James F. Linden, 87, went home to be with our Lord November 22, 2014, with his family surrounding him. Born and educated in Greenwood County, KS., he was the son of Frank Chick Linden and Fay Mildred Uhl Linden. James was the third of 10 siblings. He was a member of the Kansas National Guard during his junior and senior years of high school before entering and serving honorably in the United States Army with some time in Germany.

He met and married the love of his life, Clara Margaret Fry. The ceremony in the Baptist Church in Hamilton was the beginning of a union extending 65 years. Clara departed in May of this year.

Living in Rice County for 63 years, their family grew. Four children, Nelda Schultz and husband Virgil, Dave Linden and wife, Bernie, Nita Pirnie and husband, Robert, Dale Linden and wife, Alta; 16 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Jim worked in the oil field most of his adult life from rig to gas pipeline to heavy equipment operator. He had an analytical mind, excellent memory and was skilled as a gunsmith, marksman, knife maker, hunter, fisherman, gardener, meat processor and harmonica player.

Of Cherokee Indian heritage, James enjoyed collecting Indian artifacts. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion and NRA. A man of strong convictions and faith, he had a generous heart and was a good provider.

Psalm 112:5 "It is well with the man who deals generously and lends, who conducts his affairs with justice".

He is also survived by: his brothers, Mason and John Linden; and sisters, Karen Sickler and Mavis Linden.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Clara, parents, Frank and Fay, grandchildren, Lowen Linden, and Tina Rumley, and great-grandchildren, Brittney Wasinger, and Courtney Stroud, brothers, Clifford and Fred, sisters Hazel Reed, Rosie Stafford, and Esther Pugh.

Cremation has taken place. Life celebration is planned for July 2015. Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson, is in charge of arrangements.