Jim Schroer, age 79, of Overland Park, Kansas, passed away on April 20th, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of sharp wit, stubborn independence, and stories that somehow got better (and less believable) every time he told them.
A proud Vietnam veteran, Jim carried his service with quiet strength, pride and a deep bond to those he served with. While not one to talk about it much, he opted for action instead - often volunteering at the Kansas City VA, offering support to fellow veterans.
But he was most at home outdoors. Whether casting into a sunrise, generously offering his time putting on kid’s fishing clinics or chasing critters through the woods with patience that only occasionally ran out. Fishing and hunting weren’t just hobbies, they were where he found peace, connection, and, if you ask him, quiet. For nearly two decades, Jim owned and operated a small sporting goods store, J&J’s Bass Pro Shop, in Downtown Overland Park. There, he helped build a community and place of gathering for those with a shared interest in the outdoors - offering up a conversation, advice, and at the very least, a hot cup of burnt coffee or (unlabeled) spicy pickles.
The first to admit it, Jim was also a world-class smart-ass. His humor was quick, unfiltered, and not always appropriate, but it was always honest. If he teased you, it meant you were part of his inner circle. If he didn’t… well, that was probably worse. Beneath that edge was a man who loved deeply, even if he preferred to show it through sarcasm, shared silence, or teaching you how to bait a hook the “right way.” While he would play up the role as a ‘stick in the mud’, Jim genuinely enjoyed striking up a conversation - often using his humor as a way in to get to know people. His later years were spent as an outdoor salesman, mostly as an excuse to go out and see old friends and make new ones. His humor was his hidden strength and was something he carried with him every day up until the very end.
Above all, he was a devoted husband. He was married to the love of his life, Jerri, for 55 years – a partnership built on loyalty, humor, and a bond that only grew stronger with time. She was, without question, the person he loved more than anything. Together they shared joy, navigated challenges, and took care of each other with unwavering steadfastness and love.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Sandie Woollen, and his daughter, Dena. He is survived by his wife, Jerri, and his two children, Gary and Jeff (who inherited only his best characteristics) and their wives Megan and Leah. He also leaves behind four grandchildren: Hudson, Sullivan, Nolan and Vaughn, his nephews Tony and Mike Woollen and their families, countless friends, and anyone lucky enough to have been on the receiving end of one of his stories or one-liners.
It’s simple to point out the things that made him who he was: Husband. Dad. Grandpa. Friend. Neighbor. Veteran. Fisherman. Hunter. The open road. Bad food. A roadside gimmick. A hot cup of coffee. A dog by his side. But within each one of these are endless stories, laughs, moments and memories.
Truly one of one.
A service will be held on May 13th at Curé of Ars Catholic Church in Leawood starting with a visitation at 10am and the funeral at 11am followed by an informal lunch (the way he would have wanted). In lieu of flowers, the family suggests spending a day fishing, taking a kid hunting or making a donation to the American Cancer Society, the Alzheimer’s Association or the Church.
