James Richard Lhotan

James, a son, a brother, a husband, a father, a grandfather and great grandfather is survived by his three children, Richard, Thomas and Susie.

James was born on February 19, 1933 in Pontiac Michigan to Joe and Ann (Kolch) Lhotan. James was the first generation of his family to have been born within the United States. He graduated from Miami Jackson High in 1951. Soon after graduating high school, James joined the US Navy where he served his country proudly and made lifelong friends. He married Dorothy Park on November 11, 1953 and was married to her for 34 years. After the Navy he worked as a sheet metal mechanic for a local airline in Miami Fl. His career changed as James moved into selling insurance for John Hancock. His successful position moved James’ family to Arizona and Texas. Seeing business opportunities in the 1970’s, James started a wood business selling block hickory wood to 85% of all bar-be-que restaurants in and around Dallas Texas. Later James challenged himself and became the oldest Kaufman county sheriff deputy where he retired.

James was accomplished in many facets, James was a Christian, a business man, an entrepreneur, a philanthropists, a mentor. His hobbies include all outdoors activities. James was especially passionate about fishing, hunting and telling jokes. He earned a few nicknames along the way with his favorites being “Big Jim” and “Ten Cats”. His favorite saying was: “As you ramble on thru life whatever be your goal, keep your eye upon the doughnut and not upon the hole”.

James was preceded in death by his son James William Lhotan and his sister Ann.

A private family funeral is scheduled for 2:30 on May 16, 2019 at veterans National Cemetery in Dallas. A celebration of James’ life will be held with family and close friends on May 18, 2019.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the North Texas Food Bank at 3677 Mapleshade Ln, Plano, TX 75075. The family would like to thank all caregivers for their support, care, and dedications to taking care of our father.