Jim graduated from Aurora High School in 1967 and later Kearney State College in 1971, where he met his wife of 52 years, Teresa Nelson (Terri to Jim and his family and friends). To this union 3 children were born: Colby (Lisa) Vetter, LaVista, NE, Travis (Jamie) Vetter, Kearney, NE, and Mandy (Andy) Reifert, Lincoln, NE. He was a fun and loving grandpa to 13 grandchildren and 1 great-grandson. Jim kids and grandkids brought him so much pride and joy!
During their years living in Omaha and Papillion, Jim worked at University Hospital as an Anesthesiologist technician and then moved to Clarkson Hospital where he became Chief Cardiovascular Perfusionist for 23 years. In 1998 they made their home in Lincoln, NE where he spent 12 years as a Medical Buyer for the State of NE, retiring in 2010.
Jim loved to hunt and fish growing up, and loved it when the kids and grandkids were old enough to go with him. Fun memories! He also became quite a pro with making fishing lures as a hobby. He enjoyed woodworking and was quite the handy man. He would gladly help those that were in need of help. Jim was raised to be a hard worker. He loved all Big Red sports…once a Husker, always a Husker.
Preceding Jim in death are his parents, grandparents, brother Bill, sister-in-law Barb Vetter, and brother-in-law Chuck Kai. He is also survived by brothers Mike Vetter, Watkinsville, GA, Jeff (Lori) Vetter, Kearney, NE and his favorite sister Judy (Keith) Penner, Central City, NE, many sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends…big and small.
Celebration of Life Service: 11:00 a.m. Monday (1-23-23) Roper and Sons South Lincoln Chapel, 3950 Hohensee Drive. Private prior burial. Livestream available ten minutes prior to service at Roperandsons.com
Memorials to the family for future designation.