In the early, quiet hours of March 28, 2024, Jimmie D. Baney of Benkelman, Nebraska, a man of faith, steadfast character and unwavering dedication passed away with his wife, Mary, of 68 years by his side. Jim, as he was affectionately known to many, a loving husband, Dad and Grandpa, was a pillar of his community, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.
Born on the Baney homestead in rural Dundy County on May 28th, 1934, Jim's roots ran deep within the soil of his family farm. For over 50 years, he toiled on the land that shaped him, embodying the spirit of a true farmer and rancher. In 2018, Jimmie and Mary received the Aksarben Foundation Pioneer reward celebrating and honoring 100 continuous years of family-owned farm ground since 1918. His commitment and love for the land transcended time, as he continued to live his life on the family farm.
Jim's passion extended beyond the fields; he was a master craftsman with an unparalleled talent and keen eye for restoring antique cars, collectables and things of old. From his prized 1902 Holsman Horseless Carriage to his beloved 1929 Ford Model A with a rumble seat, Jim's expertise in reviving these treasures earned him numerous accolades at car shows and surrounding community fair parades. As the owner of the Wagon Wheel antique store in Benkelman, he curated a treasure trove of memories, history and stories waiting to be discovered. His hands were his tools, and his creations were testaments to his skill and dedication. Jim could fix anything and loved taking something from shambles and making it anew. He could make a doohickey for a thingamajig. He never could sit still and was always working on the next project.
Jim was blessed with the power of persuasion, loved to barter, attend auctions and "make a deal". He was well known to every auctioneer in the Tri State area and very seldom missed a farm sale.
A man of many talents, Jim found joy in various pursuits, an avid basketball and baseball player and a skilled bowler in his younger years. He loved sports and loved watching his children and grandchildren’s activities; he couldn’t help but be a bit of a bleacher coach. But, more important, he loved to spend time with an opportunity to teach, especially with his children and grandchildren.
In matters of the heart, Jim found his lifelong companion in Mary Janicke. Their enduring love story began in Parks, Nebraska, where a chance encounter on the baseball field blossomed into a beautiful union on September 25th, 1953 at the Methodist Church in Bladen, NE. Together they raised a family enriched with love and laughter.
Jim’s personal relationship with the Lord was evident, especially with his family. His servant heart and devotion to helping others brought him joy and touched many lives. He served on the board committee of the Benkelman Friends Church where his family attended for years.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents William and Mary Baney, brothers and sisters-law Dale and Delores Baney, Evertt Baney and Billie Baney; sisters and brothers-in-law Velma and Max Cline, Elila and Jack Whiteside, Leta and Junior Andres and Bonnie and Delbert Nelsen. As well as, Milton and Fayetta Janicke (parents-in-law), Lyle Hansen, Wilfred Hansen, Ronald Janicke and Verlin Rose (brothers-in-law)
Jim is survived by the love of his life Mary; his children, James Douglas Baney (Lora), Mary Jane Shorman (Darcy), and Nancy Ruth Baney. His adoring grandchildren, Meghann Rachelle Pursley (Andrew), Aaron Douglas Baney (Kate), Joel William Shorman, Jessica Rosemary Shull, Nicholas Ivan Baney and Marina Grace Baney; two great-grandchildren, Ashlynn Faye and Isaiah Martin Pursley; his loving sisters, Ruby Stock, Helen Hansen, Barbara Lea Pursley (Neal) and sisters-in-law Donna Baney, Lois Janicke and Jane Barton (Evart); and numerous nieces, nephews and countless others who were touched by his kindness.
As we bid farewell to Jimmie Baney on this earthly journey, we celebrate in knowing that his spirit lives on through the enduring legacy he created. The best Grandpa, Papa and Poppo anyone could ask for; a devoted Husband, a wonderful Dad, a true collector and craftsman. A favorite scripture marked in Jim’s personal Bible is from (Acts 2:28) “… you have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.” Heaven welcomed home a remarkable man, a faithful servant, a caring farmer, a spirted rancher … and a true cowboy!
The visitation will be held on Friday, April 5th from 5:00-7:00 P.M (MT) at Benkelman Memorial Chapel followed by a Funeral Service on Saturday April 6th at 10:30 A.M (MT) at Benkelman Methodist Church. Interment to follow at Benkelman Cemetery in Benkelman NE.
Memorial contributions in Jim's honor may be made to “Voice of the Martyrs” (VOM) an international non-profit organization whose mission is to defend the human rights of persecuted Christians (persecution.com)