James Edward Rice

James Edward Rice passed away peacefully on June 1, 2017 surrounded by his devoted wife, Signe and family in Bella Vista, Arkansas. Jim was born in 1929 in Bryant, South Dakota to George Rice and Golda Pack. Jim and his brother, Don were influenced by their grandparents, Murray and Katherine (Finley) Pack. He attended Bryant Public Schools through 8th grade before moving to Watertown, S.D. where he graduated high school. Jim enlisted in the Air Force in 1951, and was stationed in Alaska where he served as a supply sergeant during the Korean War. He married the love of his life, Signe Husby in the Spring of 1956. During their 61 year marriage, Jim and Sig lived in Minnesota, Colorado, South Dakota, Montana, and Wyoming before moving to Arkansas in 2002. Jim enjoyed a prolific career in the specialty meat trade that spanned decades, working for the front-runners in the industry. In addition to his strong faith, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, his dogs, and most importantly he enjoyed time with his family. Jim is survived by his loving wife, Signe; a daughter, Cheryl Neighly of Largo, Fla.; three sons, Chuck (Diane) of Bella Vista, Ark., Tim (MaryAnn) of Fergus Falls, Minn., and Pat (Trish) of Grand Lake, Colo.; a brother, Don of Watertown, S.D.; nine grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Memorial services will be held at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Bella Vista at a later date. Arrangements are by Bella Vista Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. On-line condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.