James Edward Beckius, 86, of Stapleton, Nebraska passed away August 30, 2015 at his son’s home in Stapleton. He was born December 7, 1928 in Logan County to Frank F. and Nora McCormick Beckius. James went to school in North Platte at McDaid and St. Patrick’s Catholic Schools. After his schooling he returned to the Stapleton area and farmed with his uncles. On November 16, 1951 in Julesburg Colorado he married Lila Belle Chapman. The couple settled in the Stapleton area and bought the family place in McPherson County in 1954. In 1969 they expanded by buying the Andre place, continuing the family operation until his death.
He was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church, volunteer for the Stapleton Rodeo for many years, served on the St. John’s parish board and the Loup Valley Cemetery Board, and was host of the West Branch Board Meeting every morning. He always had time to visit with anyone, was known for his straight forwardness, was very kind and giving, and never met a stranger. He loved his family, and was always willing to help them when in need.
Survivors include his children, Dan (Ruth) Beckius of Stapleton, Bill (Beth) Beckius , and Dana (Barry) Hinkle all of North Platte; grandchildren, Leroy (Sheri) Beckius of El Cajon, Ca, Chad (Lisa) Beckius of Vermillon, SD, Sarah (Amos Meek) Beckius of Lincoln, Shannon Beckius of Lincoln, Molly (Trevor) Kucera of North Platte, and Alex Hinkle of Kearney; great-grandchildren, Emily Beckius, James Beckius, Andrew Beckius, Caleb Beckius, and Liam Meek; brothers, Michael (Shar) Beckius of Vallejo, CA and Charles “Chuck” (Joyce) Beckius of Willows, CA; and numerous other family members and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lila; and a sister, Mary Arie.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. John’s Cemetery or to Loup Valley Cemetery.
Christian Wake Service will be 7:00 p.m. Thursday, September 3, 2015 at St. John’s Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 4, 2015 at St. John’s Catholic Church with the Reverend James Novakowski as celebrant. Burial will follow in the Loup Valley Cemetery. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Wednesday and 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Thursday at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.