James Madison Kemper Sr., 32°
(Nov 14, 1894-July 22, 1965)

1922 - 32° Consistory of Western Missouri, Kansas City

Occupation: Banker, Commerce Trust Co.
Interred: Santa Barbara Cemetery, Santa Barbara, California

James Kemper grew up attending the public schools of Kansas City and the Blees Military Academy, graduating in 1912. He attended the University of Missouri, Kansas City, graduating in 1916.

A rivalry developed between the brothers when James was appointed president of City Bank in 1919. Crosby took over the post when James turned in his resignation after less than a month. The rivalry intensified when James was appointed president of Commerce Trust Company in 1925, making him one of the youngest managers of a major bank in the nation at age 32. The appointment also prompted Crosby to focus on making City Bank equal in stature to Commerce.

James Kemper became Chairman of the Board for Commerce in 1939 and remained in the position until 1964. During his 40 years in banking, James was responsible for the construction of Commerce Tower, which was the tallest commercial building in the state when built in 1965. He was also chairman of the Downtown Committee and treasurer of the Liberty Memorial Association.

James died at age 70 in 1965. Crosby died in 1972 at age 80.