James Oppliger

James H. "Jimmy O'" Oppliger died Thursday, February 3, 20100 as result of a automobile accident near Duncan.

James H. Jimmy O was born May 4, 1946 in Columbus to Herbert and June (Sallee) Oppliger. He grew up in the Duncan and Columbus area and graduated from Columbus High School in 1965 where he played right guard on the 1964 state championship football team. He continued his education studying Ag Business at Wayne St. College and the farm short course at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He entered the US Army National Guard where he served as a Warrant Officer flying UH1 Huey helicopters out of Fort Rucker, Alabama. He returned to Nebraska where he worked for the State of Nebraska Ag Department before returning to the family farm. He was united in marriage to Gayle Massman Schaefer on August 15, 1992. Jim was active in the Duncan Lakes Association where he helped with its development and upkeep. He especially loved his dogs, restoring cars, golf, and four-wheeling. Jim served on the Duncan Volunteer Fire Department, the Quiet Birdmen, and was a member of St. Lukes United Church of Christ.

He is survived by:
Wife Gayle Oppliger of Columbus
Son Jeff (Michelle) Oppliger of Columbus
Daughter Jamie Oppliger of Columbus
Step-Son Jared Schaefer of North Platte
Step-Son Dustin (Andrea) Schaefer of Duncan
Step-Daughter Neely (Kris) Gernstein of Columbus
Grandchildren: Cole Oppliger, Jayden Gernstein, Karli Gernstein, and Brea Schaefer
Sister Judy (Neil) Whetstone of Columbus
Niece Tammy (Steve) Dolezal of Columbus
Nephew Ty (Donna) Franzen of Elkhorn

He is preceded in death by:
Parents
Best Friends Max, Shelby, and Midge