James Ireland Obituary

On Friday, January 20, 2012, James Clifford Ireland, beloved husband, father, Grandpa, uncle, and brother departed this world surrounded by family who loved him. Although, he will be sadly missed, we are comforted by many loving memories shared. Born April 28, 1916 to John William Ireland and Tennessee (Sprouse) Ireland, in Windsor, Missouri, James lived for ninety-five years, eight months and twenty-three days. James nicknamed Dick was raised on the riverbank and grew up in Lawrence, Kansas during the Depression. He knew hard times and learned the importance of a good name. In his younger years, James was known as the Home Run King, and was scouted by a major league team, but he stayed to help his family. On weekends he would win tickets to the movie theater for him and Roberta by knocking home runs out of the park. On June 11, 1938, Dick married Roberta C.L. Sales, and to this union a son and daughter were born. In 1942, James entered the United States Army and faithfully served his country during World War II. Following his discharge James and Roberta settled in Lawrence, Kansas and built a future with their family. James was a hard worker working in the Civilian Conservation Corp camps and working for over 50 years in the Lawrence Box Factory. Dick was very family oriented adoring his bride throughout the years. At every meal he would say, Baby thats a fine meal! No matter how good or bad it may have turned out. He also was quick to tell his wife and daughter how beautiful he thought they looked. He took his sons, Terry and Denzil on many hunting and fishing trips and shared the heritage with his grandchildren. Freeman Earl Sales, whom he loved as a son, spent many hours visiting and sharing stories. Dick was a checker player champion. Jim, Mike, and Denzil spent many hours trying to best him. Dick could fix anything with duct tape and wire. His sons loved to tease him about his supervisory skills when they were completing a project. He is preceded in death by his parents; five brothers; and two sisters. He is survived by loving wife of 72 years, Roberta Ireland of the home; his children Terry Ireland and Helen; Sharon Young and Denzil of Seymour; and his grandchildren David Ireland of Seymour; Scott Ireland and Carrie of Pleasant Hope; James Young and Nesa; Michael Young and Christy all of Seymour along with 10 great -grandchildren; as well as a host of other family and dear friends. James Clifford Ireland was a strong, honest and big hearted man, who loved his family well. He leaves behind a wonderful legacy for his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family and friends to carry on. We celebrate his life and accomplishments and will treasure the moments we had. Services for James Dick Ireland were held Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at 11am in the Holman Howe Chapel, Seymour, Missouri, followed by full military honors at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at www.holmanhoweseymour.com.