James Neal Gaines of St. Charles, MO passed away Sunday, January 16, 2022 at the age of 76. Beloved husband of Karen Stafford Gaines for 56 years; cherished son of the late William Richard and Nelda Mae Gaines. Devoted father of Tracey (Larry) Seals, Ronda Gaines, Robin (Travis) Vaughn, Angie (Jeremy) Jackson. Loving grandfather of 13 grandchildren: Carley 35, Lukas 26, Reed 25, Kelsy 25, Levi 22, Phoebe 20, Ryan 20, Andrew (angel in Heaven), Lily 17, Christian 17, Avery 16, Miley 13, and Jeremy 9; treasured great grandfather of Kai; dear brother of Luaine Nolte, William Gaines Junior, Sam Gaines and David Gaines.
Jim worked for over 50 years in heavy road construction. He was a proud member of 660 Labor Union and 513 Operators Union. While Jim was a tireless worker dedicated to his job, he never failed to be present in his kids’ lives. He would stop whatever he was doing to play with the grandkids, he was never too busy for them. He also helped out every neighbor and stranger with odd jobs and projects and just the right tool. So many of us are the beneficiaries of his handiwork, both tangible and spiritual. He loved being outside at all times; any excuse would work…attending kids’ sporting events, fishing, cutting brush, gardening, boating and sitting around the firepit. Jim’s perfect day would be surrounded by his family and friends, telling stories and laughing.
Jim wished for his body to be donated to science. A private family memorial is taking place at 1:00 on Thursday, January 20th. A Zoom of the memorial can be found at..
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/82504643374?pwd=NFJacENTaDlLZCs1RU5MdzF1TUhwQT09Meeting ID: 825 0464 3374
Passcode: KZkX9j
In lieu of flowers please donate to the Foundation For Alcoholism Research by mail to FAR, PO Box 31135, Chicago, IL 60631 or via online. Donations can also be made to St. Charles West 3601 Droste Rd. St. Charles, MO 63301(in memo write ℅ Jeremy Jackson).
Baue Funeral Homes is currently following CDC recommendations regarding mask and social distancing policies.