"Jim was a long-time figure in the Omaha disability scene. He helped pave the way before there was either physical and/or progromatic access to buildings and services. He always new the rules and he knew how to break them. He was the provebial thorn in many agencies side. Jim was the guy who had been "through the ropes" and then, when it was your turn he would tell you all the tricks. He worked very hard at educating businesses and public agencies on serving the disabled community and when they would not make accomodations, he would do what he could to force them. He assissted in getting many policies changed so that people experiencing disability had equal opportunity. One day he showed me a family photo and we exchanged stories about being part of a large family and having lots of sisters. God Bless Jim, Rest in Peace."
In loving memory of
Jim McMahon
August 28, 1947 - November 5, 2011
James Alan "Jim", son of Gerald V. "Jiggs" and Kathleen Ann "Kay" (Finken) McMahon, was born August 28, 1947, at Manilla, Iowa. At age 1½ Jim was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. He was able to attend kindergarten, first and half of second grade in Manilla before transferring to Iowa Hospital School in Iowa City where they were better able to help with his disabilities. After seventh grade he returned to Manilla, graduating with the Manilla High School Class of 1966. Jim received a scholarship to the University of Missouri where he majored in mathematics and computer science. After about a year and a half, he moved to Omaha, Nebraska where he worked at several jobs eventually being promoted to assistant director of the Omaha Area Food Bank. Then in the late 1970s Jim returned to school at University of Nebraska at Omaha where he earned his bachelor's degree in sociology. He then completed his course work towards a master's degree in social work. Because of his disabilities, he was discriminated against when applying for work. That experience led him to form CROWD, Community Response by Omahans With Disabilities. This organization was an advocacy agency, helping individuals who were discriminated against because of their disabilities. They were very successful in calling attention to the need for handicap accessible accommodations, winning many court cases. In his limited spare time while active in CROWD, Jim enjoyed playing chess, backgammon, and various card games. After living independently all his adult life, Jim returned to Manilla in 2008. Due to the progression of Alzheimer's symptoms, he became a resident of the Manilla Manor Nursing Home. Following a surgery, Jim's health declined and he died at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, NE, on Saturday, November 5, 2011. He was 64 years, 2 months and 8 days of age. Preceding Jim in death are his parents; infant brother Gerard McMahon; brother-in-law Donald "Turk" Haynie; nephew Sean McMahon; step niece, Jessica Haynie; and step-great niece, Drew Haynie. He is survived by three brothers: Gary McMahon (Nancy) of Omaha, NE; Patrick McMahon (Shell) of Minden and Timothy McMahon (Judy) of Omaha, NE; five sisters: Mary Heller (James) of Manilla; Dee Haynie of Omaha, NE; Ann Katzer (Gene) of Denison; Beth Dickson (Mike) of Manilla and Susan McMahon of Bennington, NE; four nieces; 14 nephews; 41 great-nieces and nephews; three aunts Patricia McMahon of Manilla; Rita Finken of Harlan and Dorothy Rooney of Sioux City; uncle Urb Knobbe (Jean) of Carroll, as well as, all those whose lives are easier because of his advocacy. "May the work I have done speak for me." Casket Bearers Gary McMahon Pat McMahon Tim McMahon Sue McMahon Mike Dickson Gene Katzer Jim Heller
Tributes
"Mary and family, Sorry to hear of your loss, Jon Hagedorn"
"Donna, I am sorry for the loss of your brother."
"Jim was a good friend of mine. We met in the first part of the 1970's at "The Bible House" It was the home of Bill Paulson "Preacher Bill". Both Jim and Bill inspired me to seriously study the bible. I have lost contact with Jim over the years but have thought of him many times. He was truly a good friend. I would like to express my condolences to all members of his family. God's speed (blessings) to all. IVAN PAYICH"
"So sorry to see of Jim's passing this morning in the paper. What amazing accomplishments in his life. Many years have passed since I visited Manilla but I still have fond memories of Sunday dinners with all the McMahons relatives."
"Sue you've been a great friend and although we have never really known your brother, we appreciate all he has done for others. Sincerly Carmen and Wayne"
"Sorry to hear of the loss of your dear brother. You are all in my prayers."
"Sorry for your loss, Jim is in a much better place now. May God Bless You All!"
"I was lucky enough to have been able to call Jim my friend while I was at UNO and off and on again for many years after. In spite of his disabilities, he always found a way to teach me something important, lessons that I didn't appreciate fully until I was older. I was continually amazed at his inner strength and will to accomplish things. I am truly saddened to learn of his passing. My condolences to his family."