James Patrick Platt

James Patrick Platt, 82, of Junction City peacefully passed away on January 18, 2009 at Wamego City Hospital. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. at the Episcopal Church of the Covenant, 314 N. Adams, Junction City, KS with Father Dale Plummer officiating. A reception will follow the service in Guild Hall adjoining the church. Private family inurnment will take place before the service.

Jim, as he was better known by his friends, lived a full and happy life as a devoted son, husband, father and grandfather. He was born May 13, 1926 on a farm outside Trenton, KS. The youngest son of Harry V. Platt and Kathryn Hall Platt, he grew up in Salina where he graduated from Sacred Heart High School in 1944. Immediately upon graduation, he began his service in the Navy where he proudly served in the Armed Guard in numerous locations in the South Pacific during World War II.

Upon his return, Jim attended the Chicago Conservatory of Music, Bethany College and Kansas Wesleyan. He enjoyed a long and successful career in radio beginning at KSAL in Salina where he met his wife, Carmina San Romani. Jim and Carmina were married in McPherson, KS on October 22, 1950. They had three daughters and a long and happy marriage sharing many adventures together.

Jim was part of the Gene Fullen dance band in the early 1950's and played for many events across the State of Kansas. He was an expert musician playing the piano, clarinet and tenor saxophone.

His career in radio included several different radio stations. After a brief time outside the state, he returned to Kansas in the early 1950's to work for KGNO in Dodge City, KS. In 1951 he came to Junction City to sell advertising for KJCK. In 1953 he accepted a position as General Manager and part owner of KBTO in El Dorado, KS. He purchased KCRT in Trinidad, CO in 1971. He retired from radio in 1982 and moved to Colorado Springs, CO.

In 1989, he and Carmina returned to Junction City to be close to their grandsons. Upon his return, he became the Executive Director of the Junction City-Geary County United Way and enjoyed giving to his community through this position for 8 years.

Whether it was his military service, playing in the dance band, working in the radio business, serving the United Way or telling a joke in passing, Jim constantly sought to enrich the lives of those around him and serve the community. Throughout his life he received many special recognitions for his dedicated involvement in community service. During his radio years he was very active in the Kansas and Colorado Association of Broadcasters. Always a proud American, he was often involved in political and veteran activities.

Jim was always a "people person" and knew no strangers. Friends will fondly remember him for his propensity to always have a joke or pun for any situation. He had a passion for community service, fishing, music and spending time with his family. He derived great joy from his grandchildren and will be missed by all.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Harry Platt and Kenneth Platt.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Carmina, of the home; three devoted daughters Patti Schoenrock and her husband, Gery, of Junction City. Jayme Lahey and husband, Michael, of Colorado Springs, CO, Julianne Tindal and husband, Glen, of Colorado Springs. CO, two precious grandsons – Anderson Schoenrock, Santa Monica, CA and Kendall Schoenrock, Philadelphia, PA and two precious granddaughters – Sarah Glen Tindal and Hannah Tindal of Colorado Springs, CO.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Episcopal Church of the Covenant, 314 N. Adams, Junction City, KS 66441. You may also drop a special message to the family at P.O. Box 831, Junction City, KS 66441.