Jimmy D. Rhinehart

Jimmy Dean Rhinehart, age 75, formerly of Arapahoe, Nebraska, passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Bryan West Hospital in Lincoln, Nebraska. He was born in Elwood, Nebraska on May 21, 1950, Jim was the only child born to Donald Oliver and Berniece Adeline Rhinehart.

He was raised in Elwood and attended both elementary and high school at Elwood Public Schools. In 1968, he continued his education at Central Community College in Hastings, pursuing a major in Business Management.

On September 10, 1977, Jim married Lora Zuehlsdorf. Together, they made a home north of Arapahoe on a 40-acre farm, where they raised their family and shared over 35 years of cherished memories. To this union, four children were born: Heather Jo, Gwen Lanae, Kevin Dean, and Scott Michael.

Throughout his career, Jim held several jobs, including work with Ag Valley Coop, the Furnas County and Gosper County Weed Districts, and an office manager at Lofquist Welding.

Jim enjoyed growing his own vegetables and spent time at local farmers’ markets, selling whatever he had in season from his garden. Jim also had a passion for hunting and fishing, frequently sharing his knowledge with his children. Summers and holidays were spent camping at Johnson Lake, creating lasting family memories. Jim served as a 4-H leader for many years and was actively involved in his children’s 4-H activities: raising cows, hogs, horses and many other animals on their farm. A devoted Husker fan, Jim enjoyed Nebraska football and Nebraska Volleyball, and he enjoyed watching NASCAR on the weekends.

Jim was known for his friendly spirit, love of conversation, and ability to make anyone feel welcome. He truly enjoyed meeting new people and forming lasting connections.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Berniece Rhinehart.

Jim is survived by his beloved children: Heather Rhinehart of Kearney, Nebraska; Gwen Buresh and husband Jarrett of Bel Aire, Kansas; Kevin Rhinehart and wife Laura of Lincoln, Nebraska; and Scott Rhinehart and wife Denell of Fullerton, Nebraska. He also leaves behind many friends, neighbors, and extended family members who will miss him dearly.

We invite everyone to wear their favorite Husker or NASCAR apparel to the service to celebrate Jim in what he loved.