James "Jim" Hyatt (Buffalo)'s Obituary
James “Jim” Junior Hyatt, age 98, of Buffalo, Missouri entered into rest on Monday, May 29, 2023, at Citizens Memorial Hospital in Bolivar, Missouri.
Jim was born on December 31, 1924, in Redding, Kansas to the late George and Clara (Meeker) Hyatt. On August 2, 1973, in Miami, Oklahoma, Jim was united in marriage to Shirley Jean Cink. Family was everything to Jim. He was a dedicated father, loving husband, and caring grandfather. He enjoyed cooking for his large family. Food brought everyone together. It was not uncommon for ten pounds of potatoes to be used to make french fries, or over 100 tacos made on taco night. Whatever the occasion was, there would be a lot of food and there would be Jim.
Together the family enjoyed the great outdoors. They often went on camping and fishing trips. Jim also enjoyed gunsmiths. He was a member of the Mason fraternity for over 50 years and was recently recognized at Riddick Lodge 316. Jim also served his country for over ten years as a United States Marine. He served during WWII.
Jim was in law enforcement for over 40 years, serving the communities of Lincoln, Nebraska, Wichita, Kansas, and Buffalo, Missouri. The work did not stop there. Jim retired from Beech Aircraft with 15 years of service. He retired as a crew chief. He worked for Coca-Cola for several years, for Coleman, and drove a cab while living in Wichita. During his time as a cab driver, he transported Elvis, Gene Autry, and Muhammad Ali.
There was never a dull moment when Jim was around. He had his opinions and was never afraid to share. He considered himself a man most blessed. He had a large wonderful and loving family. All that knew Jim, family, friends, masonic brothers, and the communities he served will feel his absence. He will be missed dearly by all.
Jim was preceded by his parents, brother Bill Hyatt, and daughter Karen. He is survived by his wife Shirley Hyatt, children Donnie Hyatt, Vickie Ferguson, Jamie Hyatt, Rocky Hyatt, Clarence Hyatt and wife Jill, Mike Hyatt and wife Janell, Tammie Rasmussen and husband Jeff, Jimmie Hyatt and wife Shelly, Timmie Hyatt, Jeff Winchell and wife Vicki, Rodney Winchell, and Debbie Regling, 25 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, brother Don Hyatt, sister Betty Smith, special family Lee, Monica, and Paige Garrett, Dylan, Kylee, and Walker Love, beloved beagle pup Misty, and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
A celebration of Life will be held 2 p.m. Saturday June 3, 2023, at Lindley Christian Church.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Cantlon-Otterness and Viets Funeral Home, Buffalo, Missouri.
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