James Daniel SheaChanute, KS

James (Jim) Daniel Shea, 87, of Chanute, Kansas, left us peacefully on September 29, 2026 surrounded by friends and family. A beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Jim will always be remembered for his kindness and willingness to help those in need.
Jim was born on September 24, 1939 in Alpena, Michigan to Karl and Lucille Shea. He was brother to Karl Milroy Shea, deceased, and Shirley Hahn of Knoxville, TN.
Jim received his Bachelor of Science degree from Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. His career began as a chemist with Penn-Dixie Cement Plant in Petoskey, Michigan.  In 1969 he moved to Chanute, Kansas to begin working for Ash Grove Cement Company, advancing to Chief Chemist then in 1981 to the Plant Manager. He continued in that role until he retired in 2001.
In November of 1959 Jim married his first wife, Helen Higgins (deceased) they shared four children.
In January of 1983 Jim married his second wife Sharon LaRue (deceased), adding two daughters.
Jim’s family grew by way of many generous caregivers and friends that spent countless hours with him over the past 10 years. During his life Jim was very active in the Chanute community. He served on the Board of the Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center, was a Troop leader for the Boy Scouts, was involved with Neosho Valley Busy Bees 4H Club, the Chanute Community Theater, and countless other organizations.  He loved to play tennis, hike, bike ride and swim.  Mostly he loved to just be with his family.
Jim is survived by his daughters; Vicki Fleming (Jon Fleming) of Cherryvale, KS., Cindy Shea of Edmond, OK, Lisa LaRue (Joy LaRue) of Wichita, KS., and Lori Nickell (Aaron Nickell) of Manhattan, KS., sons; Brian Shea of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and Marc Shea(Kristin Shea) of Edmond, OK.  His grandchildren include: Jennifer Han (Jared), Amy Sharp (Tyler), Stephanie Myer (Mark), Jessica Goode (Aron), Katie DeFalco (Nick), Michael Shea (Ali), Paige Nickell, Bailey Shea and 15 great grandchildren.
A public memorial honoring Jim’s life will be held on November 21st at 11:00 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 325 W. 21st St. Chanute, Kansas.  All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the The Parkinson’s Foundation, St. Patrick’s Catholic School in Chanute, or Chanute Christian Academy.