Edward James “Jim” Koler, 79, passed away September 3, 2021, at Bryan-West Memorial Hospital in Lincoln, Nebraska. He was the first-born son of Edward and Lucille (Nollette) Koler on July 18, 1942, in Red Cloud, Nebraska. He was raised on the family farm, where he started farming with his father at a young age. From that beginning, he never lost his love of farming or International Harvester tractors.
Jim went to a country school north of Red Cloud from kindergarten through the 8th grade. His high school years were spent at Red Cloud High School. While in high school, Jim played football, ran track and was active in the FFA.
After graduating from high school in 1960, Jim completed Auto Body School in Omaha, Nebraska. He then returned to Red Cloud and started his life’s work in the automobile industry. He worked in Red Cloud for many years, then managed auto body repair and parts departments in Hastings and Holdrege, Nebraska until he retired in 2009. In retirement, he enjoyed working part-time in Red Cloud at an auto parts store. He enjoyed visiting with customers and quietly appreciated those with whom he came in contact.
Jim was united in Holy Matrimony with Sandra (Johnson) Koler the love of his life, on June 8, 1962. In their marriage of 59 years, the couple raised five children. Jim loved spending time with his family; they were his greatest joy. His kindness and sense of humor were so very appreciated by all who knew and loved him.
He was a faithful member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Red Cloud. He loved the Lord and spent a lot of time in prayer.
Jim served on the Red Cloud Volunteer Fire Department for many years. In service to his community, he made many friends and extinguished many fires.
He enjoyed boating, water skiing, and fishing. In his later years, he loved spending time fishing with his wife and sons. He also loved running and walking and spent many hours in this activity.
Preceding him in death were his parents; sisters-in-law, JoAnn Koler and Char Johnson; brothers-in-law, Donald Johnson and Garold “Jerry” Johnson.
Survivors include his wife, Sandra (Johnson); children and spouses, James Robert “Robb” (Julie); Gina; Mike (Amy); Jason (Kristen); and Jeremy. Grandchildren: Jordan Koler; Emily and Elise Villarreal; Joshua Koler; Nicholas (Taylar) Koler; Madisen, Alexandra, Jillian, Evan, Eric, and Isabella Koler. Also surviving are great grandchild: Peyton Koler; brother, Keith Koler; sister-in-law, Paula (Gehrt) Dickman; brothers-in-law, Jim (Cindy) Johnson and Ron (Ann) Johnson; as well as many nieces, nephews, and other family members.
He will be missed by all who knew him.
The Rosary will be recited Tuesday, September 7, 2021, at Williams Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will take place Wednesday, September 8, 10:30 am, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Paul Frank officiating.
Interment will be at the Red Cloud (Sacred Heart) Cemetery.
Memorials are suggested to the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in care of Williams Funeral Home.
Visitation will be held Monday and Tuesday, 9:00 am - 7:00 pm at the funeral home and Wednesday, 8:00 am to service time at the church.
Williams Funeral Home
241 West 4th Avenue
Red Cloud, Nebraska 68970
Phone 402-746-2500
williamsfuneralhomes@yahoo.com
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