James “Jim” W. Prochazka

James “Jim” W. Prochazka

Nov. 17, 1940 - Sept. 6, 2020

ATWOOD, Kan. — James “Jim” W. Prochazka, 79, of Atwood, Kan., passed peacefully from this life on Sept. 6, 2020, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in McCook, Neb., to Bertha (Horinek) and Wenceslaus (W.E.) Prochazka on Nov. 17, 1940, James was a lifelong resident of Rawlins County, Kan. He attended elementary school at Queen of Driftwood School in the Driftwood Township of Northern Rawlins County, followed by Saint Joseph’s Military Academy in Hays, Kan., graduating with the Class of 1958. Following a year at Kansas State University, Jim joined the Army Reserves in 1960, spending time in Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and Fort Jackson, S.C., until his honorable discharge in 1965. He then returned to the family farm to pursue his passion of livestock, horses, farming, and ranching with his father.

With unwavering pride in his community, Jim donated his time to many local councils and boards over the years, including 4-H Council, Rawlins County Rodeo Association, USD 318 School Board, Sacred Heart Catholic Church Parish Council, Rawlins County Extension Council, and 4th Degree Knights of Columbus.

On April 16, 1966, Jim married Patricia A. Arnold, daughter of Simon and Aldea (Plante) Arnold. Unto their union were born five children: Vanessa, Marcus, Valarie, Veanna, and Nicholas.

Jim’s adult years were spent on the farm and cattle feeding operation where he would eventually move his family in 1979. Following their years on the farm, Jim continued to provide for his family as owner of feedlot pen cleaning and excavating businesses, and as an owner operator for Landstar Inway for many years. Jim continued to be active into his retirement, with a few part-time jobs, none more enjoyable than his time spent, and friendships formed, at CS Gas Company in Atwood.

Jim maintained his role as the emotional and spiritual compass for his family throughout his life. A proud and dedicated patriarch, his family knew everything would be OK when Jim arrived with his calm presence. Relationships were important, and those close to Jim never had to question his admiration for them, especially his wife, children, and grandchildren. Jim was an avid gardening enthusiast and hero to 16 grandchildren who thought he hung the moon. While generally a man of few words, he also cherished visits with family and friends, and, if you caught him at the right time, could find yourself in a conversation that could last for hours.

James was preceded in death by parents, Bertha (Horinek) and W.E. Prochazka both Atwood.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Patricia (Arnold) Prochazka, Atwood; daughter, Vanessa (Doug) Merz, Atwood, and their children, Kaitlin, Atwood, Parker, Atwood, Ashlynn, Manhattan, Kan., and Rileyanne, Atwood; son, Marcus (Danielle) Prochazka, Greeley, Colo., and their daughters, Arianne and Gracie, Loveland, Colo.; daughter, Valarie (Andy) Grollmes, Minden, Neb., and their sons, Luke, Landon and Logan, Minden; daughter, Veanna (Mitch) Loucks, Salina, Kan., and their children, Avery, Annalise, Aiden, Brody and Breckyn, Salina; son, Nicholas (Karen) Prochazka, Colby, Kan., and their daughters, Annica and Olivia, Colby; sisters, Mary Jane (Butch) Mires, McCook, Neb., and Janet (the late Mick) Krahe, Topeka, Kan.; many nieces, nephews, family members and friends.

Visitation will be 12 - 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2020, at Baalmann Mortuary, Atwood, then 5-7 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Atwood, followed by Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 7 p.m. in the church. Funeral Mass will be 10 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Atwood, with burial to follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Atwood. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the family strongly encourages the use of face coverings and social distancing as appropriate.

Memorials in Jim’s honor can be made to the James W. Prochazka Memorial Fund and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit www.baalmannmortuary.com