Jimmie L. Burch

Jimmie L. Burch, a lifelong member of the Junction City community, passed away on December 2, 2025, at Salina Regional Health Center in Salina, Kansas. He was born on December 11, 1941, in Garfield, Arkansas, to Wesley James and Oria Marie (Powell) Burch. His life was marked by deep dedication to his family, his friendships, and his work in the community.

Junction City became his home when his father was stationed at Fort Riley with the U.S. Army, and it remained the center of his life for decades. On July 14, 1958, he married Renate “Rena” Schultz in Junction City, Kansas. Their 67-year marriage was the cornerstone of his life.

Jimmie was a true friend to many and genuinely loved spending time visiting and connecting with people. He built a reputation as a hardworking, devoted businessman, owning and operating Burch Roofing Company, Jim’s Tavern, Corner Club, Circle B, and We Buy Recycling—businesses that reflected his strong work ethic, entrepreneurial spirit, and deep commitment to serving others.

He lit up at family gatherings, happiest when multiple generations were together under one roof, sharing his stories, his values, and his love. His grandchildren cherish memories of long talks about old classic cars and riding around town at his side, pockets full of quarters for the jukebox, pinball, and shuffleboard. They loved going down to the shop to “help” with the compactor, raid the candy machine in his office, and listen to him talk about his collectibles. In those simple moments, he quietly handed them the best inheritance he could give: his work ethic, his determination, and his entrepreneurial spark.

Jimmie is survived by his loving wife, Rena Burch; sons, Kenny Burch and Steve Burch (Sheila); daughters, Dianna Burch (Harlan “Jr.”) and Tami Burch; half-brother, James Burch (Yvonne); and half-sister, Cindy Gilmore. He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Michelle Corbin, Robert Swarthout (Hanna), Shane Swarthout (Beth), Steven L. Burch (Ryan Garrison), Corey Burch (Erin), and Nickales Jaecke; a devoted great-grandfather to thirteen great-grandchildren—Noah, Jasmine, Haylea, Jaylen, Mikayla, Colton, Liam, Zoey, Oliver, Lexie, Deacon, Lucille, and Maylie Lane—and great-great-granddaughter, Lyla Swarts.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wesley James Burch and Oria Marie (Powell); his stepmother, Lucille Burch; and his grandson, Christopher Levi Burch.

Visitation will be held on December 8, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, 203 N. Washington St., Junction City, Kansas. A Celebration of Life will take place the following day, December 9, 2025, at 1:00 PM, at the same location. Following the Celebration of Life, friends and family are invited to a graveside service at Highland Cemetery and, immediately afterward, to a reception at the Elks Lodge, 723 S. Washington St., Junction City, KS.

Jimmie L. Burch leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and friendship that will be remembered fondly by all whose lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Highland Cemetery to help restore the water system for the gravesites. Jimmie always wanted the system repaired so Rena wouldn’t have to carry water to care for Christopher’s grave. Your donation honors his wish and eases that burden for her and for other families.