James C. Hunke

James C. Hunke of Cozad passed away August 30, 2017 in Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 88. Jim was born July 4, 1929 in West Point, Nebraska to John and Theresa (Kaup) Hunke. He graduated from Lexington High School in 1947. Jim entered the U.S. Army in 1951 and proudly served during the Korean War. On November 28, 1953, he married Sharalyn Van Dyke at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Lexington, Nebraska. The couple resided in Lexington before making their home in Cozad to raise their seven children. Jim farmed, built homes and worked as a manager at Paulsen Inc until his retirement. Jim enjoyed fishing, gardening, playing cards and spending time with family and friends. Jim had a personality that was contagious to those who met him and those who were good friends, of which he had many throughout his lifetime. Jim was a faithful member of Christ the King Catholic Church. He volunteered his time for many of the church groups and was active with The Knights of Columbus. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Sharalyn; and brother, Larry Hunke. Survivors include his children, Chris Hunke and wife Deb of Cozad, Steve Hunke and wife Trudi of Corona, CA, Deb Gentleman and husband Bob of Omaha, Cindy Kinnan and husband Lane of Cozad, Patti Kuhn and husband Theron of Elkhorn, Marcia Keller and husband Brad of Eustis and Matt Hunke and wife Lisa of Cozad; sister, Ann McKee and husband Paul of Oxnard, CA; 16 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and extended family. A memorial has been established in his name. Online condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com. Mass of the Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, September 5, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Cozad Cemetery. Rosary will be recited Tuesday, September 5, 2017 at 9:30 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church. Visitation will be Monday, September 4, 2017 from 1 to 8 with family receiving friends from 6 to 8 at Berryman Funeral Home.