James "Jim" Edward Reiners

James "Jim" Edward Reiners, age 87, lifelong resident of rural Indianola, NE passed away on April 21, 2022 at Brookestone Gardens in Kearney, NE.

Jim was born on April 9, 1935, to Edward and Caroline (Hofman) Reiners.  He was the beloved older brother to his four sisters. Jim attended St. John’s Parochial School before attending McCook High School. He was an active member of the FFA where he broadened his love for farming. He was the Nebraska state champion of the Road-E-O driving contest and placed 10th overall in the nation in Washington DC.  Following graduation in 1953, Jim enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country from 1954 until his honorable discharge in 1956.

Upon returning home, Jim met and married the love of his life, Wendy Pickett at St. John's Lutheran Church on December 8, 1957.  They made their home on the family farm outside of Indianola. The couple was blessed with and raised six wonderful children. Jim was selected as “Father of the Year” in 1977.

Jim was a devout Christian and a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church. He was the Sunday School Superintendent, played the organ, sang in the choir, served on the Lutheran Laymen's League and served in various other facets of the church.

Jim was a lifelong farmer. In fact, Jim and Wendy were awarded the Nebraska Pioneer

Farm Award for long and meritorious service to agriculture exemplified by continued ownership within the family of the same Nebraska farm for over 100 years. He made over 700 miles of terraces and was awarded the Middle Republican NRD 2000 Conservation Award from Farm Credit Services of America. He raised numerous crops throughout the years. As his farming career slowed down, you could find Jim driving the ranger in the pasture to check water tanks and enjoying the view from his porch swing. Outside of farming, Jim enjoyed numerous card games with family and friends. He was a skilled carpenter, and added onto his family home. Jim had the kindest heart and was always quick to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Most of all he loved spending time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Left to celebrate his life include his wife, Wendy of Indianola; sons, Michael (Charlene) of Grand Island; Douglas (Ruth Ann) of Frederick, CO; Rick (Friday) of Indianola, Greg (Hayden) of McCook; and Kevin (Irene) of Lincoln; daughter, Jackie (Don) Liess of Kearney; sisters, Norma (Don) Klein of McCook; Carolyn (Pete) Keith of Penokee, KS; Sandra (Mike) Haskins of Lawson, MO; and Evelyn Reiners of Kearney; 21 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members. Jim was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 pm on Thursday, April 28, 2022 at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home with the family greeting friends.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, April 29, 2022 at St. John's Lutheran Church with Rev. Justin Hildebrand officiating. Burial will follow in St. John’s cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 39097 Rd 712, McCook, NE 69001; Mission Central, 40755 CO Hwy E16, Mapleton, IA, 51034; or the Donor's Choice.