Jim D. Lodes

James D. "Jim" Lodes, age 90, of Sidney, passed away in Scottsbluff, NE. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our father/papa, Jim Lodes who left us on November 9, 2023. He lived a wonderful 90 years, raising a great family and surrounded by many people he cherished.

Cremation has been held. Friends may stop at the Gehrig-Stitt Chapel to sign Jim's book. A private family service will be held later where we will celebrate his life. A memorial will be set up in Jim's honor to Western Nebraska Veterans Home. Any donations can be sent to 2420 Road 125, Sidney NE, 69162.

You may view Jim's Book of Memories, leave condolences, photos and stories at http://www.gehrigstittchapel.com. Gehrig-Stitt Chapel & Cremation Service, LLC is in charge of Jim's care and funeral arrangements.

Jim was born on October 28, 1933, in Howells, NE to his favorite person/mother, Eileen Wagner. He and his mom moved to Morrill, NE when he was five years old where they lived with his grandparents, helping them run the Rustic Tavern. He graduated from Minatare High School in 1949. Later going on to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for one year, then moving back to Scottsbluff, NE where he worked for a construction company and met the lovely, Charlotte Ann Blackburn, whom he went on to marry and spent 70 loving years together, raising 4 beautiful children and beyond blessed with 4 amazing grandchildren.

It wasn't long until he was drafted into the army in 1955 during the Korean "conflict." He was trained as a high-speed radio operator where he received a medal for expert rifle. Once Jim's service ended, he and Charlotte moved to Sidney, NE where he worked for Marathon Oil for four years. Jim then found his life's passion of selling insurance for Lincoln National Life, where he found joy helping others.

Jim was known for his love of his family and his beloved dog, Bo. He enjoyed the simple pleasures as long as it included his wife, children, grandchildren, and Bo. He had a way of making everyone feel valued and heard, no matter the circumstances. Jim coached girls' softball as well as the boys American Legion for 47 years, including coaching his beloved son Gene. He also served his community by being a member of the City Council for 12 years. Jim touched the lives of many through his caring heart and positive attitude towards others. He wanted to be remembered as a man who loves other people and raised a great family.

Jim is survived by his wife of 70 years, Charlotte Ann Lodes, his four children, Gene Lodes and partner, Angie Pethoud, Lori Nicholson and husband Jerry Nicholson, Kristi Meyer and husband Troy Meyer, and Teri Frerichs and husband Trevor Frerichs. He is also survived by his four grandchildren who were the loves of his life, Hayden Frerichs, Evan Nicholson, Cody Frerichs, and Olyvia Frerichs. He has one surviving brother, Danny Beck, and his Aunt Phyllis Phagan.

As we bid farewell to our Dad and Papa, we want to remember the love and joy he brought into our lives and to carry forward the values he held dear. His spirit will always be with us, and his memory will continue to inspire us to be the best versions of ourselves. Rest in peace dear father and thank you for the gift of your presence in all of our lives. We will always love you.

The family would like to send a special thanks to the amazing and loving caregivers at Western Nebraska Veterans Home who treated him like their family.