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ANDERSEN, A. Wayne, 73, of Elkhorn, formerly Kearney, died Thursday, Jan. 27, 2022, in Gretna
Funeral: Friday at Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl Funeral Home in Kearney
Burial: Kearney Cemetery
Born: Aug. 28, 1948, in Kearney
Parents: Dewey and Thelma (Hesseltine) Carpenter
At age 7, was adopted by Robert and Violet (Carpenter) Andersen
Grew up in the Gibbon area, graduated from Gibbon High School in 1966
Married: Betty Schroeder on Jan. 28, 1971
Lived in Kearney, was employed at the Eaton Corporation for 39 years; retired from Eaton in 2008, moved to Elkhorn in 2010
Activities: attended First United Methodist Church in Kearney
Survivors include wife, Betty of Elkhorn; daughter, Heather (Craig) Swanson of Elkhorn, son, Jeffrey (Mary) Andersen of Gretna, grandchildren, Brittany, Brenden, Riley, Kaleb Andersen and Esher Swanson; parents, Robert and Violet Andersen of Gibbon; sisters, Tammy Moore of Lincoln, Kathy (Bill) Winshaw of Kearney and Sandi (Nick) Baltazar of Evans, Colo.
Was preceded in death by his parents Dewey and Thelma Carpenter; son, Heath Andersen; sisters, Joyce Vollmer and Linda Burton; and brother, Dennis Peterson
Kearney Hub, Feb. 2, 2022
BARTELS, Paul D., 73, of Kearney died Friday, Feb. 4, 2022, at his residence
Funeral: Thursday at Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl Funeral and Cremation Services
Burial: Kearney Cemetery
Born: Oct. 23, 1948, in Campbell
Parents: Herbert and Mildred (Evers) Bartels
Grew up in Upland, graduated from Upland High School in 1967
Married: Aug. 2, 1976, to Brenda Lindquist in Kearney
In 1972, purchased his first semi-truck and grain trailer, and began his 50-year career in the trucking business; at the time of his death, was owner/operator of Paul Bartels Trucking
Survivors include his wife Brenda Bartels of Kearney; son Charlie Bartels of Lincoln; daughters, Jennifer Bartels of Kearney and Sara Bartels of Lincoln; sisters, Diann and Robert Grams of Kearney, Lana and Rodney Reiner of Aurora, Colo.; brothers, Larry Bartels of Inavale, Warren and Becky Bartels of Aurora, Colo., and Bob Bartels of Upland
Was preceded in death by his parents
Memorials: Holy Cross Lutheran Church or AseraCare Hospice
Kearney Hub, 8 February 2022
BENNETT, The Rev. Donald E., 89, of Kearney died Sunday, Jan. 30, 2022, at Mount Carmel Home Keens Memorial in Kearney
Private graveside service: later
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: Feb. 2, 1932, in Moorhead, Minnesota
Parents: Edwin and Mildred (Evrin) Bennett
Attended Moorhead High School, graduated in 1950; was an extraordinary athlete who lettered in four sports, football, basketball, hockey and track and field; attended North Dakota University, lettered in football, gymnastics and diving; earned a master's degree in teaching
Married: Margaret, had four boys together
Married: Jay in 1977; she later passed
Activities: broke, trained and showed horses for most of his life; was an EMT for many years and a Boy Scout leader; loved to travel, camped throughout the states; played softball well into his 60s, hiked, and was very active in sports; loved to do Donald Duck impersonations, to the delight of kid; made and kept many meaningful friendships from his congregation and all the people he met along the way
Survivors include his sister Shirley of Northfield, Minn.; his four sons; 12 grandkids; 24 great-grandkids and four great-great-grandkids
Was preceded in death by his wives; parents; two brothers and a sister
Kearney Hub, 2 February 2022
BLACKBURN, Beverly Ann, 67, of Kearney died Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, at GHI Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney
Service: later
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: October 26, 1954
Kearney Hub, 27 December 2021
BURTON, Linda Sue, 65, of Lincoln, formerly of Kearney, died Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2022, at Brookside Rehabilitation in Lincoln
Memorial service: Monday at Third City Christian Church
Mortuary: Apfel
Born: Dec. 2, 1956, in Kearney
Parents: Robert and Violet (Carpenter) Andersen
Grew up in Gibbon, graduated from Gibbon High School in 1975
Married: Aug. 7, 1982, to Darry Burton in Kearney
After marriage, lived in Kearney, worked at Kearney Middle School in the cafeteria and then later at Bob's Super Store in the bakery, enjoyed decorating cakes there
Activities: was involved with TOPS, Unity House and NAMI; enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, making angels, and any and all crafts; will be remembered for her contagious smile and laughter and giving heart, along with being able to find the positive in any situation
Survivors include her children, Colleen (Ronnie) Ackley, Lisa (Bill) McCabe, Bryan Schlenz, Benita (Carlos) Antillon, Kevin (Mindy) Burton, Dee Jay (Christy) Burton, Elaine (Jeremy) White, Tish Jones, Paula (Ryan) Dygert; numerous grandchildren; parents, Robert and Violet Andersen; sisters: Kathy (Bill) Renshaw, Tammy Moore; brother, Wayne (Betty) Andersen; and many nieces, nephews and extended family
Was preceded in death by her husband, Darry Burton in 2011; daughter, Teresa Jefferies; and grandson, Clayton Jones
Kearney Hub, 28 January 2022
CARLSON, Michael Donn, 57, of Sundance, Wyo., died Saturday, Jan. 22, 2022, at Sundance
Memorial service: Friday at Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl Funeral and Cremation Services
Burial: Kearney Cemetery
Born: in Cando, N.D., on Feb. 16, 1964
Parents: Donn and Dorothy (Bish) Carlson
Graduated from Kearney High School in 1982, ran track and cross country; attended Dickinson State College in North Dakota, ran on the track and cross country teams, broke records, was named All American, and earned a spot in the university's hall of fame
Spent the majority of his life working for Frito Lay, retired in 2020; in retirement, took a job at a pheasant farm, considered it his dream job; Activities: loved fishing and spending time outdoors; loved horses, owned racehorses and attended many major racing events; enjoyed watching football, especially the Huskers; made and maintained meaningful friendships from college roommates, running buddies, adult league softball teammates, and lifelong fishing buddies; always lit up the room and knew how to make everyone smile
Survivors include his mother, Dorothy Bish of Sun City West, Ariz.; sisters, Sandi Olson and husband Mark Ficek of Kearney, Donna Peterman of Zephrhills, Fla.; nephews, Jacob Olson of Augusta, Ga., Eddy Peterman of Big Springs; niece Tori Olson of Chicago, Ill., niece; and numerous other close family members
Was preceded in death by his father Donn Carlson
Memorials: American Cancer Society
Kearney Hub, 27 January 2022
CARRANZA, Eusebio "Sab" Francisco, 85, of Marydel, Delaware, died Thursday, Jan. 27, 2022, in Marydel
Funeral: Friday, Feb 12, at Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl Funeral Chapel
Burial with military honors: Kearney Cemetery
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: Aug. 14, 1936, in Omaha
Parents: Pedro and Maria (Gonzales) Carranza
Grew up in Kearney and graduated from Kearney High School 1956
Military: joined the Air Force in 1957 and traveled abroad
Married: Bertha Vanderbrink in 1959
Retired from the Air Force after 28 years, settled in Marydel, Del.; worked for the Postal Service, retired after 26 years
Activities: enjoyed working with his wife in the yard, playing bingo and traveling to visit family
Survivors include his wife, Bertha Carranza of Marydel, Del.; brothers, John Carranza of Kearney, Gili Carranza of Grand Island, and James Carranza of San Deigo, Calif.; sisters, Josie Rodriguez, Hilda Rodriguez and Dee Antillon all of Kearney
Was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Atanachio "Nacho" Carranza, Joe Carranza and Emilio Carranza; and his sister, Catalina Castañeda
Kearney Hub, 9 February 2022
CLASSEN, David Lee, 68, of Kearney died Monday, Jan. 24, 2022, at his home after a courageous battle with cancer
Private family graveside service at Blue Valley Cemetery in Ayr
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: July 11, 1953, in Hastings
Parents: Donald Lee and Eloise Mae (Carney) Classen
Was raised in Ayr, graduated from Blue Hill High School in 1971
Married: Mary (Testroet) Classen on Dec. 1, 1973
Owned and operated the Cowpoke in Kearney; recently retired
Activities: loved his family and friends, was very passionate about life; will be greatly missed
Survivors include his wife Mary of Kearney as well as their son Christopher Classen; daughter Janelle Classen-Hamilton, her husband Sam Hamilton and one grandson, Frank Hamilton, all of California; his sister Mary Nielsen and her husband Dave Nielsen from Murray; his brother Alan Classen and his wife Kelly Classen of St. Louis, Mo.; along with nieces, nephews and many good friends
Was predeceased by his parents Don and Eloise Classen; and his sister, Elizabeth (Beth) Classen
Memorials: Prince of Peace Catholic Church of Kearney
Kearney Hub, 26 January 2022
COHAGAN, Virgil L., 90, of York died Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022
Funeral: Wednesday at the United Methodist Church in Geneva
Burial with military honors: Geneva Public Cemetery
Mortuary: Farmer and Son in Geneva
Born: Sept. 14, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois
Parents: Floyd and Luella (Sears) Cohagan
Lived in Polk, Nebr., until age 12, moved to York; joined the Nebraska National Guard at the age of 16 and graduated from York High School at the age of 17
Military: at age 18, resigned from the National Guard and joined the United States Army, was honorable discharged in December 1969, with the rank of sergeant first class
Married: Arlene I. Krause of Geneva in March 1956; had two children together; in 1968, adopted twin boys in Germany, giving them names of Kent Herman and Kevin Floyd, naming them after their adopted grandfathers
After retiring from the military, returned to York, worked at Champion Home Builders and Dewied Casing Company; in 1973, was hired as the York County veterans service officer; from December 1974 to 1996, was disabled veteran outreach representative in Kearney working for the Department of Veteran Affairs; retired in 1996
In retirement, lived at Johnson Lake and Elm Creek, then settled back in Kearney; after Arlene's passing in February 2020, returned to York in July 2020
Survivors include his daughter, Deb (Bob) Orlando of Bradshaw; brother, Marlan (Nancy) Cohagan of McCool Junction; sisters, Loree Irmer of Russellville, Ark., and Karen (Larry) of Branson, Mo.; three grandchildren, Deanna, Stacey and Kurt; three great-grandchildren, Elli, Conner and Trenton; and two great-great grandchildren, Braxton and Keelan
Was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 64 years, Arlene; his sons, Larry and Kent Cohagan; his parents, Floyd and Luella Cohagan; and sister, Yvonne Orlando
Kearney Hub, 22 January 2022
COPE, Robert K., 82, of Alma, formerly of Minden, died Monday, Feb. 7, 2022, at the Good Samaritan Society – Colonial Villa in Alma
Graveside service: Friday at Minden Cemetery
Mortuary: Craig in Minden
Born: in Minden on Feb. 10, 1939
Parents: Wesley and Avis (Reichstein) Cope
Grew up in Kearney, was a graduate of Kearney High School
Was a natural born salesman, early ventures were in television and flooring sales; ultimately found his passion, spending 20 years driving down the open road
Activities: found humor in the little things that life gives; enjoyed the outdoors and was fond of nature; was always happy to go out and feed the birds; greatest love was with his family
Survivors include his four children, Julie (Ron) Terrel, Marshall (Linda) Cope, Robert (Tammy) Cope and Kyla (Benjamin) Jezbera; along with his brother, Marshall; and sister-in-law, Irene; seven grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives and close friends
Was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother Monty
Memorials: Kearney Area Animal Shelter
Kearney Hub, 9 February 2022
COVER, Roger Vance, 82, of Kearney died Friday, Feb.11, 2022, at CHI Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney
Memorial service: Friday at O'Brien Straatmann Redinger Funeral Home
Burial: Prairie Home Cemetery in Holdrege with military honors
Born: Oct. 11, 1939, in Atlanta, Neb.
Parens: Don and Alma (Lavene) Cover
Received his education from Longfellow High School in Kearney, graduated with the class of 1957
Military: U.S. Navy, Jan. 1962 until April 1966; served on a destroyer as an electrician
Worked as an electrician and as the supervisor of maintenance at Poudre School District in Fort Collins, Colo., retired in 1993
Will be remembered and always loved by his many nieces and nephews and extended family and friends
Was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers and their wives, Rex and Lori. Wayne and Kay, Char.
Memorials: Kearney Volunteer Fire Department
Kearney Hub, 15 February 2022
DAAKE, Larry L., 63, of Granby, Colo., formerly of Amherst, died Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022, at Longmont United Hospital
Memorial service: Thursday, April 14, at Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl funeral home
Born: September 12, 1958 in Kearney, Nebr.
Parents: Ernest and Bertha (Ball) Daake
As a child, attended and was later confirmed at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Amherst; attended Amherst High School, graduated with the class of 1976; attended college before entering the work force
Eventually moved to the Granby area and began a career in construction
Activities: loved the mountains and enjoyed the beauty and many activities they afforded; especially enjoyed hiking, fishing and skiing
Survivors include his brothers, John Daake and Doug Daake and his wife Karen all of Kearney; sister, Marles Riessland and her husband LaVern of Kearney; nephews and nieces, Adam Daake and wife Jennifer, Doyle Daake and wife Pam, Doug Daake, Jr. and wife Brooke, Shelly Daake, Dan Riessland and wife Shelly, Karen Hall and husband Jerry, Judy Riessland, Sandy Riessland, JoDee Amatto and husband Dave; aunt, Bonnie Ball of Kearney; step daughters, Hadley Ott of Denver, CO and Dolly Ames of UT; several grand nieces and nephews, other extended family and friends in Nebraska and Colorado
Was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Richard Daake and his wife Deloris; and sister-in-law, Mary Daake
Kearney Hub, 20 Jan. and 29 Mar. 2022 and hlmkfuneral.com
DeTURK, Cherie', 89, of Kearney died Sunday, Jan. 23, 2022, at the Kearney Regional Medical Center
Funeral: Thursday at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Kearney
Burial: Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery near Amherst
Mortuary: O'Brien Straatmann Redinger
Born: March 11, 1932, on a farm near Ulysses
Parents: Adolph and Marie (Janky) Rathjen
Was baptized March 17, 1932, and confirmed August 1945 both at the country Lutheran Church near Ulysses; grew up in rural Butler County, attended school in a one-room school through her grade school years, graduated from David City High School in 1950
Married: Robert (Bob) DeTurk on Jan. 11, 1953; were married for 67 years before Bob passed away in 2020
After marriage, lived on a farm near David City, moved to a farm near Amherst in 1956, retired from farming in 1975
Was a homemaker spending several years helping at the Amherst Public School
Activities: in retiremnt, worked for Laborers for Christ for numerous years throughout the United States helping to build Lutheran churches
Survivors include her children, Michele DeTurk of Amherst, Steven (Deanne) DeTurk of Amherst, and Marche' (Doug) Epley of Pleasanton; grandchildren, Dana Klingelhoefer, Daniel (Jen) Klingelhoefer, Craig Klingelhoefer, Stephanie (Clint) Stubbs, Tanis (Joshua) DeTurk Saldivar, Brooke (Stephen) Janning, Lacey (Daniel) Schroeder, Jared (Kaylinda) DeTurk, Rachele (Eric) Quinones, Sarah (Michael) Seele, Aaron (Laurissa) Epley, Ross (Michelle) Epley, and Paul Epley; great grandchildren, (Michele DeTurk family) Javin, Kyler, Tayber, Zach, Brandon, (Steve DeTurk family) Wyatt, Isabel, Camila, Kaison, George, Lincoln, Kage, Raleigh, Lawson, Lennuxe, Lexlun and Lacen, (Marche' Epley family) Tia, Morgan, Katie, Tyler, MaKenzie, Madilynn, MaKayla, Mason, Maddox, Emmett, Waylon, Bonnie, Connes, Tobias, and Vincent; sister, Darleen of Carson City, Nevada; and brother, Dave of Shelby
Was preceded in death by her husband in 2020; brother Bob; sisters, LaVerne and Dolores; along with several great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter
Memorials: Mission Central (Gary Thies) and Holy Cross Lutheran Church
Kearney Hub, 25 January 2022
DeTURK, Steven "Steve" Lewis, 66, of Amherst, died Monday, Jan. 31, 2022, at Kearney Regional Medical Center
Funeral: Thursday at Trinity Lutheran Church in Amherst
Burial: Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery near Amherst
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: August 5, 1955, in David City, Nebraska
Parents: Robert and Cherie’ (Rathjen) DeTurk
Was baptized at Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church near Garrison on September 4, 1955, and confirmed June 1, 1969, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Amherst, where he remained a member; graduated from Amherst High School in 1973 and attended Central Community College
Married: Deanne (Epley) DeTurk on May 27, 1978
Will be remembered as a hard worker, a loyal friend, and a devoted husband, father, and grandfather
Survivors: his wife, Deanne, their children: Stephanie (Clint) Stubbs of Riverdale, Tanis (Josh) Saldivar of Kearney, Brooke (Stephen) Janning of Amherst, Lacey (Daniel) Schroeder of Miller, and Jarod (Kaylinda) DeTurk of Overton. Grandchildren include Wyatt Anderson, Lilia Fulton, Colton and Bentley Stubbs; Camila and Kaison Saldivar; George Janning; Lincoln, Kage, and Raleigh Schroeder; and Lawson, Lennuxe, Lexlun, and Lacen DeTurk. Additional family include sisters, Marche’ (Doug) Epley of Pleasanton, and Michele DeTurk of Amherst; brother-in-law David (Kris) Epley of Wood River; and nine beloved nephews and nieces
Was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Cherie’ DeTurk, and father- and mother-in-law, James and Loretta Epley, in addition to infant grandchildren
May Jesus’ words from Steve’s confirmation verse provide comfort and hope to those who mourn: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. John 14:27
Memorials: Trinity Lutheran Church in Amherst
Kearney Hub, 2 February 2022
EARHART, Shelly Jo, 60, of Ravenna died Thursday, Jan. 20, 2022, at CHI St. Francis in Grand Island
Memorial service: Friday at the Ravenna City Auditorium
Mortuary: Rasmussen in Ravenna
Born: March 27, 1961, in Minden
Parents: James and Evelyn (Reimers) Partridge
Lived in Minden until her teens then moved to Kearney
Married: Rick Huffman on July 21, 1978; had two daughters
Married: Kent Earhart; lived in Ravenna; he preceded her in death
Significant other: Jason Millspaugh, lived outside of Ravenna
Activities: enjoyed fishing, socializing, playing cards, horseback riding and family time
Survivors include her daughters, Sarah (Jeremy) Peters of Central City and Sonya Huffman of Kearney; her significant other Jason Millspaugh of Ravenna; grandchildren, Casey (Sam) Fiest of Columbus, Brittany Peters (Jacob Peterson) of Lincoln, Dylan Peters of Central City, Xavier Huffman, Isaiah Huffman and Maverick Huffman all of Kearney and Jose Razo of Kansas, two great-grandchildren, Colsen and Graysen Fiest, siblings, Jackie (Tom) Morman of Mason City, Susan Kempt of Shelton, Mike (Halli) Partridge of Santan Valley, Ariz. and Deb Partridge (Dan), Cheryl True and Rhonda Partridge all of Ravenna
Was preceded in death by her parents; spouse, Kent Earhart; sister, Judi Sealing Crumm; granddaughter, Morgan Huffman; great-grandparents; brothers-in-law, Doug True, Allen Miller, James Schirmer and Bruce Hald; and nephews, Shane Samuelson and Jeff DeBrava
Kearney Hub, 22 January 2022
ESSLINGER, Cheryl Lavone, 70, of Little Elm, Texas, died Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022, in Lewisville, Texas
Burial: later at DFW National Cemetery
Mortuary: Mulkey-Mason Funeral Home in Lewisville
Born: Aug. 4, 1951 in Lexington, Nebraska
Parents: Carrol and Beverly Duff
Was raised by her parents in Bertrand, Nebraska; attended Bertrand Community Schools, graduated from high school in 1969 as the valedictorian of her class
Worked for the Bank of Bertrand
Married: Galen Esslinger on Dec. 27, 1969, in Bertrand
After marriage, lived in Bertrand; moved to Fort Hood when Galen finished his basic military training the next year; then joined him at Fort Lewis, Washington; moved back to Nebraska when he was transferred from active duty to the Nebraska Army National Guard, 1972; worked as a medical records clerk; later focused on raising their children and began doing child care in her home; moved to South Sioux City, while there was diagnosed with breast cancer; intensive treatment were successful, and the Lord blessed her with complete recovery; relocated to Bloomington, Indiana, and then to Arlington, Texas; worked as a nanny caring for children in their homes and in her own home; retired in 2008 to help better support her mother, and spend more time with Galen and her grandchildren; moved to Frisco, Texas, and later built a new home in Little Elm, Texas, and moved in on Sept. 10, 2021; enjoyed having space to accommodate family and host holidays; was a loving wife, daughter, mother, grandmother and friend; especially loved children
Survivors include her husband Galen; her mother Beverly; daughter Crystal with her husband Craig and children Connor, Collin and Carsyn; her son Travis with his fiancée Gretchen and children Madeline, Roderick and Evan
Memorials: National Breast Cancer Foundation
Kearney Hub, 28 January 2022
FISHEL, Elsie Marie (Oliver), 90, of Shelton died Saturday, Feb. 5, 2022, at Kearney Regional Hospital
Funeral: Saturday at the Shelton United Methodist Church
Burial: Shelton Cemetery
Mortuary: Apfel in Grand Island
Born: June 24, 1931, in Buffalo County
Parents: Chester and Etta (Brown) Oliver
Grew up in the Gibbon and Shelton area, attended school in Buffalo County
Activities: member of the Shelton Legion Axillary; enjoyed gardening, canning, baking homemade pies, and visiting friends and family
Survivors include her children, Donnie (Marita) Fishel of Shelton, Tiajuana (Kenny Wiezorek) Goc of Kearney; grandchildren, Joy Webb, Amy Fishel, Brandon Fishel, Jeremy (Lindzi) Fishel; great- grandchildren, Regan Fishel, Lucas Fishel; and sisters-in-law, Lillian Oliver and Doris Oliver
Was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Arnold, Benny, Mike, Ralph, Leroy, Elton; and sisters, Dorothy and Lorene
Memorials: Shelton United Methodist Church or the family
Kearney Hub, 9 February 2022
FRITTON, Joseph Paul, 93, of Kearney died Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022, at his home
Celebration of life: later
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Body was donated to the Anatomical Board for Research
Mortuary: Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: Aug. 14, 1928, in Albion, Neb.
Parents: Victor E. and Marie C. (Fox) Fritton
Was the youngest of three children; graduated from Albion High School in 1946, earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in economics from Creighton University in 1950
Military: United States Air Force in January 1951, was honorably discharged that same year
Worked for the family-owned Albion Coca-Cola Bottling Company and Storz Beer Distributorship in the '50s
Returned to school, 1961, at Kearney State College to pursue a teaching degree; began teaching English in 1962 as a graduate assistant and received his master's degree in English in 1964 without having to write a thesis; sought a doctorate degree in English from the University of Northern Colorado, never attained his PhD., but did ascend to the rank of professor at Kearney State College and taught English; took early retirement in 1988
Enjoyed summers at Limmer's Resort on Rush Lake near Ottertail Minnesota from the mid-60s until the COVID pandemic ended an era in 2020; was considered somewhat of a fishing guide, entertaining with his knowledge of Otter Tail County lakes and stories of yore, with Hans Hanebuth as his mentor; had many very close friends that he consider as family; enjoyed the arts and was a big supporter of the Kearney Concert Association and attended UNK programs as well as the Kearney Symphony; was known for his long walks and picking up litter; was an avid reader and an intellect, considered by many a unique and interesting individual; did things his way with no regrets
Survivors include his 14 nieces and nephews who adored him. Barbara (Mike) Romberg, Margaret (Jim) Martinosky, Mike (Tammy) Fritton, Theresa (Terry) Fichtner, Cecilia (Fred) Smiley, John (Angie) Fritton, Bill Fritton, Veronica (Mike) Trimble, Anastasia (Joel) Travis, Mary Agnes (Chris-deceased) Schafer, Pete (Teresa) Fritton, Rosemarie (Bernard) Schneider, Philip Kos, Katherine (Andrew) McGeorge, and many great and great-great nieces and nephews
Was preceded in death by his parents, his brother George V. Fritton and his wife Ellen, his sister Victoria "Tori" Kos and her husband Edward, and great-nephew Brett Romberg
Memorials: MONA in Kearney
Kearney Hub, 12 February 2022
FRITZ, Vernetta Mae Fritz, 91, of Minden, formerly of Hildreth, died Thursday, Jan. 20, 2022, at Bethany Home in Minden
Funeral: Friday, Jan. 28, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hildreth
Interment: Hildreth Cemetery
Mortuary: Craig in Minden
Born: July 31, 1930, on a farm southwest of Hldreth
Parents: Gerhard and Lena (Albers) Quadhamer
Was baptized at her home when she was 10 days old and confirmed in Emmanuel Lutheran Church south of Hildreth; attended Lakeview Country School through the eighth grade, then graduated from Hildreth High School in 1948
Moved to Kearney and worked for the hospital as a nurse's aide
Married: Justine Thomas Frank Fritz on Sept. 18, 1949, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church; had six children together before Justine passed away on Jan. 3, 1961
With the help of her loving family, relatives and friends, raised her young family working various jobs in the Hildreth community
Married: May 1968, to Donald D. Halbert; together purchased the Farmers Union Store, which became the Hildreth IGA, worked there for 16 years; sons Calvin and Douglas purchased the store in 1982
Divorced in 1984
Opened her home as a daycare provider; cherished the children in her life and served many in the community with home baked goods and loving arms over 21 years; final job before retirement was at the Golden Years Center, cooking and baking for friends in the area
Activities: compassionately served as a lifelong member of St. Paul's and Trinity Lutheran Churches, on various committees, and as a choir member; served as a den mother, a Lioness Club member, a Christian Women's Club member, and a Parents without Partners member
Suffered a stroke in November 2017, rehabilitated at Gardenside in Fairbury, and resided at Bethany Home until her passing
Survivors include her sons, Jerome (Cindy) Fritz, Calvin (Linda) Fritz, Douglas (Tammy) Fritz all of Hildreth; her daughters, Naomi (Richard) Bennett of Fairbury, Marianne (Jim) Fritz-Halsted, and Colleen (Kevin) Benson, both of Hildreth; grandchildren, Ashley (Evan) Lewandowski of Kearney, Lindsey (Brandon) Ehmen of Geneva, Justin (Kayla) Bennett, Lucas (Melissa) Bennett, both of Fairbury, Allison (Jake) Loy of Snohomish, Wash., Amaryah (Skyler) Jenkins of Grand Island, Carina Fritz of Hildreth, Matthew (Michelle) Fritz of Alma, Jake Fritz of Hildreth, Stuart (Kayla) Fritz of Spring Hill, Tenn., Veronica (Jewel) Eiley of Hildreth, Jay (Tammy) Halsted of Greeley, Colo., Shawn (Nickoel) Halsted of Hildreth, Adam Halsted of Kansas, Sheila Benson of Hildreth and Nick (Shelby) Benson of Minden; brother, Roger (Carol) Quadhamer of San Pedro, Calif.; sisters-in-law, Florence Quadhamer of Grand Island, and Barbara Yost of Omaha; 34 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandsons; along with numerous other relatives
Was preceded in death by her grandparents; parents; husbands; grandchildren; Celeste Fritz and Joshua Benson; brother, Arnold Quadhamer; and brother-in-law, H.A. "Bill" Yost
Memorials: Trinity Lutheran Church in Hildreth, the Hildreth Volunteer Fire Department or to the Hildreth Golden Years Center
Kearney Hub, 24 January 2022
FULLER, Lance Richard, 57, of Lincoln died Friday, Feb.11, 2022, in Lincoln
Cremation was chosen
Service: Thursday, Feb 17, on his 58th birthday at Roper and Sons South Lincoln Chapel
Born: Feb. 17, 1964, in Hastings
Parents: Larry and Mary (Leitner) Fuller
Graduated from Superior High School in 1982 and Kearney State College (University of Nebraska at Kearney) in 1987
Married: Joanie Paloucek in 1988
Earned master's degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha while teaching math at Bellevue East High School; moved to Kearney, 1993, taught math at Kearney High School and went on to become the assistant principal of Kearney High School, the principal of Sunrise Middle School, and the director of human resources for Kearney Public Schools; retired in 2020 and moved to Lincoln to be near their ggranddaughter
Activities: loved teaching; conversely, loved discovering lessons in life's simplest pleasures, having a bourbon with friends, making a cashier laugh, driving around town, going for a bike ride, contributing to a group-text thread; was fiercely aware of others and always tried to make everyone around him happy, family, friends ro strangers; his greatest joy in life was being a husband, father and grandfather
Survivors include his wife, Joanie; children, Alli and Kevin Koester and Lanny Fuller and Kaitlyn Wellendorff; grandchildren, Audra and her sister joining the family in May; mother, Mary; sister and brother-in-law, Julie and Joe Price; and many other in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends
Was preceded in death by his father, Larry; and father-in-law, Frank Paloucek
Memorials: Lance Fuller FuNuR Scholarship in Superior
Kearney Hub, 15 February 2022
FURRY, Dorothy, 90, of Kearney died Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022, at Prairie View Gardens in Kearney
Funeral Mass: Monday at St. James Catholic Church
Burial: Kearney Cemetery
Mortuary: O'Brien Straatmann Redinger
Born: Oct.14, 1931, in Trenton, Neb.
Parents: Daniel and Esther (Grovert) Boyle
Married: June 6, 1953, to Kenneth M. Frick in Trenton; had four children together; Kenneth died Jan. 12, 1978
Married: Dec. 20, 1987, to Harlan G. Furry in Kearney; he passed away on June 2, 2018
Attended school in Trenton, graduated valedictorian from Trenton High School in 1949
Taught in a country school for two years; later graduated from Kearney State College with BA and MA degrees
Taught school in Grant, St. Paul, and taught 30 years in the Kearney Public Schools; for twenty-nine of those years, was a Title 1 Reading Teacher at Bryant Elementary; also served 10 years as the Title 1 Director for KPS and taught summer school classes in education at Kearney State College for 14 summers; was honored as Kearney Public Schools Teacher of the Year and as an Outstanding Retired Teacher, was also honored by the University of Omaha as a distinguished Nebraska Teacher of the Year Activities: member of Zeta Chi Alpha Sorority in College and for many years as a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, an honorary teacher's society; longtime member of St. James Catholic Church; during retirement, enjoyed tutoring students in her home and having coffee with her fellow teachers
Survivors include her sons, Eugene (Tammey) Frick and John (Patty) Frick, all of Kearney; daughter, Kristi (Art) Marshall of Elm Creek; son Dave's special friend, Veronica Schyma of Kearney; stepson, Russell (Jennifer) Furry of Elgin, South Carolina; stepdaughter, Joan (Brian) Gutierrez of Fontana, Calif.; eight grandchildren, Lindsey (Mitch) Miles of Grand Island, Drs. Sarah (Micah) Luderer of St. Louis, Adam (Jennifer) Marshall of Kearney, Dr. Derek (Becky Svatora) Marshall of Omaha, Josh (Meghan Lee) Vanden Berge of Kearney and Jessica Vanden Berge of Johnson Lake, BreAnna Frick and Alivia Lawson of Kearney; six step-grandchildren, Grant (Kim) Furry of Columbia, SC, Lauren Furry of Arlington, Mass., Anna Furry of Tuscaloosa, Ala., Alex Green and Noah Gutierrez of Fontana, Calif., and Evan Gutierrez of Omaha; 8 great-grandchildren; two step great-grandchildren; sister, Patricia Grafel of Blue Hill, and two nephews, Mike (Elgene) Grafel and family of Hastings and James (Debbie) Grafel and family of Loveland, Colo.; two sisters-in-law, Edie Zetterman of Lexington and Jean (Phil) Stahla of Gillette, Wyo.
Was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Kenneth Frick and Harlan Furry; son, David Frick; brother-in-law, Harry Grafel; and sister-in-law, Meredith Keep
Memorials: St. James Catholic Church
Kearney Hub, 12 February 2022
GAMBLE, Brian K., 53, of Kearney died Sunday, Dec. 12, 2021, at his home
Memorial service: later in New Mexico
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: October 4, 1968, in Albuquerque
Parents: Robert and Beverly Gamble
Graduated from Clovis, New Mexicon, High School
Military: U.S. Marines, was stationed in Kaneohe, Hawaii until he was honorably discharged
Activities: loved hunting and fishing, woodworking and his most recent passion was photography; had been wheelchair bound for many years due to a back injury and numerous surgeries
Survivors include: his parents, Robert and Beverly; two brothers, Doug Gamble, Logan, OH and Kevin Gamble, Clovis, NM; his son, Brett Gamble, Little Rock, AR; three grandchildren; two nieces; two nephews; and numerous cousins
Was preceded in death by his nephew, Tyler Gamble
Kearney Hub, 14 Dec. 2021 and Clovis News Journal, Dec. 17 to Dec. 19, 2021
GARDNER, Robert "Bob" LeRoy, 62, of Kearney died Thursday, Feb. 10, 2022, at CHI Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney
Funeral: Wednesday at O'Brien Straatmann Redinger Funeral Home in Kearney
Burial: Riverside Cemetery in Gibbon
Born: April 19, 1959, in Clarinda, Iowa
Parents: Everett and Wilba "Billie" (Endecott) Gardner
Received his education from Gibbon High School, graduated in 1977; attended Kearney State College, earned a degree in computer sciences; was a certified airplane mechanic and repaired truck scales while in college
For the past 26 years, worked as the lead software developer/engineer for Greenstone Systems
Activities: enjoyed gardening, walking, bicycling, antiquing and had an appreciation for art; longtime member of the Mount Paran North Church in Marietta, GA.
Survivors include his parents, Everett and Billie Gardner of Kearney; brother, Ken (Pam) Gardner of Kearney; Janice (Jeff) Messbarger of Riverdale; many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends
Kearney Hub, 12 February 2022
GILLESPIE, Michael Dean, 73, died Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022, at Christus Trinity Mother Francis Hospital in Tyler, Texas
Cremation was chosen
Memorial services will be in both Texas and Nebraska; dates to be determined
Born: Aug. 20, 1948, in Kearney, Neb.
Parents: A.W. "Bud" and Beulah Gillespie
Grew up in Amherst, graduated from Amherst High School in 1966
Military: enlisted in the U. S. Navy, held the rank of Aviation's Machinist Mate (Reciprocating ENG MECH) Petty Officer 3rd Class; as honorably discharged on May 23, 1969
Married: Judy Talbert in Corpus Christi, Texas, on Dec. 29, 1969
After marriage, lived in south-central Nebraska, then moved to Pickton, Texas in 1988, with their two sons; worked for Flow Serve (previously Rockwell International, Nordstrom) for more than 38 years in both Kearney and Sulphur Springs, Texas; traveled throughout the United States and several foreign countries as a field service engineer providing training and repair services
Activities: was an avid hunter, fisherman and enjoyed playing cards at family gatherings
Survivors include his wife, Judy; children, Shea and Tamara Gillespie of Greenville, Texas; Greg Gillespie of Pickton, Texas; grandchildren, Arron and Leticia Gillespie, Clay Gillespie, Brycen Gillespie, Matthew Gillespie, and Bayleigh Gillespie; great-grandchildren, Ethan, Maxton and Chloe; his brother and sister in-law, Scott and Lynne Gillespie of Amherst; sister and brother in-law Jill Espersen and Arlan McGee of Amherst; nieces and nephews, Jarod and Dana Espersen, Chad and Teresa Gillespie, Erin and Brock Sandy, Jeff Espersen, Amy and Matt Barth, Cody and Bronwyn Gillespie; along with many great-nieces and nephews
Was preceded in death by his parents; niece, Jody Espersen; brother in-law, Jerry Espersen
Memorials: Boys Town or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Kearney Hub, 14 February 2022
GILLMING, Linda L., 73, of Kearney died Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022, at CHI Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney
Memorial service: Tuesday at Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl in Kearney
Burial: later
Born: June 15, 1948, in Spirit Lake, Idaho
Parents: Wallace and Mary (Gravelle) Cady
Married: Robert Gillming on July 29, 1965, in Idaho
Worked a variety of jobs throughout her life including in the kitchen at Gibbon Public Schools.
Activities: member of First United Methodist Church in Kearney; enjoyed fishing, camping, crocheting and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; was involved in all her children's and grandchildren's activities
Survivors include her husband, Bob of Kearney; children and spouses, Bobby and Julie Gillming of Gibbon, Todd and Jenny Gillming of Minden, Tina and C.J. Brandt of Kearney and Randy and Shanna Gillming of Litchfield; sister, Sharon Skeen of Hermiston, Ore.; 11 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous other extended family and friends
Was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Doug Cady and Wally Cady; and sister, Olivia Cady
Kearney Hub, 12 February 2022
GREEN, Tamera "Tammy" L., 62, of Blue Hill, formerly of Kearney, died Friday, Feb. 4, 2022, at Azria Health in Blue Hill
Memorial service: Tuesday at First Baptist Church in Kearney
Burial: Kearney Cemetery
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: April 30, 1959, in Logansport, Ind.
Parents: Joe and Audrey (Johnson) Shafer
Graduated from Logansport High School in 1976; earned a bachelor's degree in biology from Tri-State University at Angola, Ind.
Lived at Thornton, Colo., worked in the lab for a dairy; moved to Kearney, 1996, worked at Horizon Middle School as a paraeducator and at the YMCA as a janitor
Activities: was active in her kids' activities, especially coaching softball for her daughters and refereeing many sports; was very devoted to her children; enjoyed reading, sketching and writing in her journal; loved working in her garden; active member at First Baptist Church in Kearney
Survivors include her children, Jennifer Green and fiancé Tim Marquez of Houston, Texas, Joe Green of Kearney, Jessica and Clay Johnson of Hastings, Julianne Green of Kearney; grandchildren, Katarina and Magnus Johnson of Hastings; brothers, Joe and Terri Shafer of Austin, Texas, and Bryan Shafer of Logansport, Ind.
Was preceded in death by her parents
Kearney Hub, 7 February 2022
HINRICHSEN, Wilmer R. "Wac", 90, of Elm Creek died Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022, at Kearney Regional Medical Center
Graveside service: Monday at Elm Creek Cemetery
Mortuary: O'Brien Straatmann Redinger in Kearney
Born: Nov. 9, 1931, in Overton
Parents: Walter and Anna (Hemstrom) Hinrichsen
Graduated from Overton High School in 1950
Military: United States Army from April 1952 until March 1954
Married: June 17, 1956, to Fern Becker
After marriage, lived in Elm Creek, worked at Western Alfalfa in Odessa for many years
Activities: spent his retirement doing handyman jobs with his brother Dean; enjoyed going coffee every day with all the local guys, and helping the kids out whenever they needed; liked attending his grandchildren's activities and watching the great grandchildren play
Survivors include his children, Connie (Larry) Hemmann of Amherst, Alex (Jan) Hinrichsen of Elm Creek, Julie Trampe of Elm Creek and Neil (Ann) Hinrichsen of Elm Creek; grandchildren, Melissa (Tyson) Benson, Kelsey (Brian) Knehans, Shelby Hemmann, Amanda (Allen) Stones, Josh Trampe, Emilee Hinrichsen, Lane Hinrichsen, Josh (Ashley) Bailey and Brooke (Gary) Nunns; great-grandchildren, Anslee, Case and Callen Stones, Rosalie, Charlotte and Elena Benson, Grey and Kye Chamberlain, Tren Nunns, Lauren, Taylor, Kennedy and Brock Bailey; brothers, Dean Hinrichsen of Broken Bow and Jay Hinrichsen of Kearney; sisters, Lucille (George) Moore of Overton and Delores Ropers of Sargent; sisters-in-law, Mary Jane Hinrichsen of Grand Island and Allaine (Roy) Long of Amherst; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends
Was preceded in death by his wife, Fern; parents; brothers, Floyd (Marje) Hinrichsen and Ray Hinrichsen; sister, Phyllis Richardson; brothers-in-law, Louie Ropers, Norman Richardson and William Hagan; and sisters-in-law, Delores (Murl) Lahm and Delilah Hinrichsen
Memorials: Elm Creek Fire and Rescue Department
Kearney Hub, 5 February 2022
JACOBSON, Thomas, 74, of Omaha died at home on Monday, Jan,10, 2022
Celebration of life service: Monday April, 18th at St. Thomas Lutheran Church, in Omaha
Born: March 28, 1947 in Minneapolis, Minn.
Parents: Melvin and Dorothy Jacobson
Grew up in Coon Rapids, Minn.; achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America; attended Anoka H.S., played multiple sports
Began as an elementary school teacher and progressed to school principal, superintendent, and professor of graduate studies at the University of Nebraska at Kearney; also founded and built a successful business which allowed him to travel extensively throughout the US; met a lot of interesting and intriguing people along the way, many who became friends; had a deep and abiding faith in the Lord
Survivors include his brother Gerald (Karen) Jacobson; sister Joann (Gary) Rivers; children, Matthew Jacobson (Kimberly Salter), Erik (Romy) Jacobson, Mark (Courtney) Jacobson, Scott (Christina) Jacobson; grandchildren Rowan, Lily, Lars, and Ester; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins
Was preceded in death by his parents
Memorials: BSA Troop 212, Coon Rapids, MN
Kearney Hub, 29 January 2022
JOHNSON, Darrell E., 87, of Kearney died Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2021, at CHI Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Kearney Hub, 20 January 2022
JOHNSON-SACK, Bernice (Bernie) Darlene, of Hubert, N.C., formally of Kearney, died Sunday, Feb. 6, 2022
Service: Friday at The Lutheran Church Our Savior in Jacksonville, N.C.
Mortuary: Kahlert Funerals & Cremations in Maysville, N.C.
Born: June 23, 1924, in Holdrege, Neb.
Parents: Lewis and Laurene (Olson) Johnson
Survivors include her 5 children, Mike Cleary of Grand Island, Teri Laughlin, Janet Amrine, David Amrine, Lois Oshea, all of Hubert, NC; 12 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson
Kearney Hub, 9 February 2022
KIEBORZ, Joyce C., 90, of Kearney, formerly of Litchfield, died Friday, Feb. 4, 2022, at Good Samaritan Society – St. John's in Kearney
Private family funeral: later
Burial: Litchfield Cemetery
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: June 21, 1931, in Palisade
Parents: George and Carrie (Schreffler) Grove
Attended Palisade High School and graduated with the class of 1949
Married: Bernard Kieborz on Jan. 14, 1951, in Broken Bow
After marriage, worked as the postmaster in Litchfield for more than 30 years
Had been a resident at WelCover Assisted Living in Kearney for more than three years, then moved to St. John's
Activities: past member of Faith Lutheran Church in Hazard; member of the Legion Auxiliary, Retired Postmasters, Library Board and past member of the Litchfield Fire Department and EMTs; enjoyed playing cards, quilting and the company of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren
Survivors include her children, Bob Kieborz and his wife Rochelle of Doniphan, Cindy Wardyn and Dave of Litchfield and Bernadette Goodner and her husband Jim of Litchfield; siblings, Betty Ann Ellis of Falls Church, Va., Ed Spencer and his wife Janet of Mason City, Diana Mohr of Marquette, and Jim Spencer and his wife Le of Kearney; eight grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; along with numerous other extended family and friends
Was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather, Jim Spencer; husband, Bernard; son-in-law, Ken Wardyn; sisters, Lucille Grove and Patty Barber and her husband Rudy
Memorials: Litchfield Fire Department and EMTs
Kearney Hub, 7 February 2022
KRUEGER, Charles Oliver, born Sept. 21, 1937 in Kearney, Nebraska to John and Nora Krueger, passed away peacefully at home on July 4, in Kingman, Arizona
Chuck, as known to his friends, moved to Kingman in 1987
Worked with the Game and Fish Department until retiring in 2006
Activities: was very charismatic with a great sense of humor; loved telling stories of his adventures at the Game and Fish Department at the various places along the Colorado River
Survivors include: five children and his grandchildren
Kingman Arizone Miner, 16 July 2020
KRUEGER, Jay Lynn, 68, of Kearney died Sunday, Jan. 23, 2022, at his home in Kearney
Private memorial service
Private inurnment: Prairie Home Cemetery in Holdrege
Mortuary: Nelson-Bauer in Holdrege
Born: June 21, 1953, in Cheyenne County, Neb.
Was adopted by Elmer Krueger
Received his primary education from Sidney Public Schools, graduated with the class of 1971; pursued higher education with Western Nebraska Community College
Married: Dec. 13, 1983, to Judith E. Woodring in Reno, Nev.
After marriage, lived in Arapahoe
Drove to Cummins Sales and Service in Kearney, worked as a diesel mechanic for over 35 years
Activities: attended the Methodist church in Arapahoe and later attended the Presbyterian church in Kearney; was a selfless man who cared for others above himself; enjoyed collecting and had a large collection of antiques and coins; was a handyman, and often was called upon to fix his grandchildren's cars and help with projects around the house; most of all, enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren
Survivors include his wife, Judy Krueger of Kearney; two daughters, Denice Swanson and her husband Jeff of rural Oxford and Brenda Fisher and her husband Scott of rural Edison; five grandchildren. Natasha Rickley and her husband Joe of Papillion, Anthony Fisher and his wife Karmeca of Edison, Lacey Witt and Allen of Kearney, Seth Swanson and his wife Jami of rural Oxford, Zack Swanson and his wife Allisa of rural Oxford; 11 great-grandchildren, Trey, Gunnar and Beckham Rickley, Kade and Genevieve Fisher, Sydney and Hank Witt, Shay, Caden and Carson Swanson, and Charlotte Waller; two brothers-in-law, Dean Shelley of Oregon, and James Shelley of Sapopa, Okla.; three sisters-in-law, Pat Simpson of Cheyenne, Wyo.; Linda Brumley of Oregon City, Ore.; and Jean Marie Madden and her husband, Carl of Henderson, Nev.; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends
Kearney Hub, 25 January 2022
LaCLAIR, Christina R., 30, passed away on January 12, 2022 in Eugene, Oregon
Born: January 8, 1992 in Kearney, Nebraska
Parents: Kelly Dale and David Reinhard
Married: Samuel LaClair, in May 2013 in Kearney
Moved to Eugene in 2016, earned a degree from Lane Community College preparing to transfer to the University of Oregon
Activities: was a loving parent and an accomplished artist with an innate natural talent; enjoyed visiting the ocean, snowboarding and hiking with her friends; had an amazing ability to call it like it is, and not let anything get in the way of the truth
Survivors include: her daughter, Éowyn LaClair of Eugene, Oregon; parents, Kelly and James Dale, of Pleasanton, and David and Colleen Reinhard of Hastings; and siblings: Nicole, Steven, Emma and Zachary
Kearney Hub, 25 January 2022 and musgroves.com
LIGGETT, Agnes King, 104, died in Tomball, Texas, on Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022
Memorial service and inurnment at Fort McPherson National Cemetery: tentatively scheduled for later this spring
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born in Grant, June 2, 1917
Parents: Fredrick and Emma Wieland Seifer
Moved to the ranch 21 miles north of Sutherland just above the Birdwood Creek; attended District 6 Country School in McPherson County; graduated from Sutherland High School in 1936; in high school years, lived with and worked for the Shoup family northwest of Sutherland
Married: Edgar "Bob" King on June 25, 1936, in the Shoup home
After marriage, lived in Sutherland, North Platte, Eustis and in Farnam; had two sons; operated King Lumber and Hardware; sold the business and moved to the Kearney area, and she worked at Kaufmann and Wernert Department Store; with Bob, enjoyed card games, were active in many local Gibbon activities; Bob passed away in Jan. 11, 1994, a few days short of his 85th birthday
Married: Harold Liggett, Aug. 3, 1996; enjoyed nearly 17 years together, the last few years at Northridge Retirement Community in Kearney; he passed away at 95 on May 23, 2013
Activities: member of the Shelton Methodist Church, American Legion Auxiliary and Faithful Rebekah Lodge 89; founding member of Gibbon's Smile City Kitchen Band; lived her life positively, focusing on family and friends, uplifting those around her; had most recently been under the loving care of her son Larry and his wife Judy King
Survivors include her sons, Larry King and wife Judy, Tomball, Texas, Terry King of Omaha and partner ReeAnn Regier of Aurora; grandchildren and their spouses, Bret and SueZan King, Gail and Tori Tomasino, all of Greeley, Colo., Bart and Serena King, Tomball, Texas, James King, Lincoln, Libby and Jaime King, Brooklyn, N.Y., David and Tifany King, Boise, Idaho, Mistia and Harmon Zuckerman, Boulder, Colo., Jeneia Mullins, New York, N.Y.; stepdaughters and spouses, Janice and Lynn Bombeck of Shelton, and Patricia and Donald Stienike of Fremont; step grandchildren; great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; her sister, Alice Morgan; and sister-in-law Irene Siefer of Sutherland; along with many special nieces, nephews and other family members
Was preceded in death by her first and second husbands, Bob and Harold, her parents; sisters, Esther and husband Albert Bosch, Helene and husband Harry Hoskenson, Martha and husband Eugene King; brothers Fred and wife Iona Seifer and Paul Seifer; sisters-in-law, LaVon and husband Edward Crosby, Ruth and husband John Crocket; brothers-in-law, Charles Morgan, Byron and wife Bernice King, J. Ray King and wife Margret; daughter-in-law LaDonna King
Memorials: Shelton United Methodist Church
Kearney Hub, 22 January 2022
MAST, Stanley E. 'Stan', 89, of Kearney died Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022, at Good Samaritan Society-St. John's in Kearney
Funeral: Wednesday, Feb. 16, at New Life Church in Kearney
Burial: Kearney Cemetery
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: Sept. 27, 1932, in Chappell
Parents: Lester and Bess (Roth) Mast
Lived in Denver, Julesburg and Crook, Colo., for most of his early life
Married: Ruby Kudrna March 18, 1950, in Sterling, Colo.
Moved to Kearney, 1969, to run the busy A&W Drive In restaurant, then began his long career selling cars, which for him was a true passion; Stan and Ruby later divorced
Married: Ruth Wambolt on May 7, 1977. in Julesburg
Was first a husband and a father; worked incredibly hard to provide for his family, laugh and have fun with them, and wrap them up in his big caring heart; loved cars and loved people, put those two things together to influence many in his 40-year career selling cars in the Kearney area; kindness, honesty and genuine desire to help people made "Stan's Auto Sales" a truly unique place of business over the years
Activities: had a deep faith in his God, was passionate about his relationship with Christ, and with the people in his church; many times his sales office would turn into a place of prayer instead of just a place of business
Survivors include his wife, Ruth Mast of Kearney; daughters, Sherry and Roger Batt of Kearney, Pam and Chet Nowaczyk of Wausau, Wis., Brenda Rodehorst of Kearney; sons, Greg and Kathleen Mast, Michael Mast, Dan and Karen Mast all of Kearney; sisters, Lorene Phipps of Concordia, Kansas., Joan Schaffer of Denver.; brother Rod and Sheryl Mast of Phoenix, Colo.; 14 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren
Was preceded in death by his son, Brian Mast; brother, Richard Mast; one granddaughter; one great-granddaughter; and two sons-in-law Alan Sorkis and Tom Rodehorst
Kearney Hub, 14 February 2022
McKENZIE, Roberta 'Bobbie', 85, of Kearney died Sunday, Feb. 13, 2022, at Good Samaritan St. John in Kearney
Memorial service: later
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: Aug. 24, 1936, in West Point
Parents: Dorothy and Robert Holt
Childhood years were spent primarily in West Point and Blair; graduated Blair High School in 1952; attended University of Nebraska, earned her bachelor's degree in 1956; also attended the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis
Married: Donald McKenzie of Alma on July 21,1960
Restored and lived in their Pioneer neighborhood home for 48 years
Taught English and journalism at Kearney High School for 11 years, served as faculty adviser of the Quill and Scroll, LOG yearbook and ECHO newspaper
Continued her education, earned her master's degree in education in 1976 from Kearney State College; taught photojournalism and advertising at KSC, retired in 1996 after serving more than 38 years teaching in the Kearney community; was the recipient of many teaching awards and had a particular reputation for challenging students
Activities: was a devoted wife and mother; was loving, creative and perpetually involved in school extracurricular activities, sports, Camp Fire Girls and Boy Scouts; served tirelessly the Chi Omega sorority, PEO, DAR, the Frank House, Trolley, the United Way as well as neighborhood/Pioneer Neighborhood preservation committees; had a passion for family history and genealogy, devoted hours of painstaking research and logging thousands of miles compiling, contributing and authoring books on the Boyer, Holt, Bystrom and McKenzie lineages; kept beautiful houseplants and outdoors gardens; looked forward to TGIF, potluck, and birthday groups
Survivors include her husband Donald of Kearney; her daughter Sandi of Charleston, S.C.; granddaughter Kari and her husband Robert Griffin of Columbia, S.C.; her great-grandchildren Elizabeth, Robert and Ada; granddaughter Molly and her husband Timothy Tate of Colorado Springs, Colo.; and granddaughter Sarah Jones of Charleston, S.C.; her son Kirk McKenzie and his wife, Nicky of Kearney; sister Patricia of Madrid, Spain; sister Mary of Phoenix, Ariz.; sister Lynnea of Phoenix, Ariz.; and brother Kerry of Phoenix, Ariz.
Was preceded in death by her father Robert Holt, her mother Dorothy Boyer Holt Wangberg and her stepfather Stanley Wangberg
Memorials: University of Nebraska Foundation, Bobbie McKenzie Scholarship Fund
Kearney Hub, 17 February 2022
McTYGUE, Jean, 93, of Kearney, formerly of Overton, died Monday, Feb. 7, 2022, at Good Samaritan Society – St. John's in Kearney
Mass of Christian burial: Monday at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Overton
Burial: Overton Cemetery
Mortuary: Reynolds-Love in Lexington
Born: April 28, 1928, in Lexington
Parents: William and Lucille (Morgan) Saulsbury
Attended public schools in Overton and Lexington, graduated from Lexington High School in 1946
Started working at Lexington State Bank
Married: Jan. 16, 1950, Bob McTygue at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Overton, the first couple married in the church after it was rebuilt
After marriage, lived in Overton; began working full time at Overton National Bank in 1961, had several positions throughout the years at the bank and enjoyed working with her coworkers, retired in 1990; began a new career in making doll clothes; was a very talented seamstress, made personalized quilts for her grandchildren; made the clothes for American Girl Doll, which were sold by her and her daughter, Barbara in Kansas City; sold the doll clothes all over the country; her husband died in 2013, she moved to Kearney in 2014, lived at Northridge, and later to Good Samaritan Society – St. John's
Activities: was a role model of service to her community and church; helped with the meals at Overton Senior Center and other special events; member of the Altar Society at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Overton, and was a past president; her faith and church were always an important part of her life; had been an avid golfer, member of the Overton Golf Course for many years; enjoyed going dancing, traveling and playing bridge, and accompanied Bob on his Hero Flight; family get-togethers were always a highlight
Survivors include her daughters, Barbara (Ed) Scanlon of Kansas City, Mo., Sharlene (Jay) Larson of Kearney and Peggy (Bob) Shaver of Dallas, Ore.; eight grandchildren, Matt (Melissa) Scanlon of Kansas City, Mo., Bridget (Paul) Brion of Overland Park, Kan., Molly Scanlon of Kansas City, Mo., Mike (Lisa) Scanlon of Kansas City, Mo., Jennifer (Chris) Hall of San Francisco, Calif., Eric (Rachel) Larson of Lincoln, Becky Witmer of Overton and Katie Scriven of Atlanta; 18 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Nadia Saulsbury of Sequim, Wash., Gerda Saulsbury of Lexington, Leigh Saulsbury of Colorado Springs, and Dolores McTygue of Sumner; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends
Was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bob; grandson, Brian Witmer; four brothers, Keith, Larry, Ed and Richard Saulsbury; along with sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law
Memorials: Overton Area Community Fund
Kearney Hub, 10 February 2022
MOLCYK, LeOra "Lorie", 90, of Kearney died Thursday, Jan. 27, 2022, at CHI Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney
Funeral: Saturday, Feb. 12, at First Lutheran Church
Burial: Kearney Cemetery
Mortuary: O'Brien Straatmann Redinger
Born: June 23, 1931, in Diller
Parents: George D. and Anna (Hahn) Sasse
Moved to Steele City; graduated from Steele City High School in 1948
Moved to Lincoln, attended business school and worked as a stenographer
Married: Oct. 25, 1952, to Ben Molcyk at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Lincoln
After marriage, moved to Kearney in 1962, raised three children, was an Avon saleswoman
Activities: member of the First Lutheran Church in Kearney; volunteered with the Kearney Area Animal Shelter, First Lutheran Church and the Kearney Archway Monument; enjoyed flower gardening and was known for her iris collection; loved to read, golf, bowl and collect recipes and cookbooks; after Ben passed away, found solace in fostering and adopting homeless cats
Survivors include her children, Kathy (Brian) Sweeney of Colorado Springs, Colo., Bob (Joy) Molcyk of McCook, Barb (Steve) Voigt of Kearney; grandchildren, Paul and Matt Sweeney, Austin (Shannon) Molcyk, Colton (Dawnae Nichols) Molcyk, Brandon Molcyk, Kelsey (Steve) Beckman, Katelyn (Peter) Loogman; great grandchildren, Henry and Leo Beckman, Ezra and Áine Molcyk; as well as extended family and friends
Was preceded in death by her parents and husband
Memorials: LoperCats at UNK, the Kearney Area Animal Shelter or First Lutheran Church
Kearney Hub, 8 February 2022
MUHLBACH, Lois, 87, of Ravenna passed away peacefully Friday, Jan. 28, 2022, at Country House in Kearney
Service: Saturday at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ravenna
Burial: Zion Lutheran Cemetery north of Shelton
Mortuary: Rasmussen in Ravenna
Born: March 4, 1934
Parents: William and Bertha (Hehner) Niemack of Shelton
Graduated from Shelton High School in 1951 and attended Kearney State College
Married: Bruce Muhlbach on June 5, 1955, and the couple celebrated 64 years of marriage before Bruce passed away in 2019
Lived on the Muhlbach farm north of Shelton, raised their family there
Taught in rural schools in the area; raised her three boys, and kept all the books on the family farm
Activities: was very involved in serving and worshipping her Lord at Zion Lutheran Church; loved making music, playing the piano, organ, and a "mean" accordion!; served on the school board of the Shelton Public School for 14 years, was very active in the Buffalo County Extension; discovered a new passion for china painting, joining the local association of the China Painters (WOCP) and later served as the state president of the association; also loved giving time and attention to her five grandchildren
Survivors include her three sons, Dan and wife Linda of Kearney, Gary of San Diego, Calif., and Russ and wife DeeDee of Shelton; five grandchildren, Jenna (Lance) Friesen of Glenwood Springs, Colo., Brett (Maria) Muhlbach, Nate Muhlbach and Addison Muhlbach, all of Lincoln, and Jaren Muhlbach of Madrid
Was preceded in death by her husband (Bruce); her parents (Bertha and William Niemack); and three brothers, Rodney, Loren and Larry Niemack
Kearney Hub, 1 February 2022
NOVOTNE, Arlone, 99, of Ravenna died Monday, Jan. 31, 2022, at Seneca Sunrise in Ravenna
Service: Friday at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Ravenna
Burial: St. Wenceslaus Cemetery southeast of Ravenna
Mortuary: Rasmussen in Ravenna
Born: April 21, 1922, at Sweetwater
Parents: Edward and Gertrude (Kraemer) Hohlfeld
Received her education in Ravenna, graduated from Ravenna High School in 1940
Married: Leonard Novotne on Sept. 23, 1941
After marriage, lived on a farm near Gibbon
Worked at the turkey plant in Gibbon for many years
Activities: member of the church and Altar Society; enjoyed gardening, yarn work and crocheting
Survivors include her son, Larry (Karen) Novotne and daughter, Gloria Stittle and special friend Charlie Ackley, all of Ravenna; 10 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren
Was preceded in death by her husband; eight brothers and sisters; granddaughter, Cindy; and two great-grandchildren
Kearney Hub, 2 February 2022
PETERSEN, Arthur 'Art' Ray, 71, of Axtell, died Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022, at Kearney Regional Medical Center
Celebration of life service: later
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: Aug. 16, 1950, in Holdrege
Parens: Lyle and Isabelle (Boston) Petersen
Lived in Alma, then in Kearney; graduated from Kearney Public School in 1968; attended Hastings Tech and graduated with a general degree in auto mechanics
Military: served in Vietnam from 1970-1971
Pursued different job interests dealing with auto, electronics and insurance, and was always learning something new; retired in 2013 from Cummins Great Plains Diesel after 25 years of service and started his own gun repair service and sales
Married: March 2, 1975, to Edna (Obermeier) Petersen
After marriage, lived in Kearney, moved to Axtell in 2000
Activities: enjoyed life with his family and friends; loved everything to do with being outdoors, hunting, fishing, camping, etc.;was always teaching his sons and granddaughters about life; loved politics and always had an opinion on everything; member of the American Legion and the DAV
Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Edna; two sons, Yancy of Axtell and Jared of Kearney; two granddaughters, Montana and Jaylin; a brother, Alan of Kearney; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, nieces, and other relatives and friends
Was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Isabelle; two brothers, Carrie and Arlen; and a sister-in-law Kelli
Kearney Hub, 11 February 2022
PETERSEN, Gary Lee, 83, of Kearney died Saturday, Feb. 5, 2022, at his home
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Kearney Hub, 7 February 2022
PETERSON, Loris Jean, 86, of Kearney died Friday, Jan. 21, 2022, at Brookstone Gardens in Kearney
Service: Friday at the First United Methodist Church in Kearney
Burial: Riverdale Cemetery
Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: at Pleasanton on Sept. 15, 1935
Parents: Emil and Fern (Zimmer) Pazdernik
Graduated from Riverdale High School in 1953
Married: Robert Peterson Jr. at the Methodist Church in Riverdale in 1954
Activities: active member of United Methodist Women, extension club, and several card groups; enjoyed attending activities and athletic events of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren at Kearney High School and UNK; loved to read in her spare time
Survivors include her children, Gail (Alan) Kegley of Kearney, Kim (Byron) Kinnan of Lincoln and Rex (Shari) Peterson of Riverdale; grandchildren, Joshua (Karin) Kegley of Elkhorn, Ryan (Emily) Kegley of Kearney, Briar (Wade) Jensen of Kearney, Jordan (Brian) Cochran of Kearney, Zachary Peterson (Jason Soukup) of Lincoln, Cole (Blair) Peterson of Riverdale, Nolan (Kendall) Peterson of Austin, Texas; great-grandchildren, Hunter Osentowski, Huston, Elle, Hendrex Cochran, Cruz, Drake and Blaise Peterson, Everett and Henry Kegley, and Connor Kegley; sister Alda Drew; brother Alan (Loretta) Pazdernik; along with many cousins, nieces and nephews
Was preceded in death by her husband; parents; in-laws Bob and Thelma Peterson; sister-in-laws, Janice (Darrel) Reiter and Marilyn (Kenneth) Drew; and brother-in-law Max Drew
Memorials: Riverdale Ball Club or the Riverdale Cemetery Association
Kearney Hub, 26 January 2022
ROSS, Darrel W., 86, of Gibbon, formerly Sunnyvale, Calif., died Thursday, Jan. 20, 2022, at CHI Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney
Funeral: Wednesday at the Kearney Seventh-Day Adventist Church
Burial: Riverside Cemetery near Gibbon; military honors
Military honors will be provided graveside. Mortuary: Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl
Born: July 3, 1935, on the family farm near Shelton
Parents: Ira and Irene (Hoffman) Ross
Graduated from Shelton High School in 1953
Military: United States Army, served from 1958-1960
Briefly attended college before entering the workforce
Married: Jodi Chien on Sept. 30, 2005, in Kearney
Activities: member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Kearney; enjoyed collecting and working on cars and tractors, especially Case IH
Surviviors include his wife Jodi of Sunnyvale, Calif.; stepchildren, James Lin and Kathy Lin and her husband Abu Wawda, all of California; stepgrandchildren, Hannah, Rebecca and Ella Wawda
Was preceded in death by his parents; sister and brother-in-law
Memorials: Salvation Army
Kearney Hub, 25 January 2022
RYAN, James "Jim", 72, of Kearney died Thursday, Jan. 20, 2022, at his home surrounded by family
Funeral: Wednesday at Prince of Peace Catholic Church
Inurnment: later
Mortuary: O'Brien Straatmann Redinger
Born: June 6, 1949, in Colby, Kan.
Was one of 11 children; attended school in Atwood, Kan.; later at St. Joseph's Military Academy, was a state champion wrestler; also attended Fort Hays State College
Married: Jan. 18, 1977, to Lois Bielser in Colby, Kan.
Worked and managed many grain elevators and cooperatives across Kansas; moved to Kearney, 2004, worked as a driver for Cash-WA Distributing
Activities: member of Prince of Peace Catholic Church, served as a past grand knight with the Knights of Columbus
Survivors include his wife, Lois Ryan of Kearney; daughters, Amy (Andrew) Prochaska and Whitney Ryan and significant other, Antoine Young of Kearney; grandchildren, Brady, Grace, Josie, Laney Prochaska; siblings, Margaret (Don) Spangler of Kearney, Rosie (Jerome) Schell of Sterling, Colo., Mary Kay Woydziak of Hoisington, Kan., Larry (Linda) Ryan of Gem, Kan., Bill (Kathy) Ryan of Colby, Kan., Terry Ryan of Wichita, Kan., Betty (Jon) Gaines of Overbrook, Kan., Donnie Ryan of Peoria, Ariz., and Jerry (Terri) Ryan of Russell, Kan.; sister-in-law Patricia Ryan Marcy of Oakley, Kan.; and numerous nieces nephews and extended family and friends
Was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Tom Ryan; and his brother-in-law, Jim Woydziak
Memorials: Prince of Peace Catholic Church for future garden and landscaping projects
Kearney Hub, 22 January 2022
SCHUSTER, Orville Francis, 88, of Kearney died Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022, at CHI Health Good Samaritan in Kearney
Funeral Mass: Tuesday at St. James Catholic Church
Burial: Kearney Cemetery with military honors
Born: July 15, 1933, near Tecumseh
Parents: Edward and Lucy (Wistuba) Schuster
Was the third born in a family of seven children; attended country school near St. Mary, was a 1952 graduate of St. Bernards Academy (Lourdes High School) in Nebraska City
Military: entered U.S. Army, May 1953, served two years in Sailzburg, Austria; honorably discharged in 1955
Returned home to Hamilton County and the Aurora area; worked at Shaneyfeld Produce and then Jones Motor Co.
Married: Oct. 12, 1957, Elaine Masur; had four children together
Moved to Gibbon, 1969, worked at Smith Implement; in 1972 with brother Vernon, bought Smith Implement, and it became Schuster Implement for the next 40 years, sold the business and retired; moved to Kearneyh in 2013
Activities: an active member of the planning commission in Gibbon and the Chamber of Commerce for many years; became a member of St. James Catholic Church in Kearney in 1981; served as a Eucharistic Minister and on various committees at St. James; member of the Knights of Columbus; volunteered at Good Samaritan Hospital as Communion Ministry as long as his health allowed him; loved his family and his grandchildren were an added joy
Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Elaine Schuster of Kearney; children, Denise (Tom Stewart) Schuster of Kearney, Edward (Janelle Clifton) Schuster of Kearney, Roger (Kelli) Schuster of Gibbon, and Beth (Marty) Thoman of Papillion; grandchildren, Darcie (Joe) Ramirez, Lauren (Keith) Williams, Nicole (Ty) Leonard, Bailee (Tom) Knott, Luke Schuster, Regan (Isaac) VanMetre, Dillon (Jacy) Thoman and Danni Schuster; great-grandchildren, Caleese Ramirez, Amelia and Jameson Williams, Bo and Beckham Leonard and another expected in May; brothers, Vernon (Marguerite) Schuster, Virgil Schuster, Dennis (Marie) Schuster, Ron (Betty Albers) Schuster; sister-in-law, JoAnne (Russell) Hans; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends
Was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Gene and wife, Lois; sister, Virginia Monaghan and husband, Jerry; sister-in-law, Marlene Schuster; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Felix and Veronica Masur; brother-in-law, Melvin Masur and wife, Jo Ann; and nephew, Daniel Masur
Kearney Hub, 12 February 2022
SHIELDS Kenneth "Ray", 63, of Miller died Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022, at CHI Health Good Samaritan in Kearney
Funeral Saturday at Countryside Christian Church in Kearney
Mortuary: O'Brien Straatmann Redinger
Born: July 31, 1958, in Clarinda, Iowa
Parents: Kenneth and Phyllis (Larabee) Shields
Received his education from South Page Community Schools; as a young boy and through his young adult life, enjoyed the rodeo circuit; was born a cowboy from the start and enjoyed breaking horses, riding a bucking bronc or saddling up for a trail ride
Married: July 2, 1976, Jolene "Jodie" Stogdill; had eight children together
Worked in construction all his life;
Was known as Cowboy or Ray; never knew a stranger and was always willing to help those in need; loved his God, family, church family at Countryside Christian Church and countless others; ended his battle with ALS and dementia and continued his care for others by organ and tissue donation
Survivors include his wife, Jodie Shields of Miller; children: son, Justen Shields and wife, Tammy and their children, Dillon, Tyler (Cameron), Brett, Brittany and Destiny; son, Jacob Shields and wife, Stasha and their child, Morgan; daughter, Shaley Stithem and husband, Kyle and their children, Ella, Beda, Hattie, and Lyla; son, Jared Shields and wife, Iris and their children, Isaiah (Ashley), Isaac, Carter, and Izzy; son, Josh Shields and wife, Jessica and their children, Paul and Jada; daughter, Lindsay Reitz and husband, Kenneth and their children, Gracie, Aaron, Noah, Faith, Hope, Joy, and Gideon; daughter, Noelle Verzal and husband, Brandon and their children, Emrie, Baby Boy; son, Jordan Shields and wife, Kirsten and their children, Kali and Eden; mother, Phyllis Shields of Clarinda, Iowa; brother, Ronnie Shields; sisters, Sandy (Mike) Alexander, Deb (Don) Argo, and Pam Sittner
Was preceded in death by his father; and brother, Randy Shields
Kearney Hub, 11 February 2022
WARNER, Douglas L., 62, of Kearney died Friday, Jan. 21, 2022, at Kearney Regional Medical Center
Private memoral service: Friday
Celebration of life and inurnment: later
Mortuary: O'Brien Straatmann Redinger
Born: Jan. 9, 1960, in Omaha
Parents: Ivan Duane and Elaine May (Gregg) Warner
Survivors include his son Josh Warner; daughter Breanne Warner of Kearney; siblings, Melodie Stewart of Loomis and Dale Warner of Grand Island; and one granddaughter
Kearney Hub, 25 January 2022
WIENS, Lois A., 76, of Kearney died Monday, Jan. 24, 2022, at CHI Health Lakeside Hospital in Omaha
Funeral: Saturday at Kearney First United Methodist Church
Interment: Kearney Cemetery
Mortuary: O'Brien Straatmann Redinger
Born: Nov. 11, 1945, in Hastings
Parents: Vincent and Elsie (Karnatz) Erickson
Was raised in Hastings, graduated from Hastings High School, 1964; earned her elementary education degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1968
Married: June 8, 1968, to Melvin R. Wiens in Hastings
Raised her family, then taught 19 years at Glenwood Elementary School in Kearney, retired in 2008
Activities: was very involved in the community as a member of P.E.O. and Random Acts of Kindness group; was active in the church, in Friendship Sunday School Class and numerous activities; treasure her grandchildren; made her "Brody Blankets," donating more than 800 blankets to various people and organizations
Survivors include her husband, Mel Wiens; daughters, Becky (Ryan) Bertucci of Omaha, Kim (Ryan) Grabenstein of Kearney, and Angie (Tim) Petersen of Gretna; grandchildren, Grant Bertucci, Kaden Grabenstein, Gage Bertucci, Nathan Grabenstein, Beau Petersen, Tate Bertucci, Drake Petersen, and Lily Grabenstein; sister, Jan Plambeck of Kenesaw; brother, Mike (Linda) Erickson of Cozad; sister-in-law, Jeanette Wiens of Ayr; brother-in-law, Wayne Wiens of Grand Island; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends
Was preceded in death by her parents; grandson, Brody Petersen; and brothers-in-law, Duane Plambeck and Glen Wiens
Memorials: Compass Nebraska, Kearney First United Methodist Church or Kearney Area Habitat for Humanity
Kearney Hub, 26 January 2022