James H. Sphar, 77, of Atlanta, Kansas, passed away Wednesday morning, March 20, 2013 at his home.

Born December 6, 1935 in Winfield, Kansas, he was the son of Harold S. and Ethel (Ore) Sphar. He was raised and received his education in Burden graduating from Central of Burden High School in 1954. After school Jim began working as a welder. As a welder he had the opportunity to travel all over the country.

James was united in marriage to Mary on June 15, 1975 in Haysville, Kansas. The couple moved to Olathe, Kansas where they resided until his retirement in 1996. After his retirement the couple returned to the Atlanta area where Jim was a very active member of his church and community. He served his community for several years and was the mayor of Atlanta for 12 years. Mary preceded him in death on March 4, 2012.

He was a member of Cornerstone Christian Church in Atlanta. He enjoyed reading, gardening, fishing and hunting.

His family includes:
His sons: Brad Gould of Winfield, KS; Bill Reynolds and wife, Carol of Trufant, MI; Mike Reynolds and wife, Tracy of Larned, KS;
His daughters: Michelle Hotchkin of Winfield, KS; Tracey Gould of Belle Plaine, KS; Debbie Blake of Port Aransas, TX; Lori Staka and husband, Ed of Haysville, KS; Lisa Rojas of Wichita, KS; and
Numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife Jim was preceded in death by a daughter, Sonyia Sphar, a brother, Raymond Sphar, and a sister, Gladys Livingston.

Memorial services will be held at 10:00 A.M., Monday, March 25, 2013 at Cornerstone Christian Church in Atlanta. A private family inurnment will take place at a later date.

A memorial has been established in Jim's name for the National Kidney Foundation. Contributions may be made through Miles Funeral Service in Winfield.