James Francis “Jim” Hlaus passed away on Monday, December 20, 2021, at
the Ellsworth County Medical Center at the age of 77. He was born on
September 9, 1944, in Ellsworth, Kansas to James and Barbara (Zeman)
Hlaus. Jim was united in marriage to Audrey Betz on April 18, 1970, in
the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wilson. The couple was blessed
with three children: Tisha, Tyler, and Tayler.
Jim was raised on the Wilson flats and graduated from Wilson High
School with the class of 1962. In 1964 he enlisted into the United
States Navy, where he achieved the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class, and
earned his aviation mechanic certificate. He was honorably discharged in
1968, and took a job at Boeing in Wichita, but retuned shortly
thereafter to help on the farm. In 1981, he switched gears and joined on
with Koch Oil in Russell, KS where he continued to raise his family. In
2000, another career change took him to Pratt, KS where he worked for
Wildlife and Parks for 6 years until he and Audrey retired back to
Wilson. He stayed busy after his retirement, helping Victor Bros Auction
and Realty, and anyone else who needed an extra hand. Jim loved
farming, hunting, fishing, and watching sports. Most of all though, he
loved the time spent with his family.
Jim was a laid back, fun-loving man who knew how to enjoy life along
the way. His dry wit and sly grin never failed to bring plenty of
smiles and laughter. Jim will forever be missed, and his memories
forever cherished by all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Audrey Hlaus of the home in Wilson;
children, Tisha Dixon of Manhattan, KS, Tyler (Nicole) Hlaus of The
Highlands, KS, and Tayler Hlaus of Wilson, KS; sister, Barbara Princ of
Wilson, KS; three grandchildren, Harlee Thompson (Garrett Nelson), Royce
Dixon, and Elliot Hlaus; and one great-grandson, Kannan Thompson.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents, James and Barbara Hlaus;
brother, John Hlaus; and brother-in-law, John Princ, as well as many
good friends in recent years.
Due to COVID concerns, a private family service has been chosen.
Memorials are suggested to Excelsior Lutheran Cemetery Fund and may
be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, PO BOX 533, Wilson, KS
67490. Online condolences can be left for the family at
www.plumeroverlease.com.