James "Jim" Opat, age 75, of WaKeeney, passed away Monday, October 30, 2017.  He was born July 6, 1942, near Ransom, Kansas, to Joseph John and Anna (Engelbrecht) Opat.

Jim most recently worked as a rural mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service.  He was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church, the VFW, and American Legion, all in WaKeeney.  Jim served our country in the United States Army.  Jim was a "no frills" kind of man, but he always enjoyed being with family and couldn't pass up a good game of Bingo.  He will be missed by many family and friends.

Survivors include three siblings, Mary Deines, Eugene Opat, and Barbara Opat, all of WaKeeney; and numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Elizabeth "Betty" and husband Jack Fry, Dorothy Ann and husband Curtis Mong; a brother-in-law, Vernie Deines; and a niece, Karen Fry.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, November 3, 2017 at Christ the King Catholic Church.  Family will be available to receive friends one hour prior to mass at the church parish center.  Cremation was chosen.  Inurnment with military honors will take place at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery, WaKeeney.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery, WaKeeney.  Contributions may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12 ^th , WaKeeney, KS  67672.

Condolences may be sent to the family by signing the guest book on this page.