Jim was a devoted father and deeply loved his four children (Jimmy, Nick, Jake and Hannah), whom he considered to be his most important legacy. He also shared an important chapter of his life with Lisa Hartung, the mother of his children. Jim’s family was the center of his world and he found the greatest joys in his life offering guidance, encouragement and unconditional love to his children.
Jim also had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and felt most at peace in nature. Many of his favorite memories were formed while hunting, fishing, and camping with his friends and family. Jim’s Christian faith was also a very meaningful part of his life, especially in recent years. He grew to become a dedicated believer whose faith led him to treat others with humility, gratitude, and compassion.
While he never sought recognition, his accomplishments in gymnastics were extraordinary. A proud University of Nebraska gymnast from 1979 to 1982, he helped lead the team to four consecutive national championships. He was one of the most decorated athletes in collegiate history, earning 22 All-American honors, winning seven national championships, and receiving the prestigious Nissen-Emery Award. He was a two-time Olympian and a member of the 1984 U.S. Olympic team that won the gold medal. His contributions to the sport were honored with induction into the inaugural class of the University of Nebraska Athletics Hall of Fame and the inaugural class of the College Gymnastics Association Hall of Fame. Following his competitive career, Jim dedicated 19 years to coaching at the University of Nebraska, where he helped build a nationally respected program and mentored generations of athletes.
Jim is survived by his daughter, Hannah Hartung (Vinny Magnusson); sons Jimmy Hartung, Nick Hartung, and Jake Hartung (fiancé Maria Michalski); former wife, Lisa Hartung; sister Laura Davis (Mike Rodgers); brothers John Hartung and Jeff (Cathy) Hartung; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Lincoln Berean Church, 6400 S. 70th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska. A reception will follow from 12:00 to 2:30 p.m. at the Bob Devaney Sports Center, Room 320, 1600 Court Street, Lincoln (South parking & entrance). A visitation will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Roper and Sons South Chapel, 3950 Hohensee Drive, Lincoln.
If you plan to attend any of the events—particularly the luncheon reception—please email or text John so we can plan accordingly. Email: mailto:jrobinson@huskers.com Phone: 704-728-2834
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Jim Hartung Memorial Scholarship:
Checks:
- Made payable to the University of Nebraska Foundation with “Jim Hartung Memorial Scholarship” in the memo
- Mailed to the Huskers Athletic Fund, 800 Stadium Drive, Lincoln, NE 68588.
Online:
https://huskers.evenue.net/give/ADDSUPPORT
Selecting the Men’s Gymnastics Excellence Fund and note “Jim Hartung Memorial Scholarship” in the comments.