James Garst

James Franklin Garst, 92, of Mankato died Friday, Jan. 15, 2021, at his residence. He was born Sept. 18, 1928, in Delphos, Kan., to Alfred and Velma Gertrude (Jamison) Garst. He was one of 11 children born to them.

He served in the United States Army, during the Korean War from Jan. 11, 1951 to Jan. 11, 1953, and was honorably discharged in Aniston, Ala.

On Nov. 8, 1950, James was united in marriage to Letha Modlin. They celebrated 70 years of marriage this past November. To this union two children were born, Teresa and Randy.

James worked for DeBukes. He also was a crane operator. He and Letha delivered newspapers for the Salina Journal.

James was a member of The First Baptist Church, Mankato, and Scandia American Legion Post 193, VFW. He served as a Cub Scout Master.

His hobbies include woodworking, fishing and playing Rummy.

James is survived by his wife, Letha of Mankato; sister, Shirley Hancock, Englewood, Colo .; brother, Paul Garst (Darlene), Mankato; nine grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Velma; daughter, Teresa Garst; a son, Randy Garst; six brothers and two sisters.

Cremation has taken place and a service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 23, at The Baptist Church in Mankato, with Pastor Kevin Wood officiating. There will be a lunch served following the service. Burial of cremains will follow in the Riverview Cemetery, Scandia. Military Honors will be conducted by the local VFW of Scandia and Ft. Riley Big Red One. Memorial contributions may be given to James F. Garst Memorial Fund in care of Melby Mortuary, P.O. Box 384, Mankato, Kan. 66956. For online condolences, visit http://www.melbymort uary.com.