James “Jim” Mertlik, 78, passed away November 26, 2016 at Bryan East Medical Center, surrounded by his family. Jim was born in Fresno, California on October 12, 1938 to Emil and Mary Ann (Yecny) Mertlik. Following his graduation from Roosevelt High School, Jim joined the United States Air Force. After boot camp and training school in Texas, he was sent to Air Force Base in Lincoln, Nebraska. Later he started to work for George Cook Construction, following George Cook’s passing he worked for Walt Broer Construction. The last of his working career was at Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company until his retirement.
Jim loved keeping his yard well-groomed and growing his hibiscus flowers. It was never a job to him but a pleasure. The car he drove to Lincoln, Nebraska in 1957, (his high school car) he still drives today. It was always special to him, it being owned by his brother Bob Mertlik before him. He also enjoyed his cars and going to car shows and he belonged to the Rebels Car Club. Jim was a member of New Hope United Methodist Church and was a longtime member of Grace United Methodist Church.
Big Jim will always be loved by his family and friends.
Jim leaves behind his wife of 56 years, Sandra Mertlik, his sons, Lance (Kelly) Mertlik and Scott (Julie) Mertlik, 7 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, brother, Emil (Melba) Mertlik, of Clovis, California and sister, Donna Hewlett, of Arroyo Grande, California, brother-in-law, Kenneth Schacht, of Lincoln, Nebraska, many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Robert and his kitty, Muffy that he loved so much.
Memorial Service will be held 11 a.m., Friday (12-2-16) at New Hope United Methodist Church, 1205 N. 45th. Private family interment at Wyuka Cemetery.
Memorials in lieu of flowers to The Cat House or New Hope United Methodist Church.