James "Jim" T. Aronis

james

September 19, 1929 ~ December 27, 2023

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James "Jim" Aronis, aged 94, died Wednesday, December 27, 2023. A Celebration of Life Service will be at 10:00 am, Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at First United Methodist Church. Jim was born on September 19, 1929, to Greek and Italian parents, Tony and Josephine (Ghezzi) Aronis, in Ponca City, Oklahoma. He graduated from Wichita North High School and furthered his education at Wichita State University. He worked alongside his parents for many years at the Hob Nob Grill, located at 2nd and St. Francis. After their retirement he was employed by the 4th National Bank where he displayed a passion for people and banking. In addition, he was active in countless civic affairs and activities and a long time member of First United Methodist Church. Jim loved dancing with Sydney, loved dogs, playing golf and the banjo. He played in several Dixieland groups in Wichita and as far away as Florida. He sat on the founding board of directors for the American Banjo Museum located in Oklahoma City. He served in the Naval Reserve, the Wichita Chamber's Military Affairs Committee at McConnell Air Force Base, and the Kansas Air National Guard. Jim will be remembered most for his dedication and deep devotion to friends and family. He is survived by his wife of 74 years, Sydney Aronis; son, Randy (Melanie) Aronis of Wichita; daughter, Jill Ballou (Stephen Smith) of Kansas City; five grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. A memorial has been established with Kansas Humane Society, 3313 N. Hillside, Wichita Kansas, 67219. Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary.

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  1. Fair winds and following seas sailor. “Boatswain… Standby to pipe the side… Shipmate’s going Ashore…” Thank you James for your service to this nation. U.S. Naval Reserve.
    Rest James, until you hear at dawn, the low, clear reveille of God. Thank you for your service to this nation. Kansas Air National Guard,

  2. We remember Mr Aronis from the PV neighborhood and his kindness. When we bought our first home we found out that many of the people that we knew from working at Bank IV were friends of his. May the memories that linger be those of joy and laughter. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

    • Wichita Banjo Band was such a wonderful experience for me, and meeting the quick smile of Jim, his 2nd banjo picks, his fun comments during rehearsals — always a wonderful time with all the members. Always the jovial “jentleman”, Jim is a loving memory.

  3. Sorry to miss funeral—-Covid. Back in the day (70s—-80s) Jim was thought by many of us at the Chamber to be “Mr Wichita”. He was always in the middle of any project to improve Wichita. He will be missed. Tonk Mills


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