James Patrick Glasco

James "Jim" Patrick Glasco passed away February 14, 2026, at the age of 78. He was a wonderful father, devoted husband, proud grandfather, and a true cowboy at heart.  His life was rooted in faith, family, hard work, and adventure-a legacy that will live on for generations.

Born into a large family with eleven siblings, Jim spent most of his early days on a farm in Benkelman, Nebraska. He learned the value of responsibility, teamwork, and caring for others from his parents, Harold and Mary (O'Brien) Glasco.  Farm life shaped his character early- teaching him that work begins before sunrise, neighbors help neighbors, and that faith carries you through every season.

Jim carried these lessons into fatherhood where he and his wife, Alice Marie "Ali" (Schneider) Glasco lovingly raised three children-Patrick, John, and Amy, all of whom graduated from Bayard High School. They led not only with strength but with gentleness, guiding them with wisdom and a deep faith that remained the foundation of their lives.

Jim graduated from Kearney State College in 1970, and for a short time taught history and physical education, while coaching football and wrestling. He loved investing in young people and seeing them flourish. It wasn't uncommon to see Jim at a Bayard track meet talking "shop", while donning his cowboy hat and displaying his effervescent smile.

The pull of ranching and farming pulled him away from teaching and in 1986, he purchased a small herd of cattle. This was the start of a dream that lasted three decades. Diamond J Charolais was a successful endeavor that earned him many accolades, but his favorite thing was gathering for the annual bull sale in March.

Even though he enjoyed his life in Bayard, his spirit of adventure reached far beyond. He traveled across the world experiencing new places and cultures. He found great joy in deep sea fishing with his sons, son-in-law, and friends. The thrill of the catch, the camaraderie on the boat, and the time spent beneath wide endless skies always filled his soul. It was one of the many ways he connected with both nature and God.

Jim was an avid writer and wordsmith putting his thoughts and experiences into books that reflected his humor and life. He loved horses and westerns, and after years of dedication, wrote a western saga titled "Outlaw Reunion". He continued his writing through the years and published four more books. He was a master rhymer and loved to challenge the reader's intellect by throwing in some well-chosen and sophisticated words.

His grandchildren: Travis James, Amanda Joy, Bodey James, Sierra Rose, Mikayla Grace, Adam Winick, Naomi Malone, and Noah Winick, and great-grandchildren: Adaline Joy, Anniston June, Axton Jon, Amelia Jade, Addy Winick, Emery Winick, Randall Winick, Trinity Winick, Adam Jr Winick, Stark Malone, and Duke Malone, held a special place in his heart. He loved them fiercely, taking pride in each of their accomplishments and cherishing every moment together. Some of his favorite things to do with them was play cards, go for a run, play school, watch them in sports, or watch a sporting event on the television.  He was more than a grandpa, he was a hero, a storyteller, a pal, and a steady hand to hold.

Above all, he was a family man, for fifty-seven years he was married to his beloved wife Ali-a partnership built on love, devotion, and unwavering commitment. Together they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and faith. Ali came from a large family as well having seven siblings. They loved when all the family could gather and celebrate. They had forty-three nieces and nephews and spent many years attending their sporting events, graduations, and weddings. They also have deep gratitude for their daughter-in-law, Aliesa Glasco and son-in-law, Larry Yurko. Their friendship over the years meant the world to Jim.

They lived the last thirty-eight years in Bayard, where they farmed and raised cattle. Jim took great care in raising crops and keeping his property a place of pride. His children loved to visit the farm and experience the one-of-a-kind peace only Nebraska can give you.

Their closest friends were their church family from Sacred Heart and Monument Bible churches. They are very thankful for their friendship through the years.

Jim was proceeded in death by his parents, Harold & Mary Glasco, by his in-laws, Glenn & Dottie Schneider, son, John Michael Glasco, brothers, Alan, Mark, Tom, Larry, & brothers-in-law, Jerry, Fred, Buster, Curt, sister-in-law, Bonnie Glasco, nephews, Kregg & Travis Glasco, and Tyler Schneider.

The family asks for any donations in Jim's name to be given to Monument Bible Church or Bayard Fire Department.

"A Cowboy's Final Ride"

He tipped his hat to the fading sun

As the sky turned soft and wide

And with the faith that led his life

He took his final ride.