James V. "Skip" Showalter

"Skip" James V. Showalter, 80, of Erie, passed away at 4:47 A.M., Friday, November 14, 2025 at his home. He has been in failing health for approximately a year.
He was born October 4, 1945 at Erie, a son of Lawrence and Johnyce Ellen (Robinson) Showalter. He grew up at Erie and attended Erie schools, graduating from the Erie High School in 1963. He was drafted into the United States Army on November 24, 1965 and served in the Vietnam Conflict. He was part of the Fourth Infantry Division and was assigned to the Artillery Unit. He was discharged in November 22, 1967 and returned to Erie and attended the Neosho County Community College for two years under the G.I. Bill.. He was a carpenter by trade and was employed at Princess Homes at Parsons and later worked many years at Advanced Systems Homes at Chanute.
He was united in marriage to Janice Purdy on November 23, 1968 at her parents' home at Erie, where their life journey began. They later divorced in May 1997 but stayed friends and continued to support and encourage each other during the years. He later married Karen (Wolken) Beard on November 1, 2008 at Erie. She preceded him in death on March 11, 2022.
He grew up in the First Christian Church at Erie. He enjoyed playing dominos, working crossword puzzles his '65 Chevy and fishing. Skip was quite the photographer in his day and thoroughly excelled in psychology under the direction of Mel Wellington. He was a kind-hearted man with a deep devotion to his family and country. He was a member of the George L. Hendricks Post No. 192, American Legion and was a past commander, being proud to hold that position. He found immense joy in playing dominos at the legion.
Survivors include: one son and daughter in-law – Waite and Vicki Showalter, Erie; two daughters – Deborah L. Showalter, Olathe, Darla A. Showalter, Parsons; one step-son and step-daughter in-law – Brian and Robin Beard, Wellington; two step-daughters – Melinda Beard, and her companion, Stephen Sawyer, Erie, Kristina Beard, Erie; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by four brothers – Larry, Loren "Butch", Randy and Jerry Showalter; and one sister – Merle Grady.
A memorial graveside service will be held at 10:00 Friday, November 21, 2025 at East Hill Cemetery with Dr. Wayne Shaw officiating. Military Honors will be given by the George L. Hendricks Post No. 102, American Legion. Memorials are suggested to the George L. Hendricks Post 102, American Legion and may be left with the Pierce-Carson-Wall Funeral Home the day of the service or mailed to the funeral home, P.O. Box 182, Erie, KS 66733. Online condolences may be left at www.wallfuneralservices.com.