James L. McKernan

James L. McKernan, 85, of South Sioux City and formerly of Concord, Nebraska, passed away on Sunday, February 6, 2022 at a local hospital. A Funeral Service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at Mohr & Becker-Hunt Chapel in South Sioux City. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Online condolences may be directed to www.meyerbroschapels.com.

James' service will be live streamed at the following link: https://youtu.be/xQhjZ1hdoN8 

James was born on March 20, 1936 in South Sioux City, Nebraska to Elwin and Eva (Sterling) McKernan. On April 27, 1954 he married Joann Hansjosten in South Sioux City. The two were just shy of celebrating their 68^th wedding anniversary, and both were incredibly proud of the time they were married. He lived in South Sioux City for most of his life, until he and Joann moved to Concord, Nebraska. They lived in Concord for over twenty years before returning to South Sioux City a few years ago.

James was a Jack of all trades. He owned and operated Lakeside Welding for many years, worked in maintenance for Krause Camper Sales, and worked in maintenance for Morningside University, to name a few.

Growing up, James was a member of the Boy Scouts, and he and Joann were members of the Coachmen Camper Club for many years.

In his spare time, James loved traveling, camping, riding motorcycles, boating and fishing; he was a collector of many things, and loved to build a variety of items. He absolutely cherished his tools. He also enjoyed attending events for his family members.

He was an animal lover, especially dogs, and always had a dog in the family.

He is survived by his wife Joann; daughter: Terri (Terry) Hexamer of Alton, IA and their children: Rebecca, Steve (Samantha), Brenda (David), Shawn, Ethan, and Joey; daughter: Jodi (Chris) Imafidon of Scottsdale, AZ and their children: Alexander, Nicole and Victoria; daughter: Lynda (Don) Ferris of South Sioux City and their children: Michael, Jeremiah, Angela, James (Amanda) and Donald (Jenny); grandson, Joshua (Lael) McKernan; 21 great-grandchildren; brothers: Robert (Karen) McKernan; Dennis McKernan; and Kevin (Shelly) Arnold; sisters: Ellen Perdu; Elaine Moore; Pat Kampfe; and Veronica Grijalba; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, James McKernan; a granddaughter, Catherine Simmons; a brother, Richard McKernan; and his stepfather, Edwin Arnold.