James E. Dreiling

Source: Parsons Sun

James E. “Jim” Dreiling Jr., 87, of Parsons died at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, April 4, 2013, at Parsons Presbyterian Manor.

He was born April 4, 1926, in Kansas City, Kan., to James Edward Sr. and Vera Ruth (Laskey) Dreiling. He grew up in the Kansas City area, where he attended schools.

Following high school, he served in the United States Navy. Upon his honorable discharge, he was awarded the Purple Heart.

He married Mary Margaret Switlik on Nov. 22, 1947, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Kansas City, Mo.

For a time, he worked as a truck driver before becoming a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service in Kansas City, Mo. The family then lived in Parsons for 10 years before moving to Overland Park, where he continued working for the Postal Service. Following retirement, the couple returned to Parsons, where they have lived since.

He was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Parsons and the Knights of Columbus. He was a ham radio operator and enjoyed reading, opera and chess. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Dreiling of the home; two daughters, Cynthia Ann Bender of Kansas City, Mo., and Christine Sue Young of Shawnee; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.