James E. Folkerts, 71, of Columbia, MO., passed away Jan. 19, 2024, at Boone Hospital in Columbia. He was born on Feb. 12, 1952, to Wilbert Folkerts and Lorene (Bradley) Folkerts.

Jim married his wife of 51 years, Carla (Scanzoni) Folkerts of Staunton, on Sept. 30, 1972, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Staunton, and she survives.

Jim graduated from Staunton High School in 1970. He graduated from Illinois State University in 1974 and went on to receive his master’s degree in Workforce Education and Development in 1998 from Southwestern Illinois University in Carbondale.

He retired in 2016 as a Regional Sales Manager/After Product manager from Joy Mining Machinery – A Joy Global Inc. Company after 40 years of service. He enjoyed playing golf and watching sports. He also liked watching political and business programs and Fox News. He was an avid bird watcher who loved all animals and felt a house was not a home without a dog. Most of all he loved spending time with his family who meant everything to him.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved son, Joseph Folkerts. He is survived by his daughter, Jamie (Folkerts) Jackson and son-in-law Jason Jackson; two grandchildren, Gia (Marie) Jackson and Jason (Drew) Jackson of Moberly, MO.

Jim wished for his remains to be cremated and a private service to be held Jan. 26, 2024. Donations can be made to St. Michael’s Church, Zion Lutheran Church in Staunton, IL., or any animal shelter.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at http://www.parkermillard.com.