Bobbie Nefzger

Bobbie James Nefzger, affectionately known as Bompa or BJ, 98, of Vida died June 5, 2026.

He was the youngest of 12 siblings raised in Vida on West Sand Creek. His father, Charles Nefzger, built the schoolhouse in which he received his education. His mother, Katie McFarland Nefzger, delivered many local babies and lost one of her own to the Spanish Flu epidemic in 1918. As a 17-year-old boy, he went off to the service to join the Navy. Most of his time was spent in Guam with a short stint in Japan. While serving, he painted ships and that skill served him with a lifetime of farm and vehicle maintenance and a love for making things look nice.

After serving our country, he returned to Vida and married Patricia Faye McCartney. They had four children, Lonnie, Kristie, Robert “Bud” and Scott. To this were added eight grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild with another on the way.

He wasn’t afraid to work hard and put in long hours. His love for farming and desire to succeed blessed many generations after him. He loved John Deere equipment and maintained a philosophy that all equipment must stay current and up to date. Even in later years, Scott would drive him around so he could see the new combines, semis and sprayers — time he truly loved with Scott and the farming community he loved.

He was a wonderful teacher in life — from how to handle money to exercise and healthy eating to how to get something done.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia; daughter, Lonnie; and two sons, Scott and Bud.

He is survived by daughter, Krisite Zimmerman.

A combined graveside service will be held for Bobbie and son Scott on Aug. 1, at 10 a.m.