James C. Valasek

James C. Valasek died Tuesday, October 4, 2016 at his home in rural Columbus, Nebraska.

James C. Valasek was born August 24, 1925 in Polk County, Nebraska to Martin F. and Cecilia (Laska) Valasek, Sr. He graduated from Duncan High School in 1943. James served in the U.S. Army during WWII from December 1943 November 1945. He received the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal with 1 Bronze Star. James was a Prisoner Of War survivor being captured at the Battle of the Bulge and held captive in Eastern Germany. Following his discharge he returned to the Duncan area where he worked in the construction industry. He later sold real estate for various companies. James married Louise Ullrich in Lewistone, Idaho. The couple lived in Kenai, Alaska for 15 years where he guided hunting and fishing excursions. James was a member of St. Stanislaus Church, V.F.W. #3704, Hartman Post #84 American Legion and the D.A.V. He enjoyed flying planes, hunting, fishing, woodworking, gardening and wine making.

He is survived by:
Wife: Louise Valasek of Columbus, NE
Daughter: Jo (Pat) Langan of Columbus, NE
Daughter: Karen Valasek of Columbus, NE
Daughter: Teri Smith of Columbus, NE
11 Grandchildren and 17 Great Grandchildren
Sister: Mary Ann Nowak of Omaha, NE
Sister: Catherine Bega of Omaha, NE
Sister: Barbara (Lambert) Torzcon of Columbus, NE
Sister: Marie (Richard) Nelson of Columbus, NE

He was preceded in death by:
Parents: Martin and Cecilia Valasek
Daughter: Susan West
Son: James Valasek, Jr.
Granddaughter: Stacey Atherton
Sisters: Rose Valasek, Fran Ernst, Marge Egr and Betty Sempek
Brothers: Joe, Harry and Martin "Ace" Valasek