James E. Gentner

James E. "Jim" Gentner passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family in Lee's Summit, Missouri, on June 23, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on June 18, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, Jim was the beloved son of Richard Kirkpatrick and Monique Irene (McGuire) Gentner. Jim is survived by his devoted wife and best friend, Patricia Reilly Gentner, with whom he shared 56 wonderful years of marriage since their wedding on May 17, 1969. He was a loving father to Sharon (E.J.) Thompson and Janet (Paul) Torlina, a proud grandfather to Jacob (Jessica) Thompson, Kaitlin Thompson, and Michael Torlina, and a doting great-grandfather to Willow and Colt Thompson.

Jim dedicated over 20 years of his career as the Purchasing Manager at Peterson Machine and Tool in Merriam, Kansas, where he was respected for his meticulous attention to detail and professionalism. He also served his community with the highest integrity as a Reserve Officer for the Overland Park Police Department joining in 1981 and serving for over 15 years. Jim was honored by the OPPD as their "Reserve Officer of the Year" in 1989—a recognition that reflected his commitment to service and his deep sense of civic duty.

He graduated from St John’s Seminary HS in 1963 and attended St Thomas Seminary College from 1963-1965. He transferred to and graduated from Kansas State University in 1967 with a BS in Education. Jim remained a lifelong supporter of his alma mater and a member of TKE fraternity. Whether cheering on the Wildcats during football, basketball, or any other K-State sporting event, his purple pride and love for "The Little Apple" of Manhattan, Kansas, was unwavering.

Jim will be remembered for his steady presence, unwavering commitment and deep love for his family, and his generous heart. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the values he passed down.

A visitation will be held at Our Lady of the Presentation Catholic Church in Lee’s Summit, MO, on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 10 AM, followed by a Mass at 11:00 AM and a luncheon immediately afterward.

In lieu of flowers or other considerations, the family asks that donations be made to Village Hospice at John Knox Village or Parkinson’s Connection at John Knox Village.