Jim was born November 11, 1952, in Atchison, Kansas, to Don Quarrels and Waunita Delaine Snyder. In 1961, the family made Blue Springs home — a town Jim would go on to serve and love for the rest of his life. He graduated from Blue Springs High School in 1971.
At Central Missouri State University, Jim found his path — earning a degree in Criminal Justice in 1975 and making lifelong bonds as a member of Lambda Chi Fraternity. His Criminal Justice degree launched a 40-year career with the Blue Springs Police Department, a calling Jim wore with pride every single day. He started as a Dispatcher and rose through the ranks — Road Patrol Officer, Sergeant, Detective, Lieutenant, Captain — earning the trust and respect of everyone who worked alongside him. In 2004, that respect was formalized when he was named Supervisor of the Year, though those who knew him would say the honor only confirmed what they'd always known.
In 1997, Jim was chosen for one of law enforcement's highest honors — an invitation to the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, where he graduated that June. Never one to stop learning or teaching others, he earned his teaching certificate in 1996 and began sharing his knowledge and experience with students at Park University and Blue River Community College. In 2002, he added a Master's in Public Administration from Park University, graduating with honors.
On July 10, 1982, Jim married Catherine Lefholz, beginning a loving relationship that would last 44 years, their anniversary on July 10th (today). Together they raised two children, James Matthew and Cara Nichole, and built a family that meant everything to him.
Outside of his badge and his books, Jim was happiest with the people he loved around him — pool days with family and friends, playing a round of golf, cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs, and gathered around a table for a rousing game of dominoes or cards, always ready for a Gin Rummy tournament.
Jim is survived by his wife, Catherine; his son James Matthew (Matt) and wife Kelly; his daughter Cara Nichole Millett and husband Nathan; his grandchildren Gabrielle, Isabelle, Collin, Jackson, Owen, James William, and Julia, with one more grandbaby, Beau Charles, on the way; his sister Donita Dust and husband Steve; his brother Gailen and wife Susan; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Services will be held Friday, July 10, 2026, at First Bible Baptist Church, 1441 SE Adams Dairy Parkway, Blue Springs, Missouri. Visitation begins at 3:30 PM, with services immediately following, officiated by Pastor Mark Brown. Inurnment will take place at a later date.
