James V. Yelick

James V. Yelick was born on October 23, 1921 in Plattsmouth, Nebraska to James and Alma Yelick. He passed away on Monday, June 3, 2013 at Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 91 years, 7 months and 10 days. James was raised in the Plattsmouth area, one of 13 children. James was a member of the United Methodist Church in Plattsmouth for 87 years. He graduated from Plattsmouth High School with the Class of 1941. While in school he was a master athlete, obtaining many conference records. He was also instrumental in the design of the current Blue Devil Mascot. He was united in marriage to Blossom Burcham after graduation from high school. After Blossom’s death, he later was united in marriage to Janet Kudrna in 1972. After High School he entered the US Navy and served during World War II. Once returning to Nebraska, he began work as an inspector for Tom Paine Company at Offutt Air Force Base. James also managed a GI School in Omaha for auto body repair and auto mechanics. He then worked at Deluxe Auto Body until the early 1970’s when he opened and operated Yelick Auto Body in Bellevue which he operated until retirement at the age of 65.. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, mushroom hunting and took great pride in constructing his own hunting decoys. As a young man, he obtained his pilot’s license and enjoyed spending time flying around the area. He is survived by his Son: Bruce Yelick and wife Lorie of Plattsmouth, NE; Daughter-in-law: Barbara Yelick of Missouri. Grandchildren: Kaylee, Kari & Kristin Yelick, Cherie (Todd) Tafoya & Paula Delaine. Numerous Great Grandchildren, Great Great Grandchildren, Nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by his Parents, 1st Wife: Blossom Yelick & 2nd Wife: Janet Yelick. Son: Donald Lee Yelick, 9 Brothers and 3 Sisters. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2013 at 11:00 A.M. at Harvey Funeral Home Chapel in Plattsmouth, NE with Rev. Larry Biederman officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, June 7, 2013 from 1:00 P.M until 9:00 P.M. with family greeting friends from 6-8 PM at the Funeral Home. Memorials may be directed to the First United Methodist Church in Plattsmouth. Brian P. Harvey Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. 402-296-4445.