Jimmy “Jim” Blake, born on October 17, 1933, in Haddam, Kansas, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2024, at Linden Court in North Platte, Nebraska. He was the third of four sons of Henry (Hank) Blake and Frena (Cales) Blake.
Throughout his life he remained close to his brothers. Jim graduated from Haddam Rural High School in 1951. He married his classmate, Anita Schocke, in October of 1951. They moved to Scottsbluff, Nebraska and to this union were born four children: Jolynn “Jo”, Craig, Janet “Jan”, and Brenda. With a strong work ethic, Jim began his career with the phone company as a lineman. His dedication and commitment saw him through more than 50 years with the company, culminating in his role as an engineer before his retirement. He was a 32 Degree Mason and a Shriner. In 1973, Jim married Theresa Hesselgesser. Together, they lived in Tyler, Texas, and Olathe, Kansas, before returning to Gering, Nebraska in 2011. They were married for 47 years before her passing in 2020 due to COVID. Jim remained in his own home until he moved to North Platte 51 days before he died. He moved to Linden Court in North Platte to be closer to family. He had various interests, finding pleasure in solving jigsaw puzzles, brain game puzzles, playing Yahtzee and solitaire. He enjoyed following the stock market. His knack for finding a good bargain at garage sales was always fun.
Per his wishes, cremation was chosen. Graveside services will be held at a later date in Haddam, Kansas, where he will be laid to rest in the town he called home.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, brothers Donel “Don” Blake and Rodney “Rod” Blake, and his wife Theresa, as well as nieces and nephews.
He is survived by his four children: Jolynn Hacker of Hebron, Nebraska; Craig Blake of Cedar City, Utah; Jan (Paul Koubek) Blake of North Platte, Nebraska; and Brenda Tobey of North Platte, Nebraska. Additionally, he is survived by his brother William (Bill) Blake of Mesa, Arizona, sister-in-law Katherine Blake of Burr Oak, Kansas, along with 16 grandchildren, 23 great- grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces and a nephew.
Adams & Swanson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.