James Duane Coons

James (Jim) Duane Coons, 92, of Cleveland, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 4, 2026, following a short illness. He was born on May 26, 1933, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Homer and Mary (Cubine) Coons, and grew up in White City, Kansas. His entrepreneurial interests grew from living on his Grandparent’s farm. What might have been an ordinary walk to his one-room school was for him an opportunity to run a trapline and sell pelts to Sears & Roebuck. His family name is an American spelling of the German form, chosen specifically by his Grandfather’s Grandfather, who immigrated and along with his father fought in the American Revolutionary War. In high school Jim excelled at sports and was elected vice-president of his senior class.

Jim proudly served his country in the United States Navy (1951 – 55) and Naval Reserves (1955 – 59). Rising to the rank of Chief Petty Officer Boatswain’s Mate, he spent most of his active service onboard the USS Essex during the Korean War mastering knot tying and using ropes to transfer articles between ships, skills he drew upon throughout his life. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the China Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, and the Korean Service Medal.

Following his military service, Jim pursued several careers, including managing a home delivery route with Manor Bakery. He prioritized and built relations with his customers. Recalling an unusual dialogue with the son of one family provided key testimony in the prosecution of The Nicest Boy in Wolcott. Jim also became a skilled tile setter during these years, but eventually ran his own business.

In 1957, he was united in marriage to Joyce Schermerhorn, the love of his life. Together they shared 68 years of marriage raising 5 children,18 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren. Jim and Joyce were the owners of Coons Tree Service, which at one time was the only tree service in the Kansas City metro area. Known for Jim’s skill and trustworthiness, the business was widely regarded as one of the best in the region. Later in his career, Jim’s advice on firewood was sought by local TV stations to help people prepare for winter.

When he was not working, Jim enjoyed spending time outdoors fishing and hunting alongside his father, brother, and children—activities that brought him great joy and lifelong memories. Jim was raised in the Catholic faith and enjoyed Lutheran services in later years.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Joyce Coons; his daughters, Patti (Dennis) Joyce, Joy (Ben) Hinds, and Bobbi (Rick) Lowery; his son, Jim (Liz) Coons; and his sisters Tanya and Terra Coons. He was cherished by all his family and a friend to many.

Jim was proceeded in death by his parents Homer and Mary Coons, his brother Bob, and sons Don Melton Pierce and Lonnie Duane Coons. Also proceeded in death were his grandsons Donnie Pierce, Lonnie Pierce, and Kevin Joyce.