Jimmie “Jim” Eugene Bopp

CULBERTSON, Neb. - Jimmie “Jim” Eugene Bopp, age 76, of Culbertson, passed away peacefully in his home on July 12, 2023.

He was born in Imperial, Neb. on October 10, 1946 to Phillip and Theda (Johnson) Bopp. He attended high school and graduated from Imperial High School in 1964.

After competing high school, Jim enlisted in the United States Navy and served for three years as a deep sea recovery diver. He was honorably discharged in 1967.

On September 7, 1969 Jim was united in marriage to the love of his life, Cheri Lenz and the couple made their home in Culbertson. In 1980 they welcomed a son, Joshua Bopp.

After his discharge from the service Jim was an auto mechanic for many dealerships. He and Cheri owned “The Hitching Post” bar in Culbertson before he began working for Parker Hannifin in 1986. After 27 years in the maintenance department Jim retired from Parker in 2013.

If it had an engine (preferably a Ford), Jim was your guy. He had an extreme passion for cars. Rebuilding, restoring, and racing. He could often be found out in his shop tinkering on anything that had a motor and always seemed to know exactly how to fix it. Jim never stood still, except when the drag races were on TV. He enjoyed watching his grandkids race go karts on the weekends and was always present to lend a hand. In recent years, Jim had volunteered his time to help with the Culbertson food bank. He had a talent for creative repurposing. He turned propane tanks into cute and recognizable painted pig lawn ornaments that have been sold all over the United States.

Jim will be remembered as a man of little words but a big heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents Phillip and Theda Bopp (Johnson).

Jim is survived by his wife, Cheri of 54 years of Culbertson; his son, Joshua Bopp of McCook; two grandchildren, Paige Bopp and Landon Bopp of McCook; brother, Mike and wife, Nancy Bopp of Ogallala, Neb.; brother, Pete Bopp of Murrieta, CA.; sister, Patty Harding of N.H.; and many nieces and nephews.

Cremation has been chosen and a celebration of life will be determined at a later date. Should friends desire, memorial contributions will be designated by family.

Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook.