Jim attended Wheaton Academy High School in West Chicago. In the fall of 1955, he chose to enroll at Friends University in Wichita, KS where he pursued a degree in Business. It was there that he met the love of his life, Kathryn “Elaine” Woodward from Long Beach, CA. They were married on June 28, 1958, and spent their first year together as college seniors.
While living in Wichita, Jim and Elaine welcomed their two children, Michele and Michael. In 1969, they moved their family to Lincoln, Nebraska where Jim enjoyed a long and successful career in the insurance industry. At age 55, he left the corporate world to follow a different calling, joining the pastoral staff at First Evangelical Free Church. He faithfully served as the church’s administrative pastor for the next 15 years.
Jim’s life was rooted in his love for Jesus Christ. He dearly loved his family and the church. He was a devoted teacher of the Bible and a lifelong journaler, faithfully recording his thoughts, prayers, and daily walk with God. He treasured his 66 years of marriage to Elaine, until she was called home in July 2024.
Jim is survived by his daughter, Michele (Kevin) Loecken of Plymouth, MN, and son, Michael (Michelle) Penn of Lincoln, NE, along with 6 grandchildren; Andrea (Peter) Leafblad, Matthew (Katie) Loecken, Eric Loecken, Ethan Penn, Davis Penn and Avery Penn. He was blessed with 5 great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, 10:30 am at First Free Church, 3280 South 84th Street, Lincoln. Jim will be laid to rest in Chicago, IL.
Memorials can be directed to First Free Church, Lincoln, NE