James Frederick Labbe

James Frederick Labbe, Onaga, Kansas, died March 12, 2025, surrounded by family.

He was born on August 6, 1944, at the Nemaha County farm he called home his entire life, to Clifford and Marjorie (Ewing) Labbe.

His love of farming was nurtured by his father and grandfather as they worked together to maintain a self-sufficient lifestyle. Except for a brief stint in the early 1970's when he owned and operated Sportsman's Tavern on Main Street, Onaga, he enjoyed the honorable calling of Farmer all his life. The animals in his care, whether hogs, cattle, chickens, turkey, squirrels, orioles, hummingbirds, cats, or treasured dogs, could not have found a better custodian.

Jim served the Neuchatel community for many years grading township roads. He was also instrumental in numerous projects geared toward preserving and maintaining the Neuchatel church, school, and hall, and mowed the Neuchatel cemetery for over 30 years. He registered as an organ donor and was able to donate his corneas to Saving Sight.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, and older brother Frank Clifford Labbe. He is survived by son James Frederick (Ricky) DeFore, Wichita, KS, daughter Corina (Jeff) Dodson, Wichita, KS, grandchildren Derrick (Kristy) Dodson, Briana (Aaron) Coursey, and Ashton (Drew) Gordon, 12 great grandchildren, nieces Marcia Labbe (Ed Tucker), Onaga, and Amber (Michael) Labbe Murphy, and nephews Rodney Labbe (Alida), Shawnee, OK, and Christian (Megan) Labbe, Arcadia, OK.

While Jim was well known to have been willing to share a drink with anyone, often until they could no longer accept another, he requested that no service be held to mark his passing. However, in the spirit of enjoying time with your friends and loved ones, it is the family's hope that you gather your people and raise a glass, of whatever you enjoy, in his honor.

Following his cremation, a private interment at Neuchatel Cemetery will be held at a later date.