James Trickey

James "Jim" Lynn Trickey, 81, of Cape Girardeau — a beloved spouse, father, grandfather and friend — laid down his working tools Tuesday, April 2, 2024, and passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by family.

Jim, affectionately known as Trickey, was born to Jack Sr. and Rea Fern Trickey on Aug. 18, 1942, in Cape Girardeau.

Growing up, Jim enjoyed spending his time with family, tinkering with and racing his hot rod and playing sports with friends.

Jim attended kindergarten through college at the same school: College Elementary to College High and on to Southeast Missouri State College. After graduating from what he coined “The Harvard of the Midwest” and majoring in physics and mathematics, Jim had successful careers as a journey lineman and electrical engineer for Missouri Utilities, lobbyist for Missouri Utilities, national accounts executive for Heilman Brewing Co. and branch manager for Kaman Corp. and owned and operated Maeco Inc.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Jim was also proud of starting Del-Taire Pilot’s Club, being president of Toastmasters Club and following in his father’s legacy by being initiated into the mysteries of Freemasonry in February 1965. Jim went on to pass his degree of Fellow Craft in June 1965 and rose to the degree of Master Mason in August 1965. As a lifetime Craft member at St. Mark’s Lodge No. 93 in Cape Girardeau, Jim was able to witness the raising of his brother, son and nephew to the Craft.

However, his greatest accomplishment was the pride he took in his children and grandchildren and the relationships he had with his wife and close friends.

Throughout his life, Jim was known for his gentle spirit, unwavering kindness and caring heart. As a member of Centenary Methodist Church, Jim was dedicated to caring for others. He approached his life with diligence, integrity, humor and a commitment to doing things the right way. His passion for helping others was evident in every task he undertook and every life he touched. Jim’s love for life was infectious, and he embraced each day with a sense of enjoyment and gratitude. Whether it was enjoying the beauty of nature while flying his own plane, indulging in his favorite hobbies of reading about World War II history, dancing to Chuck Berry with his wife, playing golf or simply spending time with family and friends, Jim found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Jim cherished being a loving spouse, devoted father and loyal friend. He created countless cherished memories with his family and friends, always offering a listening ear, a shoulder to lean on and words of advice.

Jim is survived by his wife of 43 years, Tina Trickey, and his children, Jason (Tia) Trickey and Heather Cato. He is also survived by three granddaughters, Gracen Trickey, Greta Shipman and Alexis Trickey; a brother, Jack (Jean Ann) Trickey Jr.; three nieces, Stephanie (Cary) Hirner, Tricia (Derek) Miller and Brandy (Chris) Webb; a nephew, Jack Trickey III; sister-in-law, Pam (Perry) Evans; brother-in-law, Rick Voelker and close friend Paige Pontarolo; also, a wide circle of family and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; a son, James Trickey II; a granddaughter, Logan Trickey; a nephew, Lance Evans; as well as his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Visitation will be from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 13, with a celebration of Jim’s life to follow, at Centenary Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Francis Hospice or Centenary Methodist Church in honor of Jim’s lifelong commitment to serving others

Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.