James Thomas Holstein Sr.

James Thomas Holstein Sr, 90, of Topeka, passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Hillsdale Place in Topeka.

He was born on October 18, 1933, the son of Hobert and Dollie (Dolin) Holstein in Ashford, West Virginia.

James joined the Air Force in May 1954 as a way to get out of West Virginia and the likelihood of working in the coal mines. He graduated from Sherman High School in Seth, West Virginia. He and his brother Leonard were often mistaken for twins, they even fooled teachers at times. They were also crafty at a young age and built a bicycle from parts lying around. It had a steering wheel as a makeshift handlebar.

Once he joined the Air Force he became a fireman and was transferred to Forbes AFB in Topeka. He was then transferred to Andrews AFB in 1968. He was a rescue firefighter and protected the Presidential Air Force One when arriving or departing AAFB. He was provided with a Presidential Meritorious Service Medal for outstanding achievement by President Nixon in 1972. This was for attempting to rescue a Thunderbird pilot after his plane crashed.

James was united in marriage to Wilma J. Tuckwin on April 29,1957. They had four children; Donna, Millie, Jimmy and Robert.

He joined as a civilian firefighter while serving in the A.F. he also worked for many years at Forestville Auto and had many close friends that he worked with over the years. He worked there in some capacity from 1968-2015.

James moved back to Kansas due to his health in September 2015. He thoroughly enjoyed being here and spending time with his grandchildren and their pets.

He was a hard worker who provided for his family. So many people spoke about his smile and how kind he was to people. He loved chocolate covered cherries at Christmas and received several boxes. The family says no dessert was safe around him. He loved Snickers, peanut butter cups and peanuts in the shell. For his birthday he always requests a spice cake with peanut butter frosting and vanilla ice cream.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Wilma, his sons Jimmy and Robert and his brother Leonard Holstein.

James is survived by his two daughters Donna and Millie Holstein of the home, Paul (L'Erin) Holstein, of Topeka, grandchildren Gabriella, Izabella, Dominic and Lakelyn.

Ceremonial Visitation will be held on from 6:00pm - 8:00pm Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at Penwell-Gabel Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, Topeka, Kansas.
Cremation will follow.

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