James (Jim) E. Bonkoski, 86, St. Joseph, Missouri; passed away on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born on September 12, 1938 in Lexington, Missouri, to the late Cleo Clarissa (Chaney) and Andrew Martin Bonkoski.

On June 7th, 1958 Jim was united in marriage with Shirley (Price). They have just celebrated 67 years of marriage. Jim worked for American Family Insurance Company as a claims examiner until he retired in 2000.

Being an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan, Jim loved following and supporting the Chiefs at their yearly summer training camps. Jim and Shirley enjoyed camping and being in the great outdoors for a few years after his retirement. Jim loved being at home, playing dice games, and watching westerns with his beloved dog Stella Grace.

Above all Jim was devoted to Shirley, and was a loving father and grandfather. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and attending events and milestone achievements. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his daughter, Jamie Bonkoski; and sister, Mary Salyer.

Jim is survived by his wife, Shirley of the home; children, Rhonda Doolan (Patrick) of Leawood, Kansas, Gary Bonkoski (Mary) of Keytesville, Missouri, Diana King of St. Joseph, Missouri, and Jeffery Bonkoski (Angela) of St. Joseph, Missouri; grandchildren, Ryan Doolan, Connor Doolan, Jacob Bonkoski, Jamie (Ben) Fidler, Carlee Bonkoski, Caitlin (Felix) Fresquez, Kayleigh Lutz, Father Alex Kreidler, Reilly King, Mary Katherine King, Murphy King, Jeffrey Bonkoski,Clara Bonkoski, and Ella Bonkoski; 4 great- grandchildren; his sister, Elizabeth Schurr; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, July 25th, 2025 at Our Lady of Guadalupe at 10:00 AM. A visitation will be held on Friday, July 25th, 2025 at 9:00 AM with the Rosary following at 9:30 AM. Inurnment to follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in St. Joseph, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Head for the Cure.