James Edward Wansing, age 67, of Eldon formerly of Meta, passed away on Friday, February 17, 2023, at Lake Regional Health System in Osage Beach.  He was born in Jefferson City on July 19, 1955, son of the late Clarence Edward and Evelyn Agnes (Eiken) Wansing.

James was born with physical deformities of the feet and lower legs.  After 13 years of surgeries, corrective footwear, and therapies, he was ready to run and gun!  He played baseball as a pitcher in the leagues around Osage County.  James enjoyed dancing, deer hunting, and all other things a teenage boy could do.  He was also in high demand as a wedding singer in his later teen years, sometimes along with Marion Starr or Richard Wilde, to name a few.  He delivered milk and later worked at Meta MFA with Charlie Schroeder until the truck accident that put him in the wheelchair that defined the rest of his adult life.  James is now free of the confines of that chair.

James remained an avid baseball fan and enjoyed watching the game.  He was blessed to have the care and support of his family and his friends, especially Sue Oliver, Lynn Haas, and Laura Carter, who were always willing to assist James.

He is survived by two brothers, Don (Mary Jane) Wansing of Meta and Rob (Darlene) Wansing of St. Elizabeth; six nieces and nephews, Dale Wansing, Jennifer Ortmeyer, Lindsey Lepper, Natalie Kemna, Drew Wansing, and Nolan Wansing; 15 great-nieces and nephews with one on the way; and countless family and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his nephew, Brian Wansing.

Visitation will be held from 9 to 11 a.m., with Mass of Christian Burial immediately following at 11 a.m., on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Meta with Fr. Leonard Mukiibi officiating.  Interment will be held in St. Cecilia Cemetery in Meta.

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Cecilia Catholic Church.

Arrangements are under the direction of Fancher-Rekus Funeral Home in Meta.