James "Jim" Engel

James “Jim” Engel, age 79, died Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the Columbus Community Hospital.

Funeral services are 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at McKown Funeral Home. Visitation is 3:00-5:00 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Graveside services are 12:00 p.m. Friday, May 8, 2026, in Columbus Cemetery with Military Honors by The American Legion Hartman Post 84 Honor Guard.

James J. Engel was born December 12, 1946, to Ervin “Bud” and Maye (Roelle) Engel. He grew up on the family farm and graduated high school in Columbus in 1965, Shortly after graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served his country as a storekeeper during the Vietnam War until his Honorable Discharge in 1969. 

After returning from the military, Jim worked for Behlen Manufacturing for 46 years. After his retirement in December of 2011, he went to work part-time for Hadley-Braithwait until 2025. He really enjoyed his time delivering to small towns and getting to know the people.

Jim married Suzanne (Suzy) Engel in 1975. They were married for 50 years. The couple enjoyed several road trips over the years around Nebraska and South Dakota, especially to Deadwood. They spent much of their time with their family at the cabin on the Platte River. Jim loved mystery novels and had numerous other hobbies. 

Jim is survived by: 
Wife: Suzy Engel of Rural Columbus
Two daughters from a previous marriage: 
Lynette (Chris) Dreifurst of Columbus 
Jamie (Chris) Afrank of Columbus 
Two step-children: 
Jason Durand of Silver Creek 
Kelly Durand of Columbus 
Grandchildren: 
Alexis (Tyler) Reed, Marshall (Morgan) Dreifurst, Joslynn Afrank, Logan Afrank, Jacob (Morgan Wahnee) Durand and Andrew Durand 
Great Grandchildren: 
Jude Reed, Aiden Reed, Theodore Reed, Harlow Reed and Ryan Durand
Brother: Ted (Ardy) Engel
Brother: George (Barb) Engel
Sister-in-law: Shirley Engel
Numerous nieces and nephews

Jim is preceded in death by: 
Parents: Ervin “Bud” and Maye Engel 
Sister: Margot Larsen 
Brother: Carl Engel 
Great grandson: Spencer Reed