James "Jim" Wilmes

James “Jim” Wilmes passed away Saturday, March 9, 2024, at the age of 93. Beloved husband of 50 years to the late Virginia Wilmes. Beloved son of the late Norbert and Mary Wilmes. Beloved brother of Mary Dean (the late Robert) Glosier, Daniel (Joanne) Wilmes, the late Martha Wilmes, Jean (David) Schaeffer. Devoted father of Patricia (Stephen) Veit, John (Sandra) Wilmes, Douglas (Susan) Wilmes, Deacon Edward (Barbara) Wilmes. Loving grandfather of Dr. Stephanie Veit, Daniel Veit, Diana (Henry) Norrenberns, Michael Wilmes, Rachel Wilmes, Marisa Wilmes, Joshua (Jaimie) Wilmes, Allyson (J.J.) Kinnevan, Emily Wilmes, Justin Wilmes, Mark (Taylor) Wilmes, Clare Wilmes, Eric Wilmes and Anne Wilmes; Treasured great-grandfather to Annabel and Wade Wilmes, Beau Kinnevan, and Kathleen Wilmes.

Jim was a kind and gentle man who lived his faith while leading his family and business. He was a compassionate, loving father, grandfather and role model, a servant leader and a favored manager to his employees. Jim was a devout Catholic and was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Parish his whole life where he coached soccer, mentored, and acted as an excellent example to many grade school children; he was also a member of the men’s club and assisted with parish finances.

Jim was a successful entrepreneur, starting by selling model aircraft to friends in grade school. He established a small hobby shop which he opened daily after -high school. After graduating high school, Jim grew and ran his hobby shop full-time. He enlisted in the Marines, served as an Advanced Radio Technician bravely and honorably, and was wounded in combat during the Korean war. Upon his return, Jim established a model aircraft factory partnership and distributorship, manufacturing and distributing model aircraft and hobby products. He led his business to what it is today--65+ years and counting. Jim was an avid modeler holding several model airplane records in the 1950s and 60s. He was an aviation enthusiast and a private pilot who set a speed-distance record. He shared his love for aviation with his family and friends with airplane rides and aviation knowledge. Jim loved photography, grilling, trips to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, Branson and spending time with his family.

In lieu of flowers, Masses may be offered or donations made in honor of Jim Wilmes to St. Charles Borromeo parish in St. Charles, Missouri.