James "Jim" Benak (1939-2021)

James “Jim” Charles Benak, 82, of North Platte, passed away September 27, 2021 at Great Plains Health.
He was born, March 22, 1939 to James A. and Sophia Ilich Benak in Omaha, NE. 
Jim grew up in Omaha and graduated from Omaha South High School with the class of 1958.  Following graduation, he entered the U.S. Army in 1960 and served in Germany and was a boxer for his unit.   After his discharge in 1962, he returned to Omaha and began his career with the Union Pacific Railroad.  After the UPRR shops closed in Omaha, Jim was transferred to North Platte.  He was a machinist and retired after 38 years of service.  Jim married Norma Jean Marcinek on February 15, 2013.  Jim like to hunt and fish, having 2 Master Angler awards.   He enjoyed the sandhills of Nebraska and was a Golden Gloves Boxer in his younger years. 
Jim is survived by his wife, Norma, of North Platte; sisters, Mary (George) Page, and Karen Rehling,; nieces, Julie Rookwood and Laurie Page; nephews, Dean Rehling and Steve Rehling; all of Omaha, Nebraska; along with several other nieces, nephews and many friends. 
He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Sophia, and 7 uncles.
The family has established a memorial in his name.
Funeral services will be held 2:00 P.M., Saturday, October 2, 2021 at Riverside Baptist Church with Rev. Dwane Johnson officiating.  Military rites will be at the church.  Burial will be at a later date at Fort McPherson National Cemetery, Maxwell, Nebraska.  Book signing will be 9 – 5, Friday, October 1, at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home who is in charge of arrangements.