On December 27, 1959, Jim married the love of his life, Peggy June Weibert, beginning a partnership that would span 66 years of love and serve as a foundation of strength and devotion to his family. He pursued higher education with determination, earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in education from Emporia State College, and later dedicated his career to shaping minds and supporting students.
Jim retired from Southeast Community College, Lincoln, NE, where he served as bookstore manager and previously led the business department. His colleagues and students remember him for his integrity, kindness, and steady guidance. After he retired from SCC, Jim and Peggy moved to Marion, KS, to care for their parents, and he began working for the Marion County treasurer’s office. In 2006, they decided to move back to Lincoln, NE, to be close to their children and grandchildren.
A faithful member of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, Jim lived his faith through quiet acts of compassion and steadfast commitment to his community. Jim is a current member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Lincoln, NE. Jim and Peggy were also members of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Marion, KS, and were very active in that community.
He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Fred Cather; his parents, Bill and Anna Cather; his siblings, Rowena Harrold, Ina Mae Cather, Ben Cather, and Norma Cox.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Peggy, children Joni (Scholl) Cather, Edward and Tammy (Stransky) Cather, Melina (Cather) and Randy Jones; grandchildren, Josh (Jennifer), Amanda, and Aaron (Jen); Andy (Emily), Chelsea (Ben), and Char (JT); and Austin (Michelle). Also, nine great-grandchildren, Jayden, Jace, and Jake; Emeryse, Anias, Jesse, and Theo; Brooks and Poppy; all of whom carry forward his legacy of love, humor, and faith. Jim would often tell his wife, “We’ve lived a good life, sweetheart,” and “Life is good”.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 3825 Wildbriar Lane in Lincoln, NE. A graveside service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, June 26, 2026 at the Marion Cemetery, 1416 Denver Street, in Marion, KS.
Memorials to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.