James Edward Walz

Mr. James Edward Walz, 81, of Jefferson City, fell asleep in the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, May 8, 2019. Jim was born on April 29, 1938 in Jefferson City, the youngest child of Milo H. and Esther (Beck) Walz. On October 12, 1968, he married Marinell Dorsey at Missouri United Methodist Church in Columbia. Together they proudly raised two daughters and recently celebrated 50 years of marriage. A lifelong resident of Jefferson City, Jim began his education at Trinity Lutheran School and graduated from Jefferson City High School in 1956. He continued his education by attending the University of Missouri-Columbia and Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, Calif. Jim served his country and community as a member of the Missouri Army National Guard. Jim was raised in the family business, Milo H. Walz Home Furnishings, Inc. and began working there as a young boy. Most of Jim's professional career was spent as owner of James E. Walz, Photographer and then managing Milo H. Walz Camera Center. In his later years he worked part-time for the state of Missouri in Gov. Mel Carnahan's office and the Office of Administration. He loved sports, especially football. For over 40 years on Friday nights, you could find Jim in his seat on the 50-yard line at Adkins Stadium cheering for Coach Pete Adkins and his beloved Jaybirds. Sundays he would always be watching his Kansas City Chiefs. This year watching Patrick Mahomes was especially enjoyable for Jim as they came so close to another Super Bowl. Jim was a charter member of Faith Lutheran Church where he served on various boards and was an usher for 60 years. Jim's faith meant everything to him and regardless of what was thrown his way, he always placed God at the center of his life as his pilot. In 1970, Jim found his true purpose in life, fatherhood. Beyond his own adoring children and grandchildren, he served as a surrogate father figure to many others. Faith and family were his greatest loves. Jim's favorite place on earth was the Lake of the Ozarks. He wanted all who came to the lake to share his love for the water, barbequed ribs and skiing. He spent many summer days driving the ski boat while patiently teaching his pupils. Survivors include: his wife, Marinell Dorsey Walz; two daughters, Dru Anne Walz (Curt Wischnewski) of Lee's Summit and Rebecca Wood (Chad) of Roeland Park, Kan.; four grandchildren, Campbell Claire Wood, Ava Catherine Wischnewski, Caroline Jane Wood, and Anderson James Wood; and in-laws, Janet Walz and Claudia Walz, both of Jefferson City, A.T. Dorsey Jr. (Carolyn) of Columbia, Patty Dorsey of Boonville, and Sheryl McGowan (George) of Lee's Summit. He was preceded in death by his parents and his seven siblings, Doris, Milo Jr., Herbert, Don, Ruth, Robert and Richard. Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 at Faith Lutheran Church with Reverend Eric Gledhill officiating. Visitation will be immediately before the service beginning at 10:00 a.m. Private graveside service and interment will be at Riverview Cemetery. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to Faith Lutheran Church, 2027 Industrial Drive, Jefferson City, MO 65109. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary. www.freemanmortuary.com