Jim L. Happle Sr.

James Lewis Happle Sr. 99, of Cuba, passed away, Friday, July 18, 2025, in the comforting presence of his beloved wife and sons at his home in Indian Hills.

On April 20, 1926, Jim was born to the union of Francis Happle & Mary (Hatcher) in St. James, Missouri.

Jim was united in marriage to Mary V. (Holweg) on December 22, 1954, at Church of God in St. James.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War and was honorably discharged.

Jim owned and operated Happle Tuck-Pointing, working along with his son, Jim Jr. until his retirement.

Jim & Mary bought their current home in Indian Hills originally as a vacation/weekend get-away in 1987. It didn’t take them long to realize that lake life was for them, so in 1991 they moved there permanently.

Even though Jim worked in harsh weather for most of his life, he found it comforting and relaxing to take up hunting and fishing. When he wasn’t outside, he could be found playing a great game of Rumi and taking in a Cardinal’s Baseball game. Mary and Jim took many trips to the west to visit family and friends in California, Oregon & Arizona. Jim served as a 1st cook in the Army, but his culinary skills never made it back with him after his service, so the cooking and prep of great meals was left to Mary. Most of all, Jim loved his family and friends very much and he will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Francis & Mary Happel; one brother, Charles Happle; one son; David Happle; six sisters, Erma Eaton-Thurmond, Pearl Norris, Mary Martin, Lola Mae Bartle, Pauline Adam & Catherine Gushwa.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Mary Happle of Cuba; two sons, Greg Happle and wife Kathy of Nixa and Jim Happle Jr. of Cuba; one brother, Kenneth Happle of St. James; one sister, Norma Russo of Sarcoxie; four grandchildren, Christine Collins of Ozark, Matt Happle and significant other Amber Crabb of Ozark, Megan McCord of Illinois and Jacob Ownby of Illinois; three great-grandchildren, Katie Barber and husband Rick, Logan Collins and Parker Collins; one great-great-grandchild, Brett Barber; nieces; nephews; other relatives and many friends.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations are appreciated and can made to any organization of the donors choosing.