James William “Jim” Baxter, 78, of Holton, KS, passed away Thursday, September 9, 2021 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka, KS. He was born July 10, 1943 in Corning, KS, the son of Fred J. and Lena L. (Hittle) Baxter.

Jim graduated from Goff Rural High School in 1961. He served in the Army Reserves.

He worked as a Boilermaker for Santa Fe Railroad for 33 years; retiring in 2003. He was a musician, pianist and singer for most of his life; playing with Classic Country, 15 Minutes Late and Prairie Pickers. Jim’s love for music was also shared with his family, singing and playing with his son, grandson, granddaughter and great-nephew.

Jim was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Holton.
          
He married Beverly Ann Bohnenkemper on December 12, 1965 in Holton at Trinity Lutheran Church. They have celebrated over 55 years of marriage.
          
Survivors include his wife, Beverly of the home; daughter, Christianna Hartman (Thad) of Topeka, KS; son, James “Michael” Baxter formerly of Holton, KS; 2 grandchildren, Claire (Mitchell) Hartman and Max Hartman; sister, Barb McGinnis of Topeka, KS; sister-in-law, Linda Baxter of Onaga, KS; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.
          
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Lena Baxter; infant daughter, Heather Baxter; brother, Herb Baxter and brother-in-law, Dan McGinnis.    
          
Funeral Service will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, September 13, 2021 at the Trinity Lutheran Church. Burial will follow at the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time. Family request casual attire. Jim will lie in state at the Mercer Funeral Home beginning Saturday afternoon thru Sunday until 6:30 p.m. Memorials may be given to the Trinity Lutheran Church or Prairie Pickers c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.