James "Jim" Kreifels

1937 - 2025

James "Jim" Kreifels

March 12, 1937 - June 1, 2025

James "Jim" Kreifels, of Lincoln, Nebraska, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. He was born on March 12, 1937, in Nebraska City to Martin and Helen (Heng) Kreifels. Jim graduated from Cathedral High School in Lincoln and married the love of his life, Patricia Strizek, in August of 1957. Together, they raised a beautiful family and shared a lifetime of memories.

Jim was a devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and a proud 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council #833 in Lincoln. His faith was a guiding light throughout his life, especially in the face of health challenges he faced with grace and optimism.

A self-made businessman and respected leader in his industry, Jim was the founder and longtime owner of Action Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, which he started in his garage in 1968. Built on his core principles of honesty, fairness, respect, and integrity, Action continues to operate today under the leadership of his family. Jim's work ethic and passion for his trade were unwavering-he often said he never had a day where he didn't want to go to work.

Jim was actively involved in the plumbing and heating community on many levels. He served as president of both the PHCC of Lincoln and the PHCC of Nebraska, and was a member of the National PHCC Board of Directors for four years. His leadership extended to local service as a member of the City of Lincoln Plumbing Appeals Board, the Mayor's Code Study Committee, and the Mayor's Unified Construction Council. Through his work, Jim made countless lifelong friends who respected and admired him.

A true sports enthusiast, Jim was a lifelong fan of the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Kansas City Royals, and Dallas Cowboys. He loved the outdoors from his childhood days on the family farm fishing with his father to raising his own children on the family acreage. Those years created cherished memories for his family, filled with love, laughter, and togetherness.

Despite facing numerous health battles over the years, Jim remained a beacon of strength and positivity. He was deeply loved by many, but none more than his family. Above all, Jim's greatest joy came from spending time with Patricia and watching their large, loving family grow. Together, they proudly supported their seven children, 13 grandchildren, and 23 great-grandchildren-attending countless games, recitals, graduations, and family gatherings.

Jim is survived by his children: Terry (Barb) Kreifels, Doug (Michelle) Kreifels, Bob (Mark) Kreifels, Jeff (Heide) Kreifels, Julie (Robert) Pfingsten, Jane (Mark) Bauer, and Christine (Tony) Arndt; grandchildren: Amanda Boyter, Megan Zuerlein, Justin, Jordan, Alex, Austin, and Dylan Kreifels; Jackson and Joshua Bauer; Kyle Pfingsten; Kaylee Butler; and Mallory and Ayden Arndt; 23 great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law Dan (Marde) Strizek and Norman Strizek; sisters-in-law Jeri Froschheiser and Patty Kreifels; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Patricia; his parents; ten siblings; several in-laws; daughter-in-law Nancy Kreifels; and great-grandson Rudy Kreifels.

Jim leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and hard work. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Memorials: James & Patricia Kreifels scholarship at Pius X high school or Kidney foundation

Visitation Thursday 5:30 to 7 p.m. St. Joseph's Catholic church 1940 South 77th street with a Rosary to follow at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial Friday 10:30 a.m. St. Joseph Catholic Church 1940 South 77th Street

Condolences can be left at bmlfh.com. Arrangements by Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home.