December 8, 1933 - July 24, 2018 - Erma M. Clouse A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 27, 2018 at the United Church of Christ in Friend with Pastor Dave Coleman officiating. Interment will be in Andrew Cemetery. Visitation will be on Thursday, from 1-9 pm at Lauber-Moore Funeral Home, Friend, with the family greeting relatives and friends from 7-9 pm. Memorials have been established to the Friend Community Health Care Foundation.

Erma Marjorie (Huber) Clouse, of Friend, was born to John and Rena (Barney) Huber on the family farm four miles northeast of Friend, on December 8, 1933, the youngest of six children. Her siblings were Freda, Johnny, Mary, Paul and Hilda. She passed away on Tuesday, July 24, 2018 at Warren Memorial Hospital in Friend at the age of 84. Erma was baptized at the Congregational Church on March 30, 1934, and remained a faithful member her entire life. She attended District 101 country school through the eighth grade, then attended high school in Friend, graduating with the class of 1951.

During her high school years, Erma was active in musical productions, choirs, plays and enjoyed cheerleading, especially encouraging her favorite basketball player, Keith. Erma then worked as a clerk typist for the Union National Life Ins. Co in Lincoln for one year, and lived in Miller Hall, a dormitory for young ladies. She returned to Friend and was employed as a bookkeeper and teller at First National Bank. Erma married Keith Clouse on June 19, 1955, at the Congregational Church in Friend. They made their home in Friend, renting several different houses until they built their family home on 5th Street in 1963. She then decided to be a full-time mom and rejoiced with the birth of two loving sons, Thomas Daniel and David Keith.

Erma was always active in the church where she taught Sunday school, Bible School, leader of Junior High Pilgrim Fellowship, sang in the church choir and was a member of Women’s Fellowship. She was a member of Rachel Circle for 25 years and held many offices. Erma was also den mother for Cub Scouts. She was a faithful member of PEO, Chapter DQ, for 55 years. Erma loved her parents dearly, and did everything in her power to help them and keep them comfortable. She loved being outdoors, enjoying flowers and her lawn. Erma was always pulling weeds and picking up sticks. She liked quilting and made a special one for each of her grandchildren. Another special treat from Erma was a stack of her homemade hot pads.

Erma was a loving grandma to her four grandchildren. Always the first to volunteer to babysit, time at Grandma’s often consisted of a piano lesson, followed by baking her famous oatmeal cookies. Diet Pepsi tea parties were a special treat. When the days of tea parties passed, she revived her cheerleading days, supporting her grandkids in football, golf and dance. Erma was so excited to be expecting her first great-grandchild and couldn’t wait to rock the baby.

“Just let it be said of me that I loved my family, my home, my church, and the little farm north of town. Our sons, daughters, and grandchildren brought me a world of joy. I was a wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker and was proud of my profession and I loved what I was doing.”

Erma was survived by her husband of 63 years, Keith, Friend, sons and daughters-in-law, Thomas and Sharon Clouse, David and Michele Clouse, all of Friend, grandchildren Jacob and Amanda Clouse, Johnathan and Alexandra Clouse, Jaxon Clouse, and Mackenzie Clouse, sister, Freda Bodwalk, Miami Beach FL, brother and sister-in-law, Paul and Charlene Huber, Friend, sister-in-law, Betty Nahrstedt, Lincoln, nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Rena Huber, brother, John D. Huber, sisters, Mary Eich, Hilda Schweitzer, and a niece, Karen (Eich) Janda.

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May 20, 1951 - August 01, 2018 - Larry Lee “Floyd” Steuer, 67, of Crete, passed away on August 1, 2018 at Garden Square Assisted Living. Born May 20, 1951 to Dolyn & Bernice Steuer. Baptized on June 10,1951 and later confirmed in May of 1965 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Graduated high school in May 1969 from Crete High School. Larry grew up and worked on the farm his whole life. Enjoyed farming, livestock, and card playing. Survived by Mother Bernice Steuer - Crete. Daughter Lori Fuller ( Tom) - Kearney. Son Troy Steuer (Mandy) - Crete. Grandchildren included are Macy, Chance, & Kade Fuller and Mackenzie & Peyton Steuer. Sister Sue Beranek ( Don ) Snohomish, WA. Brother Lynn Steuer ( Kay) - Lincoln. Sister Sara Morton (Todd) - Eagle. Aunt Darlene Dittmer - Crete. Along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. Preceded in death by his grandparents and father Dolyn. Services to be held at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Crete, NE on Saturday, August 4, 2018 at 10 am. Cremation, no visitation. Committal services will be held at St. John's Lutheran Church cemetery. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements. Memorials are in care of the family for future designation.

LeRoy Ellsworth Shaw was born on June 7, 1930, in Wessington, S.D., to Ernest Edward and Iva (Glidden) Shaw and passed away on Aug. 1, 2018, in Stromsburg, at the age of 88. LeRoy grew up in Walthill, where he attended and graduated high school. He enlisted into the United States Air Force on Nov. 19, 1951 and was honorably discharged on Oct. 24, 1955. He was united in marriage to Gertrude (Gertie) Uhing on April 25, 1956 in Omaha. Their marriage was blessed with three children, Jeff, Ken and Randy.

LeRoy attended Southeast Community College where he studied diesel mechanics. He worked at International Harvester in York and Central City for many years. Later the couple moved to Kansas City where he worked for Trans World Airlines for 10 years. The couple raised pigs and tried their hand at raising llamas, he always loved having a horse as well. LeRoy enjoyed collecting toy tractors. He was an avid diesel mechanic and enjoyed telling stories. He could remember many details on tractors that he repaired.

In his younger years LeRoy enjoyed hunting and fishing. He and Gertie also loved square dancing where they were nicknamed “Night Owls”. LeRoy was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Gertie in 2017; five brothers, Ernest Jr., Harold, Harry, Jordan and Gary; three sisters, Sheila, Mary Ann and Doris. Leroy is survived by his three sons, Jeff Shaw of Lincoln, Ken Shaw and wife Sandy of Seward, Randy Shaw and wife Jill of Crete; grandchildren, Christina and husband Fred Williams, Brock and wife Esther Shaw, Brett and wife Andrea Shaw, Tyler and wife Katy Shaw, Tristan Shaw and Taryn Shaw; two great-grandchildren, Collins Shaw and Jones Shaw.

To this obituary we add our thoughts, prayers and memories of life shared with LeRoy. Visitation will be held from 4 – 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 3, 2018, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, York with the family receiving friends from 5 – 7 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church a rosary will then follow at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 4, 2018 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Monsignor James Reinert celebrating Mass. Graveside and Interment service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 4, 2018, St. Leo’s Catholic Cemetery in Snyder with military honors provided by the United States Air Force. Memorials may be directed toward the National Kidney Foundation. Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Zabka Funeral Home of Seward and Dwight. Condolences may be left at www.zabkafuneralhome.com.

October 02, 1926 - August 04, 2018 - Francis J. Reiss, 91, of Crete, died August 4, 2018 in Milford. He was born on October 2, 1926 in Crete to Gustav and Mary Reiss. He was a Korean War Veteran and served as a Crete Policeman for 26 years. Francis was preceded in death by his parents, wife: Barbara and brother: Lloyd Reiss. He is survived by his sons: Doug and Kenneth. Grandchildren: Annessa (Noah), Kaylor, Douglas J. (DeeJay), and Karlee. 4 great granddaughters. Sister: Janice Underwood and sisters in law: Mary Ann Reiss and Myrna Jones. Graveside Services: Tuesday, August 7, 2018 at 10:30 AM, Riverside Cemetery, Crete, NE. No visitation. Memorials are in care of the family. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

Harold Richard “Rich” Spencer III died on July 31, 2018 in Omaha. Rich was born on December 12, 1964 in Lincoln. In 1983, he graduated from Crete High School where his activities included wrestling and football. He graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1989, and that same year married Nancy Noland of Omaha. Rich had a career in software design, and at the time of his death was lead software engineer at Infogroup. He enjoyed many hobbies including gardening, cooking, gaming, and riding his motorcycle. Rich was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Sydney. He is survived by his wife, Nancy and daughters, Jessica and Samantha of Omaha; his father, Harold Richard Spencer II of Lincoln; mother, Janet Jeffries of Crete; sisters: Sibyl Spencer-Hilton and husband Russ of Omaha, Jane Spencer and husband Bob Peterson of Colorado, Laura Spencer of Crete, and Elizabeth Spencer of Lincoln; grandmother, Bernice Jeffries of Crete, sisters-in-law, Diana Hale and husband Brian of Arizona, and Sherri Igo and husband Don of Omaha; and several nieces and nephews. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held on Friday, August 10th at 12noon at the West Center Chapel, 7805 W. Center Rd. The family will receive visitors from 10 am to 12noon prior to the service. Memorials may be directed to the family for future designation to health care organizations that cared for Rich.

February 20, 1936 - July 24, 2018 - Donald R. “Wrenchy” Riensche, 82, Beatrice, died Tuesday, July 24, 2018, at Beatrice Community Hospital. He was born on the family farm near Filley. Don worked for Lentz Motors presently Carriage Motors in Beatrice for 57 years as an automatic Transmission Specialist. He married Connie (Root) Leseberg on July 14, 1990. Don was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, Beatrice, and the Antique Tractor Club. Don enjoyed going to Jam sessions at the senior center, and morning coffee club. He loved to weld, tinker, invent things, restoring tractors and made 2 from scratch, and especially his family. Survivors include his wife, Connie of Beatrice; children Alan Riensche and wife Janet of Blue Springs, Vicki Sorensen and husband Tom of Crete; step-children, Angel Cookus and husband Jimmy of Wymore, Chad Leseberg and wife Carrie of Beatrice; step son-in-law, David Lytle of Wymore; 16 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sisters, Geneva Cramer of Beatrice; Darlene Schuerman and husband Wayne of Lincoln, Kathleen Voter and husband Ron of Washington, Kan.; many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by parents, Fred and Emma (Zimmerman) Riensche; first wife, Eleanor Powell; step-daughter, Cheri Lytle; step-grandson, Jake Cookus, and Justin Ankersen. Funeral Services will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 27, 2018, at St. John Lutheran Church in Beatrice with Pastor Leah Lawson officiating. A family prayer service will be held 10:15 a.m. Friday in the church chapel. Burial will be in the Blue Springs Cemetery in Blue Springs. Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday at Harman-Wright Mortuary with the family greeting friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday evening. www.harmanwrightmortuary.com Harman-Wright Mortuary in charge.

October 08, 1963 - July 20, 2018 - Thomas A. Beeman, 54, of Beatrice, NE, passed away on July 20, 2018. He was born on October 8, 1963 to Merton and Barbara (Stewart) Beeman in Boston, Massachusetts. There will be no services. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

February 12, 1937 - July 19, 2018 - Carol Jean (VanOstrand) McCay, age 81 years, 5 months and 7 days of Clatonia, Nebraska, a loving wife, mother and grandmother took God’s hand and joined her Heavenly Father on July 19, 2018 after a valiant battle with cancer. Carol was born on February 12, 1937 in York, Nebraska to Gale and Erma (Kimball) VanOstrand. Carol is survived by her husband, Raymond McCay of Clatonia, Nebraska, her son and daughter-in-law, Carl and Dede Mau of Lincoln, Nebraska, her granddaughter, Brooklyn Ann Young of Lincoln, Nebraska, step children, Lynne Peterson of Shelburne, New Hampshire, Michele Mulske of Linton, North Dakota, Kevin McCay of Bismarck, North Dakota, step grandchildren, Anthony Mulske and Todd Mulske Jr. of Linton, North Dakota, Jessica Mulske-Tonnessen of Towner, North Dakota, brother-in-law, Ben McCay of Pierce, Colorado, sister-in-law, Lorraine Berg of Mandan, North Dakota and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and a countless number of friends. Carol is preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Richard VanOstrand and Don VanOstrand. There will be no viewing as it was Carol’s wish to be cremated. Graveside services will be held at the Clatonia Cemetery in Clatonia, Nebraska on Saturday, August 4, 2018 at 10:30 A.M. At the request of Carol’s granddaughter, Brooklyn, anyone attending the service is asked to wear brightly colored clothing as this will be a celebration of Carol’s life and to fulfill an agreement between a grandma and her granddaughter that was made many years ago. In lieu of flowers please direct any memorials to the Clatonia, Nebraska Fire and Rescue Department. Kuncl Funeral Home, Wilber, Nebraska in charge of arrangements.

August 22, 1929 - July 24, 2018 - Louise (Martin) Welsch and her twin sister, Lois, were born in Pawnee City, Nebraska on August 22, 1929 to George and Ada (Cox) Martin. She passed away, Tuesday, July 24, 2018 at Tabitha in Crete at the age of 88. Louise was baptized in the Lewiston Methodist Church. She attended rural schools until fourth grade, later attending Lewiston Consolidated Schools, graduating with the class of 1947. Louise often mentioned that the school bus had a homemade wooden body. While in high school she enjoyed playing on the volleyball team. After she graduated from high school, she taught in a rural school for two years near Liberty. Louise then attended Lincoln General Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1952, and became a Registered Nurse. She enjoyed working as a nurse until her retirement in 1998. Louise started her career in Beatrice while Gene was in the service. She then worked in Seward and completed her nursing career after 34 years at Crete Municipal Hospital. She was always willing to help family and friends who needed nursing care or other help. Memorable moments of her nursing career include taking care of polio patients (especially children who were in iron lungs in Omaha), the ammonia disaster in Crete, and the home birth of her grandson, Peter. Louise took care of people, both long and short term - Grandma Selders and Aunt Verva Martin for many years, as well as her father who lived with them for a year in 1968. Louise married Eugene Welsch on October 5, 1952 at the Lewiston Methodist Church. After Gene was discharged from the US Army in 1955, they made their home on a farm near Milford, where they raised their children, Samuel, Mark, David and Mary. She enjoyed spending time with extended family, especially her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a member of Milford United Methodist Church where she served on various committees. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star Blue River Chapter #132, Blue Valley Quilters, and a co-founder of Milford Food Net. She loved making and collecting new and old quilts. Louise is survived by her husband, Eugene; children and spouses, Samuel Welsch and Patricia Spitzer, Lincoln, Mark and Bonnie Cosentino-Welsch, Omaha, David and Debra Welsch, Mary and Michael Wiese, all of Milford; grandchildren and spouses, Daniel Welsch, Ember Welsch and Jeremy Patterson, Peter Welsch, Theresa Spitzer Smith and Kenneth Smith, Al Cosentino, Benjamin and Jennifer Welsch, Rebecca and Matthew Steuk, Jillian Wiese, Karl Wiese; 11 great-grandchildren, Naomi, Matthew, Ada, Harrison, Raegan, Lincoln, Truman, Wilson, Trevin, Isaac, Madisyn; twin sister and brother-in-law, Lois and Larry Walrath, Salida, CO; many nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Ruth Hicks, brothers-in-law, Robert Hicks and Joseph Selders, nieces and nephew, Nancy Hicks, Roxann, Steven and Kristine Selders. A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 11, 2018, at the Milford United Methodist Church with Rev. Lyle Schoen officiating. Private family burial at a later date at West Blue Cemetery, rural Milford. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established to the Milford United Methodist Church or to Milford Food Net.

June 29, 1926 - July 16, 2018 - Irma (Salda) Ripa, daughter of Lumir and Bertha (Duba) Salda was born on a farm east of Wilber on June 29, 1926 and passed away on July 16, 2018 at the Wilber Care Center at the age of 92 years and 17 days. She grew up on the farm and attended District 4 rural school and graduated with the Class of 1944 from Wilber High School. On July 12, 1944 she was united in marriage to Warren L. Ripa. The couple lived in Wilber most of their lives except for five years they lived on the Ripa Homestead being the fourth generation, and 14 months in Estes Park, Colorado. They moved back to Wilber, then Lincoln and back to Wilber in 2000. Irma was a permanent member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 101 of Wilber, being a Past President and held other offices. She was a member of the Past Presidents Parley, also 8/40 Bon Chere, member of the National Rural Letter Carrier Auxiliary being a past District Chairman, member of First Lutheran Church of Wilber, former Vice Chairman of Saline County Democratic Central Committee and past officer of the Saline County Democratic Women, a Judge on the Saline County Election Board and Judge on the Lancaster Election Board. She received the Order of the Ladies of Libuse in August of 1982. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Warren L. Ripa, sister-in-law Eunice Mae Ripa, sister Eleanor Salda, sister and brother-in-law Stella and Norman Beck, sister and brother-in-law Gladys and Alfred Kotas, brother Norman Salda, brother-in-law Joseph Simecek, grandson Todd Albert and an infant daughter. She is survived by daughter Karen Albert and Barry Sullivan of Las Cruces, New Mexico, son Loren Ripa and Roberta (Bobbie Kunc) of Wilber, grandchildren Kimberly (Albert) and husband Peter Collingwood, Jason Ripa and Carli Israelson, Jennifer (Ripa) and husband Brian Pospisil and great-grandchildren Logan Matos, Kerilynn Matos, Kaden Albert, Gavin Pospisil and Bria Pospisil, sister-in-law Lois (Ripa) Simecek, and other family Dennis Albert, Jax Israelson, Kadin and Bryston Davis, nieces and nephews. Services will be held on Thursday, July 19th, 2018 at 10:30 am at the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wilber. Interment in Wilber Czech Cemetery. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 5 - 8 pm at Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber. Memorials may be given to the church or to the Wilber Legion Auxillary. Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber is in charge of arrangements.

October 01, 1960 - July 14, 2018 - David Edward Kujath was born October 1, 1960, the fourth child of John A. and Martha (Pieper) Kujath at Fairbury, NE. He died at Wilber Care Center on July 14, 2018. He was baptized and confirmed at St. John's Lutheran Church of Daykin, NE. David attended and graduated from Meridian High School in 1978. He worked at Peterson Manufacturing in DeWitt, NE after high school until the factory closed. David then became a propane delivery driver for Farmer's Cooperative of Plymouth, NE. He always was a dedicated worker and did his job to best of his ability. He enjoyed raising sheep and helping young people learn about agriculture. David assisted many youth in their 4H careers and was part of the Saline County fair. He was member of the Swanton Fire Department and Village board. He helped out in many of Swanton's activities. David is survived by his siblings: Cathy Lyons and husband, Jim, Jeffery and wife, Carol, Mark and wife, Judy and Susan Lawton and husband, Larry. As well as his nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great nephews and numerous cousins and their families and aunts, Christa Kujath, Bertha Kujath and Judith Pieper. He is also survived by Sharon Slama and her family. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Martha Kujath, brother, Jerry L. Kujath and brother-in-law, Jerald Wiegand. Memorials for David will be given to the Village of Swanton and Saline County Fair. Services will be held on Wednesday, July 18th, 2018 at 10:30 at St. John Lutheran Church in Daykin, NE. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 5 – 7 pm at Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber, NE. Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber is in charge of arrangements.

June 29, 1924 - July 22, 2018 - Clarice Jean Frahm, 94, of Crete, passed away on Sunday, July 22, 2018 at Tabitha in Crete. She was born on June 29, 1924 in Crete to Hobart and Clara (White) Brick. She graduated from Dorchester High School and was a member of the VFW Auxillary. Clarice married Kenneth Frahm on April 20, 1946, and to this union 5 children were born: Perry, Larry, Kathie, Janis, and Lori. She worked for Formfit Rogers for 24 years. She loved playing cards and board games, especially when she was beating Kenny. She also had a fond love for children and dogs. Clarice was preceded in death by her parents, husband: Kenneth, grandson: Bradley Frahm, daughter in law: Linda Frahm. She is survived by her children and spouses: Perry (Selma) Frahm, Larry Frahm, Kathie (Dan) Bowles, Janis (Myron) Bernt, Lori (Gene) Dittmer. Cremation, no visitation. Private graveside services were held on Wednesday, July 25, 2018 at the Dorchester Cemetery. Memorials are in care of the family. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete was in charge of arrangements.

September 24, 1930 - July 11, 2018 - Arline Libbie (Kubicek) Zajicek passed away July 11, 2018, in Wilber. Arline was born on September 24, 1930, to Libbie (Pomajzl) and Henry O. Kubicek, on the farm that her grandfather homesteaded between Crete and Wilber in the Pleasant Hill Precinct, Saline County. She attended Willow Bend Country School District 10, Crete Public Schools (1947) and Doane College (now Doane University) where she studied math and was a member of the Phi Sigma Tau Sorority. After meeting at a dance at Tabor Hall, Arline married Irvin A. Zajicek on June 3, 1951, at the United Church of Christ in Crete, NE. She worked for over 50 years at Crete State Bank (now Pinnacle Bank) and after retirement worked part-time as a receptionist at the Kuncl Funeral Home. Arline was a loving and dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. She enjoyed traveling, playing and listening to piano, family genealogy, math puzzles, and having good conversations with family and friends. Arline was an active member in many bridge groups, and enjoyed serving as a volunteer at Grace United Methodist Church and connecting with her friends during Crete High School (1947) class reunions. As family and friends know, Arline had a special appreciation for butterflies. The family wishes to thank the many loving dedicated workers at the Wilber Care Center and The Bickford of Lincoln who have assisted in caring for Arline over the past 10 years. We are also very grateful for the caring workers with Asera Care Hospice for their recent assistance. Arline is preceded in death by her husband, Irvin; brother, Joseph Kubicek; nephew, Jerome Kubicek; niece, Vicky Haroldson; parents Henry and Libbie Kubicek; in-laws Joseph and Effie Zajicek; brother-in-law Victor Zajicek, and brother and sister-in-law Elmer and Lovella Zajicek. She is survived by daughter Alison & son-in-law David Clevette, granddaughters Libbie, Grace & Emma Clevette of Crete; brother and sister-in-law, James and Sheryl Kubicek of Lincoln; sister-in-law Betty Kubicek of Wilber, sister-in-law Thelma Zajicek of Albert Lea, MN; nephews Timothy Kubicek, Michael Kubicek, Joseph Kubicek, Jerald Kubicek, and Gerald Zajicek; and nieces Janice Johns, Donna Hassebrock, and Patricia Forman. The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 14, 2018, at Kuncl Funeral Home, 131 W. 12th St, Crete. Burial will be at Crete Riverside Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m., Friday, July 13 at the Kuncl Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Crete Cares, an ecumenical program supporting those in need living in the Crete area. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

Evelyn Anna (Wilson) Jenkins Evelyn Anna (Wilson) Jenkins, 96 years of age, of Crete, formerly of Wymore passed away on Monday night, July 2, 2018 in Crete. She was born March 2, 1922, to John and Katie (Meerian) Wilson on a farm 5-1 miles west of Marysville, Kan. Evelyn spent her childhood there, attended Cunningham School Dist. 83 and graduated from Marysville High School in 1940. She taught at a rural school in Marshall County, Kansas, for 5 years. On August 17, 1945, Evelyn married Charles Jenkins at St. Gregory Church in Marysville, Kan. They lived on farms near Holmesville, Barneston, Liberty and Blue Springs,. In 1977 they moved to Wymore. In 1958 Evelyn began teaching and taught in rural schools in Gage County for 8 years and in Jefferson County for 2 years. In the summer of 1968 she earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education and taught for 10 years at Wymore Southern. After retirement from teaching, Evelyn worked at the Beatrice Development Center and then at the D & M Motel in Wymore. Evelyn was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Wymore and the Altar Society. She was Altar Society President for one year and taught CCD religious classes for many years. In Evelyn's younger days she enjoyed gardening and canning. Evelyn enjoyed her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband Charles; her parents John and Katie Wilson; brother's Richard, Steve, Bernard, William, Vernon (Joe), and Delmer; Sisters Cecelia Brim, Isabell Ring, Mary Schwartz and Delores (Dee) Lutjmeir. Evelyn is survived her children Don (Joyce) Jenkins of Wymore, Bill (Becky) Jenkins of Falls City, Marge Chapman of Lincoln, Charlotte (Dennis) James of Crete and Jack (Jane) Jenkins of Douglas; plus twelve grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren; and by sister in law Donna Wilson. Evelyn is survived by many nieces, nephews etc. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 7, 2018 at the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Wymore. Interment will be in the Calvary Cemetery in Wymore. The body will lie in state Friday from 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the Laughlin-Hoevet Funeral Home in Wymore with the rosary starting at 7:00 p.m. A memorial has been established to the family's choice with the funeral home in charge. Sign Evelyn's online guest book at www.ghchapel.com. These services have been entrusted to the Laughlin-Hoevet Funeral Home in Wymore.

(February 22, 1930 - June 30, 2018) Milos Joseph Kubicek, 88, of Crete, passed away on June 30, 2018 in Lincoln. He was born February 22, 1930, to Milos and Helen (Matejka) Kubicek on a farm south of Crete. He went to country school District 10. The family moved in 1940 and he went to District 51. Milo farmed with his uncle for 10 years and lived with uncles and aunts from 1947 to 1954. Milo married Kathryn Renner January 24, 1954. They had two daughters, Kathy and Cheryl. He is survived by wife Kathryn, daughter Cheryl Betts and husband Terry, sister Evelyn Slepicka. He was preceded in death by daughter Kathy Uarich, parents Milo and Helen Kubicek, brother Irvin and sister Irma Plachy. Services will be held on Friday, July 6, 2018 at 10:30 am at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete. Casual attire is requested. Visitation will be on Thursday from 5 - 7 pm. Memorials are in care of the family. Kuncl Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

(December 13, 1963 - June 26, 2018) John M. Honvlez, 54, of Denton, passed away Tuesday, June 26, 2018. He was born to Clarence and Shirley Honvlez on December 13, 1963. He graduated from Crete High School in 1982. John was preceded in death by father, Clarence Honvlez, and brother, Craig Honvlez, of Denton. He is survived by mother, Shirley Honvlez, sister, Rhonda Honvlez, and niece, Shannon Roberts, all of Denton. For nearly 30 years, he worked a successful career in mechanical maintenance before pursuing his passion of raising cattle and farming. John enjoyed participating in tractor pulls with his John Deere D. He took pride in restoring his International Harvester Farmall 1206 Diesel tractor and entering it into parades and tractor shows. His smile and laugh will be missed by those who loved him most. Private family services were held at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete. Interment took place in Sunnyside Cemetery in Denton. Memorials are in care of the family. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete was in charge of arrangements.

(July 15, 1949 - June 15, 2018) Roger Gene Belohlavy was born July 15, 1949 at St. Elizabeth’s hospital in Lincoln, Nebraska to Joseph F. Belohlavy and Evelyn (Karl) Belohlavy. Roger grew up on a farm on Turkey Creek near Pleasant Hill, Nebraska and attended Pleasant Hill Elementary School. His youth was spent fishing, hunting, and trapping. At an early age, he decided that someday he wanted to buy furs from hunters and trappers. Roger’s cousin Dennis Belohlavy spent much time at the farm and the two grew up together like “brothers”. Sunday dinners at the farm always included an overflowing table of Uncles and Aunts speaking Czech.

Roger learned to pick corn by hand and watched his Dad farm with horses until replaced by tractors. When Roger attended Wilber High School he was an active member of FFA (Future Farmers of America) graduating in 1967. It was at this time, he convinced his Dad to start flood irrigating. Majoring in Animal Science at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, Roger graduated at the top of his class in 1971.

Roger participated in the Meats Judging Team. He developed many longtime friendships and was given the nickname Igor. He received his Master’s in Meat Science in 1975 and participated in the research that led to the development of the McDonald’s “McRib”.

On February 8, 1975, Roger married Janice Kay Rasmussen. The couple made their home in the Westwood residential development in Crete where Roger served as Chairman of the SID (Sanitary Improvement District) before being annexed to the city of Crete. To this union were born two daughters, Cindy and Amanda.

Roger had a strong entrepreneurial spirit and decided to fulfill his childhood dream of buying furs. Roger worked at Alpo Pet Foods in Crete for 17 years and then turned his attention entirely to his small business, Turkey Creek Furs. In 1987, he and his wife Janice purchased a store front property on the west edge of Crete.

In addition to buying furs, Roger bought deer hide and had one year where he bought nearly 30,000 hides. His small business sold livestock feed, cellular phones, hunting and trapping supplies as well as bait and tackle. The business also included a U-haul dealership and a recycling center for aluminum cans and batteries as well as manufacturing and distributing Bowker’s Catfish Bait. Roger later became a licensed real estate broker, operating Turkey Creek Realty with his wife. In 2014, he sold his business and moved Turkey Creek Realty to a location on Main Street in Crete.

As an entrepreneur, Roger based his business ethics on honesty and keeping his word. He believed in working hard and that his word is his bond. Roger and Janice loved to travel and joined the Doane tour to the Czech Republic in 2012. In 2014, Roger and Janice took a train trip across Europe visiting their ancestral homes and meeting many relatives. They celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in Hawaii and returned in 2017 to celebrate Roger’s recovery and remission from leukemia.

Roger loved spending time with family and friends and making many trips to visit Cindy in Florida with Janice. He enjoyed camping, fishing, and deer hunting at the farm he grew up on. He was very proud of the fact that the farm had been in his family for over 100 years. He especially enjoyed spending time there with his daughters and watching his grandchildren catch fish.

Roger was at his realty office on August 19, 2015 when he suddenly lost his eyesight and was diagnosed with ALL Leukemia later that day. His eyesight gradually returned and he eventually had a bone marrow transplant which failed. He entered a clinical CAR T-cell trial which resulted in neurotoxicity. After spending a week on life support in July of 2016 and another week non-responsive, the cutting edge CAR T-cell clinical trial brought remission until Thanksgiving weekend of 2017.

Roger watched the new Buffet Cancer Hospital being built from his hospital room at UNMC and served as a Patient Ambassador at its opening. Throughout this battle Roger and Janice received exceptional support from their friends Dave and Sylvia Tyser who were with the family in every stage of the illness. It was during his hospitalization for his second bone marrow transplant that Roger lost his battle with leukemia on June 15, 2018.

Roger is survived by his wife Janice (Rasmussen) Belohlavy, daughters Cindy Belohlavy of Windermere, Florida, Amanda (Belohlavy) Karr and son-in-law Jeremy Karr of Lincoln. Three grandchildren Emmett, Kaylynn, and Hazel Karr, sisters-in-law Ruth McMaster of Nebraska City and Nina Kavich of Fremont, nephews Paul Kavich of Denver, Scott (Shu) McMaster, and Brian (Vicki) McMaster for Seattle, cousins and friends. Roger was proceeded in death by his parents and brother-in-law David (Skip) McMaster. Services will be held at Grace United Methodist Church in Crete on Thursday June 21, 2018 at 10:00 am with Dr. Reynolds officiating. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 5:30 – 7:30 at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete. Burial at Wilber Czech Cemetery in Wilber, Nebraska. Memorials to the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Crete Area Medical Center, and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

(October 30, 1946 - June 12, 2018) Jane Louise Swanson, 71, died Tuesday June 12, 2018, at her home in Emerald, NE. Born October 30, 1946, to Bernard and Helen (Cerny) Kaspar. Jane grew up on their farm with her older brothers Al and Larry and attended Pleasant Hill school. Jane graduated valedictorian of her class at Dorchester High School, 1964, and completed further education at the Lincoln School of Commerce. She then went to work as secretary to Bennett “Abe” Martin.

She married Dale Edward Swanson June 12, 1965. Together they had three children: Sonja, Steve, and Sam. Jane stopped working to become a full-time homemaker and mother, spending many hours reading to her children and doing all sorts of activities with them. She was always involved in their education, always ready to help them with their lessons. She was also active in the community, serving many years on the local school and water boards.

As a breast cancer survivor, Jane was especially attentive and supportive to anyone she encountered who faced a similar struggle. As her children entered adulthood, Jane returned to work outside the home, starting at Popeye’s and working a number of jobs before landing in the newsroom of the Lincoln Journal Star. She enjoyed both the work and the people she worked with, and made many good friends in the process.

Jane was talented in many ways. She loved baking and made countless batches of candy around Christmastime for friends and family to enjoy. She loved to read, both for herself and to her children. She collected dolls and, remaining fond of pigs from her farmgirl days, amassed a large collection of pig-related curios and figurines. Jane had wanted to study forensics when she was young, which turned into a lifelong interest in mysteries and whodunits both fictional and real. She was a tireless worker, a good friend, and a devoted and tolerant mother and wife.

Preceded in death by her parents, Bernard and Helen Kaspar; and her brother Alan Kaspar. Survivors include husband Dale; daughter and son-in-law Sonja and Eric Bartsch; son and daughter-in-law Steve and Michelle; son Samuel; brother Larry; sister-in-law Karen Bode; brother-in-law Gene Swanson; grandchildren Ryan, Dale, and Heather Bartsch; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, family, and friends. A service to celebrate Jane’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday June 20, 2018, at Kuncl Funeral Home, 131 W. 12th St., Crete; fellowship at the Crete VFW following the service. Private burial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to the Food Bank of Lincoln and the Saline County Historical Society Museum in Dorchester. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

(July 11, 1948 - June 10, 2018) Carol J. (Barta) Allerheiligen, 69, passed away in Beatrice, NE on Sunday, June 10, 2018 at home. She was born on July 11, 1948 in Beatrice, NE to Erma (Sipek) and Felix Barta.

She was raised on the family farm in Western, NE. In 1964 at the age of 16 she married William H. Allerheiligen and they moved to Lincoln, NE. From this marriage they were blessed with four children. While raising a family she got her G.E.D. to go on to take classes at the University of Nebraska. This was done while having worked full-time at various different jobs, including the University Of Nebraska.

It was in 1987 that Carol met her second mate Jay W. Denniston, after being divorced for some time. She spent the rest of her days with him.

Carol is survived by her four children and their spouses: Linda L. Golightly & Loren Rice (Bennett, NE), Suzanne K. Lunderville & Larry Lunderville (Lincoln, NE), Shelly J. Foster & Benny Foster (Beatrice, NE), William H. Allerheiligen II & Cherie Allerheiligen (Valparaiso, NE), from which she was blessed with 14 grandchildren & 17 great grandchildren Carol is preceded in death by her parents, brother (Richard A. Barta, Sr.), nephew (Richard A. Barta, Jr.), grandson (William H. Allerheiligen, III), and Jay W. Denniston. Services: Friday, 10:30 am, Kuncl Funeral Home, Wilber. Visitation beginning 9:00 am. Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber is in charge of arrangements.

(September 29, 1941 - June 10, 2018) Jack Heckman, 76, of Wilber, passed away in his home on Sunday, June 10, 2018. He was born on September 29, 1941 in Lincoln Nebraska to Millie (Keller) and Herschel Heckman and raised by her second husband Francis Bourg. He lived in several towns as he was growing up and Graduated from Crete High School in 1959.

After graduation he enlisted in the National Guard from 1959 to 1963. He started his long career as a carpenter working with Don Kahle. They built numerous homes together throughout Crete and surrounding area. Later he started working for Sack Lumber designing and building homes. Then he took the position as manager until he retired. He was member of the Crete Volunteer Fire Department and College Heights Country Club. Jack believed in hard work and having fun.

He personally built his first home in 1969 in Crete and his second home in Wilber in 1991. He loved to play golf, fish and enjoyed having people around him. It seemed he always had a new idea to build something and a hammer in his hand. He loved his family and was always smiling and telling jokes. Jack also believed in helping people whether it was answering questions they had with home construction projects or helping them to design and build their new home.

People trusted Jack because they always knew they would get the right answer. In 1962 he married Betty Muff (55 years) and they have 2 grown children. Jeff and his wife Andrea, Roxane (Pickens) and her husband Mitch, 2 grandchildren, Ariel Heckman and Austin Heckman and 1 great grandson Hudson Heckman.

He was preceded in death by his sister Sue Broz and his parents. He is survived by his brother Jerry Heckman and wife Sharon. Janet Nykodym and husband Don and his brother in law Ron Broz and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber, Nebraska on Saturday, June 16 at 10:30 am.

(February 05, 1926 - June 09, 2018) Leon has cut anchor, and decided that it’s time to Waltz with Matilda once again. Leon F. Hesh was born in Saline County to Edward and Elsie (Kubes) Hesh on February 5, 1926. He passed away on June 9, 2018 at the Crete Hospital. He was the older of two children.

Leon attended rural school and graduated from Crete Public High School. Leon helped his dad on the farm, from his youth through his teen years. He left the farm to serve his country in the Army at the end of World War II, and then returned to continue farming. After three of his children graduated from high school, he retired from farming and worked for the State of Nebraska at the Department of Roads until retirement.

On October 23, 1952, Leon was united in marriage to Matilda Klasek at a Methodist Church in Lincoln. They were blessed with four children Steven, Terese, Mary and Suzanne. And they all felt they were the dad's favorite. Leon was a former member of the Knights of Pythias. He volunteered for many years at the bingo stand for the American Legion, and also served on the School Board, including as Board President, for the Wilber-Clatonia High School. Leon was a devoted husband and respected father.

He enjoyed raising crops, as well as livestock, and after leaving the farm, continued his skills in the garden, sharing the bounty with neighbors & friends. His favorite pastimes included fishing, playing cards, and spending time with his grandchildren. Leon and Matilda went on a two week honeymoon trip which took them though the Ozarks, to New Orleans, across Texas, to the Grand Canyon, through Colorado, North and South Dakota and then back home.

It must have been true love to spend that much time in the car. Leon’s favorite family time was spent on the lake either watching his children waterski or fishing. They took a rare family trip with their four children to Colorado, and later a trip to Hawaii with their two younger daughters. Once their children were grown, Leon and Matilda enjoyed annual road trips to California and Arizona to visit Steve, Terese, Suzanne, and their families. They enjoyed a two-month motor home trip to Alaska.

There were also numerous fishing trips to South Dakota, Minnesota and Canada, and trips to visit their “cousins” in northeast Kansas. In 1984 Leon and Matilda moved into Wilber. In 2012 he moved into the Wilber Care Center full time.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents: Edward and Elsie Hesh, his wife Matilda, a grandson Green Hesherton, and his sister LaDean Zajicek. He is survived by his children: son, Steven Hesh of California; daughters, Terese O'Connell and husband Robert of California, Mary Ourecky and husband Dale of Wilber, and Suzanne Stokebrand and husband Tom of Arizona. Grandchildren: Heart Hesherton, Power Hefferton, Babu Tree and wife Jenny Aires, Sean O'Connell and wife Eva, Quinn O'Connell, Aron Ourecky and wife Elizabeth, Jamie Sand and husband Gabe, Elizabeth Ourecky and fiancée Guy Stinnett, and Margo Stokebrand. Great Grandchildren: Easton, Jase and Bryson Sand, Sophia and Anna Aires-Tree, Evelyn and Krislin Ourecky, and Jasper O’Connell. Funeral services to be held 11 am Monday, June 18 at the Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber with Pastor Lila Bottolfsen officiating. Interment is at the Wilber Czech Cemetery followed by a fellowship at the Wilber Care Center. Visitation 5-8 pm Sunday. Memorials in care of the family. Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber is in charge of arrangements.

(August 7, 1934 – June 1, 2018) Carolyn Joyce Stuvick, daughter of William and Opal Stuvick entered the gates of Heaven on June 1, 2018. She was raised in the Red Oak, Iowa area with 3 siblings, William (Bill), Betty, and Joanne. Throughout all her life Carolyn loved to shop, was a compassionate animal lover, and enjoyed travel. Carolyn married Wayne H. Waldron, and to this union six children were born, Linda, Diane, Wayne, Joyce, Steve, and Marci. Carolyn’s family relocated to the Lincoln, NE area in the mid-60’s where she was employed at the Lincoln Telephone Company. She was later married to Lyle Judson and ran the ‘Corner Tavern’ in Swanton, NE. In her later years, she was again united in marriage to Byron Harder. Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents William and Opal Stuvick and sisters Betty Fuller and Joanne Graham. She is survived by her brother Bill and her children Linda Kyzer of Cabot, AR, Diane Foreman of Duncan, OK, Wayne Waldron of Rosston, AR, Joyce McGlothin of Spokane, WA, Steve (Deb) Waldron of Kramer, NE, and Marci Wilhelm of Crete, NE; 18 grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren. Private service. Memorials to the family for future designation.

(January 13, 1948 - June 5, 2018) Gail K. (Brown) August was born on January 13, 1948 to Robert and Lucille Brown. She passed away on June 5, 2018 at the age of 70 years unexpectedly but peacefully in her home. She married Gary August on August 26, 1967. They were blessed with two children, Alan and Julie, and two grandchildren, Emma and Jake. She loved spending time with her family, being outdoors, and horses. She is survived by: husband Gary, son Alan (Ann) August, daughter Julie August, grandchildren Emma and Jake, beloved dog Buzz, mother Lucille, brothers Charles (Phylis) Brown, Lyle (Diane) Brown, Ken (Sarah) Brown, sister-in-law Carol (Ed) Zak, and numerous other extended family members. Gail was preceded in death by her father Robert Brown. Memorial services will be held Monday June 11, 2018, 2:00 pm (MT) at the United Methodist Church in Clinton, NE. Inurnment will be held Wednesday June 13, 2018, 10:00 am (CT) at Dorchester Cemetery, Dorchester, NE. The family suggests memorials to C.A.R.E. and donations may be sent in care of Chamberlain-Pier Funeral Home, PO Box 366, Gordon, NE 69343.

(January 07, 1937 - June 08, 2018) Richard Joseph Klika, 81, of Crete, NE, passed away on June 8, 2018. Richard “Dick” was born on January 7, 1937 to Gordon and Dorothy Klika in Green Bay, WI. Richard married Mary Ann Carlson and to this union three daughters were born. Richard later married Janice Horky Ladman in Crete, NE. She preceded him in death on October 20, 2017. Survivors include three daughters Patricia (Jim) Wright of Pulaski, WI., Joan (Bill) Stollar of Lincoln, NE and Kathleen Morgan of Lincoln, NE and step children, Brenda (Greg) Bockelman of Fort Collins, CO., and Bruce (Karen) Ladman of Chester, VA, eight grandchildren: Matthew (Samantha) Wright and Eric (Amber) Wright, Beckie (J.D.) Worcester and Jacob Stollar, Richard Morgan, Randy Nolte, Micah and Noah Ladman, and 2 great grandchildren Rowan and Alijah, brother: John Robert Klika of Berlin, Wisconsin. Richard was preceded in death by his parents; wife Janice; and son-in-law Ray Morgan. A Memorial Mass will be held Monday, July 2, 2018 at 10:30 am at Sacred Hearth Catholic Church in Crete. Rosary will be at 10:00 am, just prior to Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family to help with funeral expenses. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

(January 19, 1957 - June 06, 2018) Timothy Pickrel, age 61, of Crete, NE, passed away June 6, 2018 at home. He was born on January 19, 1957. Services are currently pending with Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete in charge of arrangements.

(August 20, 1927 - June 09, 2018) Patti Kundinger, age 90, passed away June 9, 2018 at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Lincoln, NE. She was born on August 20, 1927. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

(February 08, 1922 - June 08, 2018) Margaret A. Homolka “Granny”, age 96 years 4 months, the daughter of Albert and Agnes (Yeck) Radil was born at her parent’s home located 2 miles west and 4 ¾ miles north of Western, NE on February 8, 1922. She passed away June 8, 2018 at the Wilber Care Center. Margaret was baptized in the Catholic Faith at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Milligan. She attended Busy Bee School District 21 through the 8th grade and graduated with the class of 1939 from Tobias High School. She went on to attend Peru State Teachers College and taught 7 years in rural schools (Busy Bee, Opossum Hill, and Oak Groove) in Saline County. Margaret married Arnold Homolka on September 16, 1947 at Saline County Courthouse in Wilber, NE. At this time the couple moved to a farm located 2 miles west and 1 ½ miles south of Western where they farmed and raised cattle. To this union two sons were born, Arnold Jr. and Kevin. She loved her family and was fortunate having her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren living nearby. Her desire was for them to receive a good education. After her husband’s death in May 1997, she continued living on the farm. She enjoyed her flowers, garden, pets, family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She loved visiting with family, friends, neighbors, and all those she met. She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law; Arnold Jr. and wife, Patience, Kevin and wife Sheryl all of Western. Seven grandchildren Wendee Lynn (Scott) Sobotka of Tobias, Kevin Jr. (Julie) Homolka of Western, Mindee Ann (Clint) Jones of Daykin, Patti Jean (John) Lakey of Waverly, Misty Jo (Brad) Kotas of Swanton, Joseph Albert Homolka of Western, and Brandi Joan (Jason) Domling of Geneva; thirteen great-grandchildren Jaicee, Josiee, and Jaylee Sobotka, Jayton, Jarrett, Jarron, and Jaymee Jones, Tanner and Wyatt Lakey, Kelsey and Allyssa Kotas, Lilly Homolka, and Karlie Domling. Extended family members include Fayrene Hamouz, and daughter Michell, LaJean Hamouz and children Lisa and Ron, Charles Vajgrt and wife Sue and son Justin, and many relatives and friends. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents Albert and Agnes (Yeck) Radil, husband Arnold Homolka, sister Helen Hamouz, brother-in-law Lew Hamouz, nephews Darrel and Myron Hamouz, sister-in-law Lillian Vajgrt and brother-in-law Charles Vajgrt. Services: Tuesday, 10:30 am, Kuncl Funeral Home, Wilber. Visitation: Monday, 5 – 8 pm, funeral home. Memorials are in care of the family.

(November 09, 1930 - June 08, 2018) Clarence F. Jelinek, age 87, of Lincoln, NE, passed away June 8, 2018 at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Lincoln. He was born on November 9, 1930 to Frank and Sylvia Jelinek in Wilber, NE. Clarence worked as a service representative for Dictaphone Corporation and was a United States Marine. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother: Richard. Survivors include his wife: Gloria, 2 nieces, and cousins. There will be no services. Memorials are suggested to Lincoln Animal Control or Saline County Eldercare. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete in charge of arrangements.

(October 29, 1962 - June 6, 2018) Denise M. Mattox, 55, passed away Wednesday, June 6, 2018, at Bryan East Medical Center in Lincoln, Nebraska. Graveside memorial will be at 1:00 pm, Thursday, June 14, 2018, at Riverside Cemetery in Crete, Nebraska. A reception will follow the service at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Crete, Nebraska. Memorials may be directed to her family. Denise was born October 29, 1962, in Omaha, Nebraska, the daughter of Jack L. and Pat A. (Kuester) Heller. She graduated from Crete High School with the class of 1982. Denise enjoyed puzzles, crafting, doing her own nails, making jewelry, fishing and camping. Denise is survived by her sons, Adam (Renee) Mattox of Hickman, NE, Troy (Chrissy) Mattox of Ceresco, NE, Ben Mattox, and Josh Mattox both of Lincoln, NE; nine grandchildren; mother, Pat Heller; sister, Jodi (Clayton) Schwisow; and brother, Tim (Heidi) Heller all of Crete, NE. She was preceded in death by her father.

(January 21, 1950 - May 27, 2018) Kathryn “Kathy” Ann Kerst of Rochester, MN passed away Sunday, May 27, following a courageous battle with ovarian cancer, surrounded by her family, whom she dearly loved. Kathy was born on January 21, 1950 in Crete, Nebraska to Karl F. and Bertha M. (Quay) Kerst.

She graduated from Crete High School and completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Speech and Dramatic Art at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She went on to complete her Masters of Arts Degree in Audiology at UNL and worked as an Aural Rehabilitation Specialist in the Millard Public Schools in Omaha.

She moved to Des Moines, Iowa to serve as the Supervisor of Audiological Services at the Des Moines Hearing and Speech Center. Following that position, she provided clinical audiology services in both private practice ENT offices as well as at the Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. Among other accomplishments, Kathy became an Occupational Audiologist, driving a 5th wheel rig, doing mobile-hearing-testing across western Iowa and eastern Nebraska.

Ever the student, she went on to complete a Masters Degree in Public Administration Heath Care Management. She became a Disability Specialist for Drake University for a few years until she was recruited for a clinical audiology position in Mayo Clinic’s Department of Audiology.

She served in the Audiology Supervisor position until her health prevented her from continuing. Kathy was a lifelong Nebraska Husker fan, loved attending small town festivals, and long drives along the Mississippi River. She enjoyed collecting violet dishes and anything pineapple but will best be remembered for her kind smile and her Santa collection, second to none.

Kathy is survived by sisters, Carol (Jerome) Schnell of Dorchester, NE, Cynthia (Ken) Baker of Rosemount, MN, Cheryl Roth of Crete, NE, and Karla (Warren) Tresler of David City, NE; twelve nieces and nephews; nine great-nieces and nephews; and three great-great-nieces and nephews. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and scores of friends. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, parents, and infant sister, Patty Jo. An audiology scholarship will be established in Kathy’s name. In lieu of flowers please send memorial donations to Ken Baker at 3999 144th Street West, Rosemount, MN 55068.

Minnesota Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, May 31 at Madonna Towers Chapel (4001 19th Avenue SW, Rochester, Minnesota) with Rev. Thomas Loomis officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service with Rosary at 10:45 am. Nebraska service will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, June 9 at Sacred Heart Church, Crete, Nebraska. Visitation and Rosary will be one hour prior to the service. Private burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery at a later date.

(July 08, 1916 - June 01, 2018) Josephine (Josie) Slama, 101, of Dorchester, Nebraska passed away on Friday, June 1, 2018. She was born on July 8, 1916, on a farm south of Pleasant Hill, Nebraska to Frank and Christie (Sipek) Belohlavy. She attended grade school in Pleasant Hill by walking over a mile across fields sometimes crying from the cold. There were times during stormy weather her teacher didn’t come. The janitor would then start a fire so she could warm up before sending her back home.

She attended Swanton High School and later graduated from Crete High School in 1933. Her future husband, Joe Slama, first asked her for a dance at the Cinderella Ballroom in Crete but the music ended before they got to dance. On Sunday Joe drove to her farm and asked her to a dance near Columbus, Nebraska. They married in 1939 and eventually bought and moved to a farm south of Dorchester.

In 1942 she gave birth to a son, Richard, in a house that wasn’t finished. There was no electricity or running water, yet she managed to make a great home for the family. There was the cow to milk each morning, large garden to care for, chickens to be butchered, eggs to pick, vegetables and fruit to be canned, jams to make, clothes to wash by hand, and sometimes soap and butter were made. At certain times during the year there was hay to be made and she was the one that insured the 20 foot high haystack was built correctly so it would stand into the winter. She also helped pick corn by hand and stack bundles of oats. But there was always time to attend a dance at Tabor Hall, ZCBJ lodge No. 74 where she was a lifelong member receiving her 50 year pin in 1989 and honorary membership in 2012.

Shortly after marriage she joined the newly formed Jes’Tus Extension Club and was an active member until the club ended in the 1970’s. The 40 or so homemakers were devoted to learning the latest information provided by UNL Extension on cooking, sewing, and the many other skills homemakers needed. When the weather made roads impassable by car, they would use horses and wagon to meet at members’ homes. Her mother died of diabetes in 1946 when her son was three. Her second son, Gene, was born in 1947. The Jes’Tus club then became more important to her than ever. She also became a member of the Dorchester Methodist Church. In the 1950’s she helped start and lead the PH 4-H club in Pleasant Hill. She specialized in entomology helping several youth get trips to 4-H Club Congress in Chicago.

For retirement, Joe and Josie moved to Dorchester in 1970. One thing she enjoyed in retirement in the 70’s was making and painting pairs of owls. Over 40 families received these owls and some still have them hanging in their homes. Her husband died in 1999 after almost 60 years of marriage. Josie then spent her days in Dorchester enjoying time with friends, gardening, and helping Gene maintain records of his purebred heard of Simental cattle. Eventually she broke a hip from a fall and spent the last couple of years in Tabitha of Crete where she enjoyed time with the staff and other residents. She is survived by her sons and daughter-in-law, Richard and Dianne (Whittington) Slama of Lincoln and Gene Slama of Dorchester; grandchildren Mark, David, and Todd Slama and Michelle (Slama) Brummer; and seven greatgrandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Joe; parents; and brothers Robert and Joe Belohlavy and sister Anna Urban. Services will be Wednesday, June 6, at 10 a.m. at Kuncl Funeral Home with Pastor John Slama officiating. Soloist is Tim Javorsky. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 5 - 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials are to the American Diabetes Association. Interment: Wilber Czech Cemetery. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

(September 23, 1930 – May 11, 2018) Robert grew up in Tulare, CA, the fourth of five sons of W.E. and Bula McCallister. After his graduation from high school, he attended College of the Sequoias and San Francisco State. He pursued the ministry at Iliff School of Theology and received a B.D. from Pacific School of Religion. He served the Methodist church in Stockton, St Helena and Mill Valley, CA. Bob then went on to pursue an MA and PhD at Northwestern. He held a variety of teaching and administrative positions at Baker University, Doane College, Fresno State, Missouri Valley College and St. Mary College (Professor Emeritus). He was instrumental in the development of the Doane-Lincoln program. Bob enjoyed the outdoors, especially Sequoia National Park in California. He loved music, hiking, reading and was an avid sports fan. He served as advisor to the Doane men’s basketball team during his tenure there. Survivors: son, Andy of Crete; daughter and son-in-law, Marti and Tim McKee, grandsons Alex and Ian, of Lincoln. Services will be held Thursday, May 17th at 10:30 AM, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2110 Sheridan Blvd, Lincoln, Nebraska. Memorials to Doane University – LIVE Doane Scholarship Fund in memory of Robert McCallister or Westminster Presbyterian Church.

(Aug. 17, 1918 - Apr. 30, 2018) Clay Center resident Jane Marie Taylor, 99, passed away Monday, April 30, 2018, at the Harvard Rest Haven in Harvard, NE. Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 4, 2018, at the United Church of Christ in Clay Center with Rev. Kathryn Bates officiating. Interment will follow at the Clay Center Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, from 1 p.m. – 8 p.m., with the family present from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m., at McLaughlin Funeral Chapel in Clay Center, NE. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family to be designated later. Jane was the second child born to William E. and Constante H. (McCune) Herdon on August 17, 1918, at Baker City, OR. At the age of 3, they moved to Toledo, WA and a year later to Saline County, NE where her father took over the Herndon family farm. This is where she grew up. She went to the Spunky Hollow and Busy Bee Rural Schools and high school at Western, NE where she studied Normal Training to be a teacher. Jane confessed her faith and was baptized into the Western Baptist Church in August 1927. Upon graduating from high school in 1936, she moved to Hebron, NE where she helped an aunt nurse an invalid daughter-in-law back to health. That fall her parents left the farm and moved to Hebron. She spent a year at Sheridan, WY and returned to Hebron where she taught a rural school in Thayer County for one year. On May 28, 1942, she married Crittenden J. Taylor of Clay Center, NE. Two sons were born to them, William J. and John C. Clay Center has been her home ever since then, first on rented farms and then on the Stephenson/Taylor farm where they received the Aksarben Pioneer Award in 1986. Crit died in 1990, and she remained on the farm until May 1996, when she bought her present home in Clay Center. Always interested in social history she became involved with genealogy and made a hobby of doing research for folk with Clay County roots. Over the years Jane has belonged to the Prairie Valley, Bethel and Rolling Pin Women’s Extension Clubs, the Nebraska State Historical Society, Nebraska State Genealogical Society and the Adams County Historical Society. She was a member of the Clay Center United Church of Christ, the Women’s Society and Bible Study Group, the Niobrara/Butler/Johnson DAR, Clay County Historical Society and Clay Center Super Seniors. She is survived by her sons, William J. (Carol) Taylor of McKinney, TX; John C. Taylor of Clay Center, NE; grandson, Monte (Robin) Taylor of Corpus Christi, TX; great-grandson, Ryan Taylor of Corpus Christi, TX; step-granddaughter, Laura (Steve) Brown of Pekin, IL; step-grandson, Ryan (Jenn) Halze of Celina, TX; five great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; five siblings, Cora Bea Whitten of Omaha, NE; Charles Herndon of Crete, NE; Rueben D. (Sue) Herndon of Toledo, WA; Robert M. (Nancy) Herndon of Fort Wayne, IN; Joan (Glen) Tippery of Deatur, NE; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Virginia Magner; Ruth Merriam; Esther Lou Burklund; Anna Loyd and Alberta Stauber.

(July 08, 1931 - May 18, 2018) Phyllis Jean Wendelin, 86, of Hallam, passed away May 18, 2018 at Bryan West Hospital in Lincoln. She was born on July 8, 1931 to Harry and Olie Trepka. She was the youngest of 4 children. Phyllis loved the outdoors, gardening, fishing, animals, and walking. She especially loved cooking and was very good at it. She loved working on the farm along with August. She married August Wendelin on September 23, 1950 in Crete. They farmed together for many years. They had 2 children: Ron and Sharon. In August of 2017, Phyllis was diagnosed with liver cancer. She fought a courageous battle and always kept a positive attitude. She was preceded in death by her parents, 2 brothers: Arnold and Harry, 1 sister: Irene. Phyllis is survived by her husband August, son and his wife, Ron and Becky, daughter, Sharon, as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins. Funeral services are Tuesday, May 22nd at 10:30 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Kramer. Visitation is Monday from 5 – 8 p.m. at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete. Memorials are in care of the family for future designation. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

(June 29, 1926 - May 04, 2018) Mavis M. (Burton) Dauphinee, 91, wife of Norman G. Dauphinee, Wilber, died on Friday, May 4, 2018 in Wilber, NE. She was born June 29, 1926 in Bingham, NE to George and Aileen (Cook) Burton. Mavis graduated from Curtis Agricultural High School in 1944 and attended Doane College for two years before transferring to Vanderbilt University, majoring in Public Health Nursing. She graduated in 1950 with a Registered Nursing degree before nursing in CA, CO and later NY. On July 11, 1954, she was united in marriage to Norman G. Dauphinee. Together they returned to the Buffalo area, living 30 years in Tonawanda, N.Y. where Mavis worked for area doctors and the Erie County Health Department. She was a member of Plymouth Congregational Church, Buffalo, NY and then Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ in Crete, NE. Mavis enjoyed reading, traveling and serving as a Sunday school superintendent and Girl Scout leader. Retiring in 1985, the couple moved to Alliance, Nebraska where Mavis owned and operated a used bookstore Friends and Neighbors for nearly 20 years. They moved to Wilber in 2007. The couple observed their 62nd anniversary on July 11, 2016. Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Susan and Matthew Zimmer-Dauphinee, Conyers, GA; Sarah and Kenneth Brown, Crete, NE; Karen Butler, Richardson, TX; sister-in-law, Ruth Burton, AZ; grandchildren, Charlotte Brown and Colin Irons, Shelby Butler, Melissa Heilman and David Heilman, Jacob Zimmer-Dauphinee, James and Cate Faulkner; and great-grandchildren, Dawson and Fiona Heilman. Preceded in death by parents; husband, Norman Dauphinee; brother, John Burton and son-in-law Scott Butler. Funeral services 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 9, 2018 at Kuncl Funeral Home, Wilber, NE with the Reverend Kathy Rahorst officiating. Burial: Riverside Cemetery, Crete, NE. No Visitation. Memorials will go to the staff of the Wilber Care Center.

Galen Crowder was born in Exeter, Nebraska to Bert and Viola (Zweig) Crowder on March 17, 1937. He graduated from Exeter High School in 1955 and after attending Doane College in Crete, NE, he received his Bachelor of Arts in 1959. He later attended the University of Nebraska in Lincoln and received his Master’s degree. After teaching in Crete for several years, he moved his young family to Colorado in 1966. He worked in the Littleton Public Schools at Isaac Newton and Grant Middle Schools as Assistant Principal. In 1972 he moved to the Cherry Creek School District and became the Assistant Principal at Campus Middle School. In 1975 he accepted the challenge of opening the new Laredo Middle School. He truly loved “his” school…the students, the teachers, the staff, the parents. From the beginning Laredo was filled with a positive spirit for learning and for life; a school that burst with energy, and most important--a school that loved and cared for each child. It existed because its principal set high standards of excellence. As the years passed, Galen became very active in state and national professional organizations and pursued more education, earning his Doctorate from Nova University. Although education was his passion, his greatest joy was loving and nurturing his grandchildren-- Aaron & Russell Santistevan; Rachel, Haley & Renee Lukowicz; Daniel, Melissa & Michael Rinaldo into adulthood. His pride in each knew no bounds. He filled his retirement years with travel, OLLI adult education classes, serving on community boards, volunteering for various orgnizations, gardening, and caring for the beautiful landscape around his home. He was recently honored when the new Laredo Middle School library was dedicated to him. There were so many things to love about Galen—his smile, his kind spirit, his good heart, his helpful nature, his enthusiasm for life, and the way he looked after the family and friends that he loved. God has him in his keeping; we have him in our hearts. Services at 11am Thursday, May 17, 2018; Horan & McConaty, 5303 E. County Line Road. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Galen’s memory to the Colorado Alzheimer’s Association or the RECCS Scholarship Fund-4700 S. Yosemite St. Englewood, CO 80111.

Galen is survived by his wife Angeline, brother Don, daughters Denise Perkins (Steve), Kimberly Griffin (Jerry), Christine Lukowicz (Stan), step-sons, Steve (Melinda) Rinaldo and David (Nancy) Rinaldo, 8 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Services at 11am, Thursday, May 17, 2018, Horan & McConaty, 5303 E. County Line Road. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Galen's memory to the Colorado Alzheimer's Association or the RECCS Scholarship Fund-4700 S. Yosemite St. Englewood, CO 80111. Complete obit and more info at csccares.com.

Ronald Baxa Ronald Joseph Baxa, 61, Topeka, Kansas, passed away April 28, 2018. Ron was born April 17, 1957, in Friend, Nebraska. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and he had a lifelong career as a Certified Public Accountant. Ron married Janet Johnson in 1982 and they shared 33 years together before she passed away in 2015. He was a member of Cornerstone Community Church. Ron enjoyed working outside and helping his son, Brian, with home improvement projects. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and his two cats. He affectionately called them Brown Scratchy and Black Scratchy. Ron was dearly loved by his family and will be greatly missed. Ron is survived by his sons, Brian Baxa and Greg Baxa (Roxanne); grandchildren, Paislee, Kaylee and Gabbie; parents, Joseph, Jr. and Eleanor Baxa; brothers, William Baxa and Gary Baxa (Michelle); mother-in-law, Stella Johnson; brother-in-law, Larry Johnson; sister-in-law, Barbara Steinmann (John) and aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Robert Johnson. Visitation will be 9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 5, 2018, at Cornerstone Community Church, 7620 SW 21st Street, Topeka KS 66615. Ron's memorial service will follow at 10:30 a.m. at the church. Private inurnment will occur at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Cornerstone Community Church, sent in care of Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614. Condolences may be sent online at www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.

(October 04, 1924 - April 29, 2018) Eileene Nadine Sand of Lincoln formerly of Crete, passed away with family by her side on Sunday, April 29, 2018 at the age of 93 years. She was born on October 4, 1924 to Ed and Helen (Holecek) Daum in Crete, Nebraska. After graduation from Crete High School in 1942 Eileene worked at the Crete Mills until her marriage to John “Ernie” Sand in 1949. She was active in Sacred Heart Altar Society, VFW Ladies Auxiliary and volunteered at Lincoln General Hospital. She enjoyed quilting, sewing and crocheting. Eileene worked at Doane College in the business office until the age of 70. She enjoyed all NU Women’s sports and of course, NU football. Eileene is preceded in death by her parents, husband; Ernie and brother Dr. Harold F. Daum, MD. Left to cherish her memory are her three children; Mary Ann Bancke (Richard) of Papillion, Nebraska, Barb Sand of Lincoln, Nebraska and Ben Sand (Nancy) of Lincoln, Nebraska, grandchildren and great grandchildren, Kyle Bancke (Lindy) and Ezra of Golden Valley, Minnesota, Jon Bancke and Blake of Omaha, Nebraska, Laura Lanning (Greg) and Harrison and Bode of Gretna, Nebraska, Aaron Bishop Sand (Joanne) of Washington, DC, Andy Sand (Steph) and Emi of Omaha, Nebraska and Elli White and Avery of Lincoln, Nebraska, and her dear friend and high school classmate Myrtha Wolverton. The family would like to thank Janet Wolfe, MD and Amiee for their kindness and care of mom over the years. Also, the staff of Legacy Assisted Living who helped make her feel at home and comfortable. Mom wished Memorials go to the Alzheimer’s Association in Lincoln in memory of Ernie or masses to Sacred Heart Church, Crete, Nebraska. Mass of Christian burial will be held on Monday, 10:30 A.M., May 7, 2018 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Crete, Nebraska. Visitation, Sunday, 5 PM to 8 PM, with Rosary at 7 pm at Kuncl Funeral Home, Crete, Nebraska. Interment at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Crete, Nebraska. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

(December 30, 1919 - April 24, 2018) Frances S. (Blum) Obosla, age 98 years, formerly of Crete slipped the surly bonds of earth April 24, 2018 at Haven Manner-Hickman where she resided since October 2016. Frances graduated from Lincoln High in June 1938 and for two years while in high school and three years following graduation “Frankie” as she was known by teammates, played 3rd base for a Women’s Softball Association team in Lincoln. They’re last sponsor was Nebraska Neon and they played at Lincoln Muni Field and at surrounding towns almost every night of the week. She enjoyed the team member’s luncheons over the years. It is believed Frances was the longest living team member. Her love of dancing took her to the Playmor Ballroom where she met her future husband on a blind date. She and Milan “Marv” Obosla were married June 22, 1946, after “Marv” returned from the war. They located in Chicago, Milan’s hometown, where she worked for Allstate Insurance while Milan traveled as a Construction Supervisor setting up Walgreen Stores. They also helped care for Milan’s elderly Mother. Frances later traveled coast to coast with Milan on his job always with a faithful schnauzer called Duke. Frances wanting to return to Nebraska and the Crete area where she had enjoyed her childhood with relatives convinced Milan in 1972 to move to Crete where she cared for her ailing Aunt Frieda until her death. Marv retired from Walgreens in 1983. Following Milan’s death in 1991, Frances moved into an apartment, kept busy caring for the neighborhood cats, knitting and watching her beloved “Chicago Cubs” baseball games on TV. She was well read and had strong opinions on local, state and national issues. Frances was a fantastic cook, always willing to share her many recipes, but mostly she was a loving caring friend to many, visiting those housebound and in Nursing Homes, and living life to its fullest. She said many times, “I’ve had a good ride, good family and friends, a loving husband and wonderful life living in Crete, NE. Frances was a proud member of “The Greatest Generation”; member of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Crete; American Legion Auxiliary 0147, VFW Ladies Auxiliary 4959 and Crete Senior Citizens. Survivors include sister-in-law Betty Obosla Mauter, Illinois; her father’s daughter, Georganne Blum, Lincoln; nieces, nephews and cousins; her special friends Diane and Ron Safranek; and friends Jo Vrtiska, Shirley Matticks and Nona Schultz. Preceded in death by her one and only husband Milan “Marv” Obosla, parents Ida and George Blum, many good friends especially Marie and Babe and newest friend at the Manor, Patty and her faithful schnauzers all named “Duke”. At Frances’s request cremation with Graveside Services, Lincoln Memorial Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at 10:30 am. Everyone meet at Gate 2. Honorary pallbearers are Jeff White, Ron Safranek, Doug Novak and Tom Sorensen. Memorials in lieu of flowers to the Crete Fire Dept and Rescue Unit, Capital Humane Society of Lincoln, Bethlehem Lutheran Church or Haven Manor of Hickman. Arrangements by Kuncl Funeral Home, Crete.

(August 11, 1940 - April 22, 2018) Gary George Kalkwarf, 77, of Crete, Nebraska passed away on Sunday, April 22, 2018 at his home. He was born August 11, 1940, at his rural home in Saline County close to Pleasant Dale, Nebraska to Helen (Gerheardt) Kalkwarf and Edwin John Henry Kalkwarf. Gary was baptized April 5, 1942 at the Crete German Congregational Church by Pastor Harry B. Lake. Gary attended several rural country schools during his elementary and middle school years and graduated from Saline County School District #1 on May 11, 1954. Gary attended high school in Milford, Nebraska. After high school, Gary started working at Better Buy Windows and Door Company in Wilber, Nebraska. In 1962, Gary started working for Applebees Chevrolet and then McNamara Chevrolet in Crete, Nebraska. Gary left the auto business in 1972 and started working at Wanek’s Furniture and Appliance until January, 2000. Shortly after leaving Wanek’s, Gary started working at Slumberland in Lincoln, Nebraska, until his retirement in March, 2016. Gary married Jean (Dittmer) Kalkwarf on November 18, 1961, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Crete, Nebraska, and to this marriage was blessed with three children Lori, Mark and Todd. Gary received the solemn rite of confirmation on June 10, 1962, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church by Pastor C.W. Long. Gary was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Crete, Nebraska, for 56 years. Gary loved to attend the grandchildren’s activities: dance recitals, theatre performances, music programs and show choir events. Gary enjoyed everything about cars, working outdoors, Kansas City Royals baseball, Nebraska Cornhusker sports, popcorn and going to Branson, Missouri. Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Jean of Crete, Nebraska; daughter, Lori Ann (Tom) Svehla of Lincoln; sons, Mark Allen (Diane) Kalkwarf of Crete, Nebraska; Todd Eric Kalkwarf of Crete, Nebraska; granddaughter, Megan Nicole Svehla of Lincoln, Nebraska; grandson Brandon Scott Kalkwarf of Crete, Nebraska; brothers, Jerome Kalkwarf of Crete, Nebraska, Roger (Susie) Kalkwarf of Lincoln, Nebraska, Rod (Donna) Kalkwarf of Seward; sister-in-law, Pat Plouzek of Milford, Nebraska. Nieces and nephews include Laurie Lindschmidt, Dale Hansen, Ron Kalkwarf, Greg (Kirsta) Kalkwarf, Candi Owens, Trevor (Sonja) Kalkwarf, Amber (Shane) Bass, Karmin (Brian) Clish and Krista (Joe) Mullins, Peggy (Tom) Diaz, Julie (Jeff) Blow, Cheryl Plouzek, Doug (Heather) Plouzek. Also cousins, great nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Edwin and Helen Kalkwarf, brother Larry Kalkwarf, sister-in-law Donna Kalkwarf, father and mother-in-law Fred and Mollie Dittmer, sister-in-law Delores Dittmer and brother-in-law Loren Plouzek. Services: Wednesday, 10:30 am, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Crete. Visitation: Tuesday, 5 – 8 pm, Kuncl Funeral Home, Crete. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

(October 12, 1977 - April 22, 2018) Sharri Ann Laughlin, was born on October 12, 1977 in Dallas, TX, moved to Lincoln at the age of two years old and became a life long resident. Sharri died on April 22, 2018 surrounded by family and loved ones. Sharri graduated from Lincoln Southeast High School in 1995 and while a single parent raising 5 amazing children was able to fulfill her dream in May 2017 of graduating through Doane University with her Masters Degree as a Mental Health Counselor. While pursuing her Master’s degree, Sharri created and helped maintain a program through Southeast Community College in which all three Nebraska campuses will receive free mental health counseling to all students, which in turn provided an internship opportunity for Doane University and University of Nebraska-Lincoln intern students. Sharri completed her internship with Geriatrics and mental health. Sharri is survived by her biological children: Chandler and Justice Blair; including her three other children/nephews: Samuel, Isaiah and Travis Laughlin. Sharri is survived by three siblings: her older sister Charlene Laughlin, and younger sister and brother Jamie Martin and Larry Laughlin. Sharri is survived by 15 nieces and nephews and 4 great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by (unborn son) Foster Taylen Blair, (mother) Linda “Bobbie” Smiley, (father) Joseph T. Turek and nephew J’Deonn. A celebration of her life will be held at New Covenant Church located at 6000 S. 84th on Saturday April 28 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, Sharri requests all donations be sent to Kellie Carlin who will be the provider and caretaker of Sharri’s children. Kellie can be reached at 402-601-5635. The interment of Sharri’s ashes will be held on Tuesday May 1st at Calvary Cemetery located at 3880 L street, Lincoln at 4:00 p.m. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete, NE.

(July 25, 1949 - April 12, 2018) Rita Louise McAlexander was born July 25, 1949 in Lincoln, Nebraska to William and Margaret (Fritz) Smejdir. She passed away April 12, 2018 at Bryan LGH East, Lincoln, NE. Rita graduated from Wilber High School. She worked at Campbell’s Soup in Tecumseh. Her marriage to Douglas McAlexander ended in 1982. She resided at O.U.R. Homes, Lincoln, NE for over thirty years. Rita had the sweetest smile and gave the best hugs. She is survived by cousins and friends. Rita was preceded in death by her grandparents and her parents. Viewing will be at Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber, NE on Monday, April 16, 2018 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Funeral services will be at Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber, NE on Tuesday, April 17, 2018 at 10:30 am. Interment at Wilber Czech Cemetery, Wilber, Nebraska. Memorials may be given to charity of choice or Kuncl Funeral Home in charge.

(October 21, 1965 - April 13, 2018) Jeffrey A. Mason, 52, Crete, formerly of Lincoln, died April 13, 2018. He was born on October 21, 1965 to Richard and Twila (Kahler) Mason in Lincoln, Nebraska. No services will be held at this time. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

(August 28, 1931 - April 07, 2018) Harry Axline, the son of Arthur and Mary (Britton) Axline, was born in Dorchester, Nebraska on August 28, 1931. His father worked for Steele Bros Construction so Harry attended school in several different towns, graduating from Dorchester District #44 in 1949. He served in the Marine Corp for two years, was sent to Korea in October 1952 serving on the front lines as a tank driver for seven months. Harry was a heavy equipment operator for Steele Bros Construction, a mechanic at Sehnert’s Garage, a gas station attendant at Spacek’s Standard Station, and the Dorchester Coop. He served as manager of refined fuels until his retirement after 30 years with the Coop. Harry served on the Village Board for many years, was a volunteer fireman for 30 years, and served as Fire Chief for 20 years. He was a member of the VFW and served as Commander of the American Legion Post 264. He married Marlene Sehnert on July 29, 1952. Joining their family were Catherine in 1965 and James in 1968. Harry passed away on April 7, 2018. Surviving are his wife of 65 years, Marlene; daughter, Catherine Nitzel of Lincoln; son, James, and his wife, Tina, of Dorchester; three grandchildren, Reba (Hadley) Cooksley, Josh Nitzel, and Jonathan Axline, and a great grandchild, Caden Axline. Also surviving are his brother, Harold (Sharon) Axline of Dorchester; brother-in-law, Jerry (Gerry) Sehnert of Dorchester; sister-in-law, Jane Hopper of Omaha. Preceding him in death were sisters and their spouses, Mary Ellen (Bill) Klopp, Ardis Jean (John) Mortensen, and Alta Mae (Ivan) Weber. Also preceding him were sister-in-law, Frances (Harry) Spacek; brother-in-law, Ron (Mary Ann) Sehnert; and brother-in-law, Ken Hopper. Services are scheduled for Wednesday, April 11, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at the Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete, Nebraska. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 5 – 7 pm at the funeral home. Interment will be at the Dorchester Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Harold Axline, James Axline, Todd Axline, Marvin Kasl, Brent Kasl and Josh Nitzel. Honorary pallbearers will be Caden Axline, Greg Tyser, Ron Zoubek and Tim Axline. In lieu of flowers, memorials shall be given to the Dorchester Volunteer Fire Department. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is handling arrangements.

(May 15, 1957 - March 31, 2018) Russel D. Skalak, 60, of Crete, died March 31, 2018. Funeral Service: Thursday, 3:00 PM, Tuxedo Park 4-H Building, Crete. Visitation: Wednesday, 5 – 8 PM, Kuncl Funeral Home, Crete. Memorials are in care of the family for future designation. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

(April 2, 1962 - March 26, 2018) Michael Allen Luzum, 55, of Wilber, Nebraska, entered into eternal rest in the comfort of his home on March 26, 2018 after a battle with brain and lung cancer. He was born on April 2, 1962 in Lawton, Oklahoma to Stanley Joe and Constance Mae (Nixon) Luzum. Mike met wife, Kimberly Jean Beals and married on July 12, 2014. Mike worked for Crete Lumber and Farm Supply for 26 years. Mike is survived by his wife: Kimberly Jean (Beals) Luzum, children/step children: Dustin and Megan (Bohling) Luzum of Crete, Chelsea Luzum of Lead, SD, Chandler and Kaden Lukert of Wilber, Emma Kasl of Crete, siblings: Dale and Jeanie Luzum of Lincoln, Angie Luzum Withrow of Arizona, Melissa and Byron Aguirre of Lincoln, grandchildren: Madison, Alivia, Jase, Chaise, and Taylon, many nieces, nephews and extended family. Mike was preceded in death by his father: Stanley Luzum and his brother: Tom Luzum. Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, March 29th, 2018 at 10:30 AM at Sokol Hall in Wilber. Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber is in charge of arrangements.

(February 19, 1940 - March 25, 2018) Nancy A. Linhart, age 78, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 25, 2018, at the Crete Area Medical Center after a long battle with cancer. She was born February 19, 1940, in Wilber, Nebraska, to James and Mildred Kohel. She was a 1958 graduate of Wilber High School, and married Frank Linhart on August 30, 1959. She worked as secretary and manager of the Wilber Manufacturing Company for over 38 years, displaying a wonderful knack for solving problems. Nancy truly lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures; member of the First Evangelical Lutheran Church, playing bridge, fishing, bowling, chatting with friends and family, and finding ways to enhance the Czech culture. Nancy put a heart on everything she did because she felt the Czech Republic is the heart of Europe and Nancy’s home was the heart of her life. Nancy started Chat with the Czechs, Czech Bingo and Czech heritage demonstrations, as a way to gather people with a common interest. Nancy also designed the Welcome to Wilber “Czech” signs. Nancy had a passion for barn quilts, with members of the Wilber planter box committee Nancy drew designs for 29 barn quilt blocks and with the committees’ help painted the designs using the Czech colors as a means to extend a welcome to the visitors of Wilber. Nancy and Frank Linhart made and sold heart address signs to generate funds for the Wilber City Park playground equipment. Nancy was awarded the Sertoma to Mankind award in 2001, Volunteer of the year 2009 for the Czech Festival, and in 2014 the Zajicek Community Builder award from the Wilber Chamber of Commerce. She is survived by her beloved husband Frank of 58 years, son Kent (Christine) Linhart, and daughter Kelly (Joe) Gifford, and grandchildren, Jennifer (Jarod) Moeller, Cary (Sian) Linhart, Craig Gifford and Courtney Gifford. Greatgrandchildren, Luke, Blake and Beckett Moeller, CeCe Meister, and Roe and Bayler Linhart. She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Mildred Kohel, and brother James J. Kohel. Funeral Services Wednesday, March 28, 2018, 2 p.m., Kuncl Funeral Home, Wilber. Visitation Tuesday, 5 to 8 p.m., at the Wilber funeral home. Interment, Wilber Czech Cemetery. Memorials in care of the family in lieu of flowers.

(December 7, 1943 - April 1, 2018) Donna M. Kalkwarf of Crete, passed away on April 1, 2018 at the Wilber Care Center after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born December 7, 1943 in York, NE to Louis and Rose Reetz. Donna was baptized December 25, 1943 in York and confirmed March 30, 1958 in Kramer. She graduated high school in 1962 from Crete Public Schools. Donna married Jerome Kalkwarf on November 29, 1964 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Kramer. She was a Sunday School teacher for many years at St. John’s. Donna loved her flowers, especially her rose bushes. Donna is survived by her husband Jerome, son Ron of Lincoln, son Greg and his wife Kirsta along with their children Bryce and Teagan of Conifer, CO, sister Dianne Kouba and brothers and sisters-in-law Elmer and Shirley Reetz, Gerald and Jolene Reetz, Allan and Janice Reetz, Betty Reetz (Roger), Janice Reetz (Lavern) all from Crete. Additional in-laws Gary and Jean Kalkwarf of Crete, Roger and Susie Kalkwarf of Lincoln, Rod and Donna Kalkwarf of Seward. She was preceded in death by her parents Louis and Rose Reetz, brothers Clarence Reetz, Lavern Reetz, and Roger Reetz, sister Gloria Woodruff and brother-in-law Robert Woodruff, and brother-in-law Dale Kouba. Funeral home visitation will be held April 3, 2018 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete. Funeral services will be held April 4 at 10:30 am at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Kramer. Burial to follow at Lincoln Memorial Park in Lincoln. Memorials to the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Kramer, the Alzheimer’s Association, or other charities designated by the family. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

(April 5, 1951 - March 10, 2018) Norman F. Sokolik passed away on March 10, 2018. He was born April 5, 1951, in Crete, NE to Frank and Viola (Smisek) Sokolik. He was raised east of Milligan until the family moved to the farm south of Dorchester, where he graduated from Dorchester High School in 1969. He earned a degree from Southeast Community College – Milford in Building Construction Technology. He worked for Kenneth Kreshel before forming a partnership as Quality Construction. He later worked with Doug Oliva. Norm and Karen Jean Zelenka were united in marriage on November 8, 1980, at the Exeter United Methodist Church. They made their home on the Smisek family farm south of Dorchester where he took great pride in farming. Norm enjoyed his time road-tripping in the “buggy”; being Dede to his 10 grandchildren and travelling to see their many activities; browsing Menards for more unnecessary tools; giving construction advice to his daughters on their projects (“well that’s not quite how I would have done it, but I suppose it’ll work”); searching for the next community cookbook he could find at thrift shops; Friday night trips for lottery tickets and scratch cards; and socializing with his many, many friends at establishments throughout eastern Nebraska. As Norm had more time on his hands, he thoroughly enjoyed reading magazines, newspapers or maps so he could plan his next adventure. He enjoyed trips to the “home place” near Western whether it was to check the crops, go deer hunting with his wife and girls, nephew Dan, and then eventually his sons-in-law, or bummin’ around. He took great pride in that land that just this past year was awarded the Pioneer Farm Award for 100 years in the Sokolik name. Norm is survived by his wife, Karen Jean (Zelenka); daughters, Nikole (Jason) Marschman, Krystal (A.J.) Novak, Ashley (Ryan) Volk, and Katelyn (Kyle) Vrtiska; grandchildren, Tony, Addison, and Sophie Marschman; Samantha and Jacob Novak; Josiah, Trenten, and Ally Volk; and Quinn and Finley Vrtiska; sister, Carolyn (Virgil) Wahl; brothers-in-law, Ron (Bonnie) Zelenka, Gary Zelenka; sister-in-law, Susan (Richard) Brandow; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Viola; and uncle, Joe Sokolik. Memorial donations in Norm’s name can be made to the Dorchester Community Foundation Fund towards the Splash Pad, Dorchester Volunteer Fire Department, Dorchester American Legion, Dorchester United Methodist Church or your favorite watering hole, where you are instructed to tie a few on and tell a few stories of the great Norm Sokolik. Celebration of Life: Wednesday, 11 AM, Kuncl Funeral Home, Wilber. Casual attire please. Visitation: Tuesday, 4 – 7 PM, funeral home.

(May 14, 1928 - March 14, 2018) Ruth Marie Mischnick, 89, was called home on March 14, 2018 to be with the love of her life, Carl; they were united in marriage on May 11, 1948. Ruth was born on May 14, 1928 in Roca, NE. to Emma Dougherty. She spent her years working at El Toro's, Sportsman’s, the Capital Humane Society and being a homemaker. Her greatest joy was being surrounded by her family as well as her fond love for her pets. She is survived by her daughters, Gloria (Ed) Scott, Kathy (John) Buresh, Deb (Steve) Waldron and son Bob Mischnick, also many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Preceded in death by her Mother, Emma; Husband, Carl; and Son, Dave. Visitation will be on Monday, 5 – 7 p.m. at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete. Services will be held at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete on Tuesday, March 20, 2018 at 10:30a.m. Casual attire requested by the family. Lunch to follow at Veterans and Friends Club (former VFW) 130 N. 13th in Crete. Memorials are in care of the family.

(November 25, 1923 - March 13, 2018) Lumir Vacek passed away peacefully in the presence of his family on March 13th, 2018 at South Lake Village Alzheimers Care Unit in Lincoln. Lumir, formally of Wilber was born on November 25th, 1923 to John Jr. and Bessie (Homolka) Vacek. Lumir had a passion for farming and after the sudden death of his father, Lumir at the age of 18 resided on the Vacek family farm two miles north of Western with his mother Bessie. In 1944, he met Irma (Homolka) who in 1946 became his wife of 71 years. In later years, after retirement in Wilber, Lumir enjoyed gardening, polka dancing, and exhibiting at Saline County Fair. Lumir is survived by his wife Irma, his daughter Janice Smetter (Ron) of Lincoln, son Alvin Vacek of Lincoln. Grandson's Eric Vacek (Rebecca) of Lincoln, Joshua Vacek (Emily) of Hebron. Granddaughter Angel Eddy (Chad) of Emery, SD. Grandson Sean Smetter (Shanda) of Lincoln. Granddaughter Shana Blakeman (David) of Elizabethtown, KY. Great Grandchildren Emma and Delaney Vacek of Lincoln, Hutchinson and Heston Vacek of Hebron. Kelsey, Kristin, and Katelyn Kotas of Emery, SD. Ashley Smetter of Lincoln. Austin, Taylor, and Ashlyn Blakeman of Elizabethtown, KY. Step greatgrandsons Jacob, Jevin, and Jaden Eddy of Emery, SD. Preceded in death by his parents, brother Eddie Vacek, and daughter in law Linda Vacek. Visitation with family present will be on Friday from 6-8pm at Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber, NE. Funeral services will be on Saturday, March 17th at 1:30 pm at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Wilber Czech Cemetery Memorials are in care of family for future designation.
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emetery Memorials are in care of family for future designation.

(June 3, 1961 - March 7, 2018) Thomas Christopher Drake of Wilber, NE passed away March 7, 2018. Tom was born June 3rd, 1961 in Danbury, Connecticut. Growing up in New Milford, Connecticut, Tom enjoyed playing electric guitars with buddies, and stamp collecting. A graduate of New Milford High, Tom worked at Kimberly Clark and continued his passion for electric guitars, developing a love of the Beatles, became an avid history buff, and participated in civil war reenactments. Later, Tom moved to Nebraska to be closer to his Midwest family. Tom became enamored with wood working, restoring antique chests found at flea markets and antique shops, and making gifts for family and friends. Tommy had a warm smile and gave giant hugs. He loved his family and the Lord fiercely. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Tom is survived by his mother, Ruth Carol Meyer of Plymouth, NE, father, Thomas B. Drake (Diane) of Warren, CT, siblings: Phyllis Drake, New Milford, CT, Lisa Cornell (Rob) of The Villages, FL, Amy Hansen (Eric) of Plymouth, NE, and Kevin Drake of Warren, CT. Nephew, Robbie Cornell (Miranda) of Owasso, Ok and niece, Jillian Hansen of Plymouth, NE, several aunts, uncles, and numerous cousins. Celebration of life will be Wednesday, March 14, 2018 at First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wilber with Pastor Travis Panning. Memorials in care of the family. A memorial service to take place in Connecticut at a time and place to be determined. Private family interment at a later date.

Mary Ann Weber July 29, 1923 – Dec. 17, 2017 Mary Ann Weber was born on a farm southwest of Friend on July 29, 1923, the youngest of three children born to Joseph and Anna (Kastanek) Smejdir, and passed away Dec. 17, 2017, at Waterford Wilderness Hills Memory Unit in Lincoln at the age of 94 years, 4 months and 18 days.

As a young girl she attended District 46 country school and during the county-wide eighth grade graduation, she was ranked eighth out of 156 children. Mary Ann continued her education at Friend and graduated with the class of 1940 from Friend High School. After her high school graduation, Mary Ann taught country schools and attended Peru State College during the summer. She later obtained her education degree through the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

On Feb. 27, 1954, she was united in marriage to Robert Leo Weber at the United Methodist Church in Friend. They made their home on “Weber home place” northeast of Friend until they moved into Friend in 1995. After Mary Ann earned her teaching certificate, she continued to teach in the public schools, teaching in the districts of Western, Friend, Dorchester, Beaver Crossing and retired from teaching at Centennial Public School in Utica. She also tutored many students so they could earn their GEDs.

Mary Ann was a member of the United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women in Friend. She was an avid reader and especially enjoyed preparing bulletin boards for her classrooms. In later years, Mary Ann and Robert enjoyed short vacation trips to Estes Park, Colorado, every year and attending the Peru College homecoming football games. They also loved going to the Flying V for dances. A shopping trip highlight while browsing the stores was finding a “special bargain.”

Mary Ann is survived by nieces and nephews, Rosella Burks of Lincoln, Evelyn Painter of Lincoln, Barbara Hall of Denton, Ann Betka of Friend, Carol Aversman of Lincoln, David Weber of Seward, Marilyn Weber of Friend, Susan McAdams of Columbia, South Carolina, Robert Gosnell of Kansas City, Kansas, Elizabeth Zerbe of Kalispell, Montana, and Richard Zerbe of Roseburg, Oregon; great-nieces and great-nephews; brother-in-law, Paul Weber of Friend; and a host of other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert in 2004; sister, Ella Pelican; brother, Milo Smejdir; and sisters-in-law, Phyllis Weber, Martha Gosnell, Carolyn Zerbe and Anna Marie Weber; brothers-in-law, Otto Pelican, Gerald Gosnell and J. Don Zerbe; nephews, Otto Pelican, Jr. and Donn Zerbe.

Visitation will be from noon to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2017, at Lauber-Moore Funeral Home in Friend. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 21, at the United Methodist Church in Friend, with the Rev. Paixao Baptista officiating. Interment will be in Andrew Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the family for future designation. Condolences may be sent to the family at laubermoore.com.

Angeline Ann Betka Sokolik was born to Jerry Jr. Betka and Georgia (Tichy) Betka on July 18, 1934 and passed away Nov. 20, 2017 at the age of 83.

She was the only child in the family. Her mother called her Angeline, and her father called her Angie. Thus, she was known by the two names the rest of her life. Angie grew up on a farm near Friend, Nebraska and graduated from Friend Public School in 1954. She then studied teaching at Doane College in Crete, Nebraska.

After teaching for a short while, she decided to follow her dream and work in business while also seeing the world. So off to Missouri she went. Over the course of 10 years, she worked in the business offices of multiple hospitals in Kansas City and Independence and eventually oversaw all business office operations. It was an interesting yet challenging time of her life.

She continued to develop her skills along the way by taking classes at Rockhurst University that ranged from business to classical music. After Missouri, she spent a short time working in a hospital in West Virginia, and then moved to Chicago, Illinois where she worked at a doctor’s office, hospital, and Hejl Oldsmobile. After her father passed away she returned to Nebraska to take care of her mother, and the beloved farm where she had grown up.

She then went to work for the Crete Municipal Hospital. She remained there for 28 years, being in charge of the Medical Records Department. She took advanced study classes at St. Mary’s College in Omaha to become an Accredited Records Technician (ART) and the Director of Medical Records Dept. at Crete Municipal Hospital. She loved her job there and retired from fulltime work there in June of 1993.

After a short time off, she finished her career with the State of Nebraska Temporary Service where she filled in for the agencies as needed. She really enjoyed this, working with 10 departments over the course of 3 years. She spent her retirement gardening and growing roses and tulips, working outside at her house in Lincoln and at the farm and also taking care of her beloved pets - the cats. She loved animals of all kinds--cats, dogs, horses, cows, pigs, sheep, chickens, ducks, you name it.

She always said, “When I die I will go to Heaven to take care of all of God’s animals in Heaven. He needs someone to do that.” Aug. 9, 1973 she married Reginald Edward Sokolik.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jerry Jr.and Georgia, her husband, Reginald Edward Sokolik, and double first cousin Eugene Betka and his descendents Steve Betka and Doug Betka. Surviving Relatives include Derek Betka and wife Brooke, Kayleigh, Kelsey, and Kaitlyn, Ryan Betka, and numerous cousins and friends. A Funeral Service for Angeline was held on Wednesday, Nov. 22 at 2 p.m. at the Farmer & Son Funeral Home-Kotas Chapel in Milligan. Interment was held in the Bohemian National Cemetery, Milligan, Nebraska. Farmer & Son Funeral Home conducted the services and online condolences can be left at farmerandsonfuneralhome.com. Memorials are suggested to the Capital Humane Society in Lincoln.

John “Hunza” Edward Nerud, of Dorchester, NE passed away on November 25, 2017.

He was born on September 23, 1960 in Friend, NE. John attended various country schools, St. James elementary and graduated from Crete High School in 1978. In 1979, John began his obsession with custom harvesting, a job he loved until the day he passed away.

John also did many other jobs during the off season. He was always busy with several random farm projects and loved being busy. He couldn’t wait to teach his grandkids everything he knew, especially how to weld!

John would always put his friends and family before himself and you could always count on him to be there when you needed him. He was a loving father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend to many and a source of joy and laughter for all that knew him.

He will be missed by his children Jeremy (Bonnie) Nerud, Joseph (Lindsey) Nerud, Rachel (Tyler) Moormeier, and Jacob (Tara) Nerud. Grandchildren, Thor and Sawyer Nerud, and Fordham Moormeier. Parents, Don and Jeanette Nerud. Brothers, Tom Nerud, and Randy (Lisa) Nerud. And many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Nephews, and Niece. He will be missed and his memories will be cherished forever. 10-4, Dad. Pallbearers Marc Cerny, Bill Weickert, Gene Benes, Ernie Odvody, Joe Gyhra, and Arlin Pomajzl. Honorary Pallbearers Bob Tyser and Larry Pomajzl. Services Thursday November 30, 2017 at 10:30 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Crete. Visitation is Wednesday November 29, 2017 at 5:00 PM and rosary at 7:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials in care of the family for future designation. Kuncl Funeral Home (kunclfh.com) in Crete is handling arrangements.

Danette Joy (Underwood) McLain died suddenly in her sleep on Nov. 18, 2017 at her home in Crete.

Danette was born on Oct. 7, 1967 at Portsmouth Naval Hospital in Portsmouth Virginia. She attended Crete Public Schools graduating from Crete High School in 1985. She attended SCC Lincoln and graduated with honors to become a LPN and later graduated from The College of Hair Design and was a barber in Lincoln, NE for the last 20+ years.

Danette is survived by her companion, John Determan of Crete, daughter and companion Taylor McLain and John Pfortmiller of Rapid City SD, son Blake McLain of Lincoln, Mother and Step Father Deborah (Zeiss) and Ed Shaw of Lincoln, Father Dan Underwood of Crete, Grandfather Don Zeiss of Lincoln, Sister Danielle Bingham of Lincoln, Sister and spouse Jessica and Nikki Loos of Lincoln, Brother and spouse Dan and Becca Underwood of Crete, Step Brother and spouse Scott and Marla Shaw of Lincoln, Nephews Parker Bingham, Dan Evan Underwood, Alex Johnson, Hogan Shaw and Justin Shaw, Nieces Lilian and Evelyn Underwood, extended family Aaron Determan, Joshua Determan, Alexis Determan, many cousins, aunts and uncles.

Preceded in death by grandmothers Genevieve Zeiss and Annie Zeiss, Grandfather Dan Underwood, Great Grandparents Monte and Katherine Knippel and step brother Gregg Shaw. Services were held at 11 am on Saturday, November 25th at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete. Memorials in lieu of flowers in care of the family for future designation. Please visit kunclfh.com. Kuncl Funeral Home, Crete, in charge of arrangements.

Margueritte Joan Luers, 85, of Lincoln, passed away Friday, November 24, 2017.

She was born in Lincoln, NE, to Alfred & Ethel (Benjamin) Barrie. She retired from Crete Carrier Corporation after 30 years.

Survived by son Henry Andrew (Teresa) Luers of Lincoln, daughter Nanette (Donald) Mihovk of Lincoln son Barrie (Ann) Luers of Beatrice, daughter Patricia Buhrdorf of Martell, son Paul (Faye) Luers of Bellevue. Grandchildren Julie, Jennifer, Andrew, Benjamin, Heidi, Jacque, Jeff, Meghan, Kelsey, Tommy, Steven & Tiffany. 13 great grandchildren. Preceded in death by her parents, husband Henry, brothers, sisters, great grandchild Brian, & son-in-law Stuart. Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 AM, Saturday, Dec.2, 2017. St. Peter Catholic Church 4500 Duxhall Drive in Lincoln. Visitation Friday, 5:00 pm to 7 pm with a Rosary at 7:00 pm. Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home 6800 So. 14th St. in Lincoln. Memorials to Capital Humane Society in Lincoln or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Marvin Henry Osterhaus, age 79, passed away peacefully at the Wilber Care Center on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 2017.

He was born May 5, 1938 in Axtell, KS to Henry A. and Frances M. (Holthaus) Osterhaus. He was raised on a farm north of St. Benedict, KS where he attended St. Mary’s Catholic School through 8th grade. He then went to work with area farmers to help his family put food on the table.

Marvin entered the Army Reserves in January 1961 and was Honorably Discharged in September of 1966. He married Jo Ann Wassenberg on July 10, 1962 in Marysville, KS. She preceded him in death in 1988. To this union two children were born, Renee Ann and Wayne Gerard. Marvin, JoAnn and their family lived at Axtell and Holton, KS before moving to DeWitt, NE in 1965 to work for Mahloch Farms then for Wells Implement in Plymouth, NE as a mechanic until retirement. He was a member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wilber.

Marvin is preceded in death by his wife, Jo Ann; grandson, Phillip M. Winz; his parents; two brothers - Joseph, in infancy and Eddie; a sister - Joann Sandmann; and two brothers-in- laws, Hap Brucken and Don Eisenbarth. He is survived by his daughter, Renee Winz and husband Steve of Holdrege, NE; his son, Wayne Osterhaus and wife Denise of DeWitt, NE; grandsons, Michael (Chelsea) Winz of Holdrege, NE, Greg (Chantel) Winz of Hildreth, NE, Garrett Winz of Holdrege, NE and Andrew Osterhaus of DeWitt, NE and great grandchildren, Eva Winz and Sawyer Winz. Sisters: Delores Brucken, Mildred Eisenbarth, Sister Mary Immaculata, Sharon (Dick) Broxtermann and Jeanette (Elmer) Koch. Brothers: Robert (Zita) Osterhaus, Dick (Mary Kay) Osterhaus, Jerry (Judy) Osterhaus, Dennis (Kathleen) Osterhaus and Hank Osterhaus; brother and sister in-laws: Gus Sandmann, Jim (Lou) Wassenberg and Bernadette (Dan) Taylor along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. As to Marvin’s wish that he be cremated, a Rosary will be said prior to the funeral service at 9:00 AM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wilber, NE on Wednesday, November 29th, 2017. Burial of the cremains will follow at St. Gregory the Great Cemetery in Marysville, KS at 2:30 PM. Memorials can be made to St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church or to the Wilber Care Center, both of Wilber, NE. Kuncl Funeral Home (kunclfh.com) in Wilber, NE is in charge of arrangements.

Shaelyn Reese Brandt, age 3 months, 19 days, of Clatonia, passed away in her mother’s arms on Friday, Nov. 3, 2017 at Children’s Hospital in Omaha.

Shaelyn was born on July 15, 2017 to Andrew and Stacey Brandt at University of Kansas hospital. She spent 33 days in the NICU where she received unconditional care and love from the entire staff. She was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect with severe pulmonary stenosis and bi-ventricular hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. On Aug. 17, Shaelyn was welcomed home by big brothers Addison, Stryder, and Axtyn.

She spent the next 28 days in her own home being loved and spoiled by family and friends. Shaelyn enjoyed snuggling, her pacifier, mommy time and playing dress up in her overwhelming supply of clothes and accessories. Shaelyn could be described as a tough, determined fighter, with an “I will win” attitude. She overcame several odds from day one and kept all nurses, doctors, and surgeons puzzled, they quickly learned ‘she was the boss and progress was on Shaelyn’s time’.

Preceded in death by grandpa Jerry Brandt; great-grandparents Melvin and Delores Marschman, Virgil and Mildred Bachle, Wilmer Brandt, Kenny and Arlene Roesler. Shaelyn is survived by parents, Andrew and Stacey, Clatonia, with brothers, Addison Dean, Stryder Paul, and Axtyn Steele; grandparents Paul and Shari Bachle, Daykin, and Connie Brandt, Western; great-grandmother Dorothy Brandt; aunts and uncles Todd and Holly Adam, Crete, Cory and Amy Rains, Dorchester, Brian and Kelly Rut, Tobias, Justin and Krystle Brandt, Lincoln, and Chelsey Brandt, Western, and 12 proud cousins. Funeral Mass was held on Friday, Nov. 10 at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wilber with Father Craig Doty officiating. Interment in Wilber Czech Cemetery. Please visit kunclfh.com. Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber is handling arrangements.

Harry Vance Trepka, Jr., 95, of Crete, passed away Friday, Nov. 3, 2017 at Bryan Medical Center surrounded by family and friends.

He was born on Feb. 14, 1922 in Crete, to Harry Sr. and Olie Trepka. He attended District 18 to the 8th grade. Harry farmed with his dad north of Crete and served in the U.S Army. He was sent to South Korea during the Korean war.

After returning home, he worked at the Crete Mills and then returned to farming and lived on a farm north of Crete where he still resided. His first wife Lydia passed away on Feb. 13, 1975. On April 14, 1978, he married Alice Scheideler in Beatrice and they celebrated 39 years together.

He was very active in gardening and taking care of the lawn, planting trees and raising vegetables. He also had Herford cattle. He enjoyed his American Eskimo dog (named Tweety) and a number of cats. Harry enjoyed his John Deere tractor and harvesting his crops, kept up cutting little trees and working outside until the last of September.

He also enjoyed going into Crete to talk to friends and having coffee. Czech music on Sunday was one of his listening enjoyments. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Crete.

Preceded in death by first wife, Lydia; brother Arnold and sister Irene; and his parents. He is survived by his wife Alice Trepka; son James Scheideler; sister Phyllis Wendelin; brother-in-law, August Wendelin; and nephews and nieces. Services are set for Wednesday, Nov. 8 at 10:30 am at Sacred Heart Church in Crete. Memorials may be given to family.Kuncl Funeral Home (kunclfh.com) in Crete is handling arrangements.

Mary T. (Meagher) Flowers, 65, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2017, after battling cancer.

She was born on July 19, 1952 to James M. and Lucille (Linn) Meagher, Jr. in Marysville, Kan. Mary worked many years at Farmland Foods in Crete. She was a caring, soft hearted person who loved everyone. She cared for her mother and grandparents during their time of illness.

She is survived by her son, James Reyes and granddaughter, JoJo; sisters and brothers-in-law, Dixie and Michael Bhiro, North Carolina, Connie and Isreal Cardona, Crete, Peggy and Thomas Danko, Columbus, Ohio, Betty Luong and friend Leonard, Crete; brothers and sisters-in-law, Michael and Debbie, Beatrice, Patrick and Lisa, Omaha, Tim and Calla, South Bend, Ind.; and many nieces, nephews and grandnieces.

Mass will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 3:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Crete. A luncheon will follow for family and friends at St. James Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cancer Research Foundation in care of the family. Please visit kunclfh.com. Kuncl Funeral Home, Crete, in charge of arrangements.

Frederick A. Valenta, 78, died on Monday, Oct. 30, 2017 in Lincoln, after a short illness.

He was born on May 23, 1939 in Crete to Frank and Agnes (Lorenz) Valenta. After graduating from Crete High School, Fred served in the U.S. Navy from June 1958 to June 1960 on both the U.S.S. Saint Paul and U.S.S Helena as the Operations Clerk for the Commander of the 7th Fleet.

He met his wife Ruby while working for the State of Nebraska Department of Roads and they were married on May 5, 1962. Fred was well known in Lincoln as the owner and operator of Parkway Luncheonette for nearly 50 years where he served his award winning hamburgers.

Preceded in death by parents; son Terry; infant sister Patricia; brothers, Bernard and Francis. Survivors include wife Ruby; son Ricky (Julie); daughter-in-law Carissa; grandchildren, Jaxsen, Taelyn, Ainsley, Deacon, Given, and Sullivan; brothers, Joseph, Donald (Carolyn), James (Vicky); sisters Anne, Margaret (Randal) Wallar; sisters-in-law Arlene Valenta and Paula Valenta; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Celebration of Life was held on Friday, Nov. 3 in Lincoln. Burial will take place at a later date.

Shirley Ann Gautreaux, 69, of Friend, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2017, at Warren Memorial Hospital in Friend as a result of complications from a stroke.

She was born on June 18, 1948, in Tecumseh, to Gerald “Jerry W. and Mildred M. (Bartels) Rinne, the oldest of three children. Shirley graduated from Gering High School in 1966 and graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1970 with a degree in German and Education. While at the University of Nebraska, Shirley met Terrence “Terry” Michael Gautreaux of Chalmette, La. They were married on June 7, 1970, in Gering, and to this union three sons were born.

Shirley began her teaching career in 1972 in Waukegan, Ill. She started teaching at Friend Public School in 1973 and, having found the perfect small town, never left. She retired in 2013 after 40 years of dedication to students, parents, and the school district.

She was an encouraging mother and teacher, loving her sons, and especially her grandchildren who were the highlight of her life. Shirley’s life was dedicated to her family, St. John’s Lutheran Church in Cordova, and Friend Public School. She was “Mrs. G” to thousands of students from Friend. She taught Geography, Social Studies, Speech, English, and German. She drove the school bus, coached Speech, directed one-act plays, coached junior high track, kept statistics for football, and organized events too numerous to mention.

Shirley taught Sunday School and was a constant presence at the church for Bible study, potlucks, weddings and funerals. Shirley was always thinking of those in need of prayer, assistance, or, her special lasagna. In 2004, Shirley was honored as Friend’s Citizen of the Year, exemplifing what it meant to be a citizen and always was proud to call Friend her hometown. After retirement, she became even more active in her community as she became a member of the Friend Rotary Club, and was an active helper with the Friend Historical Society.

Shirley remained a fixture at Friend Public School, as a substitute teacher and driving the bus for extracurriculars, as well as attending activities. She was also able to find time to travel, taking her father on road trips and visiting with her grandchildren. Shirley enjoyed an Alaskan cruise, Mardi Gras, Czech Republic, Oberammergau in Germany; in 2010 to see the once-in-a-decade Passion play; as well as, various other excursions. Shirley also continued to spend a week as a counselor at Cornhusker Girls State.

Preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Terry; their three sons and their spouses and children: Dr. Keith Gautreaux and Dr. Shaleah Jones and twins Emaline and Chloe, Pullman, Wash., Jeffrey Gautreaux and Kathryn and daughter Ada, Prescott, Ariz; and USAF Maj. Elliott Gautreaux and Katie and children Owen and Adelaide, Colorado Springs; two brothers and spouses, Rev. Rex and Linda Rinne, Appleton, Wis., Tim Rinne and Kay Walter and niece, Anna Walter, Lincoln; aunt Dianna Shomaker, Albuquerque; nephews and spouses: Nathan (Sheila) Rinne, Joel (Mandy) Rinne, and Joshua (Miranda) Rinne; many beloved cousins and a host of other relatives and friends.

A Funeral Service was held on Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 2 p.m. at Friend Public School’s East Gym. Interment in Andrew Cemetery. Memorial Donations are suggested to: LCMS Mission Central, 40718 County Hwy E16, Mapleton, IA 51034; Friend School Scholarship Fund or Warren Memorial Hospital. A full obituary and condolences are available at laubermoore.com.

Garnet F. Chaloupka, 95, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017 at the Wilber Care Center.

She was born on Nov. 17, 1921 to Lillie D. MacDonald Fleming and Oscar M. Fleming of Crooksville, Ohio. Garnet grew up on the family farm and graduated valedictorian of her class from McCluney High School in Crooksvile in 1939. In 1941, she moved to Washington, D.C. to work as a secretary at the Rural Electrification Administration headquarters. She worked with REA in both Washington and St. Louis.

After the war, she continued her secretarial work at Doane College in Crete for several years. It was in St. Louis that she met Francis J. Chaloupka, a Sergeant in the U.S. Army Air Force. They were united in marriage in St. Louis on April 16, 1943. After the war ended, they made their home and raised a family in Wilber.

A talented seamstress, Garnet enjoyed tailoring and making clothes for her family and herself. She loved to travel with her family, and also enjoyed history, reading, music, nature and the outdoors.

Preceded in death by her husband Francis; daughter Jean C. Kennemore; and grandson Daniel T. Kennemore; her parents; brothers, Paul, Russell, Shelley, Robert, and H. Carl Fleming; sisters, Hazel Paxson and Ann Adams. She is survived by daughter Kim A. Chaloupka, Seattle, Washington; grandson Stacey B. Kennemore, Tulsa; nieces, nephews, and extended family.

She is interred at Wilber Czech Cemetery following a graveside service on Friday, Oct. 20 officiated by Pastor Lila Bottolfsen of Wilber United Methodist Church. Memories and condolences may be left online at Kuncl Funeral Home, kunclfh.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans.

E. Jean Henke, 89, Kearney, died Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017 at Kearney Regional Medical Center.

Jean was born on Aug. 1, 1928 in Harlan County to Reinhold and Leathie (Pollard) Imm. She attended school at District 60, Stamford, and Orleans, graduating with the class of 1945. Jean loved being outside taking care of her rabbits and ducks as a child.

This love continued her whole life as a member of Nebraska Wildlife Federation, and having a NeWF windbreak planted for wildlife at her home. Jean was united in marriage to Gilbert Coe in 1945. To this union three children were born, Michael, Daniel, and Kathleen. They were later divorced. Jean was married Gene Henke in 1966.

She worked at the world’s largest coop creamery in Orleans. She also worked at the A.S.C. office, secretarial jobs, and her last job was at the Central Nebraska Presbytery Office. She later worked the welcome desk at Good Samaritan Hospital. Jean and Gene enjoyed traveling to Spain and went on several cruises.

Jean’s last trip with her friend Marsha was a cruise of the Hawaiian Islands. Jean was a lifetime member of the Presbyterian Church where she enjoyed being a choir member. Her greatest joy in life was having her family all together for the holidays.

Preceded in death by her parents husband, three sisters, and one brother. She leaves to celebrate her life, sons, Michael and Karen Coe, Crete, Daniel and Alice Coe, Lakewood, Colo.; daughter Kathleen and Steve Godeken, Republican City; step-daughter, Barbara and Dean Holbein, San Clemente, Calif.; grandchildren, Stacy (Steven) Whitney, Shelly Coe, Tiffany (John) Lothrop, Danielle (Matt) Miscio, Travis (Jill) Coe, Jamie (Jessica) Coe, Cassandra (Travis) Holton, Robert (Amanda) Coe, Kimberly Godeken (John), Tamara Bishop, Brandi Smith, and Julie Smith; great-grandchildren, Sarah Whitney, Stewart Whitney, Kyra Coe, Maddie Coe-Ahl, Jaedon Lothrop, MacKenzie Coe, Ryan Miscio, Makenna Coe-Ahl, Stephanie Whitney, Corbin Coe, Gabriel Coe, Alissa Coe, Broden Godeken, Kailyn Lothrop, Addy Coe, Cara Miscio, Gavin Coe, and Penelope Coe. Funeral were held on Saturday, Nov. 4 at the First Presbyterian Church in Kearney.

Private family burial will be at a later date. Memorials are suggested to the family to be designated later. Please visit www.hlmkfuneral.com to leave a message of condolence. Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl Funeral and Cremation Services in Kearney.

Dorothy Frances (Novak) Kuhn, 86, passed away on Monday, Nov. 6, 2017 in Crete.

She was born in rural Seward County on April 11, 1931. Dorothy was a farm girl all her life and an excellent cook. Her specialties were decorated birthday cakes for her family and friends and thousands of kolaches with “lots of fruit filling.”

She enjoyed all kinds of music and dancing, and driving her little Buick. Her favorite memories are with the Novak and O’Hare extended families, and trips to see Daniel O’Donnell concerts with her daughter, son-in-law, and friend Sharon Swett Davidson.

Preceding her in death is her husband, Harold; and parents Adolf Novak, and Frances (Dedic) Novak; brother-in- law, John Andelt Jr.; sisters-in-law, Bobbi Novak, Ann Kuhn, and Betty Sedersten; and nephew Dale Andelt.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Douglas O’Hare; grandson, Jeremy O’Hare and Karen and great-grandson, Keegan Jack, Aurora; grandson Branden O’Hare and Caitlin and great-grandson Calvin Sean, Omaha; brother, Dwaine Novak; sisters, Delores Andelt and Donnalee Miller; many nephews, nieces and their families as well as a multitude of friends.

Funeral services are scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 9 at 10:30 a.m. at Good Shepherd Church in Milford. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m. at Kuncl Funeral Home (kunclfh.com) in Crete. Burial at Camden Cemetery. Memorials suggested include: Camden Cemetery, Good Shepherd Church, or the family for future designation. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is handling arrangements.

Dorothy Mae Rejcha, 95, passed away peacefully on Friday, Oct. 27, 2017 at Beatrice Health and Rehabilitation.

She was born on Sept. 2, 1922 in Crete to Anton and Helen (Sysel) Kupka. Dorothy attended Crete schools and graduated in 1940. She and her sisters Lenora and Leona performed at several programs and events singing traditional Czech songs. Dorothy was always very proud of her Czech heritage attending Czech days, dances, and various local events. Dorothy’s first job was working at Kindle’s bakery.

She then went to work at Plouzeks Drug Store. She shared her mother’s passion working with flowers and became a florist at Savory’s in Crete and later at Dole Floral in Beatrice as a designer for floral arrangements, funerals, weddings, etc. Dorothy retired from the floral business in 1978 due to health reasons.

On Feb. 18, 1950 Dorothy was united in marriage to Stanley Rejcha. They made their home in Beatrice. They celebrated 40 years dancing together through life until Stan’s untimely passing in 1991. She was an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary serving chicken dinners and funeral lunches.

She served as Girls State chairwoman for several years spending many hours with the girls preparing them for Girls State. She was a past member of the auxiliary’s executive board, the 8 & 40 Club, and Lancaster Salon 92. She spent many years as a volunteer at the Beatrice Community Hospital and Health Center in the gift shop and was a past member of the hospital auxiliary.

She was an active member of the Centenary United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women in their mission throughout the world. She belonged to Ruth Circle and the Keystone Supper Club. She was a member of the ZCBJ Lodge 3 in Crete, serving as past treasurer. She was awarded the Beatrice Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year in 2002.

In her “spare time” Dorothy enjoyed many hobbies that included sewing, needlework, quilting, baking, making corsages and centerpieces, gardening and tending her roses. She was known for her generous nature by many for the time she spent with family, friends, and neighbors helping run errands, sharing some of her delicious baked goods, or sending a note of friendship and encouragement.

Preceded in death by her parents; husband Stanley; sisters, Lenora Hass and Leona Jirak; brother-in-law, Renye Hass; and Niece Marsha Hass. Left to cherish her memory: brother-in-law, Ed Jirak, Boise Idaho; nieces and nephews, Bob and Jackie Hass, York, Maribeth and David Stone, St. Peters, Mo., Jim Jirak and Susie Rhodes, Boise, Tom Jirak and Susan Graber, Layfette, Colo., Jana Jirak and Karen Hackett, Lansing, Mich.; great-nieces Angie Hass, York, Dr. Michelle Stone, Huntsville, Texas; cousins and many friends.

Celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 10:30 a.m. at Centenary United Methodist Church, Beatrice. Interment in Wilber Czech Cemetery. Kuncl Funeral Home (kunclfh.com) in Wilber is handling arrangements.

Dorothy Joan Hagemeier 73, of rural DeWitt, died Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 at her home.

She was born on Aug. 9, 1944, on the family farm north of Wilber to James and Mildred (Pomajzl) Burianek. She married Dallas Vern Hagemeier on Feb. 22, 1991 at Christ Community Church in Beatrice. Dorothy worked for Farmland Foods near Crete for 30 years.

After retirement she enjoyed crafting, painting, spending time in her garden, flowers, and time with Dallas. Preceded in death by parents; stepson, Daren Hagemeier; brother, Don Burianek; sister, Diane Rosenthal; sister-in-law, Dianna Burianek; infant twin brother and sister. Survivors include her husband Dallas, rural DeWitt; daughter and son-in-law, Sheri McCombs and Jim, Wilber; stepchildren and spouses, Michele Vana and Randy, Wilber, Denice Castoral and Cliff, Crestview, Fla., and Teresa Hagemeier and Luis, Philadelphia, Pa.; step-daughter-in-law, Jen Hagemeier, Lincoln; grandchildren and spouses, Cerena Hoover and Chan, Rachell Janecek and Adam, Clifford Allen Castoral, Alyssa, Mariah and Aliese Hagemeier, Jordan and Christopher, Rowan, Dustin and Cody Vana; great-grandchildren, Deagen, Jocelyn and Charlee Hoover, Anakin Janecek; brother, Dennis Burianek and Pat, Wilber; sister, Darlene Novak and Lumir, Pleasant Dale, Donna Hillgren and Duane, Crete; many nieces and nephews. Memorial Services were held on Saturday, Oct. 21 at Christ Community Church, Beatrice.

A guestbook is available online at www.harmanwrightmortuary.com. A memorial is established to Christ Community Church or Samaritan’s Purse with the mortuary in charge. Harman-Wright Mortuary & Crematory, Beatrice in charge of arrangements. Kuncl Funeral Home (kunclfh.com) in Crete is handling arrangements.

Perry Olaf Rhoades, 85, of Lincoln, died on Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2017.

He was born on Sept. 1, 1932 to Perry and Lutie Rhoades in Foster, Mo. Perry married Jody Stephen on Aug. 16, 1957. After Jody’s death in 1997, Perry married Julia Albers on Dec. 29, 1998. Perry served in the U.S. Navy 1951-1954, during the Korean Conflict.

He began his career at the United States Post Office in York, as a mail carrier. He was Assistant Postmaster in Seward, and was Postmaster at the Crete, post office, retiring in 1992. Perry was a life time member of Sertoma International and the VFW. He was also a member of Masonic Lodge 154 & Davenport OES in Davenport. Perry and his wife, Julia, were Roadrunner drivers with Sesostris Shriners in Lincoln, transporting children and their families to the Shriners Hospital in Minneapolis.

Preceded in death by his parents; brother Richard Rhoades; and first wife, Jody Rhoades. He is survived by wife, Julia, Hebron; daughters Perian Pattillo, Lincoln and Jana Kendall, Beatrice; son Grant Rhoades, Beatrice; stepson Tregan Albers and wife Deb, Davenport; grandchildren, Kylie Pattillo, Kass Pattillo, Jordan Rhoades, Dylan Kendall, Hunter Kendall and wife Brittney, Tregan Albers II and wife, Sarah, Trenton Albers and wife Stephanie; great-grandchildren, Jalynn Gray, Grace Tuttle, Marshall Albers and Ethan Albers. Services were held on Monday, Oct. 23 at Kuncl Funeral Home, Crete. Memorials may be given to the family for a charitable donation to be made in Perry’s memory at a later date. Kuncl Funeral Home (kunclfh.com) in Crete is handling arrangements.

William Michael Wenz, 65, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2017 at his home in Dorchester, from an apparent heart attack.

William (Bill) Wenz was born on the 6th day of May, 1952 to William F. Wenz and Jane Anne (Timothy) Wenz in Fort Riley Kan. where his father was stationed while serving during the Korean War. Bill was the second of eight children.

He attended Eight Mile Grove, a K-8 country school in Cass County until the family moved to the Seven Oaks Farm east of Union where he and his siblings attended the Nehawka School District. There he participated in football for four years and basketball for one year, attaining all-conference status as an offensive lineman his senior year. He also enjoyed his involvement in several all-school music productions including “Lil Abner” and “Oklahoma”.

He graduated from Nehawka High School in 1970. Bill married Shannon Colleen Anderson on Sept. 27, 1974, at the United Methodist Church in Milford. First residing in Plattsmouth, the couple then moved to Friend where they raised their daughter Sarah. Upon purchasing the first of two houses in Dorchester, the Bill Wenz family called this town their home.

Bill Jr. spent most of his working career working with his father in the rendering business both at Aaron Corp. in Omaha, and later helping build Midland By-Products into a regionally recognized rendering facility. Bill learned his mechanical crafts from the ground level up as a maintenance man and then as a foreman for several years before being promoted to the position of vice-president of the company, a position he held until the facility was sold in 1994.

Bill managed another rendering facility in Booker, Texas commuting regularly from his home in Dorchester. Bill will be remembered as an avid hunter, regularly organizing hunting parties for family and friends. He was a gun and coin collector, enjoyed fishing, golf and was a skilled carpenter. He immersed himself into whatever his current interest was and remained committed to the endeavor until he had mastered it.

His varied interests were only exceeded by his willingness to lend a hand to others. If there were tasks to be done or needs to be met, a simple phone call would be sufficient to send him running with tools in hand. Bill kept no ledger. If you needed assistance, he would help. It was really that simple. Bill’s wit, his telling of tales, (some fairly tall, to be sure!), his generosity and his humor will be sorely missed by his many close friends, by his family and by some simply gathered to share weekday morning coffee.

Preceded in death by his mother, Jane Wenz; father, William F. Wenz; wife, Shannon; and brother Timothy Wenz. He is survived by his daughter Sarah Wenz-Shrestha, McCook; his dear companion, Teresa Salinger, Plattsmouth; siblings Kathleen (Curt McKean) Wenz, Omaha, James (Mary) Wenz, Roca, Douglas (Deborah) Wenz, Crete, Laura (Gary) Gammel, Crete, Jeffrey (Tammy) Wenz, Crete and Shari (Richard) Tretheway, Lincoln; fourteen nieces and nephews who all held a very special place in his heart. Services were held on Monday, Oct. 30 at Kuncl Funeral Home, Crete. Interment in Blue Mound Cemetery, Milford. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is handling arrangements. Arrangements by Kuncl Funeral Home (kunclfh.com) in Crete.

Jerry Lee Collier, 68, of Crete, lost his battle with cancer on Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017.

He was born on May 9, 1949 to Melvin Collier and Leona (Roach) Henning in Des Moines, Iowa. Preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his son, Jeremy and special friend Mandy Bruder, Friend; daughter, Marnie, Papillion; brother, Terry (Phillis), State Center, Iowa; grandchildren, Deven and Dylen Collier, Friend; many nieces, nephews and countless friends.

Graveside services were on Tuesday, Oct. 24 at Lincoln Memorial Park. Memorials are in care of the family in lieu of flowers. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is handling arrangements, and condolences may be left at kunclfh.com.

Janice Rose (Horky) Klika, 82, of Crete, passed away on Friday, Oct. 20, 2017.

She was born on June 3, 1935 to Henry H. and Rose (Pecka) Horky at Horky’s Park (Blue River Lodge) in Crete, in a cabin Henry built. She started her education at District 10 Rural school. In 1942 the family moved to a farm north of Milford and then in 1946 to a farm south of Crete. Janice attended St. James School, graduating from the 8th grade in 1948.

The family moved to a farm near Pleasant Hill, where she graduated from Dorchester High School in 1952. She worked as a bookkeeper for Sack Lumber Co. She kept books for Heidi and Harold’s Cafe for over 20 years, along with Sacred Heart Church, and Crete Sew and Vac. She was also a bookkeeper for Crete Lumber from 1976 until she retired in June of 2010. She was never someone who kept idle.

She typed papers for many Doane students, correcting grammar and staying up all night sometimes so their papers were in on time. She married Lumir E. Ladman on August 18, 1953, and with this union was born three children. On May 20, 1995 she married Richard (Dick) Klika. Janice was a member of the Sacred Heart Church and Sacred Heart Altar Society. She had been a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, having held many offices.

Preceded in death by her parents; brother-in-law Lester Znamenacek; son-in-law Ray Morgan; and nephew Gerry Znamenacek. She is survived by her husband Dick; her children, Brenda (Greg) Bockelman, Bruce (Karen) Ladman; stepchildren Patti (Jim) Wright, Joan (Bill) Stollar and Katie Morgan; sister Joann Znamenacek; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many cousins; and all the wonderful friends who have remained part of her life. Services will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 25 at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are in care of the family for future dedication. Arrangements by Kuncl Funeral Home (kunclfh.com) in Crete.

Marian Jean Ross, 72, of Friend, passed away suddenly, on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2017 at her home.

She was born on July 19, 1945 in Friend, to John and Velma (Mason) Hansen, the youngest of three children. She attended White Cloud country school and completed her education at Dorchester Public School, graduating with the class of 1963.

On Jan. 8, 1972, Marian was united in marriage to Floyd Ross in Friend. Marian worked for several years at Formfit-Rogers Manufacturing in Crete and she later was employed in the dietary department of Warren Memorial Hospital for a short time. In her spare time, she embroidered and did counted cross stitch and showed determination to excel in everything that she attempted.

Marian enjoyed spending time with her friends at local cafes and coffee shops having a meal or just a cup of coffee. Marian always had a smile for everybody and a very positive outlook on life. She was a member of the United Church of Christ in Friend, enjoyed Women’s Fellowship attending the Rachel Circle and was a former Deaconess for her church. Marian also was a member of the Friend Rebeckah Lodge.

Preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Floyd; brother-in-law Richard Stieber; and nephews Terry Jones and Greg Cardwell. She is survived by her sisters and brother-in-law, Myrna Stieber, Lincoln and Ruth and Kenneth Jones, Hutchinson, Kan.; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A Funeral Service was held on Thursday, Oct. 5 at Friend United Church of Christ with Pastor Dave Coleman officiating. Interment in Plainview Cemetery in Western. Memorials established to the church. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Lauber-Moore Funeral Home, Friend. Condolences may be sent to the family at laubermoore.com.

Eunice Ellen (Vavra) Zimmerman, 89, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 1, 2017 at The Monarch in Lincoln.

She was born on Nov. 5, 1927 near Crete. She was interested and engaged in current events and loved watching Anderson Cooper and Morning Joe. A student of foreign languages especially Czech, which she studied at UNL. She was a member of the Lincoln Czech Club.

She took three trips to visit Czechoslovakia, first in the early 70’s, again in 1981, and the last time in 2000. Activities she enjoyed included tap dancing, clogging with The Capital City Cloggers, gardening and walking. She will be remembered as an intelligent and thoughtful woman who taught those around here to be aware of what is going on in the world, and to always think about and care about other people.

Preceded in death by spouse Ell (E.C.) Zimmerman; son Steve Zimmerman; ister Barbara Henning; parents Emil and Rose (Belohlavy) Vavra. Survived by daughters and sons-in law, Jean Zimmerman, LuAnn and Mike Bohmont, Mary Jo and John Virts; grandchildren, Scott and Melissa Zimmerman, Sondra Bohmont, Shawn and Raegan Bohmont, Dustin Virts, Danielle and Rick Wasielewski; great-grandchildren, Brianna, Trequin, Kiana, Evelyn, Elaric, Avery and Ryker; she also had a special relationship with her nieces and nephews.

Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, Oct. 15 at 2 p.m. at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home 6800 So. 14th St. in Lincoln. Family will greet friends from 1 to 2 p.m. prior to services. Private inurnment Centerville Cemetery. Memorials to The Monarch Hospice to assist those in need. Condolences www.lincolnfh.com

Eugene A. “Gene” Zach, 86, Lincoln, died October 3, 2017.

He was born on Dec. 1, 1930 near Wilber, to Charles and Augusta (Kasparek) Zach. Gene grew up on a farm near Wilber. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War and is a member of the American Legion Post 101 of Wilber.

He became a carpenter and home builder and owned his own business. Preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Robert, Charles and Eddie; sister and brother-in-law, Helen and Robert Kellogg. Family members include his wife, Mary Ann; children and spouses, Roy and Christine Zach, David and Debbie Zach, Denver, Colo., Barb and Jack Burke; grandsons, Cody Grape, Joshua Zach, Denver; step-grandson, Ryan Taylor; brothers and sisters-in-law, Alvin and Phyllis Zach, Franklin and Lois Zach, Mary Ann Zach, Helen Zach, all Wilber; nieces and nephews; and his beloved cat Murphy.

Memorial Service was held on Monday, Oct. 9 at Roper and Sons Chapel, 4300 ‘O’ Street with Pastor Mark Brunott officiating. Prior private interment. Memorials in lieu of flowers to First Evangelical Free Church or Capital Humane Society. Condolences online at Roperandsons.com

Duane T. “Rosie” Rosecrans, 83, of Crete, Nebraska passed away peacefully on Friday, September 29, 2017, at home surrounded by family.

Born in Odell, Nebraska, on January 1, 1934, he enlisted to serve his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. He and his lifelong companion, Ruth Meyers, were married on May 29, 1955 in Beatrice, NE.

Duane is survived by his wife, Ruth; daughters and sons-in-law, Pam and Jim Johnson, Lakewood, NY and Cindy and Brad Braunsroth, Denton, NE; son Scott Rosecrans, San Diego, CA; six grandchildren, Trevor, Corey, Brandon, Justin, Erin, Rachel; and eleven great-grandchildren.

Duane worked for the Norris Public Power District for 35 years until his retirement in 1996. He served in the Crete Volunteer Fire Department for over 15 years. He was active in the Crete community and volunteered in many organizations. He was a member of American Legion Post 147, serving as its Commander for many years, a member of the Grace United Methodist Church for over 50 years and a member of the Crete Cemetery Board.

In retirement, he and Ruth enjoyed spending their winters in Arizona, and he enjoyed woodworking. Duane loved spending time with family and friends, and most of all, he will be remembered for sharp wit and playful sense of humor. He is preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Nellie Rosecrans; his sisters Peggy and Carlene; and his infant brother Gary.

Memorials to the Grace United Methodist Church, Crete NE. Services: Wednesday, October 4th at 10:30 AM, Grace United Methodist Church, 1245 Juniper, Crete. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.

Jeffery James Schneider, 53 and Laurie Ann (Prieb) Schneider 53 passed away on Sept. 16, 2017 from a motorcycle accident in Omaha, Ark.

Jeff worked at Williamson/Honda of Lincoln, Rod’s power sports, J&B Auto in Arkansas. Laurie worked at Lincoln Liberty Life and Ameritas in Lincoln as a shared systems project manager, and Holdt & Hudson CPA’s in Arkansas. Laurie and Jeff were raised in Lincoln, met after high school and were married on July 7, 1984.

Laurie was born in Crete, to Ralph and Darlene (Kunz) Prieb. She attended Lincoln Northeast High School and graduated from the University of Nebraska Lincoln with honors. She is preceded in death by her father Ralph Prieb; sisters, Rita and Susan Prieb; and step-father Cliff Morter. She is survived by her mother Darlene; and nephews Tim Prieb, Jason Bales; great-niece Sami Prieb; great-nephews Skyler and Jesse Bales; step grandniece Kristin and her son Devin; cousins Marilyn Giles, Luana and David Petsche and Jan Morse; puppies Tanner and Quincy and cat Ozzy; many close friends and other relatives.

Jeff was born in Lincoln to Edward and Dorothy Schneider on Jan. 28, 1964. He attended Lincoln High School, graduating in 1982. Jeff studied auto body at SCC in Milford. He is preceded in death by his father Edward. He is survived by his mother Dorothy Schneider; brother Mike Schneider; cousin Jeanie Davis; their pets; and many close friends and other relatives.

Services were held on Friday, Sept. 29 at Northeast United Church of Christ, Lincoln. Memorials are to the family to be decided at a later date. Arrangements by Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home.

Ronald Sehnert, 81, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2017 in Seward.

He was the son of Harry and Emma Boshart Sehnert, born in Dorchester on June 15, 1936. Ron was a longtime janitor at the Dorchester School. Preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann Jirsa Sehnert, on May 17, 2017. He is survived by brother and sister-in-law Jerry and Geraldine Sehnert, sister and brother-in-law Marlene and Harry Axline, all Dorchester; sister Jane Hopper, Omaha; and several nieces and nephews. No services. Burial was held at Dorchester Cemetery. Memorials to Dorchester Volunteer Fire Department. Lauber Moore Funeral Home, Milford.

Gerald L. “Jerry” Brauer”, 79, of Crete, passed away on Monday, Sept. 18, 2017.

He was born on July 24, 1938 in Seward, interrupting his mother’s birthday party. He was baptized and confirmed in Trinity Lutheran Church in Malcolm.

Jerry attended country school in Seward County and graduated from Garland High School in 1955.

In December of 1955 he joined the U.S. Navy and received his honorable discharge in 1957 due to a car accident. He then farmed and worked for Lincoln Electric for many years. Jerry moved to Palmer, Kan. where he worked for a farmer and Coop Elevator.

In Linn, Kan. is where he met Sharlene and on June 15, 1973 they were married at St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer. In 1979 the family moved to Crete where Jerry worked at Alpo until his retirement in 1993.

Jerry took up oil painting and started woodworking, becoming well known for his rocking horses and for many years participated in craft shows. He was a master at crossword puzzles, loved reading and watching westerns and was a fan of John Wayne. He liked all sports, never missing a Husker or Denver Broncos football game or Kansas City Royals baseball and WWE.

He loved his family, attending family reunions and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-granddaughter. Jerry loved the fact he was married to his wife for 44 years.

Preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Hildegarde Brauer; brother-in-law, Larry Burling; fathers-in-law, Emil Wilkens and Leonard Betten.

Survivors include his wife, Sharlene, Crete; daughters and sons-in-law, Holly Lewis and David, Martell, Penney Foss and Tim, Lincoln, Sheila Brauer, Crete, Tammy Brummond, Omaha; sons and daughters-in-law, Douglas Brauer and Jessica, Silver Spring, Md., Troy Brauer and Jody, Crete; ten grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; sister, Joann Burling, Lincoln; mothers-in-law, Florene Betten, Aurora, Colo., Kate Wilkens, Clay Center, Kan.; sister-in-law, Gen Gatterman and Mike, Aurora, Colo.; brother-in-law, David Betten, San Mateo, Calif.; sister-in-law, Nancy Lehman, Linn, Kan.; four nieces, one nephew, and many other relatives.

A Memorial Service were held on Saturday, Sept. 23 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Crete with Pastor Ronald Benson officiating. Cremation. Military honors by VFW Post 4959 and American Legion Post 147 Honor Guard. Memorials care of the family for future designation. Condolences may be left online at kunclfh.com. Arrangements entrusted to Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete.

Everett F. Magnusson, 77, of Lincoln, passed away on Monday, Sept. 18, 2017 at Homestead Rehabilitation Center in Lincoln.

He was born to Lloyd and Ila (Sudlow) Magnusson on March 22, 1940 in South Dakota.

Everett was one of ten children in his family. He met June in Loveland, Colo. at a Buffalo Dance. They were married on Nov. 22, 1970 in Loveland. Soon after, they gave birth to their first daughter, Tabitha Lee, deceased. Three years later, they had their second daughter, Tamara JoAnn. They moved to Crete in 1974.
Everett worked as an Operator at Alpo /Friskies for 32 years. During retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his wife June, and grandkids Adrianna, Jaden, and Jordan. Everett and June moved to Lincoln in May of 2016. He experienced the birth of his great-grandson Josiah, and the wedding of his granddaughter, Adrianna.

Preceded in death by his parents; infant daughter, Tabitha; brothers, Sam and George Magnusson.

Survivors include his loving wife of 47 years, June Magnusson, Lincoln; daughter, Tamara Magnusson, San Diego, Calif.; grandchildren, Adrianna Bowder and husband Jacob, Lincoln, Jaden Peterson, Mobile, Ala., Jordan Peterson, San Diego; great-grandson, Josiah Bowder, Lincoln; sisters and brothers-in-law, Emma Lamb, Onida, S.D., Naomi Douglas and Kelly, Rapid City, S.D., Irma Falond, Hillsboro, Ill., Sharon Lebeda and Norman, Loveland, Colo., Marilyn McKibben, Rapid City, S.D., Ruth Ballard, Phoenix, Ariz.; brother, Dale Magnusson, Big Sky, Mont.; and many other relatives.

Funeral services were held on Friday, Sept. 22 at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete with Rev. Dr. Wayne Reynolds officiating. Cremation with burial at a later date. Memorials are suggested to:

https://www.gofundme.com/
grandpa-everett-funeral-fund

with granddaughter, Adrianna Bowder in charge. Condolences may be left online at kunclfh.com.

Willard L. Maryska, 93, of Wilber, passed away peacefully on Friday, Sept. 15, 2017 at Bryan Medical Center in Lincoln.

He was born on Jan. 3, 1924 in Wilber to Lumir and Marie (Dusanek) Maryska. He graduated from Wilber High School in 1942. Willard served his country in the United States Navy serving during World War II from 1944-46 and also during the Korean War from 1951-52.

He married Alice Mae Pechoucek on April 6, 1954 in Lincoln. They were blessed to be married for 52 years before Alice’s passing in June of 2006. Willard farmed west of Wilber while also working at Petersen Manufacturing in DeWitt and then at Wells Implement in Plymouth before retiring. He and Alice lived on the farm west of Wilber until moving into Wilber in the early 2000’s.

He was a 65-year member of the Louis-Milan American Legion Post 101 of Wilber, 70-year member of T.J. Sokol Hall in Wilber and a former member of the Nebraska Farmers Union His hobbies included handyman work, which he was very good at, word search puzzles and he enjoyed reading the newspaper and keeping up on the news. He also enjoyed listening to Czech music and going to the Chat With The Czech Class.

Preceded in death by his parents; wife, Alice M. (Pechoucek) Maryska; father and mother-in-law, Adolph and Clara Pechoucek; brother-in-law, Leonard Pechoucek. Survivors include his daughter, Diane Siedlik and husband Frank, Omaha. Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 20 at 11 a.m. at Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber with Pastor Lila Bottolfsen officiating. Visitation will continue on Wednesday 1 hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial in Wilber Czech Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Wilber Fire and Rescue.

Condolences may be left at kunclfh.com

Ardene L. Bartlett, 85, of Crete, formerly of Beatrice and Falls City, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2017 at the Crestview Care Center in Milford.

She was born on Oct. 22, 1931 in Virginia, Neb. to Edward and Tillie (Krikava) Hubka, and was a 1949 graduate of Beatrice High School. Ardene and Wilbur “Bill” Bartlett were married on Sept. 2, 1949 in Beatrice. Ardene had been a secretary at Dempster Manufacturing in Beatrice.

She was a legal secretary for Weaver-Beekman-Merz law firm when they lived in Falls City from 1958 until moving to Crete in 2004. Ardene was a former member of the First Christian Church in Beatrice; former member and officer of the Legal Secretary’s Association. She enjoyed bowling, reading and sewing. Preceded in death by her parents; husband Wilbur “Bill” Bartlett; son Bill Bartlett; and one sister.

Survivors include son, Bob Bartlett, Falls City; five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Lynn Bartlett, Crete; sister Maryann Divona, Falls City; sisters-in-law Erna Beach and Eva Bartlett, both Beatrice, and Mary Meadows, Kansas; many nieces, nephews and cousins. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, Sept. 19 at the Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel in Beatrice with Rev. Crystal Dewey officiating.

Interment in Evergreen Home Cemetery. A memorial has been established to the family’s choice with the funeral home in charge. Sign Ardene’s online guest book at www.ghchapel.com.

Dale Albert Christensen, 84, passed away on Sept. 6, 2017.

The son of William and Genevieve (Lindquist) Christensen, he was born on Nov. 23, 1932 in Dannebrog. In 1955 Dale bought a 1929 Dodge for $15; this car turned out to be his pride and joy in trying to restore it over the years.

In 1956 he worked part-time as a taxi cab driver in Lincoln, Nebraska while going to school at Southeast Community College in Milford, learning the machinist trade. In 1957 Dale went to work for Bruning as a machinist. On July 2, 1960 Dale and Helen Papik were united in marriage in Lincoln. They had three children.

In 1985 Dale and Helen worked side by side as he took over farming for his mother-in-law on the family farm in Crete for 10 years. He continued to work full-time at Bruning. Dale enjoyed doing yard work and working with his hands as he seemed to know a little bit about everything. Family vacations were taken with the pop-up camper to Wyoming, Texas, Missouri, and Arkansas. Later in life he experienced an Alaskan cruise. In 1999 Dale retired from Bruning (Parker Hanifan) after 42 years.

He enjoyed spending time with his two grandchildren, Shawn and Sara, and continued to go to the family farm doing upkeep around the yard and maintenance on the machinery.

In 2017 he was able to see his granddaughter, Sara, graduate from college. Most important to Dale was the time he spent with his family, always giving his time and always with a smile. Over the last two years Dale struggled with many health issues. Preceded in death by his daughter, Denise; his parents; brother Harry Christensen; and a brother-in-law Albert Hoffer. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Helen; children, Kathy Christensen and Janet (Kevin) Herrold; grandchildren, Shawn and Sara Chaloupka; siblings, Fern Hoffer, Lela Dean, Joyce (Marvin) Nelson, Maryann (Bob) Hronik, and Wilma (Jim) Weeks; many loving relatives and friends including long time card playing partners Jim and Lee Logsdon.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, Sept. 12 at Butherus, Maser and Love funeral home in Lincoln. Interment in Lincoln Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family for later designation.