Jim Markvicka

James R. Markvicka, 73, of Ericson passed away unexpectedly on November 14, 2020, at his home.

Graveside Inurnment Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 21, 2020, at the Hillside Cemetery in North Loup with Duane Waddle officiating. For the health and safety of others social distancing and face masks are required for those attending.

Online Condolences may be left at ordmemorialchapel.com

Jim was born June 20, 1947, to Martin Charles and Dolly (Johansen) Markvicka. He was the youngest of six children and was raised at the family farm in North Loup.

Jim graduated from North Loup Scotia in 1965, and later attended Kearney State College for biological studies.  During the late 1960's Jim worked in construction and traveled to many states. He helped build interstate 80 and worked in carpentry in California.

In 1969, Jim and Connie (Holoun) were united in marriage. They began their 16 year marriage in North Loup. After residing in Kearney, the couple moved to Ericson where they owned and managed a bar with Jim's sister, Mary.  In 1974, their only child, Marty, was born.  After selling the bar in 1975, Jim continued to work construction in Omaha and again traveled to various states in the late 70's to the late 80's.

In 1989, Jim returned to Ericson and started "MJM Construction", serving the area communities. Jim's shop was a gathering area in downtown Ericson where people would stop by to talk and share in a libation.

Jim was a lifelong outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, and camping. He was most comfortable when working with his hands. If he wasn't custom designing pieces for customers, he was building furniture for himself or making repairs. After retirement, Jim could be found enjoying time outdoors in the gazebo or on the porch, both of which he built. Jim was always reading or listening to audiobooks. Other activities Jim enjoyed were gardening, watching sports, keeping up on the news, spending time with family, and keeping his sisters on their toes with his witty sense of humor.

Jim is survived by his son, Marty (Julie) of Grand Island; grandchildren, Brea, Kaytin, Matthew, and Sean; three sisters, Janet (Glendon) Rush of Omaha, Beverly (Jack) Hetfield of Cairo, and Mary (Gene) Schmeits of Ericson; a sister-in-law, Linda Markvicka of North Loup; 12 nieces and nephews; and many special friends he met traveling and through his business.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, an infant sister; a brother, Hank; a sister, Norma; and his former wife, Connie.