James K. “Jim” Novotny, of Severance, KS, died Saturday, January 2, 2021 at Highland Care and Rehabilitation Center. He was 80.

Jim was born and grew up where he attended schools at Valparaiso, Nebraska. He was one of eight children born to the late Adolth and Louise Eddie Novotny. Jim was interested in the military and joined the Marine Corps, serving from 1961 until 1967, during which time was the Vietnam War. After discharge from the Marine Corps, he worked as an auto mechanic and at a salvage yard for a number of years. He became interested in the military once more, but this time he joined the Navy where he served from 1982 until he retired in 1988. Upon retiring, he moved to Falls City, Nebraska and soon after to Rulo where he enjoyed the Missouri River. Jim drove around the countryside in his Lincoln Town Car with his 2 dachshunds, so much so, everyone would say “There goes Jim”.

He was driving around one day and stopped at Highland Care Center and became acquainted with Delilah Chase who was getting ready to retire in 2007. Soon thereafter, he moved to Severance so he and Delilah could enjoy places together and became best friends and as confidants’. She survives at her home in Severance.

Also surviving are a son Robert Novotny in Ohio, a brother Steve Novotny (Sandy), a sister Ida Schindler, all of Valparaiso.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, a son Richard who died in an automobile accident, and five brothers.

It was his wish to be cremated and remains buried on the Chase family lot at Oak Hill Cemetery, Severance.

Please remember families during this critical time by sending a card or note remembrance to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com