James "Jim" Alieksaites, loving husband, father of two, and Papa of two, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on November 2, 2024, at the age of 77, in his hometown of Ulman, Missouri. Jim was born on October 18, 1947, to William and Mildred (Graham) Alieksaites.

Jim is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sandy Alieksaites; his daughters Krista (Toad) Wyrick and Katie (Craig) Welko; two grandsons, Warren and Nolan Welko; and his beloved overweight cat, Penny. He is also survived by two brothers, John (Donna) Alieksaites and Bo Alieksaites; sister, Margaret (Clint) Carlyle; and a host of family and friends.

Following graduation from Osage High School, Jim volunteered to enlist in the Air Force, serving in the Vietnam War. Once he returned from duty, Jim drove a feed truck until he bought the family farm and began turkey and cattle farming for the remainder of his career. Jim met the love of his life, Sandy, with whom he wed in 1979 and created a beautiful family. Jim was a member of Ulman Baptist Church, where he was a deacon for many years.  Jim served his community by being a board member of Gott Cemetery.

In retirement, Jim began dirt track racing, a hobby he enjoyed with his brothers, cousins, and friends for over twelve years. When he wasn't racing #47, you could find him up in his garage working on his race car. He also loved classic cars, and with the help of his brothers, he rebuilt and modernized a 1935 Chevy pick-up. He and Sandy often enjoyed "going for a ride" just for fun. They traveled to car shows and cruise-ins.

Jim's second retirement gig came with the arrival of his grandsons. He was the best Papa, always ready to give a gator, tractor, or truck ride. He gave endless back scratches and had no rules when it came to his boys. They meant the world to him and made his life richer.

Jim lived a full life. He traveled with family to the Daytona 500, Sanibel Island, Yellowstone, the Badlands, Hawaii, and many more. He always took risks, including paddleboarding, at the age of 69. He loved ice cream—black walnut was his favorite—and he would never turn down a gooseberry pie.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, William Alieksaites, his mother, Mildred Alieksaites, and his brother, Joe Alieksaites.

Jim will be honored with a graveside service at Gott Cemetery on Saturday, November 9, at 11 a.m. Family and friends are welcome at Ulman Baptist church following the graveside service for a meal honoring Jim.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Gott Cemetery or to the Disabled American Veterans at dav.org.

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