Leonard James(Jim) Roh, formerly of Playa del Rey, California, peacefully passed away May 16, 2026.
Visitation will be Thursday, May 21st from 5:30-7pm at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Abie, NE followed by a 7pm Rosary Service. Visitation will continue from 9-10am Friday, May 22nd at the church with the Funeral Mass starting at 10am. Burial will take place in the Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery in Abie, Nebraska with lunch following at the church. Memorials have been suggested to Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church Building Fund, Masses or Family Wishes. Moravec Johnson Mortuary is handling arrangements for the family.
Jim was born on January 13, 1942 to Leonard and Leona(Franek) Roh in Bruno, Nebraska. Growing up on the farm, it was obvious dairy farming was not going to be Jim’s path. Jim was continually looking up at the sky and staring at jet streams, dreaming of the day he could pursue his dream of flying. He graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1960, then went on to receive a Bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering from the University of Kansas, followed by a Masters degree from Loyola University.
Jim worked his entire career for several large aircraft manufacturers (Boeing, Lockheed, Sierracin), first in the engineering departments and later in the aircraft sales throughout Europe. He enjoyed the ocean and California life where he lived for 40+ years, spending many weekends boating with friends, woodworking or gardening. Jim was always willing to help friends and family with any projects.
He is survived by his sister: Carolyn Simodynes of Omaha, brother: Jerry(Tammy) Roh, of Abie; niece: Dianne Simodynes, nephews: Dr. Joseph(Keira) Simodynes, Greg(Marissa) Roh, Mark(Erin) Roh, and Kyle Roh, and by many beloved friends and cousins who will sadly miss him.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents: Leonard & Leona Roh, brother: Monsignor Robert Roh, sister: Mary Kathryn Lee, brother-in-law: Dr. Edward Simodynes and sister-in-law: Lori Roh.