James Robert Woodrow of Lenexa, December 1, 1978—February 3, 2025, passed away at the age of 46. Born in Fridley, Minnesota, James lived in Annandale, Red Wing, and St. Cloud, Minnesota before moving to Lenexa, Kansas in 1988. James was a devoted Son, Father, Friend, Leader, Technician, Dance Dad, Orchestra Dad, Motorcyclist, Hunter, Fisherman, Dog Lover, and an all-around Good Person. He was preceded in death by his beloved dog, Hank, and is survived by his parents, Gail and David Swanson and Gabriel and Sue Woodrow, his siblings Jason (Erin) Woodrow, Jeff Woodrow, Jon (Alishia) Swanson, Graham (Brandi) Kilgariff, and Lauren Hoffman, his daughters Lindsey, Alexis Bowen, and Lillian (Noah) Sieben, his significant other Teresa Dorsch, the mother of his children Samantha Woodrow, and a host of cherished friends, nieces, nephews, and work associates.
In high school, James was the commander of his NJROTC unit and took special pride in his drill team. He was a mentor to underclassmen. Although his asthma prevented him from joining his brothers as a US Marine, where he would have been the best of us all, he left a lasting impact. James also played the trumpet in the band and had the opportunity to travel to London one New Year's.
James loved his Mom's spritz cookies and cherished meal traditions like Thanksgiving turkey. He was a lover and giver to a fault, always putting the needs of others before his own and sometimes suffering for his generosity. Even as a young child, he was always ready to jump in and do the hard work.
James's sharp eyesight allowed him to recognize game from a long distance. While David would try to diagnose whether an incoming bird was a duck or a goose, James would already have identified the species and sex. He was never one to spare ammunition on a hunt, often emptying his gun when game was within range. Daughter Lindsey was a special duck hunting partner, napping in a small tent as darkness turned to dawn.
As a Dance Dad for Alexis, James was one of the best roadies ever, towing the prop trailer with his truck and excelling at setting up props at venues. He made friends with other parents and was always willing to help. James was also the master mechanic for Lillian's vehicles and a big fan of Lindsey's orchestra performances.
James could talk to anyone and make a friend nearly instantly. If he saw someone needing help, he was always ready and willing. He was a true neighbor and a very patriotic individual.
James had a strong passion for motorcycling. He rode with a group of similar enthusiasts, including the KC Sportsbike Society and Speed Worx, reveling in the freedom of the open road. In the end, James passed away doing one of the things he loved, riding his motorcycle with the wind in his face and the open road ahead.
A memorial service to celebrate James's life will be held on Saturday, February 15, at 1:00 pm at Advent Lutheran Church in Olathe, KS. Visitation starts at noon.