PGA Pro Jim Etter, Beloved Omaha Athlete and Music Lover, Passes Away After Courageous Battle with Alzheimer's

Jim Etter's memory will live on in the stories told by those who knew him, the love of his family, and the music that filled his heart.

September 26, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on September 26, 2026

The community of Omaha, Nebraska, mourns the loss of Jim Etter, a beloved former basketball player and PGA professional golfer, who passed away on September 26, 2026, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Jim's passing has left a pain in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him, but his legacy as an exceptional athlete, a kind-hearted man, and a lover of music and dance will live on.

Jim Etter was a Standout Athlete at Ryan HS, where he Excelled in both Basketball and Golf

His talent and dedication to sports were evident from an early age, earning him admiration from teammates and coaches alike.

As a basketball player, Jim's skill and teamwork made him a key player for the Ryan team. His love for golf, however, would shape his future.

After high school, Jim pursued his passion for the sport, eventually becoming a PGA professional, a testament to his hard work and natural talent.

Jim attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where he further developed his athletic abilities and formed lasting friendships.

His time at UNO was marked by memorable moments, both on and off the field, as he balanced his studies with his love for sports and socializing.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Jim was known for his personality and love for life.

Friends and family remember him as a man who never had a cross word for anyone.

His warm smile, hearty laugh, and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Joette Deitering, a friend, described Jim as having a <em>big smile, usually with a wicked little glint in his eyes</em> and recalled his <em>great hugs that always said <em>good to see you.</em> </p>

Jim's love for music was a defining part of his life. He was a regular at Ryan High School dances, where he would light up the room with his enthusiasm.

Even in his later years, as Alzheimer’s took its toll, Jim found comfort in listening to Oldies, a reminder of the joyful times he cherished.

His laugh, described as <em>etched in our memor</em> by Nancy Krakowski Partusch, was a sound that brought happiness to those around him.

Jim's struggle with Alzheimer’s was a long and challenging journey, one that gradually stole his memories but could not erase the love and admiration people had for him.

His wife, Barb (Moore-Ryan, Class of '68), stood by his side as a devoted caregiver, providing unwavering support throughout his illness.

William Meyers, a friend, praised Barb's dedication, saying,