James Rinn

James Conrad Rinn, 89, Topeka, died Thursday, Nov. 18, 2009, at McCrite Plaza. He was born on April 18, 1920, in Longmont, CO the son of James L. and Florence Wright Rinn. James married Mary Gladys Hansford on April 18, 1954, in Junction City. She preceded him in death on Jan. 13, 1997. Jim served in the United States Army during many wars, WWII in Africa, Sicily-Italy and Egypt from Sept. 21, 1942 – May 20, 1945; during the Korean War from Sept. 12, 1950 – March 4, 1952. Part of this time, Jim was listed as MIA when he was actually a POW in Korea. He also served in Vietnam from Jan. 1965 – Sept. 1965. Jim was in the Army a total of 20 years, 9 months and 14 days. Nine years, 7 months and 14 days were served overseas. Jim was a highly decorated veteran, receiving the Distinguished Service Metal, Silver Star, Bronze Star, four Purple Hearts and a Victory Medal. His most memorable time while serving his country was getting married and having his sons. Jim retired from Capital Area Security Patrol/Division 8 of the Highway Patrol. More recently Jim worked as a Security Officer for the Shawnee County Courthouse. He was a member of the Tecumseh United Methodist Church; Philip-Billard Post No. 1650, V.F.W., the DAV; Capitol Post No. 1 of the American Legion; Golden Rule No. 90 A.F.& A.M., and Order of the Eastern Star #210. Dad had a long and full life. Survivors include two sons, Arthur Rinn of Topeka and Edward (Rebecca) Rinn of Danville, VA; sister, Carol Jones; and two granddaughters, Destiny and Ashley. Mr. Rinn was preceded in death by a son, Michael Paul Rinn in 1957 and two grandsons, Justin Rinn and Arthur Rinn, Jr. Funeral ceremonies will be held 11:00 a.m. Wed. Nov. 25 at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel. Burial will follow in Prairie Home Cemetery where Military Honors will be conducted by Fort Riley Casualty. Mr. Rinn will lie in state after 3:00 p.m. Tues. at the funeral home where relatives and friends will meet from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to the American Diabetes Association, 837 S. Hillside, Wichita, KS 67211.