James Richard Osborn

James (Jim) Richard Osborn passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, surrounded by loved ones in the comfort of his home in Holdrege, Nebraska. Jim will be remembered for his fortitude, wisdom, and intelligence, but he also leaves behind a legacy of loving care that spans multiple generations.

On December 31, 1938, he was born on a farm near Red Cloud, Nebraska. Growing up a farm kid, Jim always had an affinity for animals. He cared for countless pets and animals over the years, including a horse named Blue, who carried him to and from a one-room schoolhouse throughout his early childhood.

After graduating from Red Cloud High school, he went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. His career as a certified public accountant began with Phillip Johnson in Fremont and Lincoln, Nebraska. After the firm merged with Baird, Kurtz, and Dobson, he moved to Elkhorn to work in Omaha.

As Jim's career flourished, so did his family. In 1962, his life took a beautiful turn when he married Melba Rita Pierotti (now Osborn) in Brooklyn, New York. Together, Jim and Melba raised two children (Scott and Jamel Osborn) and many animal companions of all shapes and sizes. The homes they made together glowed with the tinkling of wind chimes, the sound of geraniums and garden plants rustling in the breeze, the chatter of squirrels and turtle doves at the bird feeders, and the sweet scent of Jim's signature apple and peach pies. He was an excellent cook, baker, dancer, and crossword puzzle specialist. Although his passions shifted subtly throughout his life, Jim always nurtured a deep connection with the outdoors. He loved fishing, hunting, swimming, and racquetball, and he golfed religiously with his friends, no matter how hot or muggy the weather, through his later years. He navigated the twists and turns of life with an infectious balance of stoicism and humor, and he continued to crack wry jokes even in the final days of his life.

Jim's spirit lives on in the lives he touched; the lessons he instilled; the values of resilience, humility, loyalty, and generosity that he modeled so reliably for his children and grandchildren. He will be deeply missed and eternally remembered.

He is survived and honored by his wife Melba, two children (Scott and Jamel), four grandchildren (Marc and Will Osborn, and Jack and Will Fuchs), and brother Rodney and his wife, Phyllis.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Wilma Kinley and her husband, Elmer.

A private gathering will be held for family, but no formal service will be held. In lieu of flowers, please direct any donations to the Holdrege YMCA and/or Holdrege Animal Rescue.

Special thanks to Dr. Egger and AseraCare Hospice for easing Jim's final days and allowing him to pass peacefully at home.

Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com

The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is in charge of the arrangements.