chesty Lion, with 3 daughters as Free State Firebirds, he was always good for some funny razzing at cross town rivalry games. He was very gracious in including folks in his tailgating and inviting them to rally with the boosters. He was a good fit for recruiting and fundraising as his personable and lively attitude was contagious. There won't be anyone exactly like him, but we wish there could be.
Bill french
March 12, 2024
Great friend and great fraternity brother! Will miss Jimmy Fender. !!
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