James (Jim) L. Raaf, 85, of rural Gridley, KS, passed away peacefully July 29, 2023, at home with Paula, his wife of 62 years, by his side.

Jim was born on the family farm SW of Gridley on February 5, 1938, to Fred and Bernice (Schif) Raaf. He attended Errett country school and graduated from Gridley Rural High School in 1956.

Jim married Paula Sue Byall on June 11, 1961, at The United Methodist Church in Gridley, where he remained an active member.   This union was blessed with two children, Steve and Kathy. The family enjoyed farm life together as well as vacations touring geological sites, hunting arrowheads and camping.  Jim was an expert at identifying arrowheads on freshly tilled fields and has an impressive collection of artifacts, many which were spotted from the seat of his tractor.

Jim was an active member of the community, countless civic organizations and served on many boards. "Farmer's retirement" found him busy with grandkids' sporting events, 4H projects, county fairs and family gatherings.

Jim devoted his life to his family and to the land entrusted to him by his parents.  He spent his days caring for the cattle and crops with his family alongside. His legacy of hard work and stewardship continues in the hearts and hands of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Richard.  He is survived by his wife, Paula, and his family: son, Steve (Sheila) Raaf, Gridley; daughter, Kathy (Earl) Gaughan, Sedalia, CO; 5 grandchildren, Bailey (Brady) Hedstrom, Jamie (Lee) Heinen, Jeremy (Andrea) Raaf, Michael Gaughan and Jesse Gaughan; and 11 great grandchildren, Ava, Cora, Ezra, Judah, Luka, Micah, Sadie, Silas, Wyatt, Peyton and Bennett. He is also survived by a brother, Fred (Carol) Raaf, sister-in-law, Rita Roberts and brother-in-law Von (Trish) Byall, and many close family friends including Julie McKenzie and Evan Lesser.

Memorial contributions can be made to Jim Raaf Memorial Scholarship for area youth pursuing a future in agriculture and may be sent in care of Jones Funeral Home.