Kenneth James “Jim” Dringenberg of Independence, Missouri passed away on February 1, 2025. Services will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home in Independence, Missouri. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home. Burial will be the following morning at 11:00 a.m. at New Salem Cemetery, Independence, Missouri. Memorial contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society.
Jim was born on December 24, 1951 in Alma, Michigan to Kenneth and Lillian (Huntoon) Dringenberg. He married Dawn Lee Winans on June 22, 1985. Jim was very proud of his four children, twelve grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. He was also proud of his military service and his more than 25 years as a dock builder at Elf Machine Works. He was an avid reader and loved collecting and watching all types of movies. Jim was a quiet man but had a unique sense of humor and sarcasm. With a sharp mind and a quick wit, Jim had an unparalleled ability to light up any room with his humor and insight. A lover of both knowledge and laughter, Jim possessed a rare combination of wit and wisdom that left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He dedicated his life to caring for his loving wife Dawn. Jim was selfless and always put the needs of others before his own needs.
Jim grew up in a family of 8 children. There were 3 boys and 5 girls. With such a large family it was hard to afford vacations, but they sometimes took ferry rides to Mackinac Island with mom, dad and grandparents. During the winter months, they loved to skate and sled down the Ithaca hill. Jim and his childhood friend, Rick Kirby, remained close and shared many happy adventures throughout their lives.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Lillian Dringenberg, brothers Richard Dringenberg and Guy Dringenberg, sister Dinah Williams, and his loving wife of 39 years, Dawn Dringenberg who passed away on April 3, 2023.
Jim is survived by children: Tiffany Jarnagin & husband Ken of Independence, MO, Tommye Willey of Independence, MO, Craig Ardner, II of Blue Springs, MO, Josie Ardner of Blue Springs, MO; 12 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, sisters Terry and Tom Vernon of Ithaca, MI, Patricia and Scott Hunt of Riverdale, MI, Dena and Jim Bovee of Florida, and Connie and Roy Reinsmith of Mason, MI.
Obituary submitted by the family.
Arrangements: Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home ~ Independence, MO (816) 796-8600