Leo James Hards was unexpectedly taken away Fri., Jan. 11, 2008.
He was born February 24, 1943 to the parents of Leo Hagen and Hazel Alberta Hards. He was the third child of four.
James graduated from Meriden High School, Meriden, KS in 1962 where he excelled at sports. He later served a tour in the United States Navy.
He married Ede Bomar and was blessed with a son, Shannon of Lawrence, KS. They later divorced.
He is survived by two sisters, Ruby Nelson and husband, Dean, Topeka; Mona Norfleet and husband, Buster, Mobile, AL; a brother, Butch and wife, Jan, Topeka, and numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his second wife, JoAnn Hards and his close friend, Sharon Walker.
He was employed by GoodYear Tire and Rubber for 36 years and retired July 2006.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, Jan. 15 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Penwell-Gabel Parker-Price Chapel, 245 NW Independence. Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM Wed., Jan. 16, interment at Mayetta Cemetery.