James Robert (Jim) Clements of Clarks, NE passed away March 6, 2022 in Lincoln, NE. He was born to Rev. Albert and Wilma Clements on December 20, 1930 in Des Moines, Iowa. As the son of a pastor turned missionary then WWII Lt. Commander Naval Chaplain, his family was often on the move. He attended school in California, Alaska, Washington, and Maine before graduating from high school in Leon, Iowa in 1949. He was a member of the United Methodist Church for over 75 years, attended the Iowa State University in Ames, and served as a Corporal in the United States Army. En route to Korea by troop transport, the Korean Armistice Agreement was signed. He would later joke the opposition laid down their guns because they knew “Jimmy” was coming.
He farmed in Decator, Iowa at the time he met the love of his life, Jane. They married in June of 1959. Later, they lived in Thurman, Iowa while he worked at the American Meter Plant before moving to Clarks, NE in 1967. He worked for Pollard Propane & Oil where he delivered propane and installed and repaired propane appliances through retirement.
Jim wanted to raise his family with his wife so his children could call one place home. He counted his family as his greatest accomplishment. His life is marked by the example he set through his work ethic, strength, curious nature, treatment of others, ability to find joy in simple things, faith, and humor. He never met a stranger, a hobby, or a baked good he didn’t like. He enjoyed the outdoors, woodworking, gardening, photography, was an avid reader interested in science and how things are made, going to auctions, and low-key hoarding.
Jim is survived by sons Robert (Catherine) Clements, Timothy Clements, Nathan (Colleen Mackay) Clements; daughter Sarah (Richard) Chapin; grandchildren Carly Clements, Savannah Clements, Boeing Clements, Tavis Clements, and Margaux (John) Pinkston; great grandchildren Aubrey, Maelee, and Landon; siblings Elizabeth Clements and Mary (William) Fisher; sisters-in-law Mary Hume, Jo (Steve) Erwin, Pat Hume, and Doreen Hume; and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
He was proceeded in death by his wife Jane, parents, brothers-in-law Deems, Robert, Jerry, Dean, and Gene, and sister-in-law Veda.
A very special thank you to Alex, Ariane, Bertha, Chastity, Chloe, Colton, Cortni, Florence, Grace, Jayme, Laura, Mackenzie, Marie Jeanne, Nadia, Regine, Thomas, Zachary, Zainab, and Zoe from CountryHouse Residence who cared for Jim during the last year with dignity, kindness, respect, and love. Thank you also to Tabitha Hospice nurses, aids, and social workers who provided additional support in his final days.
A Celebration of Life Open House Luncheon in honor of both Jim and Jane is planned for Saturday, March 19, 2022 at the V.F.W. Post #4832, 203 North Green Street, Clarks, NE from 1:00 PM to 5:00 P.M. A graveside service is planned for Grandview Cemetery in Thurman, Iowa on Sunday, March 20, 2022 at 11:30 AM with a lunch to follow. As an expression of sympathy, online condolences may be left at trumpmemorials.com. The family has designated the Clarks United Methodist Church for memorial contributions. Memorials may be sent to the Clements family at 6620 Boulder Ridge Rd, Lincoln, NE 68526.
With a 17-year head start, it took decades for me to catch up with my big brother. In the end, we shared our love of our families, our vulnerability to aging, and the special moments of common history and points of view. Peace to the boy, the father, the man I knew.
Thank you, auntie.
Well, it seems Jim and I share a few traits-all good:reading about science, going to estate sales and mild hoarding, for profit only.
I will miss him! Boy, we could talk forever together; if we both had the endurance- I know he did for sure! One of the best persons I have ever met besides my wife Linda. I know they will be able to carry long conversations in the heaven above.
What a wonderful tribute.
My deepest sympathy for all of you. Your parents were a true blessing to the village of Clarks. I still have a quilt rack that was made by Jim. Have found memories of Jane’s cooking! They were the best neighbors to have growing up. Sending prayers!
Thank you!
Our prayers and deepest sympathy to the family.
Thank you!
Jim and Jane were our neighbors and were like grandparents to our young daughters. They even went to schools functions to support our children. We are blessed to have known them.
Thank you for sharing that fond memory.
Sarah our prayers are with you and your family. Your parents were kind and thoughtful people . I am so thankful for how loving and welcoming they were to Margaux when she joined your family. I couldn’t have wished for a better family and bonus mom for her and her family. Prayers to you all.
Thank you so much for your kind words about our family. Mom and Dad loved Margaux and her family so. Dad really enjoyed their visits!