James Walter "Jim" Karber

James "Jim" Walter Karber, 94, of Booneville, Arkansas, passed from this life on February 8, 2026, in Booneville, Arkansas. He was born April 7, 1931, in Pixley, California, the third child of Henry Walter and Elizabeth Susan (Nuefeld) Karber.

The family moved to Reedley, California on a fruit farm. As a 5-year-old Jim lived with his grandmother whom he adored, learning German and Low German. He continued his love of languages. During World War II they raised hogs, chickens, potatoes, and fruit for the US Army. Jim Graduated from Emmanuel High School and went to Reedley College. He moved to Texas and was drafted during the Korean War. He spent his service as "keepers of the Gate" with very large guns to defend the west coast. He returned to San Joaquin and built his first shop fixing cars and farm equipment. His home burned and he moved to Fresno, California where he met and married his wife Janet Gard. He worked at Fresno Speed Center and built race cars and boats. Later They moved to San Jose, California and he worked at an auto dealership and had Karber Automotive. There two sons, were born in San Jose, California. They moved to Lower Lake, California with more car repairs and some construction and their sons graduated from college. In 1995 they moved to Booneville, Arkansas, built a new shop and restored old cars. Jim was always active in church singing, leading choirs, teaching Sunday School, and was a student of the Bible.

Jim and Jan traveled a lot visiting 37 states and 22 countries. They especially enjoyed river cruises in Europe, meeting people from around the world. He lived a busy active life working hard and helping people. The last year or so was difficult, but he tried to keep going and continuing to serve God.

He is preceded in death by his parents, 3 sisters, Madelyn Thiesen, Helen Collins, and Frances Schroeder; 1 brother, Clarence Karber.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Janet of the home; 2 sons, Matthew Karber of San Tan Valley, California and Andy Karber and wife Yuchuan of Highland Park, Illinois; 6 nieces and 3 nephews; other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be at 2:00 P.M., Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the United Methodist Church in Magazine, Arkansas, under the direction of Roberts Funeral Home.