James L. Philbern, 89, died Nov. 5, 2017, at home in Great Bend. He was born April 13, 1928 at Littleton, Colo., the son of Lou Frank and Pauline (Smith) Philbern. A lifetime resident of Great Bend, James worked in the oilfield for many years, being most recently employed by Murray Casing Crews, Inc. James was an avid fisherman and enjoyed playing cards.
He was a member of the VFW Post 3111 and the American Legion Argonne Post 180, both of Great Bend.
Survivors include two sons, Frank Philbern of Great Bend, and David Philbern of Norton; four daughters, Connie Meitner and husband Rocky of Olmitz, Karen McNemee of McLouth, Rita Tague and husband Travis of Edwardsville, and Norma Herdman of Inman; one brother, Bill Philbern and wife Thressia of Wagon Wheel Gap, Colo.; two sisters, Lucille Clark of Great Bend, and Luella Ingram of Anna, Texas; 11 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Louie Philbern and Ed Philbern.
Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 8, at Bryant Funeral Home in Great Bend with Pastor Larry Schumacher. Interment will be at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Great Bend. Visitation will be 1-9 p.m. today at Bryant Funeral Home, with the family receiving friends from 6- 7 p.m. Memorials are suggested to James L. Philbern Funeral expense fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net

Funeral arrangements provided by
Bryant Funeral Home*
1425 Patton Road
Great Bend, KS. 67530
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Nov. 7, 2017