James P Conant

James (Jim) Conant

Jim was born on March 10, 1932 to Daniel and Elsie (VanAckeren) Conant in Cedar Rapids, NE.  He was the second youngest of 6 children. He was raised on the family dairy farm where he enjoyed working with his dad delivering milk in a Ford Model A. He often reminisced about the memories growing up on the farm with his brothers and sisters. Jim attended school at St. Anthony’s in Cedar Rapids. He proudly joined the navy in 1950. He served for four years in San Diego with the Pacific Reserve Fleet. Jim was discharged in September of 1954 as Third-Class Petty Officer. He returned home to Cedar Rapids and took a job as a truck driver. Jim met his bride of almost 63 years, Vonda Lou Boyd, in the fall of 1954. It started with a blind date and a joy ride on the railroad tracks in his 1941 Chevy. After a year of dating Jim proposed; they were married on June 19, 1956 at St. Anthony’s Church in Cedar Rapids, NE. It was here where they started their lives together. They spent several years in Genoa, NE and had their four children. Jim was transferred to Omaha with Wheeler transport and continued working for them for over 30 years, meeting many wonderful people along the way. His family planted roots in Gretna, NE where they lived for over 50 years. Following his job at Wheeler, he took a job at Gretna Elementary school where he was able to see his grandchildren every day. After Jim retired in 1995 he enjoyed camping, fishing, and most importantly time with his family.

Jim loved preparing his fifth wheel for road trips at various camping destinations. He created countless memories spending time with friends and family. He looked forward to 4:00 o’clock happy hour where he enjoyed a cold “two finger” drink. His camper took him and Vonda to Arizona where spent winters golfing and enjoying the beautiful weather. Jim loved baseball from a very early age. It was common to find him watching a baseball game or the RFD channel. He enjoyed reruns of Hee-haw, Red Skelton, and the Carol Burnett show. Jim also had a passion for the outdoors. He loved fishing, swimming, campfires, golf cart rides, and listening to the sound of the birds.

He was a member of the American Legion Post 216 for 45 years. He was a 4^th degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus Assembly No. 2541 for 15 years.  Jim was a very faithful catholic at St. Patrick’s church in Gretna. He was active in the 55+ Club and volunteered with other ministerial duties.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Vonda of 62 years; daughters Patty (Mark) Hotz and Mary (Greg) Jones; son Ed (Lori) Conant all of Gretna, NE. Grandchildren Valoree (Aaron) Stuhr, Mark (Erin) Hotz II, Alex (Jon) Moore, Lindsey (Jerry) Buckman, Shelby (Garrett) Bolander, Dillon Jones, and Beau Conant. Great-grandchildren Jaxon, Ellie, Henley, Cora, and a December arrival for one “Moore”.

Preceded in death by son Dick; parents Dan and Elise Conant; brothers Tom, John, Joe; sister Peg and Mary Ann; great-grandchildren Maddie and Walker.

Visitation Wednesday 5-7 PM with Rosary 7 PM at Church. Funeral Mass Thursday (6/6/19)  at 10:30 AM at St. Patrick Catholic Church 508 Angus Street Gretna, NE. Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery Gretna, NE at a later date. Memorials to the family for later donation.

Roeder Mortuary 11710 Standing Stone Gretna, 402-332-0090 www.RoederMortuary