James Patrick “Corky” Corcoran lost his courageous battle with cancer on May 4, 2025. He was home and surrounded by family for his final curtain call. Jim is survived by his wife of 38 years, Leslie, beloved son Jake, “favorite” daughter-in-law Amber, adored grandson Tatum James, and his newest grandson who will arrive in August.
He leaves behind siblings Ann, Sue, John, Kay, Mark, and Jane and many nieces, nephews and their families. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, William Thomas and Dorothy Lillian Cox Corcoran, and brothers Tom and Paul.
Jim’s career as a Journeyman Stagehand with I.A.T.S.E. Local #31 began in the late 1970s. He worked non-stop until he retired in 2020 and was highly respected for his work ethic and carpentry skills. Over the years, Jim worked innumerable concerts and shows at just about every venue in the Kansas City area. He would say, "You name the artist, I worked with them”.
Nearest and dearest to his heart however, was the 30 year run he had with the Lyric Opera of Kansas City as Head Carpenter.
The family will host a Celebration of Life sometime in the Fall at the farm in Lone Jack
