James Richard Ogle Jr., 64, passed away at home on Sunday, March 13, 2022 surrounded by family and friends.

Jim was born Oct. 27, 1957 in Kansas City, MO to the late Laura Lea Ogle and James Richard Ogle Sr.

After graduating from the University of Missouri, Jim worked in broadcasting for more than 30 years including as general manager at WIBW in Topeka, KS and news director at WKYT, Lexington, KY among others. Most recently, he served as the Executive Director of Freedoms Frontier National Heritage Area in Lawrence, KS.

Jim was incredibly passionate about volunteering and leading through community service. He served on as many as 40 non-profit and community boards, chairing several including the Topeka Civic Theater, Big Brothers Big Sisters, United Way of Topeka, NOTO Arts District, Topeka Metro Transit Authority and others. Jim was beloved by many, because he dedicated his life to serve so many.

Jim is survived by his partner Joshua Cain, Topeka, KS; brother Mike (Stephanie) Ogle, Blowing Rock, NC; son Colin Ogle, Arlington, VA; stepdaughter Justice Cain, Topeka, KS; two nieces and several cousins.

The family would like to thank the many doctors, nurses, technicians and caregivers who attended him over the past year and a half during his courageous battle with cancer.

A Celebration of his life will be at 5:00 p.m. on Friday April 29th, 2022 at Penwell-Gabel, 1321 SW 10th Ave. The family will greet friends an hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge in Kansas City or a charity of the giver’s choice.


Charity options:
Topeka Civic Theater
Friends of NOTO
Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Topeka
Downtown Topeka Foundation
Rotary of Topeka
Friends of the Zoo Topeka
Topeka Habitat for Humanity
Greater Topeka Partnership
Kanza Trail
United Way of Topeka


To leave a message for his family online, please click the "Share Memories" button above.