James Nau Sr., 81, passed away on August 28, 2026, at his home in rural Spearville, Kansas.

James Nau Sr. was born on November 27, 1944 in Spearville, Kansas, to Joseph Nau and Mary (Dick) Nau.James graduated from Spearville High School in 1962.

James married Maryann Cruz on November 17, 1976 at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Dodge City, she survives. He enjoyed going hunting, fishing, collecting antiques, going to auctions and going to Colorado in his spare time. He worked at Erhart Aerial Spraying Service for over 20 years. He also worked as an Auctioneer as well. He loved spending time with his family and friends. He was very talented at fixing things. James is survived by Wife, Maryann Nau of Spearville, Kansas; two sons James Nau Jr. of Dodge City, Kansas; Justin Nau of Hartford, Connecticut; three daughters Cathy Nau of Kinsley, Kansas and Cynthia Phillips of Texas and Kristina Nau-Metzler and husband Reggie of Elizabeth, Colorado. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph, and Mary "Marie" Nau and three brothers Ozzy, Bob, Vernon and one sister Pauline, as well as two grandchildren Alyssa and Chandler. There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. There will be a book signing on Thursday, September 3, 2026 from 12:00 to 4:00 PM at Swaim Funeral Chapel.

Vigil service will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 7:00 PM at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Memorial Mass will be held 10:00 AM Friday, September 4, 2026 at Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe with Rev. Wesley Schawe presiding.

Memorial donations are suggested to the James Nau Sr. Memorial Fund in care of the funeral home.

Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guestbook at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.