James "Jim" A. Baustian

James A. "Jim" Baustian of Topeka passed away Thursday, February 13, 2025 after a brief illness. He was 94.

Jim was born October 25, 1930 in Salina, the son of Henry and Edith (Lundquist) Baustian. He graduated from Tescott High School and later attended Kansas Wesleyan University where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in pre-med biology. 

After college he served as a pilot in the United States Air Force, completing his tour at Perrin AFB near Denison, TX as the base commander’s aide. During this assignment he met Carole May Bates, daughter of Louis and Edith (Brigham) Bates on Thanksgiving eve in 1954. The were married the following spring on Easter Sunday, April 10, 1955 in Salina, KS. They welcomed two children, Cara Lorraine and James Jay.

Jim dedicated over 30 years of service to General Motors. His love for cars extended past his place of employment; he was an avid member of the Topeka and Lawrence British Car Clubs.

He leaves behind his two children, Cara (Richard Saunders) Baustian and James Jay Baustian; and two grandchildren, Stacy Saunders and Max Saunders. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carole; his parents; and sisters Elizabeth Myers, Margery Bakalar, Edie Ann Bich.

Jim will be laid to rest at Mount Hope Cemetery with his beloved wife, Carole.

To share a memory of Jim or leave a special message for his family, visit the guestbook below.