Community News

Calendar of Events

English language outreach, 10 a.m., Congregational Christian Church

Carol Newsom, native of David City who graduated from DCHS and went on to study special education at UNL will be returning to her hometown to give witness to her outreach to those who do not know the English language and wish to learn. On August 30th at 10 am she will share her faith in this outreach at the Congregational-Christian Church at 696 5th Street in David City, NE at morning worship. Pastor Jack McDonald invites all who are interested to come to this service. Carol Newsom donates her time and effort from her Lincoln, NE kitchen teaching English to people from Nepal, China, Belarus, and Siberia. Her calling to this ministry came as a result of a challenge by her pastor in Lincoln to do something for her community – to make a difference. Immediately after the service a covered dish luncheon will be provided to give time to visit with Carol and enjoy the fellowship of those present. Donations to the covered dish meal will be graciously accepted. If you have any questions or wish to RSVP, please call Jack McDonald at 402-538-3270.

Musical Soiree on the Square

Musical Soiree on the Square The third annual Musical Soiree on the Square in David City on Thursday, Aug. 5, is again offering free entertainment in the form of music, comedy and carriage rides. Beginning at 5 p.m. east of the courthouse on 5th Street one can enjoy the foot tapping music and humor of Bill Andel, Vern Dvorak and other musicians. Food stands will be located in the general area with the hosting nonprofit groups using their concessions and sales as fundraisers for worthy causes. Horse drawn carriage rides begin at 6 p.m. Also at 6 p.m. music clinic students taught by Mistyn Kozisek will perform in Bone Creek Museum of Agrarian Art at 575 E Street. Normally open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the museum will remain open into the evening. From 7-8:30 p.m. the Crabgrass Trio will fill the air-conditioned little church at 695 E Street with the best of western and bluegrass music. Joan Wells, Kris Simon and Mike Paul combine their vocals with guitar, stand up bass and banjo. Activities by other groups including the Thorpe will be detailed by sponsoring groups.

Re-scheduled Butler County Board of Supervisors Meeting

The County Board of Supervisors moved its June 15 meeting to 9 a.m. June 22 to allow for more time for bid summissions on equipment purchases. The board returns to its regular schedule of meetings next month.

Shopping Extravaganza to benefit Desiree Dancers NYC trip, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., library

A fundraiser for Desiree's Dancers to travel to New York City next spring. Find gifts for your holiday shopping needs. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8, Hruska Memorial Public Library

Todd Green to perform 7:30 p.m.

Todd Green, multi-instrumentalist, returns to David City to perform at 7:30 p.m. Former Baptist Church, 695 E. St. Clinic especially suited for young percussionists. Performance follows events at Bone Creek Museum of Agrarian Art.

8 a.m. to noon, DC Optimist youth fishing workshop

David City Optimists Club will host a youth fishing workshop from 8 a.m. to noon at the David City Park Lakes. Bring your own gear. Some gear will be provided by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Free. Contact Larry Peirce at 367-3054.

Commodity Clinic, Blue Valley Community Action

FREE FOOD AVAILABLE FOR SENIORS, WOMEN & CHILDREN The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) distribution clinic will be held in David City at 416 E Street on Thursday, May 14, 2009. An appointment is required. Clients picking up commodities are to use the alley entrance. CSFP provides nutritious foods to persons who are age 60 or greater, children until they reach age six, and women who are pregnant or have had a baby in the past year. Qualified persons must live in Nebraska and be under the income guidelines. Foods given through CSFP include canned fruits, vegetables and juice; canned and dry milk; hot and cold cereals; canned meat; peanut butter and dried beans; cheese; pasta or potatoes. To schedule an appointment or obtain information on how to qualify for CSFP, please call Blue Valley Community Action at 402-729-2278 or 402-367-4347.

DC Optimists Bike Ride In The Park

The David City Optimist Club is sponsoring a bike ride in the park for kids of all ages and their parents. 10 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday, July 17. Police officers will be on hand to talk about traffic safety and the rules of the road for bicycle riders. Four Corners Health Department also will be on hand to talk about bicycle safety. Optimists "Bring Out The Best in Kids"

Michael Pujado Band, 7 p.m., Aquinas HS

The Butler County Arts Council presents the Michael Pujado Band at 7 p.m. at Aquinas High School, south Highway 15, David City. The band features some of Omaha's best Latin jazz musicians. $8 suggested donation at the door. One number will showcase a youth percussion demo from the arts residency with Michael Pujado.

Regional Artists Showcase, 3 p.m. St. Luke's UMC

The Butler County Arts Council presents the Good Ol' Gospel Singers with Jack McDonald. Admission at the door: Adults, $8, children, $5. Arts council members free. 3. p.m. at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 620 D St. David City.

Soup'er Bowl, 4 to 7:30 p.m., KC Hall

Genesis Personal Development Center Inc. celebrates the l0th anniversary of Souper Bowl this year. This year's event will take place on Thursday, Oct. l5, at the KC Hall, serving cheese, chili and beef noodle soups from 4 to - 7:30 p.m.

DC Optimist Toy Show, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

David City Optimists will host its first toy show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25 at the Senior Center, 6th and D streets.

Butler County Fair

The Butler County Fair runs from July 21 to July 25 at the fairgrounds in David City. The fair parade is 5 p.m. July 25. The fair presents nightly entertainment and community gatherings. Watch The Banner-Press for more fair notices and advertising.

Butler County Fair Parade, 5 p.m., David City

The Butler County Fair Parade, themed "The Butler County Fair - A Wild Ride Since 1875" starts at 5 p.m. Parade registration and lineup begins at 2 p.m. at Fifth and Kansas to Iowa Street. Parade route is northbound on Fifth Street from C to L Street, then on to the Butler County Fairgrounds. Pre-registration is requested by July 19. Call the Butler County Chamber of Commerce Office at 367-4238.

Dwight Czech Festival

The Dwight Czech Festival starts on Friday, July 16 and concludes on Sunday with the Biggest Small Town Parade. Enjoy Czech music and food all weekend. Watch The Banner-Press for announcements about this festival.

Farmers Market, 3 to 6 p.m.

The Farmers Market vendors are open at the courthouse parking lot, Fourth and D streets, David City, from 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays and 7 to 11 a.m. Thursdays through early October.

Farmers Market, 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The Farmers Market is open from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursday, and 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, through early October. The market is in the courthouse parking lot at Fourth and D streets, David City.

Recycling Center open, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Butler County Recycling Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays and 3 to 6 p.m. Thursdays. The center is at 561 N. 1st Street, or four blocks west of Fourth and E streets.

"Simply Agrarian" at Bone Creek

Simply Agrarian: Selections from Great Plains Art Museum, May 13-August 30, 2009. Bone Creek Museum of Agrarian Art. Reception 1 pm Saturday May 23, 2009. Floyd F. Nichols: Knife Maker, Metal Sculptor, Cowboy, May 22- July 31, 2009, Bone Creek Museum of Agrarian Art in the Legion Gallery. 10am-4pm, Wed-Sat; 1pm-4pm, Sun. Appointments & tours available. Phone: (402)367-4488. 575 E Street, David City, NE, 68632 (I-80 exit #379, north 33 miles on Hwy 15 to E Street, right 1.5 blocks).

10 a.m. collections for Genesis House

The Black House of David City Middle School will collect personal care items at Dale's Food Pride and Didier's Grocery in David City. The students will collect personal care items, soap, paper products and cleaning products. Donations go to help the families served by Geneis Personal Development Center. Known as Genesis House, the center helps victims of domestic violence in recovery and rebuilding their lives.

8th Annual Pride and Performance Show, Brainard, free

Entry 8 a.m. to noon, show 12 - 4 p.m. Annual Pride and Performance Car show, sponsored by the Brainard Car Club Pre-register by calling Tyler Fortik at 402.545.2511 or email to bob@brainardcarclub.org Pre register for $10; day of event, $15. Free admission to the public.

Aquinas Spring Salad Luncheon 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

14th Annual Aquinas Spring Salad Luncheon, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.,
Aquinas High School.
Concert Band, Show Choir, Concert Choir. Proceeds to Aquinas Music Department Adults $5, Carryouts $5.50, Chidlren under 12, $2.50 Tickets available at the door.

Brainard July 4 Celebration

Games, activities at ball field, 6:30 p.m. Pelan Family Fireworks at dusk.

Butler County Chamber of Commerce luncheon

Butler County Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon Winfield's 467 D.St David City Advance notice of attendance requested for meal count. Contact: Chamber Office 402.367.4238 The luncheon is held the second Wednesday each month except for January.

City Council Meeting

City Council meeting 7 p.m. 557 N. 4th St. Agenda available online

DC Government subcommittee, 5:30 p.m.

The City Council's government subcommittee meets at 5:30 p.m. on the fouth Tuesday of each month.

David City City Wide Garage Sales

Garage sales citywide April 30, May 1,2 See the classified section to locate sale addresses and locations.

David City Middle School "Walk for Warmth"

David City Middle School students will conduct a door-to-door fundraising campaign on Wednesday, Jan. 28, in partnership with the Black Hills Cares Program. The energy assistance program is administered by the Salvation Army and the proceeds will be available for use by Butler County families needing financial assistance with energy costs. Black Hills Energy will match the proceeds of the campaign dollar-for-dollar. Many of the area retailers are supporting the event. The stores will have canisters and their customers can contribute by dropping their pocket change into the jars. HeatShare, a customer service outreach program of Black Hills Energy, has provided more than $600,000 of assistance to Nebraska residents since its inception in 2001. The funds are available to help lower-income families with energy costs, including natural gas, electricity, fuel oil, propane and wood. Funds may also be used for weatherization and home heating/cooling equipment repair. If residents have concerns about paying energy bills, they should first contact their utilities and make payment arrangements, if possible. If it is determined that payment assistance is essential, the next contact for Butler County residents would be the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services in Seward at 402-643-6614. See the Jan. 21 edition of The Banner-Press for more information about the fundraising effort.

David Place Easter Celebration 2:30 p.m.

David Place Easter Celebration, 2:30 p.m., David Place Care Center, 260 S. 10, David City

Hruska Memorial Library 14th Birthday party, 5-7 p.m.

Celebrate the Hruska Memorial Public Library's 14th birthday from 5 to 7 p.m. Hotdogs, cookie, chips and a drink, $2 to benefit Friends of the LIbrary. Staff from the Henry Doorly Zoo will present a special program, "Ocean Life" at 6 p.m.

July 4 in Rising City

Ice Cream social, 1-3 p.m., Community Hall; Free Concert, The Nebraska Opry Cast, 2-5 p.m., Park; Firemen barbecue supper, 5-7 p.m., Fire Truck rides, raffle after barbecue; Home town bingo, 7 p.m. to dark, Community Hall. At dark, RCFD fireworks display.

Memorial Day Services

Legion Posts in David City , Brainard and Dwight will conduct Memorial Day services at cemeteries and other locations across the county. Contact The Banner-Press to list your event in the calendar news@thebanner-press.com 402.367.3054

Spaghetti Dinner 5-7 p.m., Senior Center

The Butler County Senior Services Program, David City Optimists and David City Senior Citizens will host a spaghetti dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. Bake sale, raffle, drawings for pizes and a lot of fun. Tickets available at BC Senior Center, 592 D St. Contact: 402.367.6131

DCPS moves forward on elementary addition

By Larry Peirce
Banner-Press Editor

The David City Public Schools Board hopes to be on track for breaking ground this fall on a new addition to the elementary school. The board voted unanimously on Monday night to authorize Superintendent Jerry Phillips to approach the City Council and ask for vacating of Eighth Street, which stands where a new gymnasium would be built.

Before the board got into the business of an official vote, School Board President Vic Thoendel asked for a consensus.

"Does anyone have any serious concern about going forward?" Thoendel asked.
Board members responded, no.

The board started considering the addition plans in February, noting that its estimate at the time, $2 million, could be raised under "Build America Bonds" approved under federal economic stimulus measures. The district board can vote to approve a property tax levy up to 5.2 cents per $100 of assessed valuation. No public vote is necessary.

Under federal stimulus guidelines, projects must serve to help stimulate the economy. For example, the projects must use American steel and other domestically made materials.
The city has already acquired the lot on the west side of Eighth Street and razed an old house that was vacant for years.

Also on Monday night, the board authorized Phillips to continue efforts to purchase the next lot to the west, at 768 E Street, to square up the available property and provide space for parking.

The board also approved two other measures: continuing to employ Davis Design Architecture and Engineering of Lincoln. The district's bonding agent, D.A. Davidson of Lincoln, is organizing the revenue bonds.

The school district will be contacting the City Planning Commission and the City Council in coming weeks to request the necessary public process to close Eighth Street north of E Street.

The board heard from Paul Greiger of D.A. Davidson, who estimated that the district could raise $2.5 million on a bond, which would pay off the 2005 bond issued for heating and air conditioning improvements and cover the cost of the addition over a bond that would be retired in 2030.

Michael Wachal of Davis Designs brought the next news: The estimated construction cost of the additions would be $2,230,767. Additional costs of architectural design fees of $133,846 and civil engineering fees of $15,000 would put the cost at $2,379,613.

Wachal said that the district could see a savings under the estimated cost because of competition by contractors. Some bids come in at 2 to 3 percent lower than expected, others as much as 15 percent lower.

"Three percent is a conservative estimate," he said.
The district board can vote to approve a property tax levy up to 5.2 cents per $100 of assessed valuation.

If the project comes to fruition, DCPS would be among several schools in the area that have two gymnasiums. Others in the area are Malcolm, Milford, Shelby and Cross County.

Of the 10,200-square-foot addition, the gymnasium would occupy 7,329 square feet. The rest would be a new administrative office, art room, special education room, two restrooms, custodian room, physical education office and two locker rooms.

The addition would be attached to the west end of the current building, with a commons area straight west of the current west door. The gymnasium, with seating along the west side, would run north and south.

The front door of the building would face the southwest. A parking lot west of the gymnasium may also provide a drop off zone for parents, while the driveway south of the building would be reserved for buses. Eighth Street would be closed and the railroad crossing northwest of the school would be removed.

The school would continue to use the kitchen and dining facility for all of the students.
Back in February, Phillips addressed the need for space.

The old gymnasium, located in the lower level of the high school, has its limitations and also poses some safety concerns. It does not have public seating and is used for physical education for elementary students.

"It's not the safest environment," Phillips said. "Even getting into the gym has its limitations."
As for the activity center, which has the gymnasium, stage and wrestling practice room, it also is used as a classroom.

"The gym is a classroom during the day," Phillips said. "Every time we have something that occurs there, it requires teachers to move their class."

A second gym would allow for fewer interruptions of physical education.
Phillips said the rise in childhood obesity is a factor making schools reconsider their physical activities and facilities for physical education.

As for classrooms Phillips said that the elementary school currently has some space limitations.

Some class offerings, such as art, have to be moved into the regular classrooms, and some classes have been held in the teachers' workroom.

Early on, the school board looked into building a walking track above the new gymnasium, but it was not included in the current plans. The engineers said the track would have to be extended to the space above the locker rooms and custodial rooms so that it would not be a narrow oval.

Such a track could be opened for public use, as has been done at Cross County School southwest of Stromsburg. The Cross County walking track is used almost daily by local people looking for a place to exercise out of the weather, he said.




DCPS moves forward on elementary addition

Musical Soiree on the Square

The Musical Soiree on the Square, scheduled to be held on David City's downtown square July 30, will feature new events and provide much-needed funds for the Thorpe Opera House renovation. Last summer, the Butler County Arts Council sponsored the first annual Musical Soiree, and those attending experienced a Butler County Music Clinic, Studio Trio, performers Bill Andel, Vern Dvorak, Barb McClintic, carriage rides by Sonora Carriage Company, and story hour with Jarod Ockander.  Registrations available at Butler County Chamber of Commerce.  This collaboration is held in the on-going effort to raise funds for the Thorpe Opera House renovations. All proceeds from the a burger bash and Butler County Idol will be used to restore a beautiful piece of downtown David City to its former glory. Submitted by Stephanie Summers

Aquinas State Football Playoff game at Ponca

Aquinas at Ponca Time to be announced

Recycling Center open, 1 to 3 p.m.

The Butler County Recycling Center, 561 N 1st St (Four blocks west of Fourth and E Streets) will be open from 1 to 3 p.m. on Thursdays to alleviate the overload of dropoffs on Saturdays. The Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Births

July 2010 Births

Breckynne Klement


Marvin and Jenifer (Vasa) Klement of Ulysses are the parents of a daughter, Breckynne Savannah-Denice, born July 5, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center.
She weighed 4 pounds, 14 ounces.
She has three sisters, Annikka, Cambria and Elyse.
Grandparents are Stephen and Deborah Vasa of Lincoln, Emil Klement of Ulysses and Maxine Klement of Columbus.
Great-grandparents are George Vasa of Ogallala, the late Phyllis Vasa and Beverly Shepherd of Oshkosh and the late Buck Shepherd.

Caleb Havlovic


ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. -- Ron and Marcia Havlovic of St. Augustine, Fla., are the parents of a son, Caleb George, born July 1, 2010.
He weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces.
He has two brothers, Owen and Brennan.
Grandparents are Rennie and Martin VanderWal of Canada, Mary Havlovic of David City and the late William Havlovic.

Graven Hladky


Sam and Wendy (Fiala) Hladky of David City are the parents of a son, Graven Ryder, born July 9, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
He weighed 7 pounds, 6 ounces.
He has a brother, Jacob, 9, and a sister, Hayliegh, 3.
Grandparents are Richard and Sharon Hladky of Columbus, Priscilla Fiala of David City and the late Bill Fiala.
Great-grandmother is Wandea Fiala of David City.

Sammuel Schultz



LINCOLN - Ben and Sarah (Hohenfeldt) Schultz of Lincoln are the parents of a son, Sammuel John, born July 13, 2010, at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.
He weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces.
He has a brother, Maxxwel Louis, 2.
Grandparents are Jerry and Mary Hohenfeldt of Lincoln and Randy and Mary Schultz of David City.
Great-grandparents are Bill Hohenfeldt of Lincoln, Dorothy Schultz of David City, the late Don Schultz, Rose Samek of David City and the late Anton Samek.



Landon Woehler


NORFOLK - Matt and Kara (Helgoth) Woehler of Wayne are the parents of a son, Landon William, born July 12, 2010, at Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk.
He weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces.
He has a sister, Karlee, 10, and a brother, Brayden, 3.
Grandparents are Bernie and Tami Helgoth of Bruno and Robert and Mary Woehler of Wayne.
Great-grandparents are Gene and Donna Docekal of David City and Dorothy Redel of Wayne.

















May 2009 Births

 

Calvin Kirby

OMAHA - Chris and Karol (Dvorak) Kirby of Omaha are the parents of a son, Calvin Thomas, born May 27, 2009, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha.

He weighed 6 pounds, 7 ounces.

Grandparents are Lyle and Karen Dvorak of Brainard and John and Mary Sue Kirby of David City.

Great-grandparents are Elsie Dvorak of Brainard, Margaret Rezac of Valparaiso, Margaret Helberg of Edina, Minn., and Geri Carlson of Plymouth, Minn.

 Reagan Petrik

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa - Dustin and Randi (Eggers) Petrik of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, are the parents of a daughter, Reagan Michelle.

She weighed 7 pounds, 10 ounces.

She has a brother, Devin, 2.

Grandparents are Mike and Judy Warneke of Battle Creek, Randy Eggers of Wisner and Dan and Barb Petrik of David City.

Great-grandparents are Mabel Siegert of Norfolk, Eddie and Jerri Eggers of Wisner and Dwaine and Selma Schmit of Bellwood.

 

Montana Thies
Nicholas Thies

Matthew Ray and Cassandra Lynn (Stanek) Thies of David City are the parents of twins born May 30, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Montana Rayne weighed 5 pounds, 5 ounces, and Nicholas James weighed 5 pounds, 11 ounces.

They have a brother, Brandon Michael, 10.

 

Grandparents are Theresa and George Throne of David City, Gary and Penny Mornson of Syracuse, Chalmers and Becky Steele of Arvada, Colo., and the late James Stanek of Brainard.

 

Great-grandparents are Mildred Horacek of Plattsmouth, Barbara Thies of Wahoo, Carole Smith of Denver, Chalmers Steele Jr. of Aurora, Colo., and George Throne Sr. of Edinboro, Pa.

 


Jackson Harris

Joey and Amber (Paseka) Harris of Linwood are the parents of a son, Jackson Lee, born May 25, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 8 pounds 12 ounces.

He has a brother, Riley Paseka, 7, and a sister, Alexis Harris, 2.

Grandparents are Randy and Tina Paseka of Prague and Tracey and Bryan Konent and Roy and Denise Harris, all of Linwood.

Great-grandparents are Dennis and Vera Kracman and Dorothy Harris, all of Bellwood, Rita Paseka of Prague and Janice Eaton of Linwood.

Alayna Johnson

Eric and Rachel (Palensky) Johnson are the parents of a daughter, Alayna Renee, born May 22, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 8 pounds 3 ounces.

She has two brothers, Tyler, 14, and Brayden, 3, and a sister, Emily, 4.

Grandparents are Verl and Cindy Johnson of Albion and Leonard and Loretta Palensky Jr. of David City.

Great-grandparents are Leonard and Goldie Palensky Sr. of David City.

Thomas Morgan

OMAHA - Todd and Kim Morgan of Omaha are the parents of a son, Thomas Martin, born May 27, 2009, at Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha.

He weighed 6 pounds 14 ounces.

Grandparents are Duane and Mary Morgan of Gillette, Wyo., and Mark and Dolly Stara of Ulysses.

Great-grandparents are Mary Bartek of David City and Lee and Irene Stara of Ulysses.


Landon Leu 

DENVER - Steven and Wendy (Makovicka) Leu of Denver are the parents of a son, Landon Steven, born May 6, 2009, at St. Anthony's Central Hospital in Denver.

He weighed 8 pounds 8 ounces.
Grandparents are Randy and Karen Leu of Loveland, Colo., and Steven and Dianne Makovicka of Brainard.
Great-grandparents are Louise Leu of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Marge Woolsey of Staplehurst and the late Frank Woolsey.


Emma Hlavac

COLUMBUS - E.J. and Beth (Mowers) Hlavac of Garrison are the parents of a daughter, Emma Julia, born May 2, 2009, at Columbus Community Hospital.
She weighed 7 pounds 8 ounces.
She has a brother, Hunter, 3.
Grandparents are Marc and Margo Hlavac of Garrison and Steve and Susan Mowers of David City.
Great-grandparents are Karl and Marianne Ziethen of Garrison, Frank and Marilyn Blazek of Schuyler, Linda Hlavac of David City, the late Merle Hlavac, and Rudy and Myrler Strunc and Ruth Kelly.
Esther Remmers of Garrison is the great-great-grandmother.

May 2010 Births

Huxton Bohac


LINCOLN -- Ted and Kristie (Kocian) Bohac of Valparaiso are the parents of a son, Huxton Theodore, born May 7, 2010, at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln.
He weighed 8 pounds, 14 ounces.
He joins a sister, Olivia, 8, and brothers, Ridge, 13, Dalton, 10, Lane, 5, and Chase, 1.
Grandparents are Tom and Diane Kocian of Dwight and Marvin and Jan Bohac of Valparaiso.
Great-grandmothers are Glee Komenda of Brainard and Stacie Bohac of Wahoo.

Lena Sabata

NORTH PLATTE - Mark and Kalee (Graham) Sabata of McCook are the parents of a daughter, Lena Ann, born May 7, 2010, at North Platte Regional Medical Center in North Platte.

She weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces.

Grandparents are John and Rita Sabata of David City and Dave and Kay Graham of Alliance.

Great-grandparents are John and Marce Sabata and Ludy Birkel, all of David City, the late Clarence Birkel, Wilton and Ramona Dorris of Lemoyne and Delma Pierce of Rapid City, S.D.

Ian Foxhoven

YANKTON, S.D. - Justin and Erin (Wilson) Foxhoven of Crofton are the parents of a son, Ian Clarence, born May 8, 2010, in Yankton, S.D.

He weighed 8 pounds, 9 ounces.

Grandparents are John and Teresa Wayne of Phillips, Rod and Jeanne Wilson of Lincoln and Galen and Brenda Foxhoven of Crofton.

Great-grandparents are Ludy Birkel of David City, the late Clarence Birkel and Marlene Boecker and Gerald and Ruth Foxhoven, all of Crofton.

Blake Rutjens with photo

NORFOLK -- Travis and Christina (Schmit) Rutjens of Tilden are the parents of a son, Blake Joseph, born May 5, 2010, at Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk.

He weighed 6 pounds, 12 ounces.

He has a brother, Landon, 2.

Grandparents are Don and Laura Rutjens of Tilden and Keith and Beth Schmit of Rising City.

Great-grandparents are Leon and Henrietta Rutjens and George and Barbara Fox, all of Tilden.

Sarah Pearson

OMAHA - Jamie and Nancy (Eller) Pearson of Blair are the parents of a daughter, Sarah Bridget, born May 12, 2010, at Bergan Mercy Medical Center in Omaha.

She weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces.

She has a sister, Mary, 13, and a brother, Matthew, 9.

Grandparents are Frank and Eleanor Eller of David City and Marvin and Laura Pearson of Omaha.

 Mikaela Vandenberg


WATERLOO, Iowa - Chad and Sara (Jedlicka) Vandenberg of Dike, Iowa, are the parents of a daughter, Mikaela Ann, born May 21, 2010, in Waterloo, Iowa.
She weighed 8 pounds, 2 ounces.
She has a brother, Tyler, 6, and a sister, Allison, 3.

Grandparents are Russell and Diane Bush of Utica and Greg and Cathy Vandenberg of Seward.
Great-grandparents are Fred and Joan Vandenberg of David City.
 
 

Grayson Meysenburg

OMAHA -- Jarod and Jamee Meysenburg of Omaha are the parents of a son, Grayson Sawyer, born May 3, 2010, at Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha.

He weighed 8 pounds, 7 ounces.

He has a sister, Rylee.

Grandparents are Ed and Rita Meysenburg of David City, Linda and Arlyn Thayn of Lincoln and the late Jim McFadden.

Great-grandmothers are Ruth McFadden of North Platte and Cleetis Thayn of Arapahoe.

October 2009 Births

Tyler Topil

Charles and Susan (Hain) Topil of David City are the parents of a son, Tyler Lawrence, born Oct. 10, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
He weighed 5 pounds, 11 ounces.
He has two sisters, Karen, 17, and Jill, 16, and a brother, Travis, 11.
Grandparents are LeRoy and Margaret Topil of Rising City and Bev Hain of David City.
Great-grandmother is Clara Meysenburg of David City.

Mariah Lukert


Curtis Lukert and Morganna Dischinger of Bellwood are the parents of a daughter, Mariah Jean, born Oct. 11, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 8 pounds, 4 ounces.
She has a brother, Blake, 3.
Grandparents are Mike and Peggy Woita of Linwood and Allen and Wendy Lukert of Blair.
Great-grandparents are Wayne and Joyce Lukert of David City.

Rylee Thoendel


LINCOLN - Marcus and Carrie (Schmit) Thoendel of Bellwood are the parents of a daughter, Rylee Jade, born Oct. 5, 2009, at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.
She weighed 6 pounds, 12 ounces.
She has a brother, Alexander, 3, and a sister, Natalia, 1.
Grandparents are Jan and Tom Adams of Lincoln, Dr. Vic and Ruth Thoendel of David City and Keith and Beth Schmit of Rising City.

Gregory Lilly

LINCOLN - Michael and Sue (Eller) Lilly of Ceresco are the parents of a son, Gregory James, born Oct. 9, 2009, at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.
He weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce.
He has three brothers, Thomas, 11, David, 7, and John, 5, and two sisters, Katie, 9, and Lizzie, 3.
Grandparents are Frank and Eleanor Eller of David City, Betty Lilly of Lyons and the late Charles Lilly.

Griffin Hancock


LINCOLN - Mike and Tammy (Jakub) Hancock of Wahoo are parents of a son, Griffin Jakub, born Oct. 24, 2009, at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.
He weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces.
He has a brother, Owen, 5, and a sister, Addysen, 17 months.
Grandparents are William and Mary Hancock of Wahoo and Ron and Jean Jakub of Bruno.
Great-grandparents are Wilfred and Leola Kozisek of David City.

Lillian Huntley


OMAHA -- Kerry and Janene (Sedlak) Huntley of Omaha are parents of a daughter, Lillian Rae, born Oct 21, 2009, at Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha.
She weighed 8 pounds, 15.5 ounces.
She has a sister, Emma Rose, almost 3.
Grandparents are Ron and Donna Sedlak of Ulysses and Ken and Mary Huntley of
Columbus.
Great-grandparents are Milton and Vera Mueller of Walnut, Iowa, Gladys Sedlak of
Omaha and Bernice Kudera of Plainview.
 

Kaden Kobza


Nick and Michelle (Coufal) Kobza of Bellwood are the parents of a daughter, Kaden Patricia, born Oct. 26, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 6 pounds.
She has a brother, Adam, deceased.
Grandparents are Milton and Patsy Kobza of David City and Dan and Patty Coufal of Dwight.
Great-grandparents are Helen Novak of David City and Richard and Marcella Coufal of Dwight.

August 2009 Births

Caden Ingalls

Casey and Molly (Lensch) Ingalls of Shelby are the parents of a son, Caden Thomas, born Aug. 5, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces.

He has a brother, Bailey, 4.

Grandparents are Brad and Deb Lensch of David City and Tom and Cindy Ingalls of Shelby.

Great-grandparents are Janet Hiemer of Columbus, Tom and Janell Anderson of Neligh, the late Mervin Hiemer of Shelby and the late Homer and Helen Ingallsm, all of Shelby, and the late William and Treva Lensch of Exira, Iowa.

Paul Tebbe

Greg and Charlotte (Macke) Tebbe of David City are the parents of a son, Paul Matthew, born Aug. 3, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces.

He has a brother, Anthony, 11, and a sister, Bethany, 8.

Grandparents are Tony and Naoma Macke of Creighton and Dave and Roselyn Graybeal of Watertown, S.D.

Great-grandmothers are Kathryn Macke of Oelwein, Iowa, and Eva Bauer of Lincoln.
 

Emily Lyons

Galen and Lisa (Andrews) Lyons of Dwight are the parents of a daughter, Emily Joy, born Aug. 11, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 9 pounds 10 ounces.

She has a sister, Abby, 10, and three brothers, Andy, 8, Alex, 7, and Ben, 5.
Grandparents are Ron and Monica Lyons of David City and Norm and Bonnie Andrews of Dwight.
Great-grandparents are Albin and Norma Stara of David City and Lucetta Andrews of Arapahoe.

Margaret Pekarek


Ryan Andrew and Kathryn Ashley (Milius) Pekarek of Dwight are the parents of a daughter, Margaret Ann, born Aug. 8, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 8 pounds 3 ounces.

She has a brother, Jacob Anton, 2.
Grandparents are Jerome and Norma Pekarek of Dwight and Ken and Kerry Milius of Lincoln.

Great-grandparents are Louise Milius of Lincoln, Mary Pekarek of Dwight, Emil and Mary Janousek of Bee and Kay Morris of Wymore.

Jaelyn Shultz


Justin Kittrell of Columbus and Cindy Shultz of Octavia are the parents of a daughter, Jaelyn Faith, born Aug. 5, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 7 pounds.
Grandparents are Brenda and Kenny Shultz of Octavia.
Great-grandparents are Judy Lauterbach of Octavia and Albin and Gladys Shultz of David City.
 

 

Kloey Pelan

Tim and Erin (Polivka) Pelan of Brainard are the parents of a daughter, Kloey Rose, born Aug. 7, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 7 pounds 3 ounces.

Grandparents are Monica and Lawrence Polivka of Bruno and Dwayne and Kathy Pelan of Brainard.

Great-grandparents are Milo and Lorraine Pelan and Harley and Mary Kost, all of Brainard, Albie Sisel of David City, and the late Cyril Sisel and the late Agnes and Edward Polivka.

Eric Aerni Jr.

Eric Aerni and Mandy Wallingford of Schuyler are the parents of a son, Eric James Jr., born Aug. 19, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 7 pounds 4 ounces.

He has a sister, Mia, 6, and two brothers, Kaden, 10, and Jalan, 2.

Grandparents are Susan Wallingford of Schuyler and the late Terry Wallingford and the late Kelly Aerni.

Great-grandparents are Alice Dietrich of Schuyler, the late Lad Dietrich, Nancy Wallingford, the late Raymond Wallingford and Jerry and Sara Aerni of Columbus.


 

Chase Kuhlman

Kory and Kasey (Osborn) Kuhlman of David City are the parents of a son, Chase Michael, born Aug. 31, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 7 pounds, 1 ounce.

He has a sister, Addison, 2.

Grandparents are Doug and Jeanne' Osborn and Neil and Marlene Kuhlman, all of David City.

Great-grandparents are Fred and Faye Osborn and Thelma Hascall, all of David City, and Adeline Kuhlman of Bloomfield.

 

Alexander, Carter and Judd Nickolite

LINCOLN -- Triplets have been born to Lee and Lisa (Rezac) Nickolite of Bellwood at St. Elizabeth's Health Care Center in Lincoln on Aug. 20, 2009.

Alexander Charles weighed 2 pounds 11 ounces, Carter Thomas weighed 4 pounds

6 ounces, and Judd Joseph weighed 4 pounds 2 ounces.

They have a brother, Spencer Joseph, 3.

Grandparents are Betty and Dale Dowse of David City, Darryl and Joyce Rezac of Murray, Ky., and the late Helen and Virgil "Jud" Nickolite.

Great-grandparents are Helen Jisa of Dwight, the late Lad Jisa, Marie Rezac of Wahoo and the late Joseph Rezac.

 

Births, June 2009

Elijah Janak


Lee and Tina (Rerucha) Janak of David City are the parents of a son, Elijah James, born June 26, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
He weighed 6 pounds, 10 ounces.
Grandparents are Larry and Lori Janak and Rich and Diane Rerucha, all of David City.
Great-grandparents are Lorraine Vidlak and Olga Janak, both of David City, and Betty Rerucha of Bee.

Emmett Kadavy

Kasey and Christina (Palensky) Kadavy of Prague are the parents of a son, Emmett James, born June 28, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City. He weighed 8 pounds.
He has a sister, Isabella Mae.

Grandparents are Ken and Kay Kadavy and Leonard Jr. and Loretta Palensky, all of David City. Great-grandparents are Leonard Sr. and Goldie Palensky of David City.

 

Marnita Spatz

SEWARD - Marc and Tracy Spatz of Brainard are the parents of a daughter, Marnita Caroline, born June 3, 2009, at Seward Memorial Hospital.
She weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces.

She has three sisters: Miranda, 8, Madison 7, and Malorie, 2.
Grandparents are Dwayne and Kathy Pelan and John and Keverne Spatz, all of Brainard. Great-grandparents are Milo and Lorraine Pelan, Harley and Mary Kost and Emil and Carrie Spatz, all of Brainard.

 


Kristin Coufal

Daniel and Barbara (Matulka) Coufal of David City are the parents of a daughter, Kristin Marlene, born June 15, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 8 pounds.

Grandparents are Doug and Joan Matulka of David City and Dan and Patty Coufal of Dwight.

Great-grandparents are Leonard and Marlene Benes and Marlene Nichelson, all of Valparaiso, and Richard and Marcy Coufal of Dwight.

Robert Dalton

Mike and Camille (Ehlers) Dalton of David City are the parents of a son, Robert Xavier, born June 17, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces.

He has three sisters, Emily, 8, Meredith, 5, and Flora, 2, and a brother, John, 6.

Grandparents are Robert and Barbara Ehlers of Leigh, Delane Dalton of Plainview and Joyce Wieneke of Lincoln.

Great-grandmother is Lois Brasch of Wausa.

Aaron Willis

Jeffrey and Kelly (Laughlin) Willis of Shelby are the parents of a son, Aaron Michael, born June 19, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce.

He has a brother, Jacob, 8, and sisters, Emily, 5, and Clare, 2.

Grandparents are Michael and Linda Laughlin of Imogene, Iowa, Larry and Marilyn Arnold of Medford, N.J., and Bill and Mary Willis of New Virginia, Iowa.

Great-grandmothers are Lucille Laughlin of Shenandoah, Iowa, and Beulah Parrish of Paris, Mo.

Justin Dinkelman

LINCOLN - Jeff Dinkelman and Lucy Watts of Lincoln are the parents of a son, Justin Jeffrey, born May 26, 2009, at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.

He weighed 6 pounds, 6 ounces.

Grandparents are Gary and Deb Dinkelman of David City and Russ and Ellen Watts of Gurney, Ill.

Great-grandparents are Sharon Reisdorff of David City and Ervin Dinkelman of York.

Great-great-grandmother is Martha Ebel of David City.

Xander Field

LINCOLN - Amy Greenwood-Field and Tim Field of David City are the parents of a son, Xander Cade, born June 4, 2009, at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln.

He weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces.

He has three brothers, Mike, 19, Levi, 5, and Justice, 2, and a sister, Hailey, 13.

Grandparents are Robert and Rosanna Greenwood of Bellwood and Sue Field of Lincoln.

Great-grandparents are Eva Greenwood of David City and Gary and Jean White of Lincoln.

Braydon Leu

LINCOLN - Ryan and Erica (Fuller) Leu of Lincoln are the parents of a son, Braydon Taylor, born March 30, 2009, at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.

He weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces.

He has a sister, Kiana, 2.

Grandparents are Marlin and Susie Leu of David City, Ron Fuller of Lincoln and the late Rhonda Fuller.

Great-grandparents are Lillian Fuller of Salina, Kan., Effie Steckelberg of Osmond, Norma Brunsilius of Belleville, Kan., and Delores Perril of Grand Island.

Hudson Fortik

WAHOO - Loran and Kristy Fortik of Wahoo are the parents of a son, Hudson Joseph, born April 2, 2009, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha.

He weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces.

Grandparents are Ray and Jan Malousek of Wahoo and LaVern and Elaine Fortik of Brainard.

Great-grandparents are Bob Yarmon and Shirley Van Metre, all of Wahoo, Martha Fortik of Brainard, the late Joe Fortik, the late James and Helen Svoboda of Brainard and the late Ray and Emma Malousek of Weston.

Anna Dinslage

Jon and Kara (Mares) Dinslage of Schuyler are the parents of a daughter, Anna Ray, born June 12, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She has a sister, Clara, 3.

Grandparents are Bruce and Jo Dinslage and Gale and Kathy Mares, all of Schuyler.

Great-grandparents are Ray and Leora Dinslage of Elgin and Bonnie Molle of Grand Island.


 

 

John Meysenburg

Linus and Pamela (Love) Meysenburg of David City are the parents of a son, John Linus, born June 30, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces.

He has a sister, Lydia, 18 months.

Grandparents are John and Hazel Love of Plainville, Kan., Betty Meysenburg of David City and the late Jerome Meysenburg.

Great-grandmother is Velma Faulds of Dodge City, Kan.

Reese Slonecker

T.J. and Lindsay (Pelan) Slonecker of David City are the parents of a daughter, Reese Kameryn, born June 29, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 9 pounds, 10 ounces.

She has two sisters, Breanna, 5, and Sophia, 15 months.

Grandparents are Ivan and Karen Pelan of Schuyler and Cheryl Slonecker and Richard Slonecker, both of David City.

Great-grandmothers are Irene Slonecker and Irene Pelan, both of David City, and Arlene Kracl of Schuyler.

 

July 2009 Births

Rilley Lowe

Andrew and Jennifer (Novak) Lowe of Bellwood are the parents of a daughter, Rilley Jane, born July 6, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 6 pounds, 4 ounces.

She has a brother, Mason Scott, 3.

Grandparents are LaRee and Gary Novak of Rising City and Barb and Tim Kimberling and Heath and Shelly Lowe, all of Columbus.

Great-grandparents are Carolyn Wagner of Shelby, Gene Novak of Rising City and Deanna Sekrya of Columbus.

 

Lana Johns


Jesse and Kristina (Johnson) Johns are the parents of a daughter, Lana Mae, born July 29, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces.
She has a brother, Wesley, 4.
Grandparents are Mickey and Ellen Johnson of Bruno and Jeff and Beth Johns of Loma.
Great-grandparents are Mary Lutrell of Omaha and the late, Ole and Debbie Johnson, Lillie and Vernon Johns, Roy and Ardyce Burton and Melvin and Bonnie Jewett.

Maliyah Schmid


Breanne Schmid of David City is the mother of a daughter, Maliyah Rose, born July 29, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 7 pounds, 5 ounces.
Grandparents are Gary and Deborah Schmid of David City.
Great-grandparents are Dale and Sandra Schmid of Shelby.

Meg Weeder


Mark and Amanda (Ebel) Weeder of Bellwood are the parents of a daughter, Meg Providence, born July 24, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 6 pounds, 11 ounces.
Grandparents are Michael and Fran Ebel of Bellwood and Allen and Sue Weeder of Columbus.
Great-grandparents are Ken Ebel of Columbus, W.A. Fulford of Lubbock, Texas, and Bob Olmer of Humphrey.
 
 

Sadie Nicolas

COLUMBUS -- Chris and Trisha (Gunderson) Nicolas of David City are the parents of a daughter, Sadie Julianne, born July 15, 2009, at Columbus Community Hospital in Columbus.

She weighed 6 pounds, 6 ounces.

She has a brother, Micah, 1.

Grandparents are Lowell and Judy Gunderson of Arlington and Dave and Marilyn Nicolas of Bellwood.

Great-grandparents are Fred and Faye Osborn of David City, the late Pete and Elma Nicolas of Rising City, Phyllis Pearson and the late Leroy Pearson of Minneapolis and the late Carlisle and Alice Gunderson of Albert Lea, Minn.

 

March 2010 Births

Ayla Brokaw

Ryan Brokaw and Tabitha Kozisek of Schuyler are the parents of a daughter, Ayla Clair, born March 1, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces.
She has a sister, Ella Elizabeth, 3.
Grandparents are Mike and Patty Kozisek and Pat and Jeanette Burnett.
Great-grandparents are Bill and Betty Kozisek and Sue Block.

Cyril Kavan

Mike and Heather (Waldman) Kavan of Prague are the parents of a son, Cyril Joseph, born March 3, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
He weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces.
He has a brother, Anthony, 2.
Grandparents are Clarence and Cynthia Waldman of Lincoln and Doug and Christine Kavan of Malmo.
Great-grandparents are Ed and Lucille Kremlacek of Malmo and Vennie and Mary Ann Kavan of Wahoo.
 

Paul Ewert



Joe and Jessica (Jessen) Ewert of Rising City are the parents of a son, Paul Michael Clarence Ewert, born March 9, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces.

He has two sisters, Emily, 4, and Katilyn, 3.Grandparents are Mike Ewert of Bellwood, Billie and Dan Kneifle of Columbus, Jackie Meyer and Chaz Studham of Sedgwick, Colo., and Don and Marlene Jessen of Fairbury.

Great-grandparents are Rosella Jessen of Oshkosh and Clarence Ewert of David City.

Lukas Jisa

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - Nicholas Jisa and Natasha Murphy of Greenwood, Mo., are the parents of a son, Lukas Dale, born March 13, 2010, at Menorah Hospital in Overland Park, Kan.

He weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces.He has a sister, Lauren, 3.

Grandparents are Leonard and Lineah Jisa of Valparaiso and Debbie Ratliff of Lees Summit, Mo.

Great-grandmother is Loretta Jisa of Valparaiso.
 

Derick Sample


Jane Price (Reisdorff) and Jason Dean Sample are the parents of a son, Derick Jay, born March 16, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
He weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces.
He has a sister, Tori Marie Price, 5.

Grandparents are Dan and Leta Reisdorff and Carol and Daren Struebing, all of David City, and Dennis Sample of Hastings.

Great-grandmothers are Sharon Reisdorff and Betty Phillips, both of David City, and Linda Sample of Omaha.


Christine Brecka
 

LINCOLN - Dan and Joanie (Dobesh) Brecka of David City are the parents of a daughter, Christine Rose, born March 3, 2010, at BryanLGH Medical Center in Lincoln.

She weighed 6 pounds, 1 ounce.

Grandparents are Louis and Barb Brecka of Octavia and Roger and Jane Dobesh of David City.

Great-grandparents are Emil and Mary Jansen of David City.

Vienna Thelen

Dallas and Denise (Hoefer) Thelen of Duncan are the parents of a daughter, Vienna LeeAnn Thelen, born March 22, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 7 pounds, 2 ounces.

She has a brother, Cash Edward, 3.

Grandparents are Dennis and Kimberly Hoefer of Columbus and George and Cindy Thelen of Shelby.

Great-grandparents are Jean Krumbach of Shelby, Flora Hoefer of Columbus and Fred and Lois Buchholz of Sutherland.

 

Colton Letts

Jacque Reid and Ben Letts of David City are the parents of a son, Colton John, born March 30, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces.

His siblings are Tristin, 11, Adriannah, 11, Alexis, 9, Madisen, 9, and Addison, 8.

Grandparents are Cyndy and Jerry Stid of Lake City, Mich., Karen and Scott Mackenroth of Cadillac, Mich., and Glen and Vicki Reid of Midland, Mich.

Great-grandparents are Marion Reid of Midland and Tom and Janet Drew of Newport, Mich.

Chase Andrews

FREMONT - Josh and Jenae (Jindra) Andrews of Fremont are the parents of a son, Chase Kenneth, born March 30, 2010, at Fremont Area Medical Center in Fremont.

He weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces.

Grandparents are Ken and Janeen Jindra of Clarkson, Greg Andrews of Fremont and Linda Martinez of Las Cruces, N.M.

Great-grandparents are Bruce and Joyce Rezac of Brainard and Alden and Marilyn Jindra of Clarkson.

Jaydyn Schommer

CHADRON - Joel Schommer and Taylor King of Chadron are the parents of a son, Jaydyn Thomas, born March 31, 2010 at Rapid City Regional Hospital in Chadron.

He weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces.

Grandparents are Don and Stephanie King of Chadron, Sandy Schommer of Brainard and the late Jerry Schommer.

 

Sully White

OMAHA - Dana and Kelly (Holeka) White of Omaha are the parents of a son, Sully Jaxson, born March 25, 2010, at Lakeside Hospital in Omaha.
He weighed 9 pounds.
He has a sister, Olivia, 2.
Grandparents are Gary and Kathy White of Papillion and Gary and Roberta Holeka of Brainard.
Great-grandparents are Charles and Dorothy Blazek of Omaha and Riley and Adoline Telecky of David City.
 

Noah Boucetta-Ostermeier
Elizabeth Boucetta-Ostermeier


LINCOLN - Sid-Ali Boucetta and Tricia Ostermeier of Lincoln are the parents of twins, Noah Said and Elizabeth Kheira, born March 25, 2010, at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.
Noah weighed 5 pounds, 11 ounces, and Elizabeth weighed 5 pounds, 1 ounce.
Grandparents are Lynn and Elizabeth Ostermeier of Ulysses and Said and Kheira Boucetta of Algiers, Algeria.

 

Cole Pick


OMAHA - Matt and Amy (Vrana) Pick of Omaha are the parents of a son, Cole Matthew, born March 10, 2010, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha.

He weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces.

He has two brothers, Andrew, 4, and Caleb, 2.

Grandparents are George and Sharon Vrana of Linwood and Robert and Ann Pick of Omaha.
Great-grandparents are Mary Ann Brabec of Colon, Gibert and Paula Schroeder of Remsen, Iowa, and Marvin and Donna Pick of Marcus, Iowa.


 

September 2009 Births


Haven Cada

Seth and Kelsey (Kluck) of David City are the parents of a daughter, Haven Kaye, born Sept. 5, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 7 pounds 2 ounces.

Grandparents are Roger and Genelle Kluck and Paul and Lorrie Cada, all of Schuyler.

 Hudson James McClure, born September 1st, 2009 at Bryan LGH East to Kallan and Jackie (Truksa) McClure of Lincoln.  He eighed 6 lbs. 15oz and was 20 inches  
long.

He was welcomed homed by brothers Cooper 7yrs and Brady 4 1/2 yrs.

Grandparents sre Ron & Diane Truksa of David City, and Larry & Carolyn  
McClure of Lincoln.
 
Great grandmothers are Geneva Pelan of David City and   
Emma Jane Laughrey of St. Paul, Nebraska.

 

Kayleigh Graybill


Matthew and Helen (Vach) Graybill of David City are the parents of a daughter, Kayleigh Lynn, born Sept. 15, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 5 pounds, 7 ounces.
Grandparents are Sally Landwehr, Jim Vach and Tom Graybill, all of David City, and Rhonda and Troy Magnuson of Bruno.
Great-grandparents are Clarence and Maryann Graybill and June Fecht, all of David City, and Helen Vach of Hooper.

Anthony Oltmer


Adam and Heather (Hein) Oltmer of David City are the parents of a son, Anthony Michael, born Sept. 15, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 8 pounds, 7 ounces.

He has a brother, AJ, 4, and a sister, Avery, 2.

Grandparents are Ralph and Cheryl Hein of David City, Laurn and Kay Oltmer of Indianola and Dan and Barb Bock of Schuyler.

Great-grandparents are Dorothy Oltmer of Schuyler and Dwayne Kubik of Fremont.
 
 

Carter Kadavy


Brian and Sage (Cemper) Kadavy of David City are the parents of a son, Carter Reece, born Sept. 22, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 8 pounds, 14 ounces.

He has three brothers, Damien, 5, Dayton, 4, and Harlan, 15 months.
Grandparents are Donnie and Diane Prochaska of Abie, Marvin and Norma Kadavy of Weston and Rick Cemper of David City.

Great-grandparents are Donald and Delores Ostry of Prague and Bonnie Kadavy of Weston.
 

Savanah Palensky
 

Christopher and Lindsey (Styskal) Palensky of David City are the parents of a daughter, Savanah Nicole, born Aug. 21, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces.
She has a sister, Brooklyn, 2.

Grandparents are Tom and Deb Svoboda, Leonard Jr. and Loretta Palensky and Scott Sytskal, all of David City.

Great-grandparents are Norm and Marie Hoeft, Don and Sharon Styskal, Leander and Anita Svoboda and Leonard Sr. and Goldie Palensky, all of David City.
 

Bella Heins


Dustin and Tiffany (Hecker) Heins of David City are the parents of a daughter, Bella Mae, born Sept. 22, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces.

Grandparents are Dean and Connie Heins and Mark Hecker, all of David City, and Jamie and Paula Sylvester of Bellwood.

Great-grandparents are Charles and Lila Brandenburgh and Deb Sylvester, all of Bellwood, Harold Heins, Alvern and Meg Hlavac and Betty Hecker, all of David City, the late Ruby Heins and the late Erwin Hecker.
 

Ebony Lynch


Erica Orozco and Richard Lynch of Schuyler are the parents of a daughter, Ebony Elise, born Sept. 23, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 6 pounds, 14 ounces.

Grandparents are Martha and Luis Viques and Betty Cordova, all of Schuyler, and Benjamin Acosta of Rocky Ford, Colo.
Great-grandparents are Maria Burton of Schuyler and Mary Josie Cordova and Nicolas Cordova of Rocky Ford.
 

Natalie Koch

Samuel and Nancy (Anderson) Koch of Columbus are the parents of a daughter, Natalie Jill, born Sept. 30, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 6 pounds, 3 ounces.
She has two sisters, Samantha, 7, and Susanne, 7, and two brothers, Zachary, 10, and Thomas, 3.
Grandparents are Stephen and Janell Anderson and Steven and Dianna Koch, all of Columbus.
Great-grandparents are Ray and Marj Koch and Percy Anderson, all of Columbus, and the late Ilene Anderson.

Caden Cheleen

OMAHA -- Dan and Pam (Mick) Cheleen of La Vista are the parents of a son, Caden Michael, born Sept. 30, 2009, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha.
He weighed 6 pounds, 14 ounces.
He has two brothers, Jared, 9, and Adam, 6.
Grandparents are Jim and Fran Mick of Bellwood and Dayton and Sheila Cheleen of Chappell.
Great-grandmother is Mary Scholz of David City.


Isabella Seadschlag

Ralph and Evelyn (Tucker) Seadschlag of Columbus are the parents of a daughter, Isabella Grace, born Sept. 12, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 6 pounds, 1 ounce.
She has a brother, Luke, 11, and two sisters, Helen, 9, and Joelle, 4.
Grandparents are Delmar and Helen Tucker and Eugene and Sarah Gehring, all of Columbus.
Great-grandparents are Evelyn Tucker of Columbus and Robert and Sally MacFarland of Arkansas.

 

Jayda Novak

Jeremy and Nancy Jo Novak of Columbus are the parents of a daughter, Jayda Lynn, born Oct. 2, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 6 pounds, 10 ounces.

She has two brothers, Keygan, 4, and Donavin, 2.

Grandparents are Larry and Terry Novak of David City and Tim and Nancy Reardon of St. Edward.
Great-grandparents are Helen Novak of David City and Ed and Irene Jenkins of St. Edward.
 

 

April 2010 Births

Kenzie Jakub

COLUMBUS -- Craig and Kari (Beiermann) Jakub of Milford are the parents of a daughter, Kenzie Marie, born April 3, 2010, at Columbus Community Hospital.

She weighed 6 pounds, 14 ounces.

She has two brothers, Grant, 9, and Bryce, 7, and a sister, Kylie, 20 months.

Grandparents are Rudy and Harriet Jakub of David City and Duane and Jan Beiermann of Columbus.

Great-grandparents are Bob Lindhorst and the late Alma Lindhorst and Ceil Beiermann and the late Allie Beiermann, all of Columbus.

Lilly Rogers

Liz Patocka and David Rogers of David City are the parents of a daughter, Lilly Ann, born April 4, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 6 pounds, 5 ounces.

Grandparents are Dave and Kathie Rogers and Eugene and Betty Patocka, all of David City.
 

 

 

Amara Abry

OMAHA - Jeff and Abry (Leazenby) Hookie of Omaha are the parents of a daughter, Amara Jade, born April 8, 2010, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha.

She weighed 9 pounds, 13 ounces.

Grandparents are Doug and Jolene Hookie of David City, Ed and Donna Leazenby of Lewis, Iowa, and Patty and Dan O'Neill of Minden, Iowa.

Aiden Rerucha

Ryan Rerucha and Heather Hunt of David City are the parents of a son, Aiden Michael, born April 13, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 8 pounds, 10 ounces.

He has a brother, Trenton, 4.

Grandparents are David and Mary Hunt of David City and Tammy Redman and Keith Soukup, both of Seward.

Great-grandmother is Diana Davis of Ulysses.

Natalie DeWispelare

Seth and Brittany (Kresha) DeWispelare of David City are the parents of a daughter, Natalie Clare, born April 13, 2010, at Butler County Heath Care Center in David City.

She weighed 6 pounds, 14 ounces.

Grandparents are Dan and Becky Kresha, Gery DeWispelare, and Steve and Gina Thompson, all of David City.

Great-grandparents are Carol Kresha of Osceola, Mary Lou Codr of Seward, Leonard DeWispelare of Schuyler and LeEtta Kosch of Shelby.

Mariah Sears

LINCOLN - Thomas and Kristy (Makovicka) Sears of Raymond are the parents of a daughter, Mariah Kay, born April 8, 2010, at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln.

She weighed 7 pounds, 1 ounce.

She has a brother, Logan, 7, two sisters, Skyler, 6, and Shyanne, 3, and step-sister, Ariel, 13.

Grandparents are Steven and Dianne Makovicka of Brainard and Michael and Jeanette Sears of Raymond.

Great-grandparents are Marge Woolsey of Staplehurst, Genevieve Kobza of Valparaiso and Arthur and Elizabeth Sears of Hiawatha, Kan.

Kelli Svoboda

Shane Svoboda and Heather Gehring of Schuyler are the parents of a son, Kelli James, born April 14, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces.

He has a brother, Syrus, 5, and a sister, Misty, 2.

Grandparents are Teresa Svoboda of David City, Tom Svoboda of Schuyler, step-grandmother, Brenda Svoboda of Schuyler, Mike Gehring of Columbus and Kathy Miner of Fremont.

Great-grandparents are Lucy and Bob Parrett of Fremont, Lawrence and Marlene Svoboda of Columbus and Bert Obershaw of Rogers.

 Ellie Piitz


Lonnie and Kimberly (Nicholson) Piitz of Brainard are the parents of a daughter, Ellie Mae, born April 26, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 8 pounds, 2 ounces.
She has two sisters, Suzanne, 6, and Sylvia, 15 months.

Grandparents are Gilbert Nicholson of Lincoln, the late Suzanne Nicholson, Leo Piitz of Brainard and the late Bernice Piitz.
Great-grandparents are Rose Marie Miller of Nebraska City, the late Ralph Miller, Donna Nicholson of Lincoln and the late Raymond Nicholson.

Lucille Polivka


Larry and Mandie (Smaus) Polivka Jr. of Bellwood are the parents of a daughter, Lucille Marie, born April 27, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 8 pounds 10 ounces.

She has two brothers, Michael Lawrence, 6, and Luke Thomas, 4.

Grandparents are Tom and Karen Smaus and Lawrence and Monica Polivka, all of Bruno.
Great-grandparents are Milton and Eunice Smaus and Albie Sisel, all of David City, and Mary Lou Codr of Seward.

Henry Langan


COLUMBUS -- Trent and Kerry (Kirby) Langan of Platte Center are the parents of a son, Henry Trent, born April 20, 2010, at Columbus Community Hospital in Columbus.

He weighed 8 pounds, 12 ounces.
He has two brothers, Jack, 6, and Drew, 4.
Grandparents are John and Mary Sue Kirby of David City and Dave and Marlene Langan of Norfolk.

Bailey Benes


LINCOLN - Roger and Jennifer (Cast) Benes of Ulysses are the parents of a daughter, Bailey Anne, born April 21, 2010, at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln.
She weighed 8 pounds, 10 ounces.
She has a brother, Kendol, 2.

Grandparents are Kenneth and Dolores Cast of Beaver Crossing and Fred and Linda Benes of Valparaiso.

Great-grandparents are Ermin and Dolores Benes of Valparaiso.
 
 

Brooke Dyer

COZAD - Robert and Ann Dyer of Cozad are the parents of a daughter, Brooke Marie, born April 1, 2010.
She weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces.
She has two siblings, Megan and Jason.
Grandparents are Walt and Vicki Dyer of Hyannis and Robert and Ramona Kunasek of Bee.
Great-grandmother is Marriah Miller of Alliance.

Max Zavala


LINCOLN - Rico and Angie (Birkel) Zavala of Lincoln are the parents of a son, Max Walter, born April 30, 2010, at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.
He weighed 6 pounds, 8 ounces.
He has a sister, Kendall.
Grandparents are Joe and Jeanette Birkel of David City and Ralph and Chris Zavala of Wood River.
Great-grandmothers are Ludy Birkel of David City and Lorene Mick of Columbus.

Keigan Kershner


SUTHERLAND -- Chad and Valerie Kershner of Sutherland are the parents of a son, Keigan Chad, born April 18, 2010.
He weighed 9 pounds, 4 ounces.
Grandparents are Chris and Janice Kraus of Hyannis and Doug and Connie Kershner of David City.
Great-grandparents are Darold and Rosalyn Grundman of Syracuse, Cecil and Donna Kershner of David City and Dorothy and Dean Milner of Imperial.

Andrew Kastl


NORFOLK - Jarod and Laura Kastl of Norfolk are the parents of a son, Andrew Gerard, born April 19, 2010, at Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk.
He weighed 9 pounds, 3 ounces.
Grandparents are Dave and Kathy Kastl of Wahoo and Ray and Dee Huppert of Lincoln.
Great-grandmother is Frances Kastl of David City.
 


Allie Kudlacek


LINCOLN - Todd and Cari (Hoelscher) Kudlacek of Brainard are the parents of a daughter, Allie Rose, born April 23, 2010, at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.
She weighed 8 pounds, 11 ounces.
She has a sister, Brynn, 2.
Grandparents are Jim and Mary Hoelscher of Kenton, Ohio, and Gerald and Mary Ann Kudlacek of Brainard.
 


Trevor Brown
Chase Brown


LINCOLN - Daniel and Naomi (Petrik) Brown of Lincoln are the parents of twin sons, Trevor Andrew and Chase Nicholas, born April 21, 2010, at BryanLGH Medical Center in Lincoln.
Trevor weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces, and Chase weighed 5 pounds, 13 ounces.

They have twin brothers, Owen and Noah, 5.

Grandparents are Dan and Barb Petrik and Kathy Truksa, all of David City.
Great-grandparents are Dwaine and Selma Schmit of Bellwood, Dorothy Petrik of Platte, S.D., and Joe and Dorothy Bohaty of David City.
 
 

Kenley Anderson

NORFOLK - Shane and Staci Anderson of Pierce are the parents of a daughter, Kenley Jo, born April 14, 2010, at Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk.

She weighed 8 pounds, 10 ounces.

Grandparents are Fred Anderson of Norfolk, Mark Hecker of David City, Paula and Jamie Sylvester of Bellwood and the late Mary Anderson.

Evelyn Lyons

DENVER -- Matt and Audrey (Wright) Lyons of Denver are the parents of a daughter, Evelyn Lee, born April 25, 2010, at the Swedish Medical Center in Denver.

She weighed 5 pounds, 14 ounces.

Grandparents are Pam and Dave Wright and Carla and Roland Lyons, all of Omaha.

Great-grandparents are Madgeline Lyons of Church Point, La., Helen Schluckebier of Lincoln, and Gus and Shirley Warholoski of David City.

 


 

January 2010 Births

Talia Brokaw

Lyndsey Jo Brokaw of Schuyler is the mother of a daughter, Talia Jo, born Jan. 8, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 7 pounds.
Grandparents are Jeanette and Patrick Burnett of Schuyler and Jerry Brokaw of Brainard.
Sue Block of Leigh is the great-grandmother.
 

Trevor Benes


HOLDREGE -- Clifton and Jenna (Taylor) Benes are the parents of a son, Trevor Clifton, born Jan. 12, 2010, at Phelps Memorial Health Center in Holdrege.
He weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces. 
Grandparents are Dale and Kris Taylor of Hallam and Pat and Ann Benes of Dwight.
Great-grandparents are Jerry and Connie Lott and Everet and Elaine Taylor, all of
Lincoln, Marland and Phyllis Novacek of Linwood and Stanley and Henrietta Benes of Bee.
Great-great-grandmother is Lillian Reznicek of Dodge.

Thomas Wanser


Mike and Krista (Kennedy) Wanser are the parents of a son, Thomas John "TJ", born Jan. 18, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
He weighed 8 pounds.
He has three sisters, Ashley, 12, Amber, 12, and Lily, 2.
Grandparents are Rod and Patty Kennedy of Page and Millie and Larry of O'Neill.
Great-grandmother is Margaret Sorensen of Creighton.

Natalie Stock

NORFOLK - John and Mindy Stock of Humphrey are the parents of a daughter, Natalie Ann, born Jan. 15, 2010, at Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk.
She weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces.
Grandparents are Gene and Carolyn Stock of Humphrey and Greg and Judy Svoboda of Bruno.
Great-grandparents are Don and Mary Ann Svoboda of David City and Maxine McDonald of Bellwood.


Maya Hain


OMAHA - Dr. John and Jacqueline (Humphrey) Hain of Omaha are the parents of a daughter, Maya Grace, born Jan. 8, 2010, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha.
She weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces.
She has a sister, Maci, 5, and a brother, Jackson, 4.
Grandparents are Ron and Linda Humphrey of Elkhorn and Jack and Dorothy Hain of West Chester, Pa.
Great-grandparents are Cal and Jeanne Humphrey of Omaha and Ben and Janet Sanchez of Sterling, Colo.


 

 Hudson Goodrich


MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Stephanie Comte and Tanner Goodrich of Memphis, Tenn., are the parents of a son, Hudson Ryan, born Dec. 11, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women. He weighed 7 pounds.

Grandparents are Ryan Comte of David City, Connie Comte of Letterkenny, Ireland, and Dr. Stacy and Cinda Goodrich of Tecumseh.

Great-grandparents are Betty Rasser of Red Cloud, Don and Elaine Goodrich of Blue Hill, Bud Comte and Patsy Comte, both of David City, and Gene and Joann Carr of Amelia.

MaKayden Roland

Jessica Weiland and Timothy Roland of David City are the parents of a son, MaKayden Legion, born Jan. 29, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 6 pounds, 14 ounces.

Grandparents are Cynthia and Kevin Dix of David City, Deb and Roger Hornback of Brunswick, Robin Roland of Plainview, Roger Roland of Fairbury and Larry Harrold of Fremont.

Great-grandparents are Sharon and Donald Niemann and Patrica Weiland, all of Columbus, Barb Stewart of Geneva, Agnus Roland of Beatrice, Deanna Elsberry of Brunswick, Nancy and Robert Harrold of Broken Bow, Katherine Dix of Rochester, N.Y., and George Antaya of Fremont.

Great-great-grandparents are Ruth and Doug Woessner of Fremont and the late Dorthey Kucera of Brainard.

 

Brooklyn Sumner


Terry Sumner and Michelle Micek of Rising City are the parents of a daughter, Brooklyn Alexis, born January 28, 2010, at the Butler County Health Care Center in David City. She weighed 7 pounds 1 ounce.
She has a brother, Ethan, 12, and Kelsey, 10.
Grandparents are Linda Micek of Shelby and Robert Micek of Shelby and Kathy Sumner of Columbus.
Great-grandparents are Ardith Harris of Omaha and Harold and Velma Keith of Silver Creek.

Bella Divis


Daniel and Cassandra (O'Dell) Divis of David City are the parents of a daughter, Bella Marie, born January 29, 2010, at the Butler County Healthcare Center.
She weighed 4 pounds 13 ounces.

She has a sister, Olivia, 6 years.

Grandparents are Ben and Barb Divis of Bruno, Scott and Charity O'Dell of Bellwood and Derek and TeRae Beamblossom of Lincoln.
Great-grandparents are Marcella Divis of David City, Sylvester and Frances Trouba of Dwight, Sharon O'Dell of David City, and Gary and Char TeSelle of Milford.

 

Taylor Slonecker

COLUMBUS -- Josh Slonecker and Holly Tichota of Linwood are the parents of a daughter, Taylor Leigh, born Jan. 28, 2010, at Columbus Community Hospital.

She weighed 6 pounds, 15 ounces.

She has two sisters, Trista, 7, and Tayja, 14 months.

Grandparents are Linda and Russ Tichota of Rising City and Cheryl and Rich Slonecker of David City.

Great-grandmothers are Marcella Kozisek and Irene Slonecker, both of David City.

 

June 2010 Births

Caden Schmid

Gary R. and Laurie (Schultz) Schmid of Bellwood are the parents of a son, Caden Rudolph, born June 14, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center.

He weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces.

He has two sisters, Carly, 5, and Cally, 2.

Grandparents are Bernard and Marcella Schmid of Bellwood and Dorothy Schultz of David City.

Danica Wurtz

HIAWATHA, Kan. - Jerin and Stephanie Wurtz of Seneca, Kan., are the parents of a daughter, Danica Renee, born June 8, 2010, at Hiawatha Community Hospital in Hiawatha, Kan.

She has a sister, Hailey, and a brother, Derek.

Grandparents are David and Connie Schmit of rural David City and Kenny and Jayne Wurtz of Greenleaf, Kan.

Great-grandparents are Calvin and Rhea Wilgers of Greenleaf.

 Kaley Micek


LINCOLN - Justin and Kristin (Dobesh) Micek of Seward are the parents of a daughter, Kaley Nicole, born June 1, 2010, at BryanLGH Medical Center in Lincoln.
She weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces.
Grandparents are Art and Mary Ellen Dobesh of Seward and Bob Micek and Linda Micek of Shelby.

Hayden Hopwood


Josh and Kasey (Meyer) Hopwood, of Bennington, are the parents of a daughter, Hayden Kayse, born June 18, 2010, at Lakeside Hospital in Omaha.
She weighed 5 pounds 2 ounces.
Grandparents are Barry and Roxanne Meyer of Wisner & Tim & Kathy Hopwood of  
Shelby.
Great-Grandparents are Bernice Kindschuh of Wisner, Larry and Dee Augustin and  
Joann Hopwood of Shelby.
Great-Great Grandmother is Helen Augustin of Shelby.

Savannah Laird


GLENDALE, AZ - Ben and Kim (Birkel) Laird are the parents of a daughter, Savannah Vivian, born June 6, 2010, at Arrowhead Hospital in Glendale, Arizona.
She weighed 6 pounds, 7 ounces.
She has two brothers, Isaiah 14, and Micah 3.
Grandparents are Jim and Kathy Birkel, formerly of David City and now in Arizona, and Larry and Phyllis Laird of Three Forks, Montana.
 

 Alexis Thies

Matthew R. and Cassandra L. (Stanek) Thies, of Syracuse, are the parents of a daughter, Alexis Jane-Ruth, born June 1, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center. She weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces.
She has a sister, Montana Rayne, 1, and brothers, Brandon Michael, 11, and Nicholas James, 1.
Grandparents are Gary and Penny Morrison of Syracuse, Theresa and George Throne of David City, Chalmers Steele III of Arvada, Colo., and the late James Stanek of Brainard.
Great-grandparents are Carol Smith of Denver, Chalmers Steele Jr. of Aurora, Colo., George Throne Sr. of Edinboro, Pa., the late Barbara Thies of Wahoo and the late Mildred Horacek of Brainard.

Rayn Johannes

COLUMBUS -- Travis and Ann (Osantowski) Johannes, of Columbus, are the parents of a son, Rayn Carl, born June 5, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center.
He weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces.
He has a brother, Cole James, 6.
Grandparents are Stan and Karen Johannes of Columbus and Edward and Elaine Osantowksi of Columbus.
Great-grandparent is Opal Wagner of Columbus.

Tyson Riha

PAPILLION -- Brody and Risa (Hellbusch) Riha, of Plattsmouth, are the parents of a son, Tyson Jay, born May 29, 2010, at Midlands Hospital in Papillion.
He weighed 6 pounds.
He has a brother, Tucker, 2.
Grandparents are Gary and Nancy Riha of David City, Lynn Hellbusch of Bellwood and the late Rick Hellbusch.
Great-grandparents are Vern and Mary Jane Oltmans of David City, Phyllis  Kasper and Ruben and Lueva Hellbusch of Columbus and Dennis and Billie Young of Anna, Texas.

Virginia Toy

Kimberly Toy of Bellwood is the mother of a daughter, Virginia May, born June 10, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center.
She weighed 5 pounds, 6 ounces.
Deb Toy of Bellwood is the grandmother.

 

Ashlyn Brabec


OMAHA - Jon and Michelle Brabec of Wahoo are the parents of a daughter, Ashlyn Ann, born June 21, 2010, at Lakeside Hospital in Omaha.
She weighed 7 pounds.
Grandparents are Bob and Nancy Moravec of David City and Gene and Marge Brabec of Clarkson.
Great-grandparents are Richard and Virginia Rerucha of David City, Gladys Moravec of Seward and Richard and Evelyn Coufal of Howells.

Danica Romshek


COLUMBUS -- Jason and Becky Romshek of Bellwood are the parents of a daughter, Danica Jaelyn, born June 23, 2010, at Columbus Community Hospital.
She weighed 6 pounds, 4 ounces.
She has a sister, Bianca, 4.
Grandparents are Leonard (Jack) and Betty Romshek of Bellwood and Louis and Barb Brecka of Octavia.
Great-grandmother is Irene Brase of Bellwood.
 

November 2009 Births

Adoption

Jacob Burns Muntz
(Qin, Rui Bing)

CHADDS FORD, Pa. - Steve and Joellen Muntz of Chadds Ford, Pa., have adopted a son, Qin, Rui Bing, who was born in Xian, China, Shanxi Province, April 4, 2006. His new name is Jacob Burns Muntz. He was brought to the United States on July 17, 2009.
He has a sister, Juliann.
Grandparents are Merlyn and Ramona Muntz of David City, Bart Burns of Sabastian, Fla., and the late Mary Burns.

Births

Christian Lewis

NORFOLK, Va. -- Petty Officer 1st Class James and Petty Officer 1st Class Emily (Wright) Lewis of Virginia Beach, Va., are the parents of a son, Christian Edward Lewis, born Nov. 14, 2009, at Portsmouth Naval Hospital in Norfolk, Va.
He weighed 8 pounds, 15 ounces.
Grandparents are Dave and Pam Wright of Gretna and Mike and Carolyn Lewis of Penn Laird, Va.
Great-grandparents are Helen Schluckebier of Lincoln, Gus and Shirley Warholoski of David City, Elsie Hayes of Asbury, West Va., and Jean Black of Cherryville, N. C.

Amelia Juranek

SEWARD - Jeff and Jenny Juranek of Seward are the parents of a daughter, Amelia Mae, born Nov. 9, 2009.
She weighed 6 pounds, 12 ounces.
Grandparents are Gailen and Judy Shultz of Schuyler and Galen and Linda Juranek of Linwood.
Great-grandparents are Albin and Gladys Shultz of David City, Leonard and Agnes McNally and Mildred Mundil of Schuyler and the late Albin and Adeline Juranek of Linwood.

Kiera Valish
 

Randy and Laurie (Sladek) Valish of David City are the parents of a daughter, Kiera Rae, born Nov. 20, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 10 pounds, 13 ounces.
She has two brothers, Tyler, 17, and Landon, 10, and three sisters, Lacey, 16, Madison, 5, and Sophie, 2.
Grandparents are Jeanne Valish of Columbus and the late Jerry Valish, Ron Sladek and Julie Sladek.
Great-grandparents are Gene and Della Donoghue of Columbus.

Spencer Vandenberg

Clinton and Samantha (Vasa) Vandenberg of David City are the parents of a son, Spencer Dutch, born Nov. 20, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
He weighed 6 pounds, 6 ounces.
He has a brother, Vincent, 22 months.
Grandparents are Gary and Deborah Vandenberg of Lincoln and Tim and Kathy Vasa of Weston.
Great-grandparents are Sally Vandenberg of Brainard, the late Ernest "Dutch" Vandenberg, MaryLou Codr of Seward, the late Don Codr, George and LaVerne Wonka of Weston and the late Milo and Adeline Vasa.
 

 

Anthony Perrin

LINCOLN - Jim and Anita (Nemec) Perrin of Seward are the parents of a son, Anthony William, born Nov. 20, 2009, at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.

He has two brothers, Tyler, 9, and Thomas, 5.

Grandparents are the late Cyril and Evelyn Nemec of Dwight and William and Joyce Perrin of rural Rogers.

 

Levi Moravec

CANYONVILLE, Ore. - Tony and Erica (VanWinkle) Moravec of Canyonville, Ore., are the parents of a son, Levi James, born Nov. 20, 2009.

He weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces.

He has a brother, Wyatt, 8, and two sisters, Macy, 6, and Quinn, 4.

Grandparents are George and Karen VanWinkle of Illinois and Allen and Diane Moravec of David City.

Great-grandparents are Richard and Maryann Moravec of David City and Winard and Alice Augustin of Shelby.
 

Neil Zrust



Nicholas and Julie (Melick) Zrust of David City are the parents of a son, Neil Andrew, born November 11, 2009, at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.
He weighed 6 pounds 11.8 ounces.
Grandparents are Dave and Sherri Melick of Madison and Ken and Gerri Zrust of Grand Island.
Great-grandparents are Ray and Alice Christensen of Fremont, Robert and Marian Melick of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, and Dorothy Moeller of Grand Island.
 

December 2009 Births

Trevin Jahde

Greg and Tiffani (Raasch) Jahde of David City are the parents of a son, Trevin Michael, born Dec. 12, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
He weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces.
He has a sister, Meagan, 3.
Grandparents are Tom and Pat Jahde of Bellwood and Ed and Cheerie Raasch of Bancroft.

Matthew Kerkman

NORFOLK - Steve and Becky (Cummings) Kerkman of Elgin are the parents of a son, Matthew Louis, born Dec. 7, 2009, at Faith Regional Hospital in Norfolk.

He weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces.

He has a brother, Regan, 13, and a sister, Sydney, 9.

Grandparents are Bob and Judy Cummings of rural Linwood and the late Louis and June Kerkman of Elgin.

Ell Mya Forney

Shane and Kathy (Fowler) Forney of Columbus are the parents of a daughter, Ell Mya, born Dec. 8, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 8 pounds, 6 ounces.

She has a brother, Haustyn, 7.

Grandparents are Ed Fowler of York, Bob Urkoski of Genoa, the late Minnie Urkoski, Bill Forney of Columbus and Lana Forney of Fremont.

Great-grandparents are Bob and Irene Hansen of Belgrade, John and Florence Forney of Bellwood and Melvin and Mame Klein of Madison.

Levi Moravec

CANYONVILLE, Ore. - Tony and Erica (VanWinkle) Moravec of Canyonville, Ore., are the parents of a son, Levi James, born Nov. 20, 2009.

He weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces.

He has a brother, Wyatt, 8, and two sisters, Macy, 6, and Quinn, 4.

Grandparents are George and Karen VanWinkle of Illinois and Allen and Diane Moravec of David City.

Great-grandparents are Richard and Maryann Moravec of David City and Winard and Alice Augustin of Shelby.

Jacqueline Comte

Richard L. and Pamela S. (Koehn) Comte of David City are the parents of a daughter, Jacqueline Therese, born Dec. 10, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces.

She has three sisters, Gabrielle, 19, Madelaine, 10, and Isabella, 3, and three brothers, Alex, 17, Nick, 13, and Brenden, 12.

Grandparents are Patsy Ann Comte and Bud and Pat Comte, all of David City, Carol and Jerry Dixson of St. Paul and Ted and Sheryl Koehn of Omaha.

 

 

 

 

Matthew Kerkman

NORFOLK - Steve and Becky (Cummings) Kerkman of Elgin are the parents of a son, Matthew Louis, born Dec. 7, 2009, at Faith Regional Hospital in Norfolk.

He weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces.

He has a brother, Regan, 13, and a sister, Sydney, 9.

Grandparents are Bob and Judy Cummings of rural Linwood and the late Louis and June Kerkman of Elgin.

Ell Mya Forney

Shane and Kathy (Fowler) Forney of Columbus are the parents of a daughter, Ell Mya, born Dec. 8, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

She weighed 8 pounds, 6 ounces.

She has a brother, Haustyn, 7.

Grandparents are Ed Fowler of York, Bob Urkoski of Genoa, the late Minnie Urkoski, Bill Forney of Columbus and Lana Forney of Fremont.

Great-grandparents are Bob and Irene Hansen of Belgrade, John and Florence Forney of Bellwood and Melvin and Mame Klein of Madison.

 

 

 

 

Damian Miratsky

Jim and Maggie (Schultz) Miratsky of Bruno are the parents of a son, Damian James, born Dec. 23, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

He weighed 6 pounds, 7 ounces.

He has a sister, Marissa, 2.

Grandparents are John and Jane Schultz of Oakdale, Jim Miratsky of Bruno and the late Pam Miratsky.

Great-grandparents are Mark Sehi of Oakdale and Estella Miratsky of David City.

Natalie Meysenburg

LINCOLN -- Craig and Laura (Hofpar) Meysenburg of Lincoln are the parents of a daughter, Natalie Marie, born Dec. 22, 2009, at Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.

She weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces.

She has a brother, Colin, 2.

Grandparents are Bruce and Kathy Meysenburg of David City, LuAnn Hofpar of Dwight and the late Kenneth Hofpar.

Great-grandparents are Bernard and DeLores Meysenburg, Dorothy Schultz and Rosalyn Hofpar all of David City.

 Wyatt Steager


SEWARD -- Robert and Lisa (Hansen) Steager of Brainard are the parents of a son, Wyatt James, born Dec. 15, 2009, at Seward Memorial Hospital.
He weighed 9 pounds, 2 1/2 ounces.
He has a sister, Brianne, 6, and a brother, Christopher, 16.
Grandparents are Ben and Donna Rae Steager of Brainard and Lyle and Linda Hansen of Wahoo.
Great-grandmother is Luella Blake of Waterloo.

Danica Harper


Katrina Fiala of David City is the mother of a daughter, Danica Sharice Harper, born Dec. 28, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces.
Grandparents are Bill and Tammy Fiala of David City.
Great-grandparents are Priscilla Fiala of David City, the late Bill Fiala Sr. and the late Jerry and Marcy Starlin of Octavia.
Great-great-grandmother is Wandea Fiala of David City.

Lucille Kozisek


OMAHA - Joel and Kelly Kozisek of Omaha are the parents of a daughter, Lucille Marie, born Dec. 28, 2009, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha.
She weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces.
Grandparents are Charles and Irene Boyle, Karen Kozisek and the late Tom Kozisek.
Great-grandparents are Wilfred and Leola Kozisek of David City and Fred and Georgia Hromas of Omaha.

Grace Meister


Andrea M. Hoessel and Justin A. Meister of Bellwood are the parents of a daughter, Grace Ann Meister, born Dec. 28, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
She weighed 8 pounds, 12 ounces.
Grandparents are Dale and Barb Hoessel of Columbus, Ken Meister of Bellwood and the late LuAnn Meister.
Great-grandparents are Bertie Modelski of Columbus, LaVerne Meister of Bellwood and Wayne and Marcia Augustin of Shelby.

Eli Svoboda


Robert and Trudy (Hopwood) Svoboda of Rising City are the parents of a son, Eli Joseph, born Dec. 31, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
He weighed 6 pounds, 6 ounces.
He has a sister, Emma, 2.
Grandparents are Doug and Jean Hopwood of Rising City and Duane and Connie Svoboda of David City.
Great-grandparents are Verla Bierbower and Delores Hopwood, both of Shelby, and Leonard and Goldie Palensky of David City.
 
 

William Kaup
Carson Kaup


OMAHA - Kevin and Cari (Reinsch) Kaup of Omaha are the parents of twin boys, William Charles and Carson Lee, born December 17, 2009, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha.
William Charles weighed 5 pounds 5 ounces.
Carson Lee weighed 6 pounds 5 ounces.
Grandparents are Gerry and Jill Reinsch of Brainard and Gary and Connie Kaup of West Point.
Great-grandparents are Harold Hansen of Gretna, Elmer and Theresa Reinsch of Shickley, Ann Jurgensen of Omaha and Martha Kaup of West Point.
 

 Bristol Byers


Brian and Heather Byers of Weston are the parents of a daughter, Bristol
Briel, born on December 29, 2009, at Fremont Area Medical Center.
She weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces.
She has a sister, Finley, 2.
Grandparents are Tim and Cindy Bittinger of Raymond and Bob and Jane Byers of Waterloo.
Great-grandparents are Don and Mary Ellen Byers of Omaha, Richard and Alice Zimmerman of Elkhorn and Vinson Bittinger of Lincoln.
 

 

 

February 2010 Births

Raiden Shanahan


LINCOLN - Seth and Greta (Jones) Shanahan of Lincoln are the parents of a son, Raiden Michael, born Feb. 3, 2010, at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.
He weighed 8 pounds, 10 ounces.

Grandparents are Mike and Joanie Jones of David City and Bob and Deb Shanahan of Adams.

Great-grandparents are Mary Ann Morrisey of Fremont and Eugene and Linda Jones of
Benkelman.


Rylan Prochaska
Tristica Prochaska

Tiffany Prochaska of Prague is the mother of twins born Feb. 15, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Rylan James weighed 5 pounds, 6 ounces, and Tristica Nicole weighed 5 pounds, 10 ounces.

Grandparents are Deborah and Ralph Rogers of David City and Martin and Dawn Prochaska of Prague.

Great-grandparents are Eddie and Lucille Prochaska of Prague and Rodney Tank and Bernita Buckley of Fremont.

 

Mecca Kuhl

OMAHA - Dana and Chandra Kuhl are the parents of a daughter, Mecca Alexandra, born Feb. 16, 2010, at Clarkson Hospital in Omaha.

She weighed 7 pounds, 5 ounces.

Grandparents are Jay and Rachelle Kuhl of Columbus and Steve and Ellen Boshart of O'Neill.

Great-grandparents are George and Dorothy Morgan and Jean and Delores Kuhl of David City.
 

Grace Krafka

COLUMBUS - Justin and Laura (Fiala) Krafka of Bellwood are the parents of a daughter,

Grace Rose, born Feb. 13, 2010, at Columbus Community Hospital.
She weighed 7 pounds, 5 ounces.

Grandparents are Pamela Krafka of Bellwood and Joe and Elsie Fiala of Bee.
Great-grandmother is Ruth Krafka of David City.

Lucas Zitek

LINCOLN - Niki (Novacek) Zitek of Seward and the late Jim Zitek are the parents of a son, Lucas James, born Feb. 18, 2010, at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln.

He weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces.
He has a sister, Kallie, 3.

Grandparents are Rick and Julie Novacek of Brainard and Gary and Allison Zitek of Ulysses.
Great-grandparents are Reynold and Helen Holeka of Brainard, Victor and LaVerne Novacek of Bruno, Marvin and Mary Lee Zitek of Ulysses and Dave Tuma of St. Paul.
 

Caleb Osmera


LINCOLN - Tom and Angela Osmera of Lincoln are the parents of a son, Caleb Thomas, born Feb. 16, 2010, at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.

He weighed 6 pounds, 3 ounces.
He has a sister, Morgan.

Grandparents are Dave and Phyllis Karpisek of Rising City and Ernest and Joan Osmera of Weston.

Great-grandparents are Olga Janak, James E. Karpisek and Estella Miratsky, all of David City.

 
Austyn Sorensen

COLUMBUS -- Jake and Ashley (Rathje) Sorensen are the parents of a daughter, Austyn Eileen, born Feb. 18, 2010, at Columbus Community Hospital.

She weighed 7 pounds, 13 ounces.

Grandparents are Corey and Bonnie Rathje of Rising City, Tim and Melissa

Dreifurst of Waco and Anthony Sorensen of Benedict.

Great-grandparents are Bert and Joyce Rathje of Rising City, Betty Phillips of

David City, Roger and Virginia Nelson of Genoa and Norma Dreifurst of Monroe.
 

Natalie Tipton
Piper Tipton


SHAWNEE, Kan. -- Jessica Kopecky Tipton and Robert Tipton of Shawnee, Kan., are the parents of Natalie and Piper Tipton, who were born on Feb. 10, 2010.
Grandparents are John L. Kopecky of Springfield, Mo., Mary Kopecky and Lilane Pintar, both of Lenexa, Kan., and Tom and Carolyn Tipton of Palymra.
Great-grandparents are the late Jerry C. and Viola Kopecky of David City, the late Ernest and Viola Stengel of Shickley, Richard and Gloria Tipton of Cocoa Beach, Fla., and Angele Pintar of Overland Park, Kan.

 

David City night at the Saltdogs game in Lincoln

David City community night is Sunday, July 11 at Haymarket Park in Lincoln. The Lincoln Saltdogs will play Sioux Falls. Purchase tickets at the Butler County Chamber of Commerce office in David City. Call 402.367.4238 for information.

Obituaries

December 2009 Obituaries

Edwin Kucera

WAHOO -- Edwin J. Kucera, 87, of Valparaiso died Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, at Saunders County Care Center in Wahoo.

Services were Friday, Dec. 4, at St. Vitus Catholic Church at Touhy, with Father Thomas Brouillette officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mr. Kucera was born in rural Weston on May 31, 1922, to August and Mary (Matousek) Kucera. He attended School District 113, west of Weston. He then worked on the farm helping his father.

On Nov. 20, 1945, he married Marie Ratkovec at St. Vitus Catholic Church in Touhy. They made their home on a farm west of Weston that was homesteaded by his grandfather Frederick Kucera. There, he was a grain farmer and raised cattle and hogs for many years. He was also a Cargill Seed dealer and worked at Hakel's Truck Stop in Weston from 1963-71. He retired from farming in 1984 and moved to Valparaiso in 1999. He had been a resident at Saunders County Care Center in Wahoo since May 2008.

He was a parishioner of St. Vitus Catholic Church and served as president of school districts 113 and 74 for 30 years.

Survivors include his wife; daughters and sons-in-law, Sharon and Dan Spicka of Wahoo and Sandy and John Vlcan of Fremont; son, Gary Kucera of Weston; granddaughters, Mary Spicka and Lori Hattan; five great-grandchildren; and three nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Dwain; brothers, Albin and Gustaf Kucera; and sisters, Evelyn Maly and Margaret Maly.

Memorials: St. Vitus Catholic Church; Saunders County Care Center.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

Fern Egger

COLUMBUS -- Fern Elizabeth Egger, 88, of Silver Creek died Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009, at Country View Care Village in Genoa.

Services were Monday, Dec. 7, at United Methodist Church in Silver Creek, with the Rev. Tamara Holtz officiating. Burial was at Jackson Cemetery at Duncan.

Mrs. Egger was born to Fred and Bertha (Johansen) Engel on Dec. 5, 1920, at Duncan. She attended school in Duncan, graduated in 1938, and attended business college in Omaha. She then was employed under Civil Service by the Seventh Service Command Headquarters in Omaha, adjacent Generals Department for six years during World War II.

She married Norris A. Egger in 1950 and resided in Columbus. During her 30 years of employment at Saunders Archery Co. of Columbus, she taught many students organ and piano lessons.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church and very active in Sunday school, Bible school and music. She served as secretary of the administrative board for several years at the United Methodist Church in Silver Creek. Following retirement, she worked part time for two local insurance agencies and in the Farmers State Bank in Silver Creek. She enjoyed her co-workers and customers.

Survivors include sons and wife, Kevin J. and Patricia Egger and Kimberly S. Egger of Silver Creek; daughter, Rochelle F. Fritton of Silver Creek; grandchildren, Chris, Clinton, Chad and Scott Egger, Jackie Allen, Kara Hellbusch and Josh, Sam and Andrew Fritton; 22 great-grandchildren; sister, Carolyn Wagner of Shelby; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Elaine Sokol; and brothers, Lee "Tubby" Engel, Donald Engel, Drexel "Andy" Engel and Fred "Fritz" Engel.

Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.

Anne Bouc

WAHOO -- Anne C. Bouc, 92, of Lincoln, formerly of Wahoo, died Saturday, Dec. 5, 2009, at Independence House in Lincoln.

Services are at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wahoo, with Father Charles Townsend officiating. Visitation continues from Tuesday one hour before services at Svoboda Funeral Home in Wahoo. Burial is at St. Francis Cemetery.

Mrs. Bouc was born at Touhy on Nov. 11, 1917, to John and Barbara (Visocan) Benes. She grew up near Touhy and attended a country school southeast of there.

On May 8, 1939, she married Julius G. Bouc at St. Vitus Catholic Church in Touhy. They lived on a farm two miles west of Ceresco, where she helped her husband with the farming operation. She also worked with her sister Mary Woita, baking cakes for weddings and anniversaries where she was a talented cake decorator. In 1977, the couple retired and moved to Wahoo. Her husband died in 1987. When her health deteriorated, she moved to the Saunders House in 2001 and then Independence House in Lincoln in 2002. ]

She was a parishioner at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church and had been a parishioner at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Davey during the years they lived near Ceresco. She was a member of Altar Rosary Society and St. Ludmilla Guild.

Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Julie and Gary Hatfield of Wahoo; sons and daughter-in-law, Gary and Jean Bouc of Lincoln and Glenn Bouc of Brainard; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Agnes Benes, Sylvia Swoboda of David City, Celestine Bouc of Lincoln and Georgianne Bouc of Wahoo; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband; daughter-in-law, Doris Bouc; brothers, Joe, John, Cyril, Anton, Emil, George, Louis and Matt Benes; and sisters, Theresa, Mary, Rose and Albina.

Memorials: St. Wenceslaus Catholilc Church.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home.



 

Eugene Dvorak


Eugene Lee Dvorak, 84, of Brainard, died Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009, at the Grand Island Veterans Home.

Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, at Holesovsky Mortuary in Brainard, with the Rev. Glenn Hubbard officiating. His body had been cremated; there will be no viewing or visitation. Burial will be at Bohemian National Cemetery, rural Brainard, with military graveside rites by Rejda Legion Post 273 of Brainard.

Mr. Dvorak was born April 5, 1925, at Brainard, the only child of Anton and Emily (Nozicka) Dvorak. He attended Brainard School and United Methodist Sunday school. He was a paper carrier for The Lincoln Journal during grade school and played soprano sax and bassoon throughout school. He graduated from Brainard High School in 1942.

He was drafted in 1943, during World War II and served in the 689th Field Artillery Battalion, Patton's Third Army and participated in the Battle of the Bulge, returning home in 1946.

He married Lucille Vanous of David City in 1948. Six children were born to this union. He managed country grain elevators in Ulysses and Howells and in Arthur, Iowa. In 1978, he returned to the Brainard area and worked in machine maintenance for Henningsen Foods of David City. Shortly thereafter, the couple divorced.

On Sept. 7, 1985, he married Pauline Utterback Hansen in David City.

He retired from Henningsen's in 1991 and enjoyed traveling, gardening and raising Bantam chickens. He belonged to the Brainard United Methodist Church, Rejda Legion Post 273, Masonic Fidelity Lodge 51 and Alma Chapter 20 Order of Eastern Star.

Survivors include his wife, Pauline; son and wife, Robert and Veniece Dvorak of Papillion; daughters and husbands, Lynn Dvorak, Pam and Bob Hawley of Vero Beach, Fla., Roxanne and Nick LaRussa of Wilmington, Del., and Susie and Mike Wilson of Marysville, Kan.; daughter-in-law, Cindy Dvorak of Ventura, Iowa; step-daughters and husbands, Nancy and Doug Knapp of York, Laurie and Rich Jansen and Vicki and Larry Chinn, all of David City, and Debbie Bennett of Wesley, Iowa; 17 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Phillip Dvorak; and son-in-law, Gary Peterson.
Memorials: Rejda American Legion Post 273 of Brainard; Brainard Volunteer Fire Department. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Lillian Pesek            


Lillian M. Pesek, 99, of David City died Sunday, Dec. 20, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Services were Tuesday, Dec. 22, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard, with Father Matthew Eickhoff officiating. Burial was at New Holy Trinity Cemetery.

Mrs. Pesek was born July 24, 1910, at Bruno to Robert and Mary Stava. She attended country school near Bruno. 

On April 21, 1931, she married Joseph Pesek at Bruno. They lived in Brainard from 1959-76. They later lived in Loma and Garland where they operated taverns. She had lived in David City since 1976.

She had worked at the David City Hospital as a volunteer and also helped with the American Red Cross Bloodmobile and David City Social Services. She was a former member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard and St. Mary's Catholic Church of David City.  

Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Dorene and Phil Oelke of Lincoln; three grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brothers and sister-in-law, Robert Stava of David City and Dennis and Rosemarie Stava of Lincoln; and sisters and brother-in-law, Edith Wrona of
Omaha and Elaine and Milo Meduna of Weston.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; daughter, Celestine "Sally" Goodwin; brother, Emil Stava; and sisters, Beatric Polacek, Albina Patocka, Ella Koza, Georgia Crha and Mildred Gibilisco. 
Memorials: In care of family.

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Lucille Wallace 


COLUMBUS -- Iona Lucille Wallace (Christiansen)(McQuiston), 91, of David City died Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009, at David Place in David City.

Services were Saturday, Dec. 19, at First United Methodist Church in Columbus. Burial was at Roselawn Cemetery in Columbus.

Mrs. Wallace was born March 12, 1918, in Polk County to John and Rachel "Flossie" (Harbaugh) Heins. She graduated from York High School in 1934, received her bachelor of arts degree from York College in 1938 and her master's degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1967.

She was married and widowed three times; first to Gerald Wallace on June 1, 1941, in York, he died in 1981; second to Lou Christiansen on Feb. 3, 1985; and lastly to Jim McQuiston in 2004.

She started her teaching career at Rising City High School and at Battle Creek High School.

After establishing her family, she returned to teaching at a country school near Garrison, at Ulysses High School, Osceola High School and Columbus Junior High School until her retirement in 1973.

She was active in several clubs and the United Methodist Church, where she served as an organist in the church choir and in the Ladies' Aid. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, 50-year member of Rebekah Lodge in Rising City and was a past member of Wally Byam Air Stream Trailer 30140. She enjoyed writing poetry, reading, gardening, painting, playing the organ and piano, crossword puzzles, loved roses, traveled extensively and enjoyed playing Scrabble with her grandkids and great-grandkids.

Survivors include daughters and husbands, Jeralyn and Richard Willms of Omaha, Marcia and Larry Janssen of Platte Center and Maren and Don Schuster of Basalt, Colo.; daughter-in-law, Twila Wallace of Columbus; stepsons and wives, Jim and Judy Christiansen of Joplin, Mo., and Ken and Brenda Christiansen of Rockford, Ill.; nine grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and niece and husband, Virgene and Wendel Otte of David City.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husbands; son, Dennis Wallace; great-grandchildren, Jamie Lyne Wunderlich and Tynan Thomas Koop; and grandson-in-law, Richard Dubas.

Memorials: Columbus Public Library; United Methodist Church.
Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.

Albert Nemec


LINCOLN - Albert Nemec, 73, of Lincoln, died Sunday, Dec. 13, 2009.

Services were Saturday, Dec. 19, at North American Martyrs Catholic Church in Lincoln. Burial was at Lincoln Memorial Park.

Mr. Nemec was born to Anton and Wilhelmina (Wagenknecht) Nemec on May 25, 1936, at Bee.

He served in the U.S. Army. He married Mary Anne Kucera. He retired from Cushman's after 43 years of dedicated service.

He was a member of Dwight American Legion and North American Martyrs Catholic Church.
Survivors include his wife; sister, Marie Augusta; sister-in-law, Alice Horn; brother-in-law, Joe Kucera; nieces; nephews; great-nieces; and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Clifford Nemec; and nephew, John Nemec.
Memorials: In care of family for charitable contribution. Condolences: www.lincolnfh.com
Arrangements by Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, Lincoln.

Don Zima           

Donald "Don" James Zima, 76, of David City died Friday, Dec. 22, 2009, in Schuyler.
Services were Tuesday, Dec. 22, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in David City, with
Lay Minister Jerry L. Kracl officiating. Burial was at David City Cemetery, with military honors by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5814 and Post 125 of the American Legion.
Mr. Zima was born Dec. 6, 1933, at Abie to James and Laura (Krenk) Zima. He graduated from David City High School in 1952. 
He served in the U.S. Army in Germany during the Korean conflict.

On Dec. 2, 1967, he married Margaret Krumbach at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shelby. He farmed near Abie and Linwood, retiring in 2000. 

He was a member of American Legion Post 125 in David City and Schuyler Eagle's Club.

Survivors include his wife; daughters, Joan and Scott Leu of Omaha and Donna Zima of Wrentham, Mass.; grandchildren, Abbi, Conner and Caitlin Leu of Omaha; brother and wife, Adrian and Marlene Zima of Schuyler; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials: American Legion Post 125; David City Volunteer Fire Department.

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Leo Lassek


COLUMBUS - Leo P. Lassek, 88, of Genoa, formerly of Columbus and Polk County, died Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2009, at Genoa Community Hospital.

Services were Monday, Dec. 21, at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Duncan. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mr. Lassek was born Jan. 25, 1921, in Platte County to Frank and Clara (Malek) Lassek. He received his early education at District 73 and graduated from Monroe High School in 1938.

He married Evelyn Zelasney Sept. 3, 1945, in Krakow. He farmed in Polk County.

He was a member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church where he served as a trustee and had served on the Parish Council. He was a member of Holy Name Society and Knights of Columbus Council 938 and was a charter member and past president of the Duncan Lions Club.

He served on the Scotus School Board in Columbus for 18 years and on the school board in Polk County. He was past director of Duncan Industrial Corp. and past chairman of Island A.S.C. Community Committee. He was a member of Eagle's Aerie 1834 and served as village marshal in Duncan for 15 years. As recognition for his service to his community, he was enrolled as an admiral in the Great Navy of the State of Nebraska.

Survivors include daughters and husbands, Marjorie and Ted Micek of Shelby, Mary Johnson of Lincoln, Bonnie and Jerry Paczosa of Silver Creek, Frances Cieloha of Duncan and Kathy Schmidt of Columbus; sons and wife, Jerry Lassek of Duncan and Jeff and Kerry Lassek of Columbus; 20 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife; infant son, Frank Lassek; daughter, Jeanette Steiner; eight brothers and sisters; and sons-in-law, C.D. Steiner, Bob Krueger, Earl Johnson,
Jerome Cieloha and Erv Schmidt. Memorials: Scotus Central Catholic High School; donor's choice.               

Sophie Odvody


FREMONT -- Sophie H. Odvody, 91, of Wahoo died Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009, at her son's home in Morse Bluff.

Services were Saturday, Dec. 19, at First Presbyterian Church in Wahoo, with the Rev. Patrick Marshall officiating. Burial was at Sunrise Cemetery in Wahoo.
Mrs. Odvody was born May 8, 1918, at Brainard to Frank and Mary (Stanek) Jecha. She grew up in Brainard.

She married Ernest M. Odvody Jan. 9, 1940, in Wahoo. They farmed south of Morse Bluff until retiring and moving to Wahoo in 1985.

She was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Wahoo and Special Friends Cancer Survivors.

Survivors include a son and wife, Milton and Marilyn Odvody of Morse Bluff; daughter and husband, Mildred and Marvin Fujan of Wahoo; grandchildren and spouses, Carolyn and Allan Beethe, Cheryl and Rob Brennan and Marie and Jim Schmitt; great-grandchildren, Andrew, Carrie and Ashley Beethe, Sophia and Elizabeth Brennan and Shelby, Naomi and Dan Schmitt; and sister-in-law, Dorothy Jecha of Schuyler.

She was preceded in death by her husband on Jan. 16, 1996; brother, Albert Jecha; and sister, Agnes Odvody.

Memorials: American Heart Association; Hospice of Saunders County. Condolences: www.mosermemorialchapels.com
Arrangements by Moser Memorial Chapel, Fremont.


LaVlern Nosal


COLUMBUS -- LaVern P. Nosal, 83, of Columbus died Sunday, Dec. 20, 2009, at Columbus Community Hospital following a courageous battle with lung cancer.

Services are at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 23, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in
Columbus, with Father Tom Weisbecker officiating. Visitation continues Wednesday 10-11 a.m. also at the church. Burial is at the parish cemetery, with military honors by Hartman Post 84 American Legion Honor Guard.

Mr. Nosal was born Dec. 3, 1926, in Ravenna to Stanley and Katherine (Kuta) Nosal. He was raised in Ravenna and graduated from Kearney High School.

He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II from October 1944 to July 1946.

On April 17, 1947, he married Betty Stueffer at St. Anthony Catholic Church in
Columbus. He was a long-time truck driver in transportation, affiliated with Clark Brothers Transfer for over 30 years.

He was a member of St. Bonaventure Catholic Church where he served as an usher and hour of adoration. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and American Legion. He enjoyed Nebraska football, playing cards, gardening and afternoon coffee and conversation.

Survivors include his wife; sons and wives, Terry and Janice Nosal of Fremont, Steve Nosal and Michael and Janelle Nosal, all of Lincoln, and Jeff and Cori Nosal of Greeley, Colo.; daughters and husbands, Nancy and Gaylen Kamrath of Rising City, Susan and Ray Steffel of Beaver Lake, Kathy and Tom Rosenthal of Elkhorn and Julie Travis and significant other, Duain Colburn, of Lincoln; son-in-law, David Chen of Austin, Texas; 27 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; sister, Rachel Sommers of Chula Vista, Calif.; and sisters-in-law, Marie Nosal of Wisner and Pat Nosal of Lincoln.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Mary (Nosal) Chen; daughter-in-law, Becky Bell; sisters, Genevieve Beavers and Rita Nosal; and brothers, Dennis and Johnny Nosal.
Memorials: St. Bonaventure Catholic Church; National Lung Cancer Awareness. Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.

Adrian Novak


FREMONT -- Adrian E. Novak, 74, of Fremont died Thursday, Dec. 17, 2009, at Nye Legacy in Fremont.

Services will be at 9:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 28, at Moser Memorial Chapel in Fremont, with the Rev. James Jost of Odyssey Hospice officiating. There is no visitation. Burial with military honors by the Fremont Honor Guard of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 854 and American Legion Post 20 will be at Memorial Cemetery in Fremont.

Mr. Novak was born Aug. 17, 1935, at Prague to Edward and Lillian (Urban) Novak. He grew up at Cedar Bluffs and was a 1952 graduate of Cedar Bluffs High School.

He previously was employed at Farmers Union Coop Elevator and Janovec Trucking at Cedar Bluffs. He moved to Fremont in 1955 and worked at the former Campbell's Soup Co.
He enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard and served from June 24, 1958, to Jan. 23, 1964.

He then delivered dairy products for Countryside Dairy to homes, schools and stores in the Valley, Yutan, Wahoo, Malmo, Prague, Morse Bluff and Cedar Bluffs area. In 1970, he worked for Archer Daniels Midland Co., processing soybeans. He retired in December 1990.

Survivors include a son and wife, Mitch and Marti Novak of Wilber; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sister and husband, Sharon and Darwin Larson of Glenwood, Iowa; nieces; nephews; and special friends, Mary and Darrell Schotfeld of Fremont.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials: Odyssey Hospice; family. Condolences: www.mosermemorialchapels.com
Arrangements by Moser Memorial Chapel.


Jacqueline Wiese


NEWMAN GROVE - Jackie Wiese, 67, of Newman Grove died Friday at Boone County Health Center in Albion. Services were Tuesday, Dec. 22, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Newman Grove. She is the mother of Laura Kobza of rural Bellwood.

Harry Baker


DWIGHT - Harry Eugene Baker, 90, of Dwight, formerly of Bensenville, Ill., died Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2009, in Lincoln.

Services were Tuesday, Dec. 22, at The Church of the Holy Trinity in Lincoln, with Mother Catherine Scott presiding.

Mr. Baker was born June 20, 1919, at Tovey, Ill., to John F. and Lula (Jones) Baker.
He served in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in March 1943 at Fort San Luis Obispo, Calif.

He was retired from Bachi Inc. of Itasca, Ill.

Survivors include sons and wife, John Charles and Kelly Baker of Woodale, Ill., and Russell Baker of Touhy; daughters and husbands, Linda Marie (Juanita Lynn) and Bill Yeager of Marion, Ind., and Donna Kahler of Touhy; son-in-law, Ron Richter of Harrison, Ark., 30 grandchildren; 47 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and sister and husband,
Louise and Bill Oswald.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Marion; and daughters, Judith Ann and Mary Louise.

Memorials: Veterans' groups or favorite charity.

Jerome Palik

Jerome J. Palik, 78, of David City died Nov. 20. Additional information received was an additional survivor Ann Yindrick of Dallas, his sister-in-law.

James Zitek

SEWARD - James Anthony Zitek, 27, of Seward, formerly of Ulysses, died Sunday, Dec. 6, 2009, near Holdrege.

Services were Saturday, Dec. 12, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with Fathers Rand Langhorst and Raymond Jansen officiating. Burial was at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Cemetery near Ulysses.

Mr. Zitek was born June 4, 1982, in David City to Gary Alan and Allison Kay (Tuma) Zitek. He was one of five children raised on the family farm. He was a 2000 graduate of East Butler High School in Brainard and a graduate of Southeast Community College in Milford in the Auto Body program.

On Sept. 25, 2004, he married Nicole "Niki" Deanne Novacek in Seward. He was a team leader in the paint department at Duncan Aviation in Lincoln.

He was a member of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and being a daddy to their daughter, Kallie, and looking forward to the birth of their son in February.

Survivors include his wife; daughter, Kallie Zitek of Seward; parents, Gary and Allison Zitek of Ulysses; siblings and spouses, Benjamin and Melissa Zitek of Lincoln, Angela and David Vandenberg of David City and Joel Zitek and Cassandra Zitek, both of Ulysses; grandparents, Marvin and Mary Lee Zitek of Ulysses and Dave Tuma of St. Paul; parents-in-law, Richard and Julie Novacek of Brainard; brother-in-law, Chad Novacek of Lincoln; nieces and nephew, Madison and Jordyn Vandenberg and Isaiah Novacek; uncles; aunts and cousins.

He is preceded in death by an infant son, Cole; and grandmother, Betty Tuma.

Memorials: To the Jim Zitek family.

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.

Eugene Nekl

OSCEOLA -- Eugene (Nick) Antone Nekl, 86, of Shelby, died Thursday, Dec. 10, 2009, at Osceola Good Samaritan Society in Osceola.

Services were Monday, Dec. 14, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shelby, with Father John Rooney officiating. Burial was at Shelby Cemetery.

Mr. Nekl was born Feb. 23, 1923, in Butler County at Appleton to James and Nettie (Fucek) Nekl. He was the tenth child of 11 born to this family. He attended country school through the eighth grade and graduated from Rising City High School.

During World War II, he worked in San Diego at the Military Defense plant.

He then returned to Shelby where he farmed west and south of Rising City and raised and worked with cattle. He loved driving the trucks to haul the cattle.

On May 8, 1951, he married Joanne Feeser.

He enjoyed spending time at Golden West Feed Yard near Shelby, which his son owns. He also enjoyed his grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife; children and spouses, Rick and Debra Nekl of Columbus and Becky and Michael Voss, Dixie and Timothy Gutz and Reg and Bonnie Nekl, all of Shelby; 12 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; brother, Neal Nekl of Rising City; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Mildred, Cecelia, Mary and Rose; and brothers, George, Robert, James, Ralph and Bill.

Memorials: To family.

Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Osceola.

 

Ann Hain

SEWARD -- Ann Monica Hain, 89, of Seward, formerly of Bee, died Thursday, Dec. 10, 2009, at her home.

Services were Monday, Dec. 14, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with Father Rand Langhorst officiating. Burial was at Seward Cemetery.

Mrs. Hain was born Jan. 4, 1920, on a farm near Appleton to John Joseph and Mary Josephine (Bartunek) Svoboda.

She married Hubert Thomas Hain Feb. 5, 1946, at Appleton Catholic Church, north of David City. They farmed in and around Bee until 1965 when they moved to Seward. She was employed for 25 years with Sundermann Nursing Home in Seward.

She enjoyed sewing, baking, making Czech food and taking her grandchildren shopping. She was a member of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church and Altar Society, Catholic Workmen and AARP.

Survivors include children and spouses, Ken and Alette Hain and Mary Ann and Larry Schwaderer, all of Lincoln, and Theresa and Bob Mills, Brenda Hain and Randy and Deb Hain, all of Seward; 14 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Marie T. Hain, Delores Hain and Marie Jirovsky, all of Seward, and Rose and Tony Samek, David City.

She is preceded in death by her husband in 1988; her parents; granddaughter, Tracy Mills O'Dell; brothers and sister-in-law, Victor Svoboda and William and Eleanor Svoboda; and sister, Mary Svoboda.

Memorials: Donor's choice in care of family.

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.

 

Jo Ann Orfan

SUN PRAIRIE, Wis. -- Jo Ann C. Orfan, 76, of Sun Prairie, Wis., formerly of Butler County, died peacefully Monday, Dec. 7, 2009.

A celebration of her life will be 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 20, at Cannery Grill in Sun Prairie.

Mrs. Orfan was born in York, daughter of Joseph and Sente (Aden) Schroeder. She graduated from Ulysses High School and from Doane College in Crete. She lived in Lincoln, Cedar Rapids and Davenport, Iowa, and Madison, Wis., before settling in Sun Prairie in 1968.

She was very active in the City of Sun Prairie. She spent more than 30 years in city government serving on the City Council, numerous boards and commissions, and was honored to have served as Mayor for 13 years. Her never ending commitment to the community and knack for getting things done is demonstrated in the phrase she coined, "Sun Prairie, The Can Do City!"

Survivors include children and spouses, Cheryl and Paul Lang of Keller, Texas, Kevin and Chris Orfan of London and Kent and Wendy Orfan of Sun Prairie; grandchildren, Melissa, Joseph, Brooke, Kelsey, Andrew and Chloe; and cousins, Mike and Diane Schroeder.

Memorials: Colonial Club of Sun Prairie, 301 Blankenheim Lane, Sun Prairie, WI 53590-2398 or HospiceCare in Fitchburg, 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Fitchburg, WI 53711.

Geraldine Boss

Geraldine Boss, 80, of David City, died Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Services were Saturday, Dec. 12, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mrs. Boss was born June 23, 1929, at Valparaiso to Thomas and Anna (Pochop) Vlcan. She attended Saunders County District School 76 and Weston High School.

She married Harold Hosch June 1, 1950, in Weston. After he died, she married Rollin Boss Jan. 3, 1985, in David City.

She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and St. Mary's PCCW. She liked to golf and bowl. She was the first woman to bowl a 600 series in David City. She also liked gardening, flowers and needlework.

Survivors include son and wife, Steven and Michelle Hosch of Blair; daughters and husbands, Barb and Tom Kopecky of David City and Phyllis and Jesse Collins of Canyon City, Colo.; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and brother and wife, Daniel and Marianne Valcan of Weston.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands; and sons, David and Thomas.

Memorials: St. Mary's Catholic Church or St. Joseph's Villa.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Richard Hiemer

COLUMBUS - Richard J. Hiemer, 85, of Columbus, formerly of Shelby, died Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2009, at Annie Jeffrey Memorial Hospital in Osceola.

Services were Saturday, Dec. 12, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shelby, with Father John Rooney officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery, with military honors by Shelby American Legion Post 296.

Mr. Hiemer was born March 14, 1924, on the family farm near Shelby to John and Edith (Alt) Hiemer.

He grew up and lived on the farm south of Shelby until entering the U.S. Army during World War II. He served in the Philippines as a tech sergeant. He then returned to the family farm.

He married Doris Suddarth June 22, 1948, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shelby. They continued to farm south of Shelby until 1988 when they moved to Columbus.

He served as Farmers Union District 5 Director and on the Sacred Heart Church Board and Aquinas High School Transportation Board in David City. While living at Shelby, he was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and was currently a member of St. Isidore Catholic Church in Columbus. He was also a member of the American Legion and Knights of Columbus in Shelby and Veterans of Foreign Wars in Columbus. He enjoyed dancing, visiting with friends at the coffee shop and attending auctions.

Survivors include daughter and husband, Cathy and Jim Hesman of Centennial, Colo.; sons and wives, John and Judie Hiemer of Aurora, Colo., Alan and Shelly Hiemer of Monticello, Minn., Tim and Lesley Hiemer of Central City and Tony and Patti Hiemer of Omaha; 18 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; sister and husband, Doris and Larry Richter of Ceresco; sister-in-law, Dorothy Hiemer of Shelby; brother-in-law, Norval Augustin of Osceola; special friend, Norma Krumbach of Shelby; nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wife in 1989; his parents; brother, Leonard Hiemer; and sisters and husband, Wilma and Vic Krumbach and Ellie Augustin.

Memorials: Annie Jeffrey Memorial County Health Center, P.O. Box 428, Osceola, NE 68651.

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.

Katherine Casey

BELMONT, Calif. - Katherine "Kate" Josephine Casey, 88, of San Francisco, formerly of David City, died peacefully Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, after a short illness.

Services were Friday, Dec. 4, at Saint Charles Catholic Church in San Carlos, Calif.

Mrs. Casey was born in Elgin June 12, 1921, daughter of George and Nellie Litjen, the third of six children. Siblings include brother, Robert Litjen of David City, and sisters, Elizabeth Roetelle, Adele Radil, Laurine Houlton and Rosemary McCracken. The family moved to David City, where she grew up.

In the 1940s, she started her career with the Army Corps of Engineers in Omaha. After World War II, she transferred to the San Francisco office and lived with David City pals Eileen and Mary Michael.

It was at the S.F. Corps of Engineers office where she met Tim Casey. They were married Jan. 15, 1949, shortly after he joined the SFPD. They enjoyed life in San Francisco, raising their daughter, Patricia. She continued her administrative career, spending many years at BOMA.

In 1981, after retiring, they moved to Petaluma, Calif. They were active in St. James Parish, making many friends along the way. After his death in 2005, she moved to Bayview Villa in San Carlos.

Survivors include daughter, Patt, and son-in-law, Dave; grandsons and wives, Lt. Col. Dan McMichael, USMC, and Debbie, Sean and Cleo, Matt and Christina and Bryan and Stephanie; great-grandchildren, Ashley, Kayley, Gavin, Samantha, Mia, Sedona and Marcus; nephews and nieces.

Memorials: Donor's favorite charity or Catholic Charities. Condolences: www.crippenflynn.com

Arrangements by Crippen & Flynn Carlmont Chapel, Belmont, Calif.


Evelyn Masek

Evelyn E. Masek, 83, of David City died Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2009.

Visitation is 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, at Chermok Funeral Home in David City. A rosary is at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses, followed by a Mass at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be at St. Mary's Cemetery at Ulysses.

Mrs. Masek was born Feb. 10, 1926, at Bee to Michael and Agnes Hotovy.

She married Pete Masek Aug. 12, 1946. She was a homemaker and worked for D & L in Columbus.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Wayne and Shirley and Vern and Jean, all of Lincoln, and Michael and Linda of Columbus; 10 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; sister and brother-in-law, Joseph and Lucille Fiala of Ulysses; and sister-in-law, Marie Hotovy of Seward.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; daughter-in-law, Karen Masek; and brothers, Raphael and Gerald Hotovy.

Memorials: Family wishes; Immaculate Conception Catholic Church; St. Joseph's Villa, David City. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.

Roland Potter

Roland K. Potter, 63, of David City died Sunday, Dec. 27, 2009, at David Place in David City. Services are pending at Chermok Funeral Home in David City.

Grace Turner

Grace O. Hafner Turner, 99, of Rising City, died Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2009, at David Place in David City.

Services are at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, at the Rising City United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Glenn Hubbard officiating. Burial will be at Circle Mound Cemetery at Rising City.

Mrs. Turner was born March 9, 1910, at Gibbon to Henry and Dessis (Brown) Lueck. She attended Gibbon school, graduating in 1929. She attended Kearney Teachers College for two years. She joined the Methodist Church when she was 12 years old.

On May 8, 1939, she married Alfred Hafner. They moved to Rising City in May 1939. He died in April 1969. In January 1977, she married Laurence Turner. They spent the winters at Sun City, Ariz., where she was an affiliate member of Willowbrook Methodist Church.

She loved to bake, especially lemon pies and cinnamon rolls to give to friends and neighbors. She loved fancy handwork, especially cross stitch, and making ceramics.

Survivors include stepchildren and spouses, Howard and Dolores Turner of Rising City, Marilyn Abel of Arlington, Va., and Marjorie and Tom Green of Lincoln; step daughter-in-law, Janet Turner of Las Vegas; seven stepgrandchildren; two stepgreat-grandchildren; nieces and nephews, Karen Hunt of Anchorage, Alaska, William Lueck of Kearney and Fred Lueck of Junction City, Kan.; and seven greatnieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands; brother, Fred; and stepson, Warren Turner.

Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Phyllis Hoy

SCHUYLER -- Phyllis G. (Grotelueschen) Hoy, 81, of Schuyler died Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2009, at Golden Living Center in Clarkson.

Services were Tuesday, Dec. 29, at Presybterian Church in Schuyler, with Pastor Laura Hollister officiating.

Mrs. Hoy was born Feb. 28, 1928, in Schuyler to Elmer and Katherine (Kehrli) Grotelueschen. She graduated from Fullerton High School and later attended school to become an LPN.

On March 15, 1947, she married Alvin Hoy in Las Vegas. She was an administrator for nursing homes in Pender and Wausa. They lived in Mesa, Ariz., from 1990-2008. She had lived in Schuyler the past two years.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Jim and Lou Hoy of Ashburn, Va., Gary and Mary Hoy of Tooele, Utah; daughters and sons-in-law, Debra and Gerald Shannon of Schuyler, Diane and Brent Johnson of Grand Island and Janice Ray of Snyder; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters-in-law, Larry and Treva Grotelueschen of Swanton, Ohio, and Terry and Marilyn Grotelueschen of Oklahoma City; and sister and brother-in-law, Shirley and Carl Knapp of Tucson, Ariz.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son, Dennis Alvin Hoy; and brother, Donald Grotelueschen.

Memorials: Family choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, Schuyler.

Floyd Wozniak Jr. 

OMAHA -- Floyd Wozniak Jr., 74, of Omaha, formerly of Butler County, died peacefully at home on Friday, Dec. 18, 2009.

A memorial Mass was Wednesday morning, Dec. 23, at St. Bernard's Church in Omaha. He had donated his body to Creighton Medical School for scientific research.

Mr. Wozniak was born Nov. 20, 1935, at Elyria to Alma (Krahulik) and Floyd Wozniak. He grew up on farms around the Elyria and Ord area. He attended rural grade school and graduated from Ord High School in 1953.

He served from January 1955 to January 1957 in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict. When he was discharged, he took advantage of the G.I. Bill and got his teaching degree from Kearney State College. He later got his master's degree in education and counseling from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

He married Barbara Baade Sept. 28, 1960, and they had five children.

His first teaching/coaching job was in Rising City for one year. They then moved about 20 miles east of there and he taught and coached the next three years at East Butler High School in Brainard. He was recently honored by East Butler as the Father of East Butler football. His next teaching position was one year in South Sioux City. The last move in his career was to Omaha South High School where he taught and coached for 30 plus years. He retired in 1997. He also worked part time at J.C. Penney store at the Westroads for over 30 years.

He enjoyed time spent with his children and grandchildren, with his students and his football players. He loved sports and followed the coaching careers of many college friends across the state of Nebraska. Until this last season he rarely missed entering the Football Contest in the Quiz. He stood by the Huskers no matter what and also cheered for the UNO Mavericks football team and listened to Husker and Creighton Blue Jays basketball games.

He was diagnosed with diabetes in his late 20s and overcame many of the health problems associated with diabetes. The last 14 years had been cruel - heart attack, bypass surgery, stroke, leg amputation and finally total blindness. The family is very thankful that, through the help of family and friends, he was able to stay in his home. He had a long and faithful relationship with his Lord and a special devotion to Mary, praying the rosary every night.

He is survived by his wife; sons and wives, Gary, Neal and Helen and Kyle and Jackie; daughters and husband, Pam and Tom and Denise; daughter-in-law, Cindy; grandchildren and spouse, Jessica Wozniak and Danielle (Ed) Powers, Christopher, Katie - our little angel, and Kim Scott, Neleah Wozniak and Kyle Thomas, Lucas, and Grace Wozniak. His first great-grandchild - Sophia - will arrive in March (all are in the Omaha area); sisters, Rita Freeman of South Sioux City and Patricia Grove of Lincoln.

He was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Katie; and brother-in-law, Bob Grove.

Arrangements by Roeder Mortuary, Omaha.


Leopoldina Fuentes Marino
Mario Encarnacion Marino


SCHUYLER -- Leopoldina Fuentes Marino, 59, and Mario Encarnacion Marino, 32, died
Friday, Dec. 25, 2009, as a result of a fire in their home in Schuyler.

Services were Thursday, Dec. 31, at Divine Mercy Catholic Church (St. Augustine Parish) in Schuyler.

Mario Encarnacion Marino was born Aug. 18, 1977, in Chihualco, Guerro, Mexico, to Abel
Encarnacion and Gloria Encarnacion Marino. Mario came to Schuyler at age 12 and attended school in Schuyler.

He had worked at Cargill Meat Solutions in Schuyler for the last 13 years.

Survivors include his wife, Natividad Salgado Fuentes; daughter, Leslie Encarnacion; son, Mario Encarnacion Salgado; and his parents, all of Schuyler.

Interment was at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, rural Schuyler.
Leopoldina Fuentes Marino, 59, was born Jan. 20, 1950, in Chihualco, Guerro, Mexico, to Abraham Fuentes and Leonord Marino.

She was married Nov. 20, 1970, in Mexico to Francisco Salgado Sanchez. She had come to Schuyler four years ago from Mexico.

Survivors include her husband; daughters, Natividad Encarnacion and Letician Salgado, both of Schuyler; sons, Francisco Salgado of Schuyler and Carmelo Salgado and Armando Salgado, both of Mexico, and nine grandchildren. 
She will be buried in Chilpancingo, Mexico.  Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, Schuyler.


Laura Schmidt


Laura J. Schmidt, 51, of Garrison, died Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2009, at her residence in Garrison.

Funeral services were Monday, Jan. 4, 2010, at 10:30 a.m. in Immanuel Lutheran Church, rural Rising City, with the Rev. David Palomaki officiating. Burial was at the church cemetery.
Memorials may be given in care of the family.

Laura J. Schmidt was born on Feb. 12, 1958, in David City to George and Mabel (Daro) Huisenga. She attended Garrison Grade School and went on to graduate from David City High School in 1976. She attended one year at Platte College in Columbus.

She worked at Seward County Court as a legal secretary for 10 years and then became a Butler County Court Magistrate for several years. She then went to work for Egr and Birkel in David City as a legal secretary and has worked with them for 15 years.
She married Dan Schmidt on June 9, 1990, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, rural Rising City.

Laura was very active in community events. She was a member, past president and vice-president of the David City High School Alumni Association and a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church and was a past board member. She was also the chairperson of the church's 125th anniversary celebration. She taught Sunday school and was active in the Special Olympics program. She was also involved for many years as a supporter of Children's International and just recently received a certificate of appreciation from the program.

She was involved in Vaudeville Days and Summer Theatre. She enjoyed reading, playing cards, performing in musical skits in many community events and for family and friends. Laura liked to work crossword puzzles and was an avid collector of Wizard of Oz and Abraham Lincoln memorabilia. She liked Betty Boop, Looney Toons and Eeyore and couldn't miss her favorite soap opera: "All My Children."

Laura is survived by her husband, Dan; son, Lucas Schmidt of the home; twin daughters, Jill and Jennifer Schmidt, also of the home; step-sons: Wayne Schmidt of Cheyenne, Wyo., Adam Schmidt of David City and Brian Schmidt of Torrington, Wyo.; her mother, Mabel Huisenga of David City; two brothers, George (Nida) Huisenga of Grimes, Iowa, and Howard (Kathy) Huisenga of Joplin, Mo.; four sisters, Joyce (Ed) Draper of Glenwood, Iowa, Maxine Freeman of Garrison, Susie (Larry) Sedlak of Dwight and Mary Williams of Lincoln; two step-grandchildren; and her parents-in-law, Raymond and Lois Schmidt of Cheyenne, Wyo.

She was preceded in death by her father, George Huisenga; and two brothers, Robert and Richard Huisenga.
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Marjorie Dobesh


SEWARD -- Marjorie J. Dobesh, 78, of Seward, formerly of Ulysses, died Thursday, Dec. 31, 2009, in Lincoln.

Mass of Christian Burial was 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2010, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with celebrant Father Rand Langhorst.

Marjorie Jean (Gabel) Dobesh was born Jan. 16, 1931, at Stromsburg to Englebert Emanuel and Anna Susan (Augustin) Gabel. She was a 1948 graduate of Shelby High School and taught country school near Shelby until she was married.

On June 28, 1951, Marjorie was united in marriage to Joseph Raphael Dobesh Jr. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shelby, and their marriage was blessed with six sons. The family was engaged in farming and lived on the same farm northeast of Staplehurst all of Joseph and Marjorie's married life.

Marjorie was formerly a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses where she was also a member of Altar Society and taught CCD. Marjorie moved to Seward in 2002 and was a member of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church, P.C.C.W. and SINE Group, all in Seward. She was a Sundermann Home activities and home health aid for many years.

Marjorie is preceded in death by her parents, Englebert and Anna Gabel, and her husband, Joseph R. Dobesh Jr. in 1986.

Marjorie is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Dave and Gail Dobesh, Lincoln, Dr. Ron and Kathy Dobesh, Wahoo, Dr. Gerald Dobesh, Wahoo, Don and Becky Dobesh, North Platte, Drs. Mike and Kathy Dobesh, Santa Fe, N.M., and Kevin and Bridget Dobesh, West Point; 16 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brothers and sister-in-law, Duane and Millie Gabel and Charles Gabel, all of Osceola; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Alice and Winard Augustin of Shelby.

Memorials: Spirit Catholic Radio, St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church, Seward, or donor's choice in care of the Dobesh family.               
Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.

Ronald Beckius Sr.


SCHUYLER - Ronald E. Beckius Sr., 66, of Schuyler died Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2009, at the Golden Living Center in Schuyler.

Mass of Christian Burial was Saturday, Jan. 2, 2010, at St. Augustine Catholic Church in
Schuyler, with Celebrant Father Gerald Leise. Committal will be at a later date.
Ronald E. Beckius was born Sept. 17, 1943, in Omaha to E. Loran and Maxinea (Ellis) Beckius. He lived most of his life in Schuyler and worked for the Department of Utilities for 40 years, retiring Feb. 18, 2009.

He loved camping, fishing and boating, served as a DJ for weddings and also loved dancing.
In 1965, he married Ruth Ann Welch. They had five children, Bill (Maria) Beckius, Schuyler, Sandra (John) Boswell, Polk, Ron Beckius Jr. and Jason (Allison) Beckius, all of San Diego, and Carey (Gerardo) Espinosa of Columbus; and 15 grandchildren.

On April 8, 2003, he married Carla Inks in Columbus. He had three step-children; Juanita (Steve) Randall, Columbus, Ramona Kaup, Norfolk, and Shawn (Bambi) Bignell, West Terra Haute, Ind., and four step-grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother, Maxinea Beckius of Schuyler; one sister, Judie Hein of David City; a niece and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father; brother-in-law, Adrian Hein Sr.; and two
step-grandchildren, Trey Brandt and Celine Odey.

Memorials: Family choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, Schuyler.


Shirley Kuklish


VENTURA, Calif. - Shirley Joann Kuklish, 80, died peacefully on Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2009, with her beloved family by her side in Ventura, Calif.
A memorial service will be at noon on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, at the Odd Fellows Lodge Hall, 401 N. Hagar Street, San Fernando, Calif.

Born on March 9, 1929, in Nebraska to Wendell and Iola (Williams) Sutton, Shirley graduated from David City High School in 1946.

She married Kenneth Kuklish in Columbus on May 22, 1948. In 1952, the family moved to California. Along with being a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother and accomplished business woman, Shirley was devoted to helping others through charitable causes.

Proudly, she was an active member of the Rebekah Lodge for over 50 years. She loved good food, socializing and had a wonderful smile that could light up a room. Her interests included traveling, reading, movies, plays, TV sitcoms, sports, Scrabble, crossword puzzles and her daily game of solitaire.

Shirley is survived by her husband, Ken Kuklish; daughter and son-in-law, Joan and Donald Hoffman; son, Jim Kuklish; daughter, Jeanine Fisher; her four grandchildren, whom she so adored, Shawna Kuklish-Abrams, Chad Kuklish, Brett Fisher and Scott Fisher; and brothers, Alan Sutton and Duane Sutton.

Arrangements by Rose Funeral Home and Cremation.

July 2010 Obituaries

Dennis Mares

LINCOLN -- Dennis E. Mares, 74, of Lincoln died Saturday, July 3, 2010.
Mass of Christian Burial is at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 9, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 500 North 31st Street in Lincoln, with Father Michael Morin officiating. Visitation was after 5 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home Rosary is at 7 p.m. Thursday at Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home, 4040 A Street in Lincoln. Burial will be at Lincoln Memorial Park.
Mr. Mares was born at Dwight.

He was a U.S. Navy veteran and served aboard the U.S.S. Thetis Bay. He was retired from Goodyear.
He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, American Legion Post 110 in Dwight, D.A.V., and United Steel Workers 286 retired.

Survivors include his wife, Rose Marie; sons, Daniel of Arvada, Colo., and Donald of Chicago; grandchildren, Courtney and Andrew of Arvada, Colo.; sisters, Marjorie (Bernie) Grossman and Betty (John) Sedlak, both of Lincoln; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-laws, Vlad and MaryMargaret Berniklau of Albuquerque, N.M., George Berniklau of Corpus Christi, Texas, and Ann Berniklau of Lincoln; nieces; nephews; cousins; and a host of friends.

Memorials to family or Mass offerings. Arrangements by Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home.

Wally Finnoff


Wally E. Finnoff passed away peacefully, at his home in David City, on Friday, July 9, 2010.
It was Waldo's desire no services be held following his death.

He was a United States Navy Veteran and served during World War II in the South Pacific. He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly, of David City and eight children, Christy Lyon, Sandra Lacy, Cynthia Squires, Suzanne Koch, Gail Marie Kearns and Lawrence, Robert and James Finnoff.
Wally had fifteen grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a son, John Finnoff.

He will be greatly missed by many friends and extended family.

We will all take time to light one more candle for our loving father.
Kracl Funeral Chapel in David City is in charge of arrangements, and memorials may be sent to the family.

Lucille Hutchinson


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Word has been received of the death of Lucille (Onnen) Hutchinson in Albuquerque, N.M., on Thursday, July 8, 2010.

There will be no funeral. Her body was cremated. A committal service will be held at a later date in Fort Logan military cemetery near Denver.

Lucille was born in 1921 to Herman and Marie Siffring Onnen in rural Garrison.
She attended grade school at Butler County District 14 and graduated from David City High School in 1938.

She was married to Robert Hutchinson, who preceded her in death in 2005.  Six children were born to this union: Brenda, Galen, Karen, Alan, Brian and Myrna.
Lucille lived most of her life in Denver.

Besides her children, she is survived by one brother, Dale Onnen of rural Garrison. 

Eugene Hromas


SEWARD -- Eugene E. Hromas, 79, of Ulysses died Wednesday, July 7, 2010, in Ulysses.
Services were Monday, July 12, at St. John Lutheran Church in Seward, with Pastor Bob Paulson officiating. Interment: was at Seward Cemetery.

Mr. Hromas was born Sept. 2, 1932, at Ulysses to Edward and Emma (Krepcik) Hromas.
He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, Dwight American Legion Post 110 and Z.C.B.J.

Survivors include his wife, Judi Hromas of Ulysses; daughters and sons-in-law, Lori and Mick Porter of Beatrice, Janene and Rick Welniak of Elyria and Hope Hromas of Seward; 10 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sister, Delores Roemer of Fremont, Calif.; aunt, Lillian Krepcik of Seward; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Memorials: To the family in care of Zabka Funeral Home, Seward. Condolences @ www.zabkafuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home.

Donald Mikoloyck


OSHKOSH - Donald "Don" Mikoloyck, 77, of Oshkosh, died Friday morning, July 9, 2010, at Ogallala Community Hospital in Ogallala.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, July 12, at St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church in Oshkosh, with Father Neal Nollette officiating. Burial was at St. Elizabeth's Cemetery.
Donald William Mikoloyck, son of Peter Paul and Anna (Blaha) Mikoloyck, was born Dec. 4, 1932, on the family homestead south of Oshkosh. He attended country school in Garden County at District 56. His freshman year in high school he attended St. Patrick's Parochial School in Sidney before graduating from Chappell High School in 1950. 

He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1950 to 1952. 

He then studied agriculture at Colorado A. & M., now Colorado State University, in Fort Collins, Colo., for three years.

On June 3, 1959, he was united in marriage to Phyllis Louis Orton at Hamburg, Iowa. They made their home in Garden County on the Mikoloyck homestead where he was engaged in farming and raising cattle. Besides the agriculture ventures, Don did many other things including working for the Egging Co. at Gurley, on the I-80 interchange at Julesburg, as a plumber helper for Jack Daily, at the Sioux Army Depot in Sidney, for the A.S.C.S. Office measuring bins and farm acreage and helping other area farmers at different times.

Don always loved being around children, attending all of his children's school activities and at one time coaching the country school's boys basketball team. He loved nature, especially water witching, and animals, even naming one of his bulls Romeo. He loved to coffee with his family, friends and neighbors and played pitch almost every afternoon.

Don was an accomplished artist, winning many awards for his artistic abilities. He attended craft fairs where he sold his windmill design.

Survivors include his wife, Phyllis Mikoloyck of Oshkosh; two sons, Ronald Mikoloyck of Oshkosh and Steven Mikoloyck of Overland, Kan.; one daughter, JoAnn Farran of David City; three grandchildren, Courtney Mikoloyck and Eric Prochaska, both of Lincoln, and Devin Prochaska of David City; sister-in-law, June Mikoloyck of Oshkosh; brother-in-law, LaVern and wife Charlotte Orton of Sabetha, Kan.; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Pete and Paul Mikoloyck; sister-in-law, Ardis Mikoloyck; nephew, Lance Orton; and Donna and Loren Miller. 
Memorials: To St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church. Condolences: www.holechekfuneralhomes.com
Arrangements by Holechek Funeral Home and Cremations, Oshkosh.

Richard Shaw


SCHUYLER - Richard "Dick" Lee Shaw, 85, of Columbus died Saturday, July 10, 2010, at Meridian Gardens Assisted Living Center in Columbus.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, July 24, at 2:30 p.m. at the Svoboda Funeral Home North Chapel in Schuyler. The Speaker will be Tony Britto of the Jehovah's Witnesses.
Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service.

Richard was born Jan. 9, 1925, at Sargent to Arthur C. and Helen (Crane) Shaw. He attended rural school and Sargent High School.

On April 19, 1952, he married Verna Lee Anderson in Omaha. They lived in Omaha until 1996 when they moved to Linwood, and in 2009 they moved to Columbus. Dick worked as a heavy equipment operator building golf courses across the U.S.

He loved horses and gardening. He was a member of the Jehovah's Witnesses and helped with the construction of a large number of Kingdom Halls. 
Richard is survived by his wife, Verna Lee of Columbus; five children, Matthew Shaw of Beatrice, Range Shaw of Phoenix, Bowman (Florence) Shaw of Chicago, Julia Ann Marie Shaw Bartles (Don) of Boston, John (Christa) Shaw of Portland, Ore.; six grandchildren, Cole, Camron, Taylor, Andrew, Lauren and Emma; one brother, Charles (Denise) Shaw of Craig; many nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jack, Robert and James Shaw; sister, Betty Fleming; and two nephews, John and Jerry Shaw.

Condolences: svobodafuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home.

Cynthia Chambers


Cynthia Kay Chambers, 50, of Exira, Iowa, died Wednesday, July 7, 2010, at the Exira Care Center.

Services were held on Monday, July 12, 2010, at the First United Methodist Church in Audubon, Iowa, with Pastor Jud Stover officiating. Interment was at the Maple Grove Cemetery at Audubon.

Cindy was born Sept. 11, 1959, in Audubon, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at the First United Methodist Church in Audubon, Iowa. She attended the Exira schools for several years then transferred and graduated from the Audubon Community Schools. She then moved to the New Hope Village in Carroll, Iowa.

While living at New Hope, she was employed at the New Hope Village Store where she made all types of ceramics. In 1992 she moved to a group home in Manning, Iowa. There she worked at Vocational Enterprises assembling all types of products. In April 2009 she moved to Exira and made her home at the Exira Care Center.

Cindy was a member of the Presbyterian Church in Manning. While living in Carroll she was a member of the New Hope Village Sign Choir. The choir entertained audiences in the surrounding communities and even performed at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines. She enjoyed attending Camp Sunnyside during the summers for many years. She always enjoyed going out with her family, especially her sister and brother.

Survivors include her sister and brother, Paula and husband Lowell Klindt of Exira and Daniel and wife Rhonda Chambers of Missouri Valley, Iowa; her nieces, Amanda and husband Alfonso Morales of Victoria City, Mexico, and Michelle and husband Jacob Sanborn and their children Rosemary and Jaden, all of Menno, S.D.; and nephew, Daniel Lee Chambers of Springfield, Mo.; her grandfather, Edwin Kopke of Rising City; aunts, uncles, other relatives and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee and Sandra Chambers, and her grandparents.

Clarence Thege

NORTH BEND -- Clarence L. Thege, 80, of North Bend died Wednesday, July 14, 2010, at Birchwood Manor in North Bend.

Funeral services were Saturday, July 17, at the Prague Presbyterian Church in Prague. The Rev. Lonnie Eschliman officiated. Military graveside services were conducted by members of American Legion Post 340 of Morse Bluff, Veterans of Foreign War Post 8223 and Am Vets Post 20 of North Bend. Burial was at the Prague Presbyterian Cemetery.

Clarence was born February 19, 1930, on a farm near Linwood. He attended grade school at District 78, Prague High School and was a 1948 graduate of Linwood High School.

He farmed with his father until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served during the Korean War from June 28, 1951, until March 19, 1953, on the frontline at the 38th parallel most of his tour of duty. He was a squad leader in the Second Combat Engineers Second Division and held the rank of Sergeant 1st Class. He served five more years in the Army Reserves. He then returned to Linwood where he farmed.

In his spare time he was a catcher for the Linwood Aggies Fast Pitch Softball Team from 1953-61.

Clarence married Marlene Fencl on Feb. 15, 1958, at the Prague Presbyterian Church at Prague. The couple lived near Linwood in Saunders County and farmed near Linwood and Morse Bluff, and also raised chickens, cattle and swine. He also worked at the Commodore Mobile Home Manufacturing Plant. In 1985, they moved to North Bend, where he worked at Blevins Popcorn Plant and later worked at Birchwood Manor as a maintenance man. He retired in 2002 and had been residing at Birchwood Manor since 2008.

He was a member of the Prague Presbyterian Church, American Legion Post 340 of Morse Bluff, Veterans of Foreign War Post 8223 of North Bend, honorary member of the Linwood Volunteer Fire Department, past director of the former Linwood Farmers Union Coop and member of the building site committee for the 1970 new North Bend High School District 95.

He enjoyed gardening, playing cards, bowling and his daily visits to the "wind tunnel."
Clarence is survived by his wife, Marlene; son, Robert Thege of North Bend; daughters, Cheryl Thege and special friend Dave Sliva of Bellwood and Pam and husband John Eggleston of Schuyler; daughter-in-law, Lorie Thege of North Bend; brothers and sisters-in law, George and Mary Thege of Norfolk, Richard Thege of Linwood, Raynold and Pauline Thege of David City and Don and Alyce Thege of Schuyler; 10 grandchildren, Aaron and Jamie Nelson, David and Ryan Sliva, Taya, Tegan, Janessa, Jasavier, Jaslyn and Joelslyn; and great-grandchild, Tanner Sliva.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Rose (Houfek) Thege; and granddaughter, Lisa Sliva.
Memorials to the church or donor's choice. Condolences: www.mosermemorialchapels.com
Arrangements by Moser Memorial Chapel, North Bend.

Glen Kallenbach


THRONTON, Colo. - Glen R. Kallenbach of Thronton, Colo., died Friday, July 2, 2010, at the Alpine Nursing and Rehabilitation Home.
Funeral services were at Olinger Crown Hill Chapel of Peace on Thursday, July 8, with the Rev. Rick Walker officiating. Entombment was at Olinger Crown Hill Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Chris Rewerts, Jason, Jeremy and Richard Kallenbach, Ken Sonity and Vic McGuire.

Glen was born at home on a farm near Rising City to Clint and Maude (From) Kallenbach on May 14, 1935. He graduated from Bellwood High School in 1954. He attended the Golden Church of Christ.

Glen worked at Honeywell & Rocky Flats, retiring from there in 1989. After retirement, he did
construction work and worked at Wal-Mart.

Glen liked to go fishing and hunting. He had some racing dogs in the 1970s. He enjoyed his family and friends.

Glen was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mae; brothers, Wayne, Dean, Keith and Clint Jr.; nephews, Wayne Jr. and Cory Kallenbach and Sidney Bell.

He is survived by his daughter, Roxie of Aberdean, Wash.; sons and daughters-in-law, Glen Jr. and Janet of Arvada, Colo., Randy and Kathy of Connell, Wash., Rex of Evans, Colo., and Clinton and Vickie of Denver; 13 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters and brothers-in-law, Joyce and Bob Bell of Bellwood and Janice and Paul Bykerk Sr. of Norfolk; sisters-in-law, Wilma, Lorene and Beverly Kallenbach of Bellwood; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

H. Keith Crook


H. Keith Crook, 97, of Rising City, died Friday, July 23, 2010, at David Place in David City.
Funeral services are at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 28, at United Methodist Church in Rising City, with the Rev. Faye Hubbard officiating. Viewing continues from Tuesday from 9-10 a.m. on Wednesday at the church. Burial will be at Circle Mound Cemetery.

Mr. Crook was born on March 7, 1913, to Elva and Mabel (Linton) Crook in Falls City. He attended the Falls City Schools, graduating from Falls City High School in 1932.

He met, dated and later married Gladys Pool on March 26, 1938, at Rising City. They lived and farmed in the Rising City area all of their married lives. Two children were born to this union.
Keith enjoyed playing cards, was an avid bowler and was an excellent pitch at horseshoes. He also was a champion at checkers and after an opponent's move he would ask, "Are you sure you want to make that move?". He was also a member of the United Methodist Church in Rising City and a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge 81 AF & AM of Rising City.

Keith is survived by his sons: Walter K. (Mary Ann) Crook of Rising City and Alton K. (Lois) Crook of Fremont; one brother: Victor (Margaret) Crook of Mountain View, Calif.; one sister: Aerial Riggs of Washington State; five grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Gladys, in 2005; one grandchild: Bruce Crook; two infant siblings; four brothers: George, Finis, Earl and Cleo; and three sisters: Catherine, Alma and Lois.

Memorials: In care of the family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Dorothy Schneider


COLUMBUS -- Dorothy M. Schneider, 88, of David City, formerly of Columbus, died Monday, July 26, 2010, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Funeral service is at 11 a.m. Monday, Aug. 2, at First United Methodist Church, 2710 14th Street, in Columbus. The Rev. Bill Ritter will officiate.

Dorothy M. Schneider was born Sept. 16, 1921, in Avoca, Iowa, to George and Hertha (Bornholdt) Lippold.

She married Anton "Tony" Schneider on June 28, 1944, in Omaha. She and her husband, Tony,
owned and operated the "Y" Motel in York and the Lark Bar in Columbus before moving to Lincoln. Following their retirement, they moved back to the Columbus area.

Dorothy is survived by: sons: Anthony (Mary) Schneider of Colorado Springs, Colo., Dennis (Mary) Schneider of Des Moines, Iowa, and Jeff (Jane) Schneider of Columbus; daughter-in-law: Diane Schneider of Phoenix; brother: Larry (Eldine) Lippold of Avoca, Iowa; grandchildren: Bari, Stephanie, Tony, Jeff, Hope; and great-grandchildren: Aiden, Zach, Scott, Erin, Calib, Ian, Aiden, Toby, McKenna, Averi, Alexandria and Quinn.

She was preceded in death by: husband: Anton "Tony" Schneider; father, George Lippold; mother, Hertha Lippold; son: John Schneider; brothers, Willis Lippold, Earl Lippold and Loring Lippold; and grandson: Joe Schneider.

Memorials: First United Methodist Church or St. Joseph's Villa. Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.

Lillian Krepcik


SEWARD -- Lillian Frances (Hruska) Krepcik, 97, died Monday, July 12, 2010.

Services were July 16, 2010, at St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with the Rev. Rand Langhorst officiating. Burial was at Seward Cemetery in Seward.
Lillian was born June 1, 1913, near Plasi to Vaclav "James" and Mary (Jakub) Hruska.

She attended country school north of Weston in Saunders County.
She worked at home and at three different cafes until her marriage.
On June 27, 1935, she married Joseph Krepcik in Omaha.

The Krepciks lived north of Seward, then by Woodlake, Staplehurst, York, Litchfield and Ashton, and then they purchased the Sportsman's Corner, a bait shop near Sherman Reservoir, which they operated for many years.

In October 1985 they moved to Seward.
Lillian was a member of St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church and Altar Society.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe; brothers, John and Jim Hruska; sisters, Emma Nekuda, Anna Stava and Marie Reznicek; nieces and nephews.

Survivors include her nieces and nephews.
Memorials: To donor's choice in care of the family.

Louis Helgoth


ST. PAUL - Louis C. Helgoth, 79, of St. Libory, died Wednesday, July 21, 2010, surrounded by his entire family, at St. Francis Medical Center in Grand Island.

Services were Monday, July 26, at St. Libory's Catholic Church. The Rev. Sidney B. Bruggeman officiated. Burial was at St. Libory's Catholic Cemetery, with graveside military honors by Carl Mogensen American Legion Post 119 of St. Paul.

Mr. Helgoth was born April 24, 1931, on a farm southeast of David City, the son of Charles and Catherine (Speicher) Helgoth.

He was united in marriage to Rose Marie Raskey on Oct. 9, 1954, at Brainard.

He is survived by his wife, Rose Marie; three sons and daughters-in-law, Bob and Rose Helgoth of St. Paul and Chuck and Shelly Helgoth and Todd and Tammy Helgoth, all of St. Libory; two daughters and sons-in-law, Valerie and Mick Jameson of Minden and Teri and Kerry Supencheck of Grand Island; one brother, Leonard Helgoth of David City; and one sister, Lucille Vanis of St. Libory.

He also leaves to cherish his memory, 13 grandchildren, Haley, Jaime and Colton Helgoth, Broderick, Dominick, Maverick and Darrick Helgoth, Lucas and Ashton Helgoth, Amber Dizmang and her husband, Jake and Samantha Rush and Dustin and Nick Supencheck; and one great-granddaughter, Leah Dizmang.

Louis attended rural schools and was a 1948 graduate of David City High School. Upon completing his education, he farmed with his father.

He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1952 to 1954.

He then moved to St. Libory where he began farming in the spring of 1954.
He and Rose Marie lived their entire married life on their farm northeast of St. Libory. They raised melons and produce, which they sold near David City. In 1967, they started their produce stand along Highway 281, which the family still owns and operates to this day. He also was a seed corn dealer for many years and worked for the A.S.C.S. office in St. Paul in his younger years.

He was a longtime member of St. Libory's Catholic Church, where he was a longtime catechism teacher and lector. He was also a former member of the St. Libory Volunteer Fire Department and was a member of the Carl Mogensen American Legion Post 119 of St. Paul.

Louis was a very creative person and loved painting. He was a jokester who dearly loved all his grandchildren. For the past 14 years, he and Rose Marie enjoyed spending their winters in Rio
Grande Valley in Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one granddaughter, Cheryl Rose Helgoth; and his brother, Richard Helgoth.

Please sign Louie's guest book by visiting www.petersfuneralhome.net.
Memorials: To the family's choice.

Arrangements by Peters Funeral Home, St. Paul.


May 2009 Obituaries

 


Donald Shreckengost

PAYSON, Ariz. -- Donald "Don" Shreckengost, 82, of Payson, Ariz., formerly of Rising City, died Saturday, May 30, 2009, in Payson.

A memorial service was Tuesday, June 2, at Shepherd of the Pines in Payson.

Mr. Shreckengost was born Sept. 23, 1926, at Rising City.He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1952-60, seeing action during the Korean conflict.He married Adele Homeier.He worked with US Steel in Gary, Ind., 30 years, Sunkist Corp. five years and U.S. Department of Agriculture at the Sedona Ranger Station nine years.

He also retired from Labours for Christ in 2002.He was a member of Shepherd of Pines Lutheran Church of Payson and served on several boards for Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. He was also a member of U.S. Marine Corps League Rimrock Chapter and American Legion Post 69 in Payson.Survivors include a sister, Doris Kindler; and nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; five brothers; and two sisters.


 

Delphine Rejda

LUSK, Wyo. -- Delphine Mildred (Hlavac) Rejda, 88, of Lusk, Wyo., formerly of Bruno, died Thursday, May 21, 2009, in Lusk.

Services were at Pier Funeral Home in Lusk on Saturday, May 23, with burial at Lusk Cemetery.

Mrs. Rejda was born Nov. 29, 1920, at Bruno, to Adolph and Elsie (Fricke) Hlavac. She married Charles Frank Rejda in Lusk on July 15, 1939. He was the son of Charley and Emma Barbara (Bushek) Rejda of Jay Em, Wyo. They raised four children and ranched near Lusk, mostly on their ranch on 28 Road, for the first 35 years of their married life. In 1974, they sold the ranch and moved to Riverton, Wyo., near their daughter Darlene until 1979 when they moved back to Lusk. They operated Lusk Cold Storage with their sons Gene and Danny for seven years and became well known to local ranchers and out of state hunters for high quality meat processing.

She enjoyed cooking and entertaining for family and friends, was well known for her homemade breads and enjoyed doing crafts, crocheting and taking care of and providing a home for her family.

Survivors include children and spouses, Darlene and Jack Dole of Kirbyville, Mo., Steve of Collinsville, Okla., and Danny of Waco, Texas; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; siblings, Tom Hlavac of David City; Orletha (Hlavac) Dvorak of Brainard and Alvern Hlavac of David City.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son, Gene Charles; and six brothers and sisters.

Memorials: Niobrara Health & Life Center or Niobrara County Ambulance Fund.

Arrangements by Pier Funeral Home.

 

Valerian Hlavac

Valerian "Tom" H. Hlavac, 77, of Bruno died Thursday, May 28, 2009, in Columbus. Services were Monday, June 1, at Chermok Funeral Home in David City. Burial was at Bruno National Cemetery, with military rites by Rejda Post 273 of the American Legion.

Mr. Hlavac was born July 10, 1931, at Bruno to Adolph and Elsie (Fricke) Hlavac.

He served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean conflict.

He worked for Western Electric in Kansas City before returning to Bruno to help his parents with the farm.

He was a member of Rejda American Legion Post 273 in Brainard. He served as a Butler County Supervisor for many years.

Survivors include a brother, Alvern of David City; sister, Orletha (Oley) of David City; nieces and nephews.

Memorials: In care of family.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.

Bonnie Lueders

SEWARD -- Bonnie Lee Lueders, 69, of Seward died Saturday, May 30, 2009, in Lincoln.

Services are at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 4, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with Father Rand Langhorst officiating. Visitation continues from Tuesday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Wednesday at Zabka Funeral Home in Seward and one hour prior to the Mass on Thursday at the church. Rosary Prayer Service is at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the church. Burial will be at Seward Cemetery.

Mrs. Lueders was born June 4, 1939, in Seward to Peter "Pete" Emil and Veronica "Verna" Julia (Sedlak) Jakub. She was a 1958 graduate of Assumption High School in Dwight.

Prior to her marriage, she worked at the ASCS office and a bank in David City. On

Nov. 21, 1964, she married Larry Maurice Lueders at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight. They farmed and she was also employed in housekeeping at Dandy Lion Inn in Seward, with Jakub Dairy for nine years and for Region V Services in Seward the past five years.

She enjoyed gardening, flowers, traveling and time spent with her family. She was a member of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church and PCCW.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Sheila Lueders of Seward; daughter and son-in-law, Kelly and Ryan Stelling of Milford; grandchildren, Kendra Porter, Jordan Richardson and Tanner, Taylor and Sydney Stelling; brothers and sisters-in-law, Marvin and Michele Jakub and Dwayne and Nancy Jakub, all of Brainard; sister and brother-in-law, Marilyn and Gary Kudlacek of Grafton; aunts, Marie Coufal of Seward, Mary Sedlak of Omaha and Gladys Jakub and Eleanore Kobza, both of Lincoln; and uncle, George Jakub of North Quincy, Mass.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 1998; and brother, Willis Jakub.

Memorials: Donor's choice in care of the family. Condolences: www.zabkafuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home.

Denise Kubik

PRAGUE - Denise Kubik, 57, of Prague died Monday, May 25, 2009, at Saunders County Medical Center in Wahoo.

Services were Friday, May 29, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Prague, with Father Jamie Hottovy officiating. Burial was at Prague National Cemetery.

Mrs. Kubik was born June 21, 1951, in Columbus to Dennis and Dorothy (Barcal) Urban. She attended school in Prague and graduated from Prague High School in 1969. She attended Platte College in Columbus and became a licensed practical nurse.

On Sept. 4, 1971, she married Robert F. Kubik at St. John's Catholic Church in Prague. She worked for Dr. Hinrichs in Wahoo, Birchwood Manor in North Bend, Fremont Area Medical Center for 13 years, Nebraska Heart Institute in Lincoln, Sunderbruch Corp. of Nebraska and most recently Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Omaha.

She was a member of American Business Women's Association and Nebraska Association of Healthcare Quality.

Survivors include her husband; sons and daughters-in-law, Brian and Angie Kubik of

Chaska, Minn., and Jason and Carey Kubik of Wichita, Kan.; grandchildren, Ian and Erin; her mother of Prague; and sisters and husband, Dale Gran of Omaha and Deanna and Jeff TePoel of Malmo.

Memorials: Family choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kucera-Kracl Funeral Home, Prague.

Dolores Meister

OSCEOLA -- Dolores Marie Meister, 82, of Osceola, died Friday, May 29, 2009, at BryanLGH West Hospital in Lincoln.

Services were Tuesday, June 2, at St. Vincent's Catholic Church in Osceola, with Father James Cooper officiating. Burial was at Osceola Cemetery.

Mrs. Meister was born Nov. 28, 1926, to John E. and Rose (Alt) Gabel on a farm five miles east of Stromsburg. At the age of 2, the family moved to the Shelby area. She attended country School District 15 and graduated from Shelby High School in 1944. She took Normal School Training and began teaching. She later attended summer school at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She then taught at Districts 15 and 9 north of Shelby.

On June 7, 1949, she married Paul J. Meister at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shelby. The family lived and farmed two miles east and two miles south of Osceola. She was a farm wife and enjoyed helping her husband with various chores including collecting eggs. They resided on the farm until 1997, when they moved to Osceola.

She enjoyed gardening, singing, painting and collecting dolls and angels. She was a member of St. Vincent's Catholic Church, Altar Society, Busy Bells and Stoner Club, an active participant in the prayer chain at St. Vincent's Catholic Church and enjoyed doing volunteer work at the senior center.

Survivors include her husband; son, John, and fiancŽe, Peggy Maison, of York; daughter and son-in-law, Julie and Ken Bitner of Richmond, Va.; grandchildren, Shane, Shawn, Melanie, Megan, Jonathan, Dylan, Jeff and Kevin; six great-grandchildren; sisters and husband, Lorraine Harbour of Osceola and Eleanor and Richard Eickmeier of Benedict; brothers and wives, Arnold and Ingrid Gabel of York, Max and Rosalie Gabel of Shelby and Norman and Karen Gabel of Osceola; and special friends, Carolyn Rexford of Pacific Junction, Iowa, and Nancy West of Omaha.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home of Osceola and Stromsburg.

Ronald Rea

IGNACIO, Colo. - Ronald Lawrence Rea, 70, of Ignacio, Colo., died Saturday, May 2, 2009, in Durango, Colo.

Services were Friday, May 8, at Hood Mortuary Chapel in Colorado.

Mr. Rea was born Aug. 25, 1938, in Durango to Ralph Emerson and Marjorie (Rex) Rea. He graduated from Ignacio High School.

He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1958-62, stationed in Lincoln, where he met and married Arlene Rejda of Brainard on Oct. 6, 1962. They moved to Ignacio.

He worked in the area roughnecking in the oil fields. He was a hod carrier and then became a butcher and meat cutter at Ignacio Shur Value, where he worked until his retirement in 1998.

He was a member of the American Legion, National Rifle Association and a lifetime member of the Wildlife Association. As a hobby, he studied and received a certificate in gunsmithing. He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, hunting, ranching, farming, his family and pulling practical jokes.

Survivors include his wife; daughters, Tracy Teran of Ignacio and Tina Kraemer of Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif.; son, Ronald Patrick Rea of Ignacio; seven grandchildren; brothers, Earl Rea and Donald Rea, both of Ignacio, George Greer of Mancos, Colo., Rex Rea of Aurora, Colo., and Chester Warner of Perry, Utah; sisters, Shirley Sutherlin and Peggy Leyshon, both of Ignacio, Georgie Dittmar and Linda Searcy, both of Durango, Mary Geoglein of Farmington, Colo., and Sandy Walker of Redvale, Colo.; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Don and Marci Howe of David City.

Memorials: Ronald L. Rea Memorial Fund at Wells Fargo Bank, 615 Goddard Ave, Ignacio, CO 81137. The fund will be used for charitable purposes.

Arrangements by Hood Mortuary Chapel of Colorado.

Anne Birkel

FREMONT - Anne E. Birkel, 99, of Omaha, formerly of Ulysses and Fremont, died Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at Bergan Mercy Medical Center in Omaha.

Services were Saturday, May 23, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Fremont, with the Rev. Ronald Battiato officiating. Burial was at Calvary Cemetery in Fremont.

Mrs. Birkel was born April 14, 1910, at Ulysses to Daniel and Mary (Ward) McGuinness. She grew up at Ulysses and graduated from Mercy High School and attended College of St. Mary's in Omaha. She moved to Fremont in 1936 and taught school for several years in Seward County.

She married Louis Birkel Feb. 12, 1942, in Fremont. He died Feb. 9, 1965. She moved to Omaha in 2002.

She was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Omaha and a former member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Fremont.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, James and Kathleen Birkel of Omaha; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and sister, Mary Gardiner of Omaha.

Condolences: www.mosermemorialchapels.com

Arrangements by Moser Memorial Chapel, Fremont.


Joseph Zegers


Joseph L. Zegers, 63, of David City died Tuesday, May 19, 2009, at his residence.

Services were Saturday, May 23, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Kenneth Hoesing and Monsignor Adrian Herbek concelebrating. Burial was at St. Francis Cemetery (Center), rural David City.

Mr. Zegers was born Oct. 12, 1945, in David City to Louis G. and Lillian M. (Novak) Zegers. He graduated from Aquinas High School in David City.

He married Virginia Kozisek June 26, 1965, at St. Francis Catholic Church,
Center. He was a longtime farmer and raised cattle. He also worked as a deputy sheriff for many years.

He enjoyed spending time with his grandkids. He was a Third Degree Knight of Columbus and a member of St. Francis (Center) Catholic Church.

Survivors include his wife; sons and daughter-in-law, Greg and Gae Zegers of New Bern, N.C., and Dan Zegers of David City; daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Jim Thege of David City; grandchildren, Cody, Brooke, Kaitlin and Colten Thege and Greg Zegers Jr., Amber Zegers and Jessica Zegers; brothers and wives, Thomas and Judy Zegers of David City and William and Bev Zegers of Schuyler; and sisters and husbands, Margaret and Leroy Topil of Rising City, Alice Policky of Bee, Dolores and Kenneth Cast of Beaver Crossing and Louise and Roger Warnsholz of Seward.

He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorials: American Cancer Society and St. Francis Catholics Church. 
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.


Lambert Nadrchal


SCHUYLER - Lambert C. Nadrchal, 92, of Schuyler died Tuesday, May 19, 2009, at his home.

Services were Friday, May 22, at First Presbyterian Church in Schuyler. Burial was at Schuyler Cemetery.

Mr. Nadrchal was born Dec. 27, 1916, at Clarkson to Charles and Emma (Holoubek) Nadrchal. He attended rural school in Colfax County, but had to stop after the sixth grade to help on the farm.

He married Marcelaine E. Bohac Aug. 27, 1940, at Bethlehem Chapel. They lived in Omaha for a short time and he worked at Wilson Beef Packing Plant and then at the B17 Bomber factory. They then moved to Colfax County and made their home on several farms south of Howells, south of Clarkson and north of Schuyler. He farmed until 1978, when they moved to Schuyler.

He was a member of First Presbyterian Church, where he served on the Board of Elders and was active in Shipmate Mariners. He had served as president of Colfax County Rural School District 53 and had been a member of Colfax County Feeders Association. He enjoyed playing cards, fishing, gardening, traveling on bus tours and doing carpentry work.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, LaVern and Pam Nadrchal of Pilger; grandchildren and spouses, Penny Peters of Humphrey, LaVern Jr. "Butch" and Deb Nadrchal of Bellwood, Karen and Rick Marxsen of Columbus and Michelle and Dan Tordoff of Omaha; stepgrandchildren and spouses, Frank III and Sarah Cummings of Norfolk and Kelli and Kevin Benger of Bruster, Mass.; 11 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife on Jan. 17, 1996; and brothers, Charles and Elden Nadrchal.

Memorials: Schuyler Senior Center. Condolences: www.svobodafuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Schuyler.

Donald Novotny  with photo

FORT WAYNE, Ind. -- Donald S. Novotny, Ph.D., 67, of Fort Wayne, Ind., died Sunday, May 24, 2009, at Hospice Home in Fort Wayne, after battling Multiple Myeloma for the past three years.

Viewing will be at D.O. McComb and Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 East Dupont Road, 2:30-5:30 p.m. and 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Friday, May 29.

Funeral services will be arranged in Nebraska by Miller Funeral Home in Clarkson, with services at SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church in Clarkson, on Tuesday, June 2, at 2 p.m. Burial will be at Edholm Cemetery in Butler County. 

Mr. Novotny was born April 11, 1942, in Columbus to Mildred and Steve Novotny. He attended a one-room schoolhouse in rural Nebraska and graduated from Clarkson High School in 1960. He received a BAE in mathematics and chemistry from Wayne State College in 1964 and a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1970. 

Following two years of teaching and coaching in Northeast Nebraska, he spent the next 32 years in the engineered rubber products industry. During his career, he was Vice President of Development for General Tire, Wabash, Ind., and Development Manager of the Goodyear Plant in St. Mary's, Ohio. He was recognized with two patent awards. The first was for concluding the microwave of de-vulcanization of rubber while working at Goodyear and the second was for the heat resistant engine mount while at Cooper. He retired in 2004 from Cooper Standard Products in Auburn, Ind., after serving as chief engineer for much of the 18 years working there.

In addition to his dedication to work, he served as a United Way Campaign Coordinator in the St. Mary's, Ohio, Region, Junior Achievement Advisor in Lincoln, member of the Board of School Trustees in N. Manchester, Ind., coached little league baseball for years and most recently served on the board of the Twin Eagles Neighborhood Association in Huntertown, Ind.

Survivors include his wife of 46 years, Dr. Kay Novotny; daughter, Jill Novotny of Carmel, Ind.; sons and daughter-in-law, Brent Novotny of Huntertown and Curt and Stacy Novotny of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Paige and Lucas Lloyd of Carmel, Nicholas, Brandon and Katelyn Novotny of Huntertown; and Lance, Logan and Landon Novotny of Fort Wayne; his mother of Clarkson; and sister, Darlene Machacek of Wisner.

He was preceded in death by his father.
Memorials: Multiple Myeloma Foundation for Cancer Research. Condolences: www.mccombandsons.com
Arrangements by D.O. McComb and Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home and Miller Funeral Home.

Bernice Crook


OSCEOLA - Bernice W. Crook, 95, of Osceola died Saturday, May 23, 2009, at Osceola Good Samaritan Society.
Services were at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 27, at Dubas Funeral Home in Osceola. Graveside services are at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 28, at Benkelman Cemetery.

Mrs. Crook was born Aug. 28, 1913, at North Bend to Lewis Elmo and Katherine Edna (Boyd) Humphreys.
She married Basil Crook. In 1951, the family moved to McCook, where she worked at Hinky Dinky for 25 years, retiring at the age of 65.
Survivors include sons, Keith Crook of Minneapolis and Larry Crook of West Palm Beach, Fla.; daughters, Janet O'Brien of Shelby and Betty Thomson of Kent, Wash.; 10 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and a great-great-granddaughter.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.
Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home.

Mary Adamy

Mary M. Adamy, 85, of Bellwood died Thursday, May 14, 2009, in David City.

Services were Tuesday, May 19, at Presentation Catholic Church, rural Bellwood. Burial was at Sts. Peter & Mary Cemetery, east of Bellwood.
Mrs. Adamy was born Dec. 8, 1923, at Bruno to Edward and Mary (Coufal) Pelan. She graduated from David City High School in 1942 and later received her teaching degree from Concordia College in Seward. She was a schoolteacher for 43 years beginning in the Bellwood Country School District 7 in the early 1940s.

She married Leo R. Adamy Jan. 28, 1946, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus. They lived in the Bellwood area as a farm family. She taught at Marietta School at Presentation Parish, rural Bellwood, until the school closed. She was transferred to St. Mary School in David City as a third grade teacher.

In 1975, she became the special education teacher at the David City Elementary School, where she retired in 1988.

She served on the board of the Butler County Health Care Center from 1977-2001. She was co-owner of Adamy Chevrolet and Oldsmobile in David City from 1983-96. She worked at David City Manufacturing for 14 years after retiring from teaching.

She enjoyed crocheting during her retirement years and received several first place ribbons at the Butler County Fair. She also enjoyed polka music and preparing big meals for family and friends. She was a member of Presentation Parish and Altar Society. She was a faithful wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and member of the community.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Patrick Adamy and special friend Debra Berchtold of Columbus, Carroll and Deb Adamy and Gerald Adamy, all of Bellwood, and John and Amy Adamy of Columbus; grandchildren, Dana, Doug, Darrin, Christy, LeAnn, Clayton, Elizabeth and Chase; great-grandchildren, Konner and Delayne; brother-in-law, Robert F. Adamy of David City; and sister-in-law, Kathleen Adamy of David City.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.
Memorials: Masses. Condolences: chermokfh@yahoo.com.
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Duayne Muhle Sr.


COLUMBUS -- Duayne K. Muhle Sr., 81, of Columbus died Monday, May 11, 2009, at Columbus Community Hospital.

Services were Saturday, May 16, at Christ Lutheran Church, rural Columbus, with the Rev. John E. Nelson Jr. officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery, with military honors by American Legion, Hartman Post 84 Honor Guard.

Mr. Muhle was born Feb. 6, 1928, in rural Leigh to Edward and Magdalena (Heibel) Muhle. He attended District 46 Grade School in Colfax County and Christ Lutheran Grade School. He attended Wilson High School (Colfax County) and Kramer High School in Columbus.

He entered the U.S. Army Air Corps on April 30, 1946, and was stationed in Germany for six months during the Berlin Airlift. He was honorably discharged on March 11, 1949, with the rank of corporal.

He married Alice Briza Sept. 22, 1949, at United Methodist Church in Schuyler. They lived in the Columbus area. He was employed at Behlen Manufacturing in Columbus for 42 years as a diesel mechanic and he also farmed.

He was an avid airplane enthusiast and enjoyed riding his motorcycle. At the age of 16, he received his first pilot's license and later bought and flew his own planes. In his 60s, he built his own aircraft and flew it. He enjoyed taking his dog for walks and rides in his pick-up. He also enjoyed farming and watching things grow, driving in the country with his wife and viewing the countryside.

He was a member of Christ Lutheran Church, where he served on the finance committee and was a greeter and usher. He enjoyed polka music and was a member of the American Legion.

Survivors include his wife; sons and daughters-in-law, Duayne and Carol Muhle Jr., B. Kurt and Sandy Muhle and Paul and Sandy Muhle, all of Columbus; grandchildren and spouses, Lori and Jason Daro of David City, Lindy and Brian Baldwin of Duncan, Chad and Karleen Muhle and Heather and Cade Kudron, all of Omaha, and Jessica Muhle and Angela Muhle of Columbus; great-grandchildren, Gage and Trenton Daro, Zachary, Thad and Allison Baldwin and Braylen and Kyla Muhle; brothers and wife, Robert Muhle of Lincoln and Charles and Mary Ann Muhle of Schuyler; sisters and husbands, Virginia and Eugene Nickolite of Bellwood, Barbara Hajek of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Marilyn and Theilen Stevenson of Columbus; and brother-in-law, Donald Briza of Schuyler.

He was preceded in death by his parents; nephews, James Weaver, Tony Nickolite and Lyle Weaver Jr.; sisters-in-law, Mary Ann Muhle and Lydia Weaver; and brothers-in-law, Lyle Weaver Sr., Edward Briza and Milo Hajek.
Condolences: www.gasshaney.com

Arrangements by Gass Haney Funeral Home, Columbus.

James Lawson


LINCOLN - James Edward Lawson, 91, of Omaha, formerly of David City and Lincoln, died Sunday, May 17, 2009, at Lakeside Hospital in Omaha. 

Services are at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 23, at First United Methodist Church, 2723 N. 50th Street, Lincoln. (Cremation, no viewing/visitation.) A committal service is at 9 a.m. that day at Lincoln Memorial Park, 6700 S. 14th Street. Meet at Gate 2.

Mr. Lawson was born July 8, 1917, in David City, to Robert James and Charlotte "Lottie" (Stephens) Lawson. He graduated from David City High School and attended one year at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, as a music student.

He served in the U.S. Army branch of the military during World War II as a percussionist in a military band.

He married Floy Ferne From in David City March 16, 1941. They resided in Lincoln. He was employed at Roberts Dairy and at Speedway Motors in Lincoln. During his retirement he spent several winters in Venice, Fla. In October 2008, he moved to Brookstone Village in Omaha.    

He was a professional musician throughout his life, playing the drums and also a vocalist in his earlier years. He traveled with a band prior to his marriage and in later years performed in the Lincoln and Venice, Fla. areas. He was a former director of the choir at Warren United Methodist Church in Lincoln and sang in the choir at First United Methodist Church in Lincoln and at Christ United Methodist Church in Venice.

James was a 50-year member of First United Methodist Church in Lincoln and also a member of the American Legion. He loved spending time with family and friends and was known for his kindness and generosity. 

Survivors include a son, Ronald Stephen "Steve" Lawson and daughter-in-law
Dianne Lawson of Harlan, Iowa; former son-in-law, Alison Van Keuren of Slingerlands, N.Y., grandchildren and spouse, Sara Van Keuren of Springfield, Mass., Rachel Van Keuren of Winslow, Maine, Ronda and Dan Evans of Cockeysville, Md., and Ryan Lawson of Omaha; and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by an infant brother, James Robert Lawson Jr.; his parents; daughter, Carol "Bobbie" Van Keuren; and his wife. 
Memorials: Faith Sound Music Ministry of Harlan, Iowa, 1210 Durant, Harlan, IA 51537. Condolences: www.faithsound.com

LeRoy Wirka


FREMONT - LeRoy D. Wirka, 61, of Fremont, formerly of Prague, died Monday, May 11, 2009, at his home.

Services were Friday, May 15, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Fremont. Burial was at St. Leo Catholic Cemetery at Snyder, with military honors by the Fremont Honor Guard of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 854 and American Legion Post 20.

Mr. Wirka was born April 14, 1948, at Prague to Anton and Gladys (Satorie) Wirka. He grew up at Prague and Rescue and graduated from Schuyler High School.

He served in the U.S. Navy.
He was a partner in the Wahoo Locker and started working for Hormel Foods Corp. in the mid 1980s.

He married Elaine Brazda May 29, 1992, in Missouri.

Survivors include his wife; stepson, Shad Hejhal and special friend, Regina Welton of Colon; stepdaughters and husband, Rachelle and Robert Hall of Wahoo and Shannan Hejhal of Elkhorn; three grandchildren; brother; Anton Wirka Jr. of Prague; sisters and husband, Betty Prochaska of Prague and Donna and Gawaine Dvorak of Wahoo; and sister-in-law, Susie Wirka of Lincoln.

He was preceded in death by a brother and brother-in-law.
Condolences: www.mosermemorialchapels.com

Arrangements by Moser Memorial Chapel, Fremont.


Mildred Mastera

Mildred A. Mastera, 88, of David City, died Saturday, May 9, 2009, at David Place in David City.

Services were Tuesday, May 12, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Paul Frank officiating.

Mrs. Mastera was born Jan. 17, 1921, to Anton and Helen (Pokorny) Sabata. She grew up and lived in the Butler County area all of her life.
She married Frank J. Mastera on Sept. 7, 1954, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City.

She was a member of the Appleton PCCW and Assumption Catholic Church at Appleton. She enjoyed gardening, canning, cooking, baking and playing cards. She loved her family and grandchildren dearly.

Survivors include her husband; daughter and son-in-law, Jane and Tom Samek of David City; grandchildren and spouse, Michelle and Nate Spath, Scott Samek and Rebecca Samek; great-grandchildren, Kaylee Spath and Kendall Samek; brother and wife, John B. and Marce Sabata of David City; and sisters and husbands, Bernie and Gerald Tuma of Schuyler, Jarmilla and Joe Hanis of Bruno and Beatrice Sabata of David City.

She is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Sylvester Sabata; and sisters, Tillie Coufal and Rose Jisa. Memorials: Masses or in care of family.
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

William Fencl Sr.


William "Bill" Fencl Sr., 91, of David City died Monday, May 11, 2009, at david place in David City where he had lived the last 14 years.

Services are at 10 a.m. Friday, May 15, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Bruno, with Father Ron Homes officiating. Visitation is 2-8 p.m. Thursday, with family receiving friends from 6-8 p.m. at Kracl Funeral Chapel in David City and one hour prior to Mass Friday at the church. A rosary service is at 7:30 p.m. at the funeral chapel. Burial is at Prague National Cemetery, with military graveside honors. Lunch will be at the parish hall.

Mr. Fencl was born Aug. 2, 1917, on the family farm in Saunders County to Joseph and Therize (Rerucha) Fencl. He attended school through the eighth grade.

He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He worked on the Burma Road and received the Overseas Service Bar, Good Conduct Medal, WWII Victory Medal, European Campaign Medal and Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon. He was a Life Member of the Brainard American Legion.

On Jan. 22, 1945, he married Margaret Lee in Omaha. He farmed in Saunders County and ran Marge's Bar in Bruno with his wife for 25 years.

Survivors include daughters and son-in-law, Juanita Fuller of David City and Theresa and Kent Kavan of Dunbar; sons and daughters-in-law, Gerald and Donna Fencl of Lufkin, Texas, A. Keith and Charlene Fencl of San Antonio, William Jr. and Edna Fencl of Bruno and Beverly Fencl of San Diego; 19 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife on Feb. 27, 1994; son, Hammett Fencl; granddaughter, Denise Fencl; brothers, Adolph, John, Ed, Joe and Anton Fencl; and sisters, Gustie Svoboda, Tillie Simanek and Josephine Coufal.

Memorials: Brainard American Legion. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

 

Carol Streeter


COLUMBUS -- Carol Streeter, 84, of Columbus died Monday, May 4, 2009, at Creighton Medical Center in Omaha.

Services were Thursday, May 7, at Gass Haney Funeral Home in Columbus, with Wayne Jacobsen and the Rev. Dr. Jim Wooten officiating. Burial was at Roselawn Memorial Cemetery in Columbus.

Mrs. Streeter was born Sept. 1, 1924, in Gregory, S.D., to Harry and Florence (Chapman) Sheldon. She moved to Nebraska at a young age with her family and attended District 3 School in Platte County and graduated from Kramer High School in Columbus in 1942. During World War II, she worked in defense plants in Minnesota and Florida. After returning to Nebraska, she operated Carol's Cafe in Loretto.

On June 30, 1949, she married John Streeter in St. Edward. They lived in Columbus where she worked at Dales in the Quality Control Department.

While her children were growing up, she was involved in many activities. She served as Sunday school teacher and on the Governing Council of the Federated Church. She was a Brownie Scout Leader, Girl Scout Leader, Girl Scout Day Camp Director, Cub Scout Den Mother, president of Lincoln School PTA, State Life Member of the PTA, a 64-year member and Past Matron of Harmony Chapter, OES and was Grand Representative of West Virginia and District Supervisor for the Grand Chapter of Nebraska and past president of the Red Cross Hospital Volunteers. She was also a member of Daughters of the Nile, Pawnee Club, Columbus Chapter of Soroptimist International, DAV Auxiliary, Sugar and Spice Club and NRA and served on the board of the Columbus Housing Authority for 10 years.
She enjoyed spending time with her family.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, David and Shelly Streeter of David City; daughter and son-in-law, Debra and John Stotts of Cave Creek, Ariz.; grandchildren, Alex and Eric Streeter of David City and Katie and Carol-Marie Stotts of Cave Creek; sister, Katherine Leggat of Columbus; and brother and wife, Harry H. and Eltha Sheldon of Omaha.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and sisters and husbands, Helen and Nelson Jordon, Mariann and Lester Collons, Elizabeth and Philip Whitney and Lucy Koch.

Memorials: Masonic Eastern Star Home for Children in Fremont. Condolences: www.gasshaney.com
Arrangements by Gass Haney Funeral Home, Columbus.

Geraldine Jisa

COLUMBUS -- Geraldine Dorothy Jisa, 83, of Columbus, formerly of Dwight and Shelby, died Monday, May 4, 2009, at the home of her daughter in Columbus.

Services were Thursday, May 7, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus. Burial was at Assumption Cemetery at Dwight.
Mrs. Jisa was born Jan. 24, 1926, at Dwight to Carl and Mary (Foral) Crha. She graduated from high school in 1944.

She married Albert Jisa in Sidney, Iowa, Oct. 25, 1944. They farmed in the Shelby area. Along with raising her family, she also worked on the family farm with her husband.

She was a previous member of St. Mary's Catholic Church-Pilsno and currently a member of St. Bonaventure Catholic Church. She did volunteer work for the American Red Cross and ARC and enjoyed polka music, dancing, playing cards, gardening and working at Bay Meadows Trailer Court.

Survivors include a daughter, Janet Bolton of Columbus; son, Jim Jisa of David City; stepson-in-law, John Kobza of Columbus; grandchildren and spouses, Richard III and Paula Bolton of Columbus and Kate and Ben Zygmunt of Kansas City, Mo.; stepgrandchildren and spouses, Diane and Todd Schwank and Dean and Mary Kobza of Columbus and Dwayne Kobza of Grand Island; four stepgreat-grandchildren; eight stepgreat-great-grandchildren; sister, Carolyn Backens of Tomah, Wis.; and brother, Stanley Crha of Bellflower, Calif.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; stepdaughter, Delores Kobza; infant brother, Charlie Crha; brothers, Frank, Joe and John Crha; and sisters, Mary Jindra, Rose Kahlandt, Emma Louis, Tillie Hayek and Toni Semann.
Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.

Ellen Engel


COLUMBUS -- Ellen C. Engel, 76, of Columbus, died Sunday, May 3, 2009, at Morys Haven Nursing Home in Columbus.

Services were Wednesday, May 6, at St. John's Lutheran Church, Shell Creek, rural Columbus, with the Rev. Peter Jark-Swain officiating. Burial was at Roselawn Memorial Cemetery in Columbus.
Mrs. Engel was born May 20, 1932, in Columbus to Walter and Clara (Wurdeman) Marty. She attended Christ Lutheran Grade School and graduated from Kramer High School in Columbus. She worked for one year at the Platte County Treasurers Office.  

On Aug. 12, 1951, she married Robert Engel at Christ Lutheran Church. She was a dedicated farmwife, who enjoyed gardening, cooking and sewing.  

She was a member of Nite Owls Extension Club, St. John's Lutheran Church and Ladies Aid.

Survivors include her husband; daughter and son-in-law, Bev and Bill Brigham of Shelby; son, Mike Engel, and special friend, Bev Neemeyer, of Columbus; grandchildren and spouse, Brent and Nicki Brigham of Shelby and Brook Brigham of Lincoln; and great-grandchildren, Grant and Halle Brigham of Shelby.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Evelyn Muth; and brothers, Edgar, Kenneth and Roland Marty.
Memorials: Alzheimer's Association or Family Choice.
Arrangements by Gass Haney Funeral Home, Columbus.

John Brtek


PRAGUE - John J. Brtek, 63, of Prague died.
Services were at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 13, 2009, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Prague, with Father Jamie Hottovy officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery, with military rites.

Mr. Brtek was born Oct. 27, 1945, at Prague to John and Wilma (Svoboda) Brtek. He graduated from Prague High School.
He served in the U.S. Marine Corp.
He was a self-employed salesman.

Survivors include a daughter, Jamie of Lincoln; three grandchildren; sisters and husbands, Diane and Bob Chmelka of Fremont and Betty and Pete Hamata of North Bend; and brother, Roger Brtek of Omaha.
Memorials: Family choice.

Arrangements by Kucera-Kracl Funeral Home, Prague.

Ray Divis


SEWARD - Raymond "Ray" Ludvik Divis, 86, of Beaver Crossing died Friday, May 8, 2009, in Seward.

Services were Tuesday, May 12, at Hillcrest Evangelical Free Church at Seward, with the Rev. Lowell Myers officiating. Burial was at Seward Cemetery.

Mr. Divis was born Aug. 30, 1922, near Loma to Ludvik James and Vlasta Marie (Kudlacek) Divis. He was a 1941 graduate of Brainard High School.

He married Nora Stava Sept. 4, 1945, in Lincoln. To this union three children were born, Jeryl "Jeri", Janel and JoEllen. After her death, he married Vera Ann (Pokorny) Baker Dec. 9, 1964, in Lincoln. A son, Tracy, was born to this marriage. He was a farmer and painter, belonging to the Painters Union in Lincoln. In the early 1960s, he owned Dwight Shady Lakes and from 1970-72 was the owner of VeRay's Cafe at Rogers.

He was a charter member of Dwight Rural Fire Protection District, a 12-year member of Richardson Township Board of Butler County and received the Butler County Soil Conservation Award in 1952. He was a member of Hillcrest Evangelical Free Church in Seward, a certified storm watcher for Channel 8 television and enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Survivors include his wife; daughters and sons-in-law, Jeri and Lynn Naber of Beaver Crossing and Janel and Marshall Menz of Perry, Iowa; son and daughter-in-law, Tracy and Beth Divis of Kansas City, Mo.; stepchildren and spouses, Les and Kelly Baker of Dewey, Ariz., Roma and Terry Jordan of Brainard, Craig and Donna Baker of Cortez, Colo., and Kim and Bill Oldenhuis of Omaha; grandchildren, Lynnelle Nissen, Laura Richardson, Chad Menz and Madison Divis; numerous stepgrandchildren; great-grandchildren, Donovan, Danielle, Dylan and Dalaina Nissen, Ryon Richardson and Alannah Menz; numerous stepgreat-grandchildren; brothers and sister-in-law, Art and Leona Divis of Brainard, Alfred Divis of Hempill, Texas, and Arnold and Ilene Divis of Prague; and sisters and brother-in-law, Florence Parnham of Lincoln and Laurine and John Novacek of Dwight.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife on June 24, 1963; daughter, JoEllen Divis; sister, Eleanor Divis; and brother, Theodore Divis.
Memorials: Donor's choice in care of family.
Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.      

Hon. Albert Walsh

The Honorable Albert Charles Walsh, 82, passed prayerfully into death at his home in David City on Sunday, May 3, 2009.

Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 7, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Visitation is 3-5 p.m. Wednesday at Chermok Funeral Home in David City, followed by visitation at the church at 6:30 p.m., with a rosary at 7:30 p.m. Burial will be at St. Mary's Cemetery in David City.
Mr. Walsh was born May 15, 1926, in Beloit, Kan., the eldest of five children of Charles Albert and Nora (Pierce) Walsh.

Inducted into the U.S. Army on Sept. 6, 1944, he saw combat as a rifleman in the infantry in Europe during 1945. He was honorably discharged in 1946 and enrolled in Creighton University where he studied undergraduate literature and philosophy and graduated from the Creighton School of Law in 1952.

Following graduation, he served in the law firm of Fraser, Connolly, Crofoot and Wenstrand until 1959, when he went into the private practice of law in Omaha and Gretna. In 1976, Gov. James J. Exon appointed him a County Judge for District 2: Cass, Otoe and Sarpy counties, where he served until his retirement in January 1993.

He and Eleanor Shea were married in 1949 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Omaha and are the parents of 12 children.

He wrote, spoke and worked to further the Christian vision of political and social life in the United States. In 1969, he ran for Governor of the State of Nebraska as the candidate of the Christian Political Party. He founded the Christian Law Institute and Help of Christians Publications Inc., authored seven books on the subject of the Christian social order, founded and edited the Christian Political Action Newsletter, was a columnist for his hometown paper, and was published in several catholic journals, including Pro Ecclesia, Social Justice Review, and Christian Order. He was a member of the Nebraska Bar Association, Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, American Legion and Third Order Carmelites and served in various apostolates of his catholic parishes.

Survivors include his wife; daughters and sons-in-law, Theresa and Lee Miner of Wakefield, Anne Nielsen of Baltimore, Patricia and John Rajewski of Lincoln, Elizabeth of Lombard, Ill., Dorothy and John Agnew of New Market, Ala., Mary and Scott Buresh of David City and Virginia and Mark Lundahl of Wakefield; sons and daughters-in-law, John and Donna of Creston, Iowa, the Rev. Joseph of Hastings and Christopher and Barbara of Murdock; 40 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; sisters and husband, Elizabeth and Luke Hecker of Denver and Mary Margaret Walsh and Catherine Piotrowski, both of Omaha; and brother and wife, William and Colleen of Sapulpa, Okla.
He is preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Marion Michael; daughter, Frances Marian; and granddaughter, Regina Anne Lundahl.

Instead of flowers, he had asked that friends arrange Masses to be said for him and other Poor Souls in Purgatory.
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home. 

Mary Kula


COLUMBUS -- Mary L. Kula, 85, of Columbus, formerly of Polk County, died Friday, May 1, 2009, at Columbus Community Hospital. Services were Tuesday, May 5, at St. Isidore Catholic Church in Columbus. Burial was at St. Bonaventure Cemetery in Columbus.

Mrs. Kula was born Oct. 18, 1923, in Polk County to Erasmus and Louise (Gondringer) Krumbach. She grew up on the family farm in Polk County and graduated from Shelby High School. She went into teaching and taught at a country school.

On June 3, 1946, she married Henry Kula in Shelby. They farmed southwest of Duncan.

She was a member of St. Isidore Catholic Church and Christian Mothers. She was in the Island Community Club and volunteered at the American Red Cross, Simon House and at the hospital. She enjoyed playing cards, painting crafts, Husker football, St. Louis Cardinals and her "grandpets."
Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Linda and Dick Potter of Battle Ground, Wash., and LouAnn and Curt Tenopir of Columbus; grandchildren and spouse, Nichole Potter, Chris and Heather Potter and Nathan Tenopir; and sister and husband, Margaret and Don Zima of David City.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sister, Irene Pandorf; and brothers, Albert, Francis, Victor and John Krumbach.

Memorials: Family wishes.
Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.




 

November 2009 Obituaries

Clara Polacek


WAHOO -- Clara Polacek, 93, of Prague died Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Services were Saturday, Nov. 7, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Prague, with Father Jamie Hottovy officiating. Burial was at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery at Wahoo.

Mrs. Polacek was born Aug. 12, 1916, near Prague to Vaclav and Agnes (Odvody) Koranda. She was a member of Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church of Plasi during her years growing up. She attended Saunders County School District 84 and Prague High School.

She married Max Polacek Sept. 30, 1941, in Prague. She was a stay at home mom who loved to cook, sew, flower and vegetable garden and quilt. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Rosary Society and Catholic Workman. She had been a member of the

School Board of Saunders County District 51, Prague American Legion Auxiliary and a past member of Prague First Aid. She was a long-time member of the Prague Chapter Bloodmobile and a charter member of Social Lites Extension Club.

Survivors include children and spouses, Adelyne and Marvin Woita of Weston, Irene Rezac Epp and Ronald of Lincoln, Carmen and Richard Hoppe of Richland and Kenneth and Deb Polacek of Prague; grandchildren and spouses, Keith Woita (Joy Fornoff) of Wahoo, Glen and Audrey Woita of St. Louis, Dale Woita of Weston, Allan and Shery Rezac of Raymond, Mark and Elizabeth Rezac, Janice and Darren Strizek of Ceresco, Sharon and Todd Munford of Raymond, Kenny and Connie Johnson of Prague, Jared Hoppe, Carl Hoppe and Philip Hoppe, all of Richland; nine great-grandchildren;

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; sisters, Agnes Palensky and Marie Sloup; and brother, Vaclav "Jim" Koranda.

Memorials: Prague Volunteer Fire Department or St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.
Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

Bruce Wortman


OMAHA -- Bruce Edward "Crash" Wortman, 63, formerly of Bellwood, died Thursday, Nov. 5, 2009, at Veterans Hospital in Omaha.

Graveside services were Tuesday, Nov. 10, at Fort McPherson National Cemetery near Maxwell, with Chaplain Jim Reier officiating.
Mr. Wortman was born Sept. 14, 1946, in Austin, Minn., to Leo B. and Irene (Hewitt) Wortman.
After graduation from high school in Columbus, he entered the U.S. Navy, where he served aboard the USS Charles Berry. After his discharge, he went to work for the   Union Pacific Railroad. He retired after 30 years, in 2005.
He married Belinda Matthews.
He was a life member of American Veterans Motorcycle Club, logging thousands of miles and hours of nap time along the way! He was an 11-year member of American Legion Post 327 of Bellwood.
Survivors include his wife; son, Edward "Eddie" Wortman; stepson, Christopher Weber; and mother, Irene Wortman, all of David City; special nephew, Pvt. Michael L. Matthews Jr. of Fort Carson, Colo.; parents-in-law, Charles "Chuck" and Arliss Matthews; brothers-in law and wife, Charlie, Wendell and Mike Sr. and Toni Matthews, all of North Platte; his brothers and sisters of the American Veterans Motorcycle Club; daughter, Jodi Sladek; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren of Columbus; and special friend Lori Pederson of Bennett.
A memorial has been established in his name and online condolences can be made at www.adamsswanson.com.
Arrangements by Swanson Funeral Home.

Eleanor Zima

Eleanor Rose Zima, 93, of David City died Friday, Nov. 6, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Per Mrs. Zima's request, there will be a private family service and burial. There will be no viewing or visitation.

She was born Aug. 7, 1916, in the rural Brainard area, the only daughter of John and Mary (Kostka) Bruner. She attended rural District 20 School, graduating from Brainard High School
in 1934.

She married Raymond J. Zima Feb. 1, 1939, in David City. She was a homemaker who enjoyed gardening, traveling and spending time with family. She was a member of Z.C.B J. Lodge No. 68 of Brainard and St. Luke's United Methodist Church in David City.

Survivors include her husband of 70 years; daughter, Ellen Rae Roberts of Omaha; granddaughters, Karen Roberts, Karla Jean Uhlir and Kristin Yach; great-grandchildren, Nicole, Amber, Kasi, David, Kamryn and Ethan; and five great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers, Leonard Bruner and John Bruner Jr.
Memorials: In care of family.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Robert Hopwood

OSCEOLA -- Robert Wayne Hopwood, 76, of Shelby died Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009, at Osceola Good Samaritan Society.

Services are at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, at Shelby United Methodist Church, with Pastor Glenn Hubbard officiating. Burial will be at Shelby Cemetery.

Mr. Hopwood was born Dec. 8, 1932, to Lysle E. and Josephine L. (Bahr) Hopwood in Butler County. He attended country school south of Shelby and graduated from Shelby High School in 1950.

He served in the U.S. Naval Reserves from 1950-54.

On Sept. 21, 1952, he married Joann Miller at Utica. They lived in town for one year before moving to a farm south of Shelby. They then moved to his parents' home place, where he farmed until retiring at age 72 in 2005. He restored saddles and tack in his retirement.

He was a member of Shelby United Methodist Church where he had received his 50-year membership pin. He coached summer league baseball, was a Cub Scout leader and 4-H leader, raced thoroughbred horses and enjoyed his grandchildren's sporting events.

Survivors include his wife; children and spouses, Steven and Patricia Hopwood of Valley, Gayle and Ben Forney of Bellwood, Brian and Franka Hopwood of Bolivar, Mo., and Timothy and Kathryn Hopwood of Shelby; 17 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Robert Mark Hopwood; and brothers, Dale and Kenneth Hopwood.

Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Osceola.

Millie Carter


OSCEOLA - Millie G. Carter, 103, of Shelby died Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, at Osceola Good Samaritan Society.

Services were Friday, Nov. 6, at Shelby United Methodist Church, with Pastor Glenn Hubbard officiating. Burial was at Shelby Cemetery.

Mrs. Carter was born at her parents' home on the farm southeast of Shelby on Jan. 20, 1906, to Frank and Amanda (Kaempfer) Oesterreicher. She attended a country grade school and graduated from the eighth grade.

Her parents moved to Rising City. In her teenage years and later she did housework and babysat in people's homes. She also worked in her father's grocery store.

She married Lee Carter March 6, 1932, in her parents' home by a Methodist minister. They lived on a farm west of Shelby from 1932-45 where he farmed. They purchased a farm southwest of Shelby and moved there in 1945. Due to his failing health, they moved to Shelby in
1994.

She enjoyed the farm life, raising and dressing chickens, growing large gardens and canning jars of vegetables and fruit. She also enjoyed flowers, sewing, making quilts, crocheting and embroidery. She was an accomplished organist, owning three different organs over the years.

Survivors include a daughter, Lois Coffin of Shelby; granddaughters and spouses, Marilyn and Barry Wombacher of Papillion, Laura and Mike Parr of Little Rock, Ark., and Sandra and Paul Olson of Omaha; and great-grandsons, Sam and Alex Parr and Ben and Brandon Olson.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband on Feb. 23, 1996; brother, Ross Oesterreicher; sisters, Bessie Chase and Edith Thompson; and son-in-law, Wayne Coffin.

Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Osceola.


Jeffrey Hain

Jeffrey Alan Hain, 43, of Bellwood died Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009, at David Place in David City.

Services are at 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 4, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Visitation is 2-5 p.m. Thursday at Chermok Funeral Home in David City and after 6 p.m. at the church, followed by a rosary at 7 p.m. also at the church. Visitation will continue Friday one hour before services at the church. Burial will be at Sts. Peter and Mary Cemetery, rural Bellwood.

Mr. Hain was born Nov. 19, 1966, in David City to Bernard "Butch" and Jeanne (McGowen) Hain. He graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in David City in 1985.

He married Carla Wellman April 6, 1991, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Seward.

He was past president of the Nebraska Egg Council, a member of Presentation Catholic Church, rural Bellwood, where he served as an acolyte and trustee. He enjoyed golf, attending Lincoln Stars hockey, loved his family, farming and attending his kids' activities.

Survivors include his wife; sons, Dustin, Jared and Colin of Bellwood; daughter, Josina of Bellwood; his parents of Bellwood; brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Gloria Hain of Columbus; and sisters and brothers-in-law, Debra and Scott Sorensen of Brentwood, Calif., and Kristine "Tina" and Peter Fowle of Lenexa, Kan. He enjoyed a special bond with his father-in-law, Clark Wellman of Lincoln.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, John and Mildred Hain and Laurence and Leona McGowen.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to Aquinas Guardian Angel Fund, Aquinas High School Endowment Fund or American Cancer Society. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.

Francis Lukassen

Francis H. Lukassen, 93, of David City, died Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

A Prayer Service is at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2, at Chermok Funeral Home in David City. His body has been cremated, there will be no viewing. A rosary is at 9:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, followed by a Memorial Service at 10 a.m. Inurnment to follow at St. Mary's Cemetery in David City.

Mr. Lukassen is the son of Theodore and Augusta (Kosch) Lukassen. He is the husband of 66 years to Lucile (Gillespie) Lukassen.

He grew up the second youngest in a large farm family, his father coming from Holland and his mother from Austria. Theodore had four children with his first wife, Anne (Kosch). He lost her and three of their children over a short time due to tuberculosis. He then married Augusta (Kosch). Together they had 11 children. This union suffered the loss of three children to black scarlet fever in 1914.

As a child, farm life for Francis and his younger sister Sally, seemed to be one adventure after another. Older sisters, Anne and Minn and older brothers Fred, Hank and Leo were there to help their parents with most of the work. There seemed to be endless hours enjoying life on their farm in their big white house and close enough to town to walk or ride a horse to get in on a lot of good times with the town kids. Their horses were their best friends and many hours were spent riding with neighbor children. The horses took the work out of sledding the big hill as the kids would get a free ride back up with a horse pulling them. As older siblings married and started families of their own and their parents began to age, he and Sally took on more responsibilities, always making plenty of time for fun with family and friends.

He carried his love and devotion to family with him as he married and raised eight children of their own. Nothing was more important to them. Year after year vacations were coordinated to spend family time together, boating, swimming and moro cycling or just setting around the campfire at the little acreage on the east end of "E" Street that was always home. After retiring, he and Lucile spent several winters in California, experiencing LA and Harvest times in Dix, Nebraska, enjoying farming and friendship with a nephew Jim and Bonnie and family. Always ready to travel to see kids and grandkids.

He was preceded in death by his Father in 1943 and Mother in 1950. His oldest son, John, and his wife, Donna, died as a result of a boat accident in 1990. Also preceding him in death were his brothers, Hank, Fred and Leo; and sisters, Ann Timony, Minn (Shonka) and Leona.

Survivors include his wife; sons, Tom (Judy) Lukassen of Kenosha, Wis., and Ted (Jeanie) Lukassen of David City; daughters, Jane (Bernard) Buresh and Linda (Dick) Ronkar, all of David City, Doris (Allen) Shambrook of Mission Viejo, Calif., Kathy (Jeff) Martens of Bellwood and Lori (Rick) Bock of Columbus; 24 grandchildren, Fred, J.D. (Penny Martens) Bob, Lisa, Eric, Bill (Tracy Cole), Deb (Chris Knudsen, Greg, Vonda (Glen Crisp), Kurt, Kyle, Kristi (Brandon Behrens), Robin, Jim, Ryan, Victoria (Colby Perry), Jaason, Jessie, Jennie, Keith, Candice, Adam, Amber and Nolan; 28 great-grandchildren, Stevie, Nicholas, Christopher, Samantha, Stephen, Logan, Brianna, Travis, Trenton, Cody, Spencer, William, Eden, Vincent, Austin, Sammuel, Elliana, Alexus, Ashley, Madison, Nevaeh, Mikah, Devon, Lukas, Abrigail, Aliyah, Kaleb and Hunter; and sister, Sally McLaughlin.

Memorials: St. Mary's Church or St. Joseph's Villa. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.

Adeline Turek

COLUMBUS -- Adeline B. Turek, 85, of Columbus, formerly of Ulysses, died Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, at Golden Living Center in Columbus.

Services were Monday, Nov. 30, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus, with the Rev. Mike Keating officiating. Burial was at Sts. Peter & Mary/Presentation Cemetery, rural Bellwood.

Mrs. Turek was born June 10, 1924, at Ulysses to August and Rose (Trousil) Matulka. She attended country school near Ulysses.

On April 10, 1945, she married Ernest Turek at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight. They lived and farmed near Surprise. In 1967, they moved to Columbus, but continued to farm. She also worked for Dale Electronics, Behlen Cafeteria and King's Food Host and sold Avon.

She was a member of St. Bonaventure Catholic Church and Catholic Workman and a past member of Immaculate Conception Altar Society in Ulysses and the Surprise PTA. She enjoyed dancing, playing cards, collecting chickens, baking and traveling. Her trips included Rome, Canada, the Holy Land and all 50 states.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Mary Jane and Dan Hilger of Bellwood, Bernadette and Darwin Jaster of Columbus, Beverly and Roland From of David City and Ernestine and Patrick Augustine of Columbus; grandchildren and spouses, Michelle and Stephen Casaus, Marcus and Daniela Hilger, Robert and Becky Jaster, Brian Jaster, Bridget and Carlin Voter, Jeff and Kelsi From, April and Eli Jurisich, Crystal From, Kirk and Christine Augustine and Nicholas and Kendra Augustine; great-grandchildren, Ian and Colin Casaus, Jakub Hilger, Cheyenne,

Cassidy, Lindsay, Alyssa, Taylor, Chase, Colin, Justin, Eligh and Aidan Jaster, Christopher and Cody Voter and Jupiter and Ryland Augustine; and brother and wife, Edward and Dorothy Matulka of Dwight.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; grandchildren, Michael Hilger and Barbara Jaster; brothers, Joseph, Ernest and Raymond Matulka; and sisters, Rose Kouba, Ann Voboril and Mary Ostry.

Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.

Howard Taylor

Howard D. Taylor, 66, of David City, died Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Services were Wednesday, Nov. 25, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mr. Taylor was born Nov. 7, 1943, in Hyannis to Robert and Edna (Lee) Taylor.

He married Judy Haselhorst on June 8, 1968, at St. Mary's Church in Hays, Kan. She died in 1998. He was vice president of manufacturing for Timpte Inc. in David City. After leaving Timpte, he worked as a sales representative for Keith Walking Floors and founded the Tumbling T Horse Facility near Seward.

He was a member of the Quarterhorse Association and was extensively involved in community activities while living in David City. He enjoyed traveling in his RV throughout the United States with his dog, Jet.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Melissa and Bill Yindrick of David City and Julianne and Gary Higer of Savannah, Mo.; grandchildren, Caleb, Will, Jude, Mara and Augustine Yindrick and Shayna, Camryn and Cale Higer; brother and wife, Ray and Diane Taylor of Colorado.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and brother, Dick.

Memorials: In care of family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

 

Jerome Palik

Jerome "Jerry" J. Palik, 78, of David City died Friday, Nov. 20, 2009, at his home.

Services were Tuesday, Nov. 24, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Burial was at Appleton Catholic Cemetery, rural David City.

Mr. Palik was born Dec. 15, 1930, on the farm near Garrison to Joseph and Marie (Voboril) Palik.

He served his country during the Korean War in the Army.

He married Marlene Yindrick May 18, 1954, at Assumption Catholic Church, Appleton. He lived in the Butler County area all of his life and engaged in farming.

He loved the outdoors and spent much of his life working the land and using his talents as a carpenter. He was a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5814.

Survivors include his wife; sons and daughters-in-law, Joe and Mary Beth Palik of Omaha, Jim and Jodi Palik of Seward, Jerry and Delyce Palik and Mike and Robin Palik, all of Cabot, Ark., and Danny Palik of Omaha; daughters and sons-in-law, Julie and Chuck Messersmith of Columbus, Louise and Joel Kroft of Seward, Annette and Bob Griffiths of Columbus and Candi Palik and Amy Palik, both of David City; 18 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brother and wife, Vic and Carol Palik of David City; sisters and husband, Edith and Mark Alt and Lucille Alt, all of Shelby; brother-in-law and wife, Joe and Betty Yindrick of David City; sisters-in-law and husbands, Theresa and Ron Kuzelka of Grand Island, Rita and Joe Helman of Brainard and Margie and Mel From of Omaha.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, John M. Palik; brother, Dennis Palik; nephews, Gary Alt and Brian J. Palik; and parents-in-law, Louis and Amelia Yindrick.

Memorials: In care of family. Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Lucille Speicher

Lucille Speicher, 76, of David City died Thursday, Nov. 19, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Services were Monday, Nov. 23, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mrs. Speicher was born Dec. 4, 1932, at Garrison to Joseph and Helen (Mashek) Sloup.

On April 30, 1955, she married Harold E. Speicher at St. Vincent De paul Catholic Church in Seward. Prior to her marriage, she worked at the Seward County Independent newspaper. They farmed one half mile north of Octavia for 40 years and retired to David City.

She loved gardening, raising flowers, baking and spending time with her family. She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and PCCW and a former member of Presentation Catholic Church Altar Society of rural Bellwood.

Survivors include her husband; daughter and spouse, Sharon and Bud Headman of Salt Lake City; sons and spouses, Edward and Diana Speicher of Lincoln and Bob and Amy Romshek Speicher of Columbus; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and brother and wife, Ray and Linda Sloup of Seward.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorials: St. Mary's Catholic Church; American Cancer Society. Condolences to www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Doris Bouc

WAHOO -- Doris A. Bouc, 53, of Brainard died Friday, Nov. 20, 2009, at her home.

Services were Wednesday, Nov. 25, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard, with Father Matthew Eickhoff officiating. Burial was at St. Francis Cemetery, Wahoo.

Mrs. Bouc was born March 4, 1956, in Lincoln to Stanley and Rose (Jirovsky) Bartek. She grew up near Agnew and attended a country school there. She graduated from Raymond Central High School in 1974. She then worked at A.C. Nielson in Lincoln.

On Nov. 27, 1976, she married Glenn Bouc at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Agnew. They lived in Hordville five years and in Doniphan for three years. They moved to St. Libory, where they owned and operated Cornhusker Quarters Restaurant and Lounge for nine years. Fifteen years ago, they moved to Brainard and started a business, G & D Enterprises.

She was a parishioner at Holy Trinity Catholic Church and a member of P.C.C.W.

Survivors include her husband; son, C.J. of Valparaiso; father of Lincoln; brothers and wives, Greg and Lou Bartek and Sylv and Pat Bartek, all of Lincoln, and Dennis and Dan Bartek of Agnew; sisters and husbands, Mary Lou Rerucha of Omaha, Georgiann and Gary Gerner of Crete, Roseanne and Louie Oborny of Bellwood and Jean and Brian Clausen of Lincoln; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mother; sisters, Diane Warta and Virginia Skipper; and brother-in-law, Joe Rerucha.

Memorials: Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

Adolph Stuchlik

NORFOLK - Adolph Stuchlik, 90, of Norfolk, formerly of Prague, died Friday, Nov. 27, 2009, at BryanLGH Medical Center West in Lincoln.

Services were Monday, Nov. 30, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Norfolk, with the Rev. Dave Belt officiating. Burial was at Prospect Hill Cemetery.

Mr. Stuchlik was born May 21, 1919, at Prague, to Frank and Sophie (Vyhildal) Stuchlik. He graduated from Prague High School and Lincoln School of Commerce.

He started his banking career at First National Bank in Lincoln and then Lexington, then moving to Norfolk.

He married Lillianne Fuxa Aug. 20, 1942, at St. Mary's Cathedral in Lincoln.

He was an avid Husker fan who loved to garden, go bowling and dancing. He had a great love for his church where he served as an EME, lector and usher. Belonging to the Knights of Columbus he was a 4th Degree Knight and had served as the financial director for 50 years. He enjoyed being with his family.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Greg and Deb Stuchlik of Lexington and Shannon and Kelly Stuchlik of Pierce; daughters and sons-in-law, Gwen and Ron Polhman of Stanton and Debbie and Jim Meyerhoff of Lincoln; grandchildren, Denise Simpson, Renee Kaliff, Rochelle Senkbeil, Shantelle, Shaelynne, Shawn, Shad, Seth and Shane Pohlman, Kaelee and Kyle Stuchlik, Mark Telecky and Travis, Tyler and Trevor Roth; and 22 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife; daughters, Karren Telecky and LaVonne Roth; six brothers; and three sisters.

Arrangements by Home for Funerals, Norfolk.

Michael Scdoris

Michael E. Scdoris, 58, of Ulysses, died Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Services were Tuesday, Dec. 1, at the Community Center in Ulysses.

Mr. Scdoris was born June 13, 1951, in Lincoln to Wallace E. and Lydia Ellen

(Sedam) Scdoris. He attended Lincoln Public Schools.

He had worked at Northwestern Metals and as a handyman for Jeffrey's Rentals in Lincoln. He most recently worked maintenance for the Villages of Brainard and Ulysses.

Survivors include his life partner Luellen Schauer of Ulysses; children and spouses, Michelle and Joseph Hickman of Wilber, David and Jessica Schauer of Pleasant Dale, Lori and John Matchett of Abie, Wendy Scdoris of Pleasant Dale, Billy Scdoris and April Scdoris, both of Ulysses, Nicholas and Amanda Scdoris of Lincoln and Will and Leanne Belt of Brainard; 12 grandchildren; brothers and sisters-in-law, Rick and Peggi Scdoris of Lincoln and John and Shirleen Scdoris of Dorchester; and sisters and brothers-in-law, Sharon and John Conrad of Beaver Crossing, Pam and Scott Pierce of Pleasant Dale and Eva and James West of Milford; and stepbrother, Thomas Handy of Lincoln.

Memorials: To family. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Bernice Nicolas

COLUMBUS -- Bernice Nicolas, 85, of Bellwood died Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Services were Monday, Nov. 30, at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Bellwood, with Father Scott Courtney officiating. Burial was at Ss. Peter & Mary/Presentation Cemetery, rural Bellwood.

Mrs. Nicolas was born Oct. 6, 1924, at Bellwood to Joseph and Ruth (Day) Romshek. She attended rural school and graduated in 1941 from Bellwood High School.

On April 20, 1948, she married Leonard Nicolas at St Peter's Catholic Church in Bellwood. The couple made their home on his family farm south of Bellwood. In addition to being a farm wife, she also worked at Henningsen Foods in David City from 1972-89. She had been a resident at St. Joseph's Villa since June 2008.

Survivors include a son, Vernon Nicolas of Schuyler; daughters and sons-in-law, Betty Nicolas of Columbus, Dr. Jo Anna and Jim Witter of David City and Julie and Steve Reiter of Bellwood; grandchildren, Eric and Joshua Nicolas, James III, Jeff, Julia, Jack, Jill and Jacob Witter and Peter, William, Daniel, Elias, Grace and Luke Reiter; brothers and sisters-in-law, Joe and Mary Pat Romshek, Ralph and Betty Romshek and Jack and Betty Romshek, all of Bellwood; and sister, Josephine Feaster of Lincoln.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 1992; grandson, Ryan Nicolas; and sisters, Elma Nicolas, Mildred Beringer and Cora Lee From.

Memorials: Donor's choice.

Arrangements by Gass Haney Funeral Home, Columbus.

Anne Alt

ST. PAUL - Anne U. Alt, 80, of St. Paul died Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009, at her home.

Services were Thursday, Nov. 19, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in St. Paul, with the Rev. Ray Kosmicki officiating. Burial was at Osceola Cemetery.

Miss Alt was born Dec. 13, 1928, at Shelby to Oswald and Anna (Urban) Alt. Because of the health of her mother, she was moved along with her siblings to Blue Island, Ill. She attended St. Benedict School there and graduated from DePaul University with a master's degree in foreign language.

She was a foreign language teacher in the Chicago area high schools. Upon retirement, she moved to the Wolbach and St. Paul areas.

She traveled extensively to numerous countries around the world. She enjoyed educational television, gardening and yard work. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

Survivors include cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Jack and Joseph Alt.

Memorials: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. Condolences: www.jacobsen-greenway.com

Arrangements by Jacobsen-Greenway Funeral Home, St. Paul.

William Staub

COLUMBUS - William "Bill" M. Staub, 54, of Columbus died Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, at his home.

Services were Tuesday, Dec. 1, at McKown Funeral Home in Columbus, with the Rev. Michael V. Klatt officiating.

Mr. Staub was born July 21, 1955, in Columbus to D. Emory and Nina (Hoeft) Staub. He graduated from Columbus High School in 1973.

He worked for the City of Columbus for 35 years. He currently worked as the cemetery sexton. He was an avid ATV four-wheeler and enjoyed spending time on the river and at the family cabin. He played softball and basketball on many teams over the years.

Survivors include his mother, Nina (Lumir) Krepel of Columbus; daughters and sons-in-law, Brandi and Jason Holloman of Columbus, Cierra Staub of Bellwood and Andrea and Tracy Micek of Columbus; sons, Calen (Amanda McCarthy) Staub and Ryan Bakersfield, all of Columbus; grandchildren, Jacob Staub and Lexis and Alisha Dau, all of Columbus, and Ashlyn Bakersfield of Kansas City, Kan.; sister and husband, Linda and Pat McNair of Imperial; and brother and wife, John and Jeannie Staub of Waterloo.

He was preceded in death by his father and nephew Darby Staub.

Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home.

Viola Mulraney

HUMBLE, Texas - Viola Ann Mulraney, 83, of Pasadena, Texas, died Saturday, Oct. 24, 2009, of pulmonary fibrosis and related issues.

At her request, cremation was at Brookside Funeral Home in Humble, Texas. Inurnment will be at a later date. A memorial service was held at Evergreen Missionary Baptist Church at Porter, Texas, on Nov. 7.

Mrs. Mulraney was born April 22, 1926, to Charles and Viola (Kasha) Cejka on a farm near Crete. Early in her childhood, the family moved to Scio, Ore., for four years and then returned to Crete to the same farm where she was born. She attended grade school and high school in Crete and Pleasant Dale.

She then lived in Lincoln where she worked at Gold's Department Store. During that time, she met and married Gerard Mulraney of Pennsylvania, who was stationed at the Lincoln Air Base. After his death, she realized her lifelong dream of graduating from college. To finance her education, she worked part time in the college computer lab. She graduated from San Jacinto College in Pasadena, Texas, with the distinction of being one of the oldest students to ever graduate from the college.

Survivors include sons and wives, Charles and Laura Mulraney of Humble, Texas, Donald and Carner Mulraney and their three children of The Woodlands, Texas, and John Mulraney of Richmond, Texas; brother and wife, James and Imojean Cejka of Dawson, Ga.; brother-in-law, Ronald Andrews of Beverly Hills, Fla.; sisters, Mary Lou Cejka of Tampa, Fla., and Helen Jochim of David City; and sisters-in-law, Helen Cejka of Crete, Beth Cejka of Ashland and Nora Cejka of Phoenix.

She was preceded in death by her husband; daughter, Susan, of an aneurysm; brothers, Charles, Frank, John and Robert Cejka; and sisters, Irene Levi and Julia Andrews.

Memorials: Richmond State School, 2100 Preston Street, Richmond, TX 77469.

Arrangements by Brookside Funeral Home.

 

Jeffrey Hain

Jeffrey Alan Hain, 43, of Bellwood died Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009, at David Place in David City.

Services are at 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 4, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Visitation is 2-5 p.m. Thursday at Chermok Funeral Home in David City and after 6 p.m. at the church, followed by a rosary at 7 p.m. also at the church. Visitation will continue Friday one hour before services at the church. Burial will be at Sts. Peter and Mary Cemetery, rural Bellwood.

Mr. Hain was born Nov. 19, 1966, in David City to Bernard "Butch" and Jeanne (McGowen) Hain. He graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in David City in 1985.

He married Carla Wellman April 6, 1991, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Seward.

He was past president of the Nebraska Egg Council, a member of Presentation Catholic Church, rural Bellwood, where he served as an acolyte and trustee. He enjoyed golf, attending Lincoln Stars hockey, loved his family, farming and attending his kids' activities.

Survivors include his wife; sons, Dustin, Jared and Colin of Bellwood; daughter, Josina of Bellwood; his parents of Bellwood; brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Gloria Hain of Columbus; and sisters and brothers-in-law, Debra and Scott Sorensen of Brentwood, Calif., and Kristine "Tina" and Peter Fowle of Lenexa, Kan. He enjoyed a special bond with his father-in-law, Clark Wellman of Lincoln.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, John and Mildred Hain and Laurence and Leona McGowen.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to Aquinas Guardian Angel Fund, Aquinas High School Endowment Fund or American Cancer Society. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.

Francis Lukassen

Francis H. Lukassen, 93, of David City, died Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

A Prayer Service is at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2, at Chermok Funeral Home in David City. His body has been cremated, there will be no viewing. A rosary is at 9:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, followed by a Memorial Service at 10 a.m. Inurnment to follow at St. Mary's Cemetery in David City.

Mr. Lukassen is the son of Theodore and Augusta (Kosch) Lukassen. He is the husband of 66 years to Lucile (Gillespie) Lukassen.

He grew up the second youngest in a large farm family, his father coming from Holland and his mother from Austria. Theodore had four children with his first wife, Anne (Kosch). He lost her and three of their children over a short time due to tuberculosis. He then married Augusta (Kosch). Together they had 11 children. This union suffered the loss of three children to black scarlet fever in 1914.

As a child, farm life for Francis and his younger sister Sally, seemed to be one adventure after another. Older sisters, Anne and Minn and older brothers Fred, Hank and Leo were there to help their parents with most of the work. There seemed to be endless hours enjoying life on their farm in their big white house and close enough to town to walk or ride a horse to get in on a lot of good times with the town kids. Their horses were their best friends and many hours were spent riding with neighbor children. The horses took the work out of sledding the big hill as the kids would get a free ride back up with a horse pulling them. As older siblings married and started families of their own and their parents began to age, he and Sally took on more responsibilities, always making plenty of time for fun with family and friends.

He carried his love and devotion to family with him as he married and raised eight children of their own. Nothing was more important to them. Year after year vacations were coordinated to spend family time together, boating, swimming and moro cycling or just setting around the campfire at the little acreage on the east end of "E" Street that was always home. After retiring, he and Lucile spent several winters in California, experiencing LA and Harvest times in Dix, Nebraska, enjoying farming and friendship with a nephew Jim and Bonnie and family. Always ready to travel to see kids and grandkids.

He was preceded in death by his Father in 1943 and Mother in 1950. His oldest son, John, and his wife, Donna, died as a result of a boat accident in 1990. Also preceding him in death were his brothers, Hank, Fred and Leo; and sisters, Ann Timony, Minn (Shonka) and Leona.

Survivors include his wife; sons, Tom (Judy) Lukassen of Kenosha, Wis., and Ted (Jeanie) Lukassen of David City; daughters, Jane (Bernard) Buresh and Linda (Dick) Ronkar, all of David City, Doris (Allen) Shambrook of Mission Viejo, Calif., Kathy (Jeff) Martens of Bellwood and Lori (Rick) Bock of Columbus; 24 grandchildren, Fred, J.D. (Penny Martens) Bob, Lisa, Eric, Bill (Tracy Cole), Deb (Chris Knudsen, Greg, Vonda (Glen Crisp), Kurt, Kyle, Kristi (Brandon Behrens), Robin, Jim, Ryan, Victoria (Colby Perry), Jaason, Jessie, Jennie, Keith, Candice, Adam, Amber and Nolan; 28 great-grandchildren, Stevie, Nicholas, Christopher, Samantha, Stephen, Logan, Brianna, Travis, Trenton, Cody, Spencer, William, Eden, Vincent, Austin, Sammuel, Elliana, Alexus, Ashley, Madison, Nevaeh, Mikah, Devon, Lukas, Abrigail, Aliyah, Kaleb and Hunter; and sister, Sally McLaughlin.

Memorials: St. Mary's Church or St. Joseph's Villa. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.

Adeline Turek

COLUMBUS -- Adeline B. Turek, 85, of Columbus, formerly of Ulysses, died Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, at Golden Living Center in Columbus.

Services were Monday, Nov. 30, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus, with the Rev. Mike Keating officiating. Burial was at Sts. Peter & Mary/Presentation Cemetery, rural Bellwood.

Mrs. Turek was born June 10, 1924, at Ulysses to August and Rose (Trousil) Matulka. She attended country school near Ulysses.

On April 10, 1945, she married Ernest Turek at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight. They lived and farmed near Surprise. In 1967, they moved to Columbus, but continued to farm. She also worked for Dale Electronics, Behlen Cafeteria and King's Food Host and sold Avon.

She was a member of St. Bonaventure Catholic Church and Catholic Workman and a past member of Immaculate Conception Altar Society in Ulysses and the Surprise PTA. She enjoyed dancing, playing cards, collecting chickens, baking and traveling. Her trips included Rome, Canada, the Holy Land and all 50 states.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Mary Jane and Dan Hilger of Bellwood, Bernadette and Darwin Jaster of Columbus, Beverly and Roland From of David City and Ernestine and Patrick Augustine of Columbus; grandchildren and spouses, Michelle and Stephen Casaus, Marcus and Daniela Hilger, Robert and Becky Jaster, Brian Jaster, Bridget and Carlin Voter, Jeff and Kelsi From, April and Eli Jurisich, Crystal From, Kirk and Christine Augustine and Nicholas and Kendra Augustine; great-grandchildren, Ian and Colin Casaus, Jakub Hilger, Cheyenne,

Cassidy, Lindsay, Alyssa, Taylor, Chase, Colin, Justin, Eligh and Aidan Jaster, Christopher and Cody Voter and Jupiter and Ryland Augustine; and brother and wife, Edward and Dorothy Matulka of Dwight.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; grandchildren, Michael Hilger and Barbara Jaster; brothers, Joseph, Ernest and Raymond Matulka; and sisters, Rose Kouba, Ann Voboril and Mary Ostry.

Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.

Howard Taylor

Howard D. Taylor, 66, of David City, died Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Services were Wednesday, Nov. 25, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mr. Taylor was born Nov. 7, 1943, in Hyannis to Robert and Edna (Lee) Taylor.

He married Judy Haselhorst on June 8, 1968, at St. Mary's Church in Hays, Kan. She died in 1998. He was vice president of manufacturing for Timpte Inc. in David City. After leaving Timpte, he worked as a sales representative for Keith Walking Floors and founded the Tumbling T Horse Facility near Seward.

He was a member of the Quarterhorse Association and was extensively involved in community activities while living in David City. He enjoyed traveling in his RV throughout the United States with his dog, Jet.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Melissa and Bill Yindrick of David City and Julianne and Gary Higer of Savannah, Mo.; grandchildren, Caleb, Will, Jude, Mara and Augustine Yindrick and Shayna, Camryn and Cale Higer; brother and wife, Ray and Diane Taylor of Colorado.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and brother, Dick.

Memorials: In care of family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

 

Jerome Palik

Jerome "Jerry" J. Palik, 78, of David City died Friday, Nov. 20, 2009, at his home.

Services were Tuesday, Nov. 24, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Burial was at Appleton Catholic Cemetery, rural David City.

Mr. Palik was born Dec. 15, 1930, on the farm near Garrison to Joseph and Marie (Voboril) Palik.

He served his country during the Korean War in the Army.

He married Marlene Yindrick May 18, 1954, at Assumption Catholic Church, Appleton. He lived in the Butler County area all of his life and engaged in farming.

He loved the outdoors and spent much of his life working the land and using his talents as a carpenter. He was a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5814.

Survivors include his wife; sons and daughters-in-law, Joe and Mary Beth Palik of Omaha, Jim and Jodi Palik of Seward, Jerry and Delyce Palik and Mike and Robin Palik, all of Cabot, Ark., and Danny Palik of Omaha; daughters and sons-in-law, Julie and Chuck Messersmith of Columbus, Louise and Joel Kroft of Seward, Annette and Bob Griffiths of Columbus and Candi Palik and Amy Palik, both of David City; 18 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brother and wife, Vic and Carol Palik of David City; sisters and husband, Edith and Mark Alt and Lucille Alt, all of Shelby; brother-in-law and wife, Joe and Betty Yindrick of David City; sisters-in-law and husbands, Theresa and Ron Kuzelka of Grand Island, Rita and Joe Helman of Brainard and Margie and Mel From of Omaha.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, John M. Palik; brother, Dennis Palik; nephews, Gary Alt and Brian J. Palik; and parents-in-law, Louis and Amelia Yindrick.

Memorials: In care of family. Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Lucille Speicher

Lucille Speicher, 76, of David City died Thursday, Nov. 19, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Services were Monday, Nov. 23, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mrs. Speicher was born Dec. 4, 1932, at Garrison to Joseph and Helen (Mashek) Sloup.

On April 30, 1955, she married Harold E. Speicher at St. Vincent De paul Catholic Church in Seward. Prior to her marriage, she worked at the Seward County Independent newspaper. They farmed one half mile north of Octavia for 40 years and retired to David City.

She loved gardening, raising flowers, baking and spending time with her family. She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and PCCW and a former member of Presentation Catholic Church Altar Society of rural Bellwood.

Survivors include her husband; daughter and spouse, Sharon and Bud Headman of Salt Lake City; sons and spouses, Edward and Diana Speicher of Lincoln and Bob and Amy Romshek Speicher of Columbus; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and brother and wife, Ray and Linda Sloup of Seward.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorials: St. Mary's Catholic Church; American Cancer Society. Condolences to www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Doris Bouc

WAHOO -- Doris A. Bouc, 53, of Brainard died Friday, Nov. 20, 2009, at her home.

Services were Wednesday, Nov. 25, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard, with Father Matthew Eickhoff officiating. Burial was at St. Francis Cemetery, Wahoo.

Mrs. Bouc was born March 4, 1956, in Lincoln to Stanley and Rose (Jirovsky) Bartek. She grew up near Agnew and attended a country school there. She graduated from Raymond Central High School in 1974. She then worked at A.C. Nielson in Lincoln.

On Nov. 27, 1976, she married Glenn Bouc at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Agnew. They lived in Hordville five years and in Doniphan for three years. They moved to St. Libory, where they owned and operated Cornhusker Quarters Restaurant and Lounge for nine years. Fifteen years ago, they moved to Brainard and started a business, G & D Enterprises.

She was a parishioner at Holy Trinity Catholic Church and a member of P.C.C.W.

Survivors include her husband; son, C.J. of Valparaiso; father of Lincoln; brothers and wives, Greg and Lou Bartek and Sylv and Pat Bartek, all of Lincoln, and Dennis and Dan Bartek of Agnew; sisters and husbands, Mary Lou Rerucha of Omaha, Georgiann and Gary Gerner of Crete, Roseanne and Louie Oborny of Bellwood and Jean and Brian Clausen of Lincoln; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mother; sisters, Diane Warta and Virginia Skipper; and brother-in-law, Joe Rerucha.

Memorials: Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

Adolph Stuchlik

NORFOLK - Adolph Stuchlik, 90, of Norfolk, formerly of Prague, died Friday, Nov. 27, 2009, at BryanLGH Medical Center West in Lincoln.

Services were Monday, Nov. 30, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Norfolk, with the Rev. Dave Belt officiating. Burial was at Prospect Hill Cemetery.

Mr. Stuchlik was born May 21, 1919, at Prague, to Frank and Sophie (Vyhildal) Stuchlik. He graduated from Prague High School and Lincoln School of Commerce.

He started his banking career at First National Bank in Lincoln and then Lexington, then moving to Norfolk.

He married Lillianne Fuxa Aug. 20, 1942, at St. Mary's Cathedral in Lincoln.

He was an avid Husker fan who loved to garden, go bowling and dancing. He had a great love for his church where he served as an EME, lector and usher. Belonging to the Knights of Columbus he was a 4th Degree Knight and had served as the financial director for 50 years. He enjoyed being with his family.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Greg and Deb Stuchlik of Lexington and Shannon and Kelly Stuchlik of Pierce; daughters and sons-in-law, Gwen and Ron Polhman of Stanton and Debbie and Jim Meyerhoff of Lincoln; grandchildren, Denise Simpson, Renee Kaliff, Rochelle Senkbeil, Shantelle, Shaelynne, Shawn, Shad, Seth and Shane Pohlman, Kaelee and Kyle Stuchlik, Mark Telecky and Travis, Tyler and Trevor Roth; and 22 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife; daughters, Karren Telecky and LaVonne Roth; six brothers; and three sisters.

Arrangements by Home for Funerals, Norfolk.

Michael Scdoris

Michael E. Scdoris, 58, of Ulysses, died Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Services were Tuesday, Dec. 1, at the Community Center in Ulysses.

Mr. Scdoris was born June 13, 1951, in Lincoln to Wallace E. and Lydia Ellen

(Sedam) Scdoris. He attended Lincoln Public Schools.

He had worked at Northwestern Metals and as a handyman for Jeffrey's Rentals in Lincoln. He most recently worked maintenance for the Villages of Brainard and Ulysses.

Survivors include his life partner Luellen Schauer of Ulysses; children and spouses, Michelle and Joseph Hickman of Wilber, David and Jessica Schauer of Pleasant Dale, Lori and John Matchett of Abie, Wendy Scdoris of Pleasant Dale, Billy Scdoris and April Scdoris, both of Ulysses, Nicholas and Amanda Scdoris of Lincoln and Will and Leanne Belt of Brainard; 12 grandchildren; brothers and sisters-in-law, Rick and Peggi Scdoris of Lincoln and John and Shirleen Scdoris of Dorchester; and sisters and brothers-in-law, Sharon and John Conrad of Beaver Crossing, Pam and Scott Pierce of Pleasant Dale and Eva and James West of Milford; and stepbrother, Thomas Handy of Lincoln.

Memorials: To family. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Bernice Nicolas

COLUMBUS -- Bernice Nicolas, 85, of Bellwood died Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Services were Monday, Nov. 30, at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Bellwood, with Father Scott Courtney officiating. Burial was at Ss. Peter & Mary/Presentation Cemetery, rural Bellwood.

Mrs. Nicolas was born Oct. 6, 1924, at Bellwood to Joseph and Ruth (Day) Romshek. She attended rural school and graduated in 1941 from Bellwood High School.

On April 20, 1948, she married Leonard Nicolas at St Peter's Catholic Church in Bellwood. The couple made their home on his family farm south of Bellwood. In addition to being a farm wife, she also worked at Henningsen Foods in David City from 1972-89. She had been a resident at St. Joseph's Villa since June 2008.

Survivors include a son, Vernon Nicolas of Schuyler; daughters and sons-in-law, Betty Nicolas of Columbus, Dr. Jo Anna and Jim Witter of David City and Julie and Steve Reiter of Bellwood; grandchildren, Eric and Joshua Nicolas, James III, Jeff, Julia, Jack, Jill and Jacob Witter and Peter, William, Daniel, Elias, Grace and Luke Reiter; brothers and sisters-in-law, Joe and Mary Pat Romshek, Ralph and Betty Romshek and Jack and Betty Romshek, all of Bellwood; and sister, Josephine Feaster of Lincoln.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 1992; grandson, Ryan Nicolas; and sisters, Elma Nicolas, Mildred Beringer and Cora Lee From.

Memorials: Donor's choice.

Arrangements by Gass Haney Funeral Home, Columbus.

Anne Alt

ST. PAUL - Anne U. Alt, 80, of St. Paul died Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009, at her home.

Services were Thursday, Nov. 19, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in St. Paul, with the Rev. Ray Kosmicki officiating. Burial was at Osceola Cemetery.

Miss Alt was born Dec. 13, 1928, at Shelby to Oswald and Anna (Urban) Alt. Because of the health of her mother, she was moved along with her siblings to Blue Island, Ill. She attended St. Benedict School there and graduated from DePaul University with a master's degree in foreign language.

She was a foreign language teacher in the Chicago area high schools. Upon retirement, she moved to the Wolbach and St. Paul areas.

She traveled extensively to numerous countries around the world. She enjoyed educational television, gardening and yard work. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

Survivors include cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Jack and Joseph Alt.

Memorials: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. Condolences: www.jacobsen-greenway.com

Arrangements by Jacobsen-Greenway Funeral Home, St. Paul.

William Staub

COLUMBUS - William "Bill" M. Staub, 54, of Columbus died Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, at his home.

Services were Tuesday, Dec. 1, at McKown Funeral Home in Columbus, with the Rev. Michael V. Klatt officiating.

Mr. Staub was born July 21, 1955, in Columbus to D. Emory and Nina (Hoeft) Staub. He graduated from Columbus High School in 1973.

He worked for the City of Columbus for 35 years. He currently worked as the cemetery sexton. He was an avid ATV four-wheeler and enjoyed spending time on the river and at the family cabin. He played softball and basketball on many teams over the years.

Survivors include his mother, Nina (Lumir) Krepel of Columbus; daughters and sons-in-law, Brandi and Jason Holloman of Columbus, Cierra Staub of Bellwood and Andrea and Tracy Micek of Columbus; sons, Calen (Amanda McCarthy) Staub and Ryan Bakersfield, all of Columbus; grandchildren, Jacob Staub and Lexis and Alisha Dau, all of Columbus, and Ashlyn Bakersfield of Kansas City, Kan.; sister and husband, Linda and Pat McNair of Imperial; and brother and wife, John and Jeannie Staub of Waterloo.

He was preceded in death by his father and nephew Darby Staub.

Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home.



Services Wednesday for Doris A. Bouc



Doris A. Bouc, age 53 of Brainard, NE died Nov. 20, 2009 at her home. She was born Mar. 4, 1956 in Lincoln, NE to Stanley and Rose (Jirovsky) Bartek.

She grew up near Agnew and attended a country school there. She later graduated from Raymond Central High School in 1974. After high school, Doris worked at A.C. Nielson in Lincoln. On Nov. 27, 1976, she was united in marriage to Glenn Bouc at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Agnew.

They lived in Hordville, NE for five years and in Doniphan, NE for three years. They moved to St. Libory, NE where she and Glenn owned and operated the Cornhusker Quarters Restaurant and Lounge for nine years. Fifteen years ago, Doris and Glenn moved to Brainard and started their business, G & D Enterprises. Doris was a parishioner at Holy Trinity Catholic Church and was a member of the P.C.C.W. 

She is survived by husband Glenn, Brainard; son C.J., Valparaiso, NE; father Stanley Bartek, Lincoln; brothers Greg(Lou) Bartek, Sylv (Pat) Bartek, all Lincoln, Dennis and Dan Bartek, Agnew, NE; sisters Mary Lou Rerucha, Omaha, Georgiann (Gary) Gerner, Crete, NE, Roseanne (Louie) Oborny, Bellwood, NE and Jean (Brian) Clausen, Lincoln; many nieces & nephews. She was preceded in death by mother Rose Bartek, sisters Diane Warta and Virginia Skipper and brother in law Joe Rerucha.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, 10:30 A.M., Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Brainard, interment St. Francis Cemetery, Wahoo, NE, visitation Tuesday, 5 - 7:30 P.M. with a rosary at 7:30 P.M. all at the church. Clergy, Rev. Matthew Eickhoff. Memorials to Holy Trinity Catholic church.
Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo, NE, 402-443-3624


August 2009 Obituaries

Eleanor Armagost

SCHUYLER -- Eleanor Armagost, 77, of Vancouver, Wash., formerly of Schuyler, died Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2009, in Vancouver.

Services are at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 17, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in Schuyler, with the Rev. William Mattfeld officiating. Visitation is noon to 3 p.m. Sunday at the funeral chapel. Burial will be at Schuyler Cemetery. Lunch is at the Schuyler VFW Hall.

Mrs. Armagost was born July 24, 1932, in Schuyler to Lawrence and Ema (Cuda) White and attended Schuyler Public Schools.

On Feb. 25, 1936, she married Jack Armagost at St. John's Lutheran Church in Schuyler. They lived in Schuyler and she worked at Western Cafe and GM Express for many years.

She was a member of the Schuyler VFW Auxiliary and honorary member of the Schuyler Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary.

Survivors include sisters and husband, Joyce and Bob Harshman and Edith Karsten, all of Vancouver; brothers and wife, Marvin White of Vancouver and Warren and Susan White of Huntington Beach, Calif.; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.

Memorials: Donor's choice

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

 

Alfons Mastera

Alfons T. Mastera, 93, of David City died Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2009, at St. Joseph's Court in David City.

Services were Saturday, Aug. 8, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mr. Mastera was born July 30, 1916, in Ceresco, the oldest of nine children, to Frank A. and Frances (Slama) Mastera. He attended country school near Ceresco.

On Jan. 24, 1940, he married Beatrice Svoboda at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard. He farmed near David City, worked for Klosterman's Feed Lot for 36 years, Knott Funeral Home and Timpte and was caretaker of St. Mary's Cemetery for many years.

He was a 3rd and 4th Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus, David City.

Survivors include his wife; sons and daughters-in-law, Arthur and Susan Mastera of Aurora, Colo., and James and Georgianne Mastera and Robert and Debra Mastera, all of Lincoln; daughter and son-in-law, Virginia Ann and Larry Geiger of Lincoln; 11 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; brother, George W. Mastera of David City; sisters, Helen Nelson of Tulsa, Okla., Frances Styskal of Wahoo and Mary Richardson of Lincoln; and sisters-in-law, Alice Mastera of Ceresco and Darlene Mastera of Schuyler.

He was preceded in death by brothers, Frank, Louis and Edward Mastera; and sister, Agnes Priess.

Memorials: St. Mary's Church; St. Joseph's Villa.

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Virginia Nosal

COLUMBUS - Virginia M. Nosal, 86, of Columbus died Monday, Aug. 3, 2009, at Columbus Community Hospital.

Services were Thursday, Aug. 6, at St. Isidore Catholic Church in Columbus, with Father Joseph Miksch officiating. Burial was at St. Bonaventure Cemetery in Columbus.

Mrs. Nosal was born Sept. 14, 1922, in Cuba City, Wis., to Herbert and Rose (Welsh) Fiedler. She graduated from Cuba City High School in 1940. In 1945 she moved to California.

She married Benedict "Ben" Nosal May 30, 1960, in Santa Fe Springs, Calif. She retired in 1983 after 19 years of being the office manager for Catholic Social Services in Whittier, Calif. In 1983, the couple bought a cabin on a lake near Bellwood, where they spent their summers enjoying the lake and visiting family and friends. They spent their winters at their home in Banning, Calif. In November 2006 they relocated to Columbus to be near family.

She was a member of St. Isidore Catholic Church and Christian Mothers. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, traveling, knitting, reading and gardening.

Survivors include a brother and wife, Don and Patricia Fiedler of Kenesaw, Ga.; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, John Krizman of Manhattan Beach, Calif., Richard and Margaret Nosal, Con and Kathi Nosal, Floyd and Helen Niedbalski and Lenore Pokorny, all of Columbus, Mel and Rachel Nosal of California, Len and Hazel Nosal and Dorothy and Dick Muhleka, all of Bennington, Joan and Rick Ramaekers and Barbara Kopecky, all of Omaha, and Don and Jan Nosal of Fremont.

She was preceded in death by her husband on Nov. 26, 2007; her parents; her first husband, Nathan Furst in 1958; brothers, Myrle and William Fiedler; and sister June Krizman.

Memorials: St. Isidore Catholic Church.

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.

 

Phyllis Valish

SCHUYLER - Phyllis Valish, 78, of Schuyler died Thursday, Aug. 6, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Services were Monday, Aug. 10, at First Presbyterian Church in Schuyler. Burial was at Schuyler Cemetery.

Mrs. Valish was born June 23, 1931, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to George and Anita (Clatterbuck) Willman. She graduated from Jefferson High School in Council Bluffs in 1949 and worked as a telephone operator before marrying Leonard E. Valish on March 31, 1951, in Council Bluffs. They farmed in the Schuyler area until 1985 when they moved to Schuyler. She had worked in the kitchen of both the Schuyler Nursing Center and Schuyler Memorial Hospital.

She volunteered at the Schuyler Senior Center and was a member of Presbyterian Women's Organization. She enjoyed baby-sitting her grandchildren, reading, crocheting, embroidering and baking. She had been a resident of Golden LivingCenter since 2006.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, David and Shirley Valish of Schuyler and Gene and Diane Valish of Fremont; daughters and sons-in-law, Linda Barron of Columbus, Virginia and Louie Uhrmann of Julesburg, Colo., and Elaine and Dave Porter of Independence, Mo.; 10 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sister, Betty Jones of Council Bluffs; and sisters-in-law, Emma Valish of Denver and Irene Gobler of Schuyler.

She is preceded in death by her husband on July 1, 2003.

Memorials: Schuyler Library, First Presbyterian Church, Butler County Health Care Center.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Schuyler.

Walter Hermsen

LAMAR, Mo. - Walter Hermsen, 90, of Lamar, Mo., formerly of David City, died.

Services were Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2009, at Daniel Funeral Home in Lamar, with the Rev. Frank Palermo officiating. Burial was at St. Mary's Cemetery, Lamar.

Mr. Hermsen was born March 30, 1919, at David City to Joseph and Angela (Seibold) Hermsen.

On June 18, 1946, he married Irma Ann Macholan at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. In 1951, after living in David City and South Bend, Ind., for several years, they moved to Barton County, where they farmed and raised cattle for more than 50 years.

Walter was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Lamar, and Knights of Columbus.

Survivors include his wife; son and daughter-in-law, Walter "Cork" F. II and Yolanda Hermsen of Lamar; daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Randy McKee of Augusta, Kan.; grandchildren, Yvette Gordon, Brendan and Cameron McKee; brothers, Paul Hermsen of Indianapolis and Alvin Hermsen of Topeka, Kan.; and sister, Evelyn Ducoff of Madera, Calif.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Harold Hermsen.

Memorials: St. Mary's Catholic Church Building Fund, Lamar, or charity of the donor's choice in care of Daniel Funeral Home.

Arrangements by Daniel Funeral Home, Lamar.

 

Brenda Strizek


VALPARAISO -- Brenda Lee Strizek, 21, of Wahoo, formerly of Valparaiso, died Sunday, Aug. 9, 2009.

Services were Thursday, Aug. 13, at Sts. Mary & Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso.

Miss Strizek graduated from East Butler High School in Brainard in 2007. She was involved in volleyball for six years and was in Touhy Livestock 4-H Club for 10 years.

She lived in rural Valparaiso until a couple of years ago when she moved to Wahoo. She worked at South Haven Living Center in Wahoo.

Survivors include her parents, Mark and Pamela Strizek of Valparaiso; brother, Travis M. Strizek of Valparaiso; sister, Lisa A. Strizek of Broken Bow; grandparents, Keith and Marilyn Hanke and Marvin and Delores Strizek; great-grandmothers, Georgia Codr, Hazel Hanke and Bessie Dvorak; aunts; uncles; and cousins.  

A memorial fund has been established in her name.
Arrangements by Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home, Valparaiso.

Jerome Kovar


Jerome J. Kovar, 75, of David City died Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Services were Saturday, Aug. 15, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery, with military rites by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5814 and American Legion Post 125 of David City.

Survivors include his wife, Geraldine of David City; sons and daughters-in-law, Tim and Joan Kovar of David City and Mick and Renee Kovar of Lincoln; daughter and son-in-law, Cindy and Curt Backemeyer of Elmwood; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was the oldest of seven children and is also survived by sisters and husbands, Anna and Tony Bouc of Valparaiso, Betty and Jerry Ronkar of Columbus and Agnes and Stanley Kracl of Schuyler; and brothers and wives, Marcel Jr. and Arlene Kovar of David City, Arthur and Connie Kovar of Butte, Mont., and Kenny and Nancy Kovar of David City.

He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorials: Masses; David City Fire Department.
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Burch Fenstemaker

FULLERTON -- Burch O. Fenstemaker, 88, of Fullerton, formerly of Bellwood, died Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2009, at Nebraska Veterans Home in Grand Island.

Services were Saturday, Aug. 15, at First Presbyterian Church in Fullerton, with the Rev. Jim Hackel officiating. Burial was at Fullerton Cemetery, with military rites by Fullerton American Legion Post 151.

Mr. Fenstemaker was born July 3, 1921, at Bellwood to Clarence and Adaline
(Burch) Fenstemaker. He attended country school and Bellwood High School, graduating in 1941. He farmed with his father on the family farm near
Bellwood.

He served in the U.S. Navy from 1943, during World War II, until he was honorably discharged in 1946.

On Jan. 19, 1947, he married Doris Sonderup at Augustina Lutheran Church in
Genoa. They made their home in Lincoln and worked for Western Electric. He then attended Milford Trade School where he studied mechanics. After graduating from

Milford they returned to the Genoa and Fullerton area in 1952 where he continued to farm, as well as at the family farm near Bellwood.

He was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Fullerton. He enjoyed gardening, mechanical and electrical work on the farm, fishing and camping.

Survivors include his wife; daughters and son-in-law, Connie and Donald Pettingill of Hastings and Cheryl Fenstemaker and fiancŽ, Rick Hoffbauer, of Columbus; grandchildren, Christopher, Daniel and Sarah Mitchell and Preston and Paul Sunnenberg; and sister, Margaret Peden of Santa Maria, Calif.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Christie Mitchell; infant brother, Daniel Fenstemaker; and brother, Marvin Fenstemaker.

Arrangements by Palmer Funeral Home, Fullerton.

Edith Mann


CHADRON -- Edith Mann, 74, of Chadron, formerly of Bellwood, died Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2009, at Pioneer Manor in Hay Springs.

Services were Saturday, Aug. 8, at Chamberlain Chapel in Chadron, with burial on Monday, Aug. 10, at Roselawn Cemetery in Columbus.
Mrs. Mann was born Sept. 14, 1934, at Bellwood to Carl and Elma (Lees) Carson.   She graduated from Bellwood High School and Omaha School of Commerce.

She married Jack Mann July 10, 1963, in Columbus and moved to Ogallala.

They lived in Ogallala, North Platte and Broken Bow, where she worked as a secretary, executive assistant and supervisor. They moved to Chadron in 1982, where she was a partner in Chadron Auto and Farm Parts with her husband. 

She was a member of the Flower Mission at the Chadron Hospital, which she greatly enjoyed. She loved flowers, animals (especially cats), the Nebraska Pine Ridge, Sandhills, spending winters in Arizona and motorcycle touring.

Survivors include her husband; daughter and son-in-law, Lesley and David Prewitt of Aurora, Colo.; son, Gary Mann of Tucson, Ariz.; granddaughters, Taylor and Jenna Prewitt of Aurora; and brothers, Robert Carson of Roseville and Richard Carson of Cottonwood, Ariz.

Memorials: Pioneer Manor in Hay Springs or an Alzheimer's Association.


Robert Nordmeyer


COLUMBUS -- Robert Nordmeyer, 84, of Tucson, Ariz., formerly of Rising City and Columbus, died Saturday, Aug. 8, 2009, in Arizona.
Services are at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 22, at Peace Lutheran Church, 2720 28th Street in Columbus, with the Rev. Michael Klatt officiating. Burial will be at Roselawn Cemetery in Columbus.

Mr. Nordmeyer was born July 13, 1925, to Louis and Minnie (Ihnen) Nordmeyer. He grew up on a farm outside of Rising City and graduated from Rising City High School.

On Jan. 6, 1945, he married Emily Sloup in Papillion.

He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Columbus.
Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Ron and Jacki of Tucson; daughter and husband, Cheryl and Rob Robinson of Tucson; grandsons and wives, Eric and Tiffany Nordmeyer of Omaha and Erron and Jacey Nordmeyer of Lincoln; great-grandson, Harrison Nordmeyer; and nieces and husbands, Debbie and Ashton Weaver of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Diane and Danny Quinones of Omaha and Donna Nordmeyer of La Vista.

He was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; and brother, Darwin.

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.

Tillie Hruby

GRAND ISLAND -- Tillie Hruby, 88, of Grand Island, formerly of Abie and Linwood, died Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2009, at Rose Lane Home in Loup City.

Services are at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 21, at St. Mary's Cathedral in Grand Island, with the Rev. Jonathan Sorensen officiating. Visitation is 4-7 p.m. Thursday at Curran Funeral Chapel in Grand Island, with a scripture vigil service at 7 p.m. Burial will be at Grand Island City Cemetery.

Mrs. Hruby was born Jan. 23, 1921, at Abie to Louis and Annie (Dvorak) Dostal. She received her education in Butler County. She then was employed at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Lincoln. She moved to Seattle during World War II to work at Boeing Airplane Factory. 

She married Dominic D. Hruby June 22, 1943, at San Bernardino, Calif. After his discharge from the U.S. Army, they farmed near Linwood. They moved to Clarkson in 1949 and continued farming. In 1969, they moved to Grand Island and she was employed at St. Francis Medical Center.

She was a delightful lady who brought sunshine and a smile to all who knew her and strangers alike. Fascinated by the wonders around her, she loved to travel and was especially interested in the geography of the United States. She never seemed to tire of visiting Catholic churches across the nation and took a special interest in the fifth station of the cross in each of the churches. She enjoyed gardening, dancing, music, embroidery and reading and created numerous quilts for her family. She was a member of St. Mary's Cathedral.

Survivors include sons and daughter-in-law, David and Jane Hruby of Fort Collins, Colo., and Martin Hruby of Tok, Ark.; daughters and sons-in-law, Notre Dame Sr. Cynthia Hruby of Wayne, Mary and Roy Stoltenberg of Cairo, Rita Hruby of Wenatchee, Wash., Bernice and Jim Slagle of Lincoln and Lucy and Michael Turek of Casper, Wyo.; grandchildren, twins Andrea and Angela, Dominic and Anthony, Elizabeth, Melinda, Laura, John, Patricia, Andrew, Sarah, Zachary, Rebecca and Audray; stepgrandchildren, James and Opal; 11 great-grandchildren; four stepgreat-grandchildren; and twin sister, Anna Eckstein of Linwood.

She is preceded in death by her husband on Aug. 24, 1995; and brothers, Alois, Joseph and Eugene Dostal. 

Memorials: Family's choice.

Arrangements by Curran Funeral Chapel.

Habacuc Garcia


COLUMBUS -- Habacuc Garcia, 79, of Columbus died Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2009, at Columbus Community Hospital.

Services were Monday, Aug. 17, at McKown Funeral Home in Columbus, with the Rev. Carlos Santos officiating. Burial was at Fort McPherson National Cemetery, with military honors in Maxwell.

Mr. Garcia was born June 12, 1930, in Santa Ana, El Salvador, to Ismael and Angela (Verdin) Garcia.

He served in the U.S. Army from Aug. 2, 1948, until Nov. 21, 1951. He then entered the U.S. Air Force on July 9, 1952, and served until his retirement on Aug. 31, 1973. He then worked for Boeing International until 2001 when he moved to Columbus.

Survivors include his wife, Beatrice; son and wife, Habacuc and Donna Garcia of Columbus; daughters and husband, Liz and Tom D. Jr. Scow of Shelby, Monica Northey of Columbus and Beatrice M. Garcia of Shelby; 13 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; one sister; and four brothers.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; and three sisters.
Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home.

 

 

Ronald Raskey

Ronald Raskey, 57, of Brainard, died Monday at Butler County Health Care Center in David City. Services are at 10 a.m. at the Brainard Methodist Church. Viewing is 6-9 p.m. Wednesday at Holesovsky Mortuary in Brainard.

Christian Schmid

Christian Alexander Schmid was born at rest Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2009, at Columbus Community Hospital.

A private family Mass was held Tuesday, Aug. 18, at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Bellwood, with Father Scott Courtney officiating. Burial was at Presentation Catholic Cemetery, rural Bellwood.

Survivors include Christian's parents, Merrily and Jim Schmid; sisters, Ivy and Violet; and brothers, Ethan and Andy, all of Bellwood; grandparents, Don and Elaine Kyander and Jim and Peg Schmid, all of Bellwood, and Wayne and Algene Sabata of David City; and great-grandparents, John and Marce Sabata of David City.

He was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, Robert and Viola Schmid and Elsie and Albin Zimmerman.

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Isaiah Wall

WAYNE - Isaiah Matthew Wall of Wayne was born at 8:03 p.m. and entered into rest at 9:38 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 21, 2009, at Pender Community Hospital.

Services were Wednesday, Aug. 26, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Wayne. Burial was at Holy Trinity Catholic New Cemetery at Brainard.

Before I was born the Lord called me; from my birth he has made mention of my name. Isaiah 49:1

Isaiah was born Aug. 21, 2009, in Pender to Nathan and Karla (Rezac) Wall and became an angel in his mother's arms at 9:38 p.m. He was baptized by Father Mark

Beran.

Survivors include his parents of Wayne; grandparents, Steven and Jane Rezac of Brainard and Raymond and Faye Wall of Lincoln; great-grandparents, Stanley and

Henrietta Benes of Bee, Emily Rezac of Brainard and Doris Wilson of Lincoln; aunts, uncles and cousins, Jason and Karri Hraban, Austin, Ashtyn and Addisen of Lincoln, George and Janet Finley, Grady, Geoff and Jake of Hickman, Shaun and Jill

Paffrath and Emily of Lincoln, Robert and Amy Rezac and Alex of Ralston, John and Katie Fencl and Gunner and Ryan Rezac and friend Abby Hendricksen, all of Lincoln, and Jeremy and Natalie Wemhoff and Wilson of Pingree Grove, Ill.

He was preceded in death by his aunt, Kimberly Rezac; great-grandparents, James and Mary Wall, Arthur Wilson and John Rezac; great-uncle, Douglas Walstrom; and dear friend, Matthew Doggett.

Memorials: Isaiah Matthew Wall Benefit Fund Wells Fargo Banks.

Arrangements by Hasemann Funeral Home, Wayne.

Evelyn Robertson

LINCOLN -- Evelyn J. Robertson, 84, of Lincoln, formerly of Butler County, died Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2009.

Services were Saturday, Aug. 22, at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in Lincoln. Burial was at Lincoln Memorial Park.

Mrs. Robertson was born Jan. 24, 1925, to Jerry and Antonia (Petrzilka) Liska in Butler County. She graduated from Dwight High School, and after completing Business College she began working as a stenographer for Nebraska Department of Agriculture in Lincoln.

On Jan. 24, 1953, she married Elven Robertson of Lincoln at St. Patrick's Catholic Church. She was a secretary for 45 years for the State of Nebraska under the following Department of Agriculture directors: Allen G. Burke, R.M. Howard, Clay Wright, Ed Hoyt, Pearl Finigan, Elmer Schlaphoff, Glen Kreuscher, Roger Sandman, Mickey Stewart, Bert Garvin, Robert Raun, Chuck Schroeder, Don Hutchins, A.L. Fredrick, George Beattie and Denis Blank and under the administration of the following governors: Dwight Griswold, Val Peterson, Robert Crosby, Victor Anderson, Ralph Brooks, Dwight Burney, Frank Morrison, Norbert Tiemann, J. James Exon, Charles Thone, J. Robert Kerry and Kay Orr.

She received 45 Years of Service to the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and 40 Years of Continuous Service to the State of Nebraska awards. She volunteered at University Place Art Center and was a member of St. John the Apostle Catholic Church. She was proud of her Czech heritage, continued to speak the language, and enjoyed listening to Czech and polka music.

Survivors include nieces and husband, SharonAnn and Sen. LeRoy Louden of Ellsworth and Peggy Green and Mary Liska, both of Lincoln; nephew and wife, Mark and Takako Liska of Lincoln; grandnieces and nephews, Jennifer Sutton of Chicago, David and wife Kelly Sutton of Fort Collins, Colo., and Reina, Meigan and Kianu Liska of Lincoln; great-grandnephew and niece, Everett and Elli Sutton of Fort Collins; and companion, Val Portschy of Lincoln.

She was preceded in death by her husband and parents.

Memorials: St. John the Apostle Catholic Church. Condolences: www.lincolnfh.com

Arrangements by Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, Lincoln.

Sandra Larsen

COLUMBUS -- Sandra Larsen, 70, of Columbus died Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2009, at her home.

Services were Saturday, Aug. 22, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus, with Father Tom Weisbecker officiating. Interment was at Columbus Cemetery.

Mrs. Larsen was born July 19, 1939, in Hastings to Charles and Bonnie (Bystrom) McCleery. She graduated from Provo High School in Edgemont, S.D.

On May 17, 1958, she married Roger Larsen in Columbus. They lived in Columbus and she worked with her husband at Fleischer Drug for many years.

Prior to becoming a member of St. Bonaventure Catholic Church, she was a longtime active member of Grace Episcopal Church. She was a member of the Lions and Eagles Clubs and Tea Bags Extension Club and was a Red Cross volunteer.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Toni and Scott Beggs of Lincoln, Traci and Jack Bender of Columbus, Teena and Patrick Casey of San Antonio and

Tabatha and Chad Knopick of Omaha; sons and daughters-in-law, Luke and Channa Larsen and Sam and Krynn Larsen, all of Columbus; grandchildren, Adam and wife Samantha Bender, Ethan Bender, Joshua, Jacob, Jordan and Jessica Casey, Callyn, Jadyn and Liberty Larsen, Bella and Josie Larsen and Conor and Lucy Knopick; and sister, Jody Daniels of Bellwood.

She was preceded in death by her husband; father; mother, Bonnie Cox; stepfathers, James Gammon and Mel Cox; and granddaughter, Gabrielle Larsen.

Memorials: Columbus Hospice; American Cancer Society. Condolences: www.gasshaney.com

Arrangements by Gass Haney Funeral Home, Columbus.

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Esther Remmers

Esther M. Remmers, 94, died Friday, Aug. 28, 2009, at David Place in David City.

Services were Tuesday, Sept. 1, at Faith Ev. Lutheran Church at Rising City, with the Rev. David Schultz officiating. Burial was at Faith East Cemetery, rural Rising City.

Mrs. Remmers was born Feb. 9, 1915, to Bernard and Martha (Fricke) Daro on the farm near Ulysses. She grew up in the area and attended School District 16. She later went on to earn her GED.

She married George Remmers Dec. 6, 1937, in Fremont. She worked at Henningsen Foods in David City and was a part-time postal worker at the Garrison Post Office. She dedicated most of her time as a homemaker and raising her family. She also was a longtime Garrison correspondent for the Banner-Press in David City.

She was a devoted member of Faith Ev. Lutheran Church in Rising City.

Survivors include children and spouses, George Remmers of David City, David and Alice Remmers of Lincoln, John Remmers and Karen McDonald of David City, Stephen and Judy Remmers of York, Marjorie and Kenneth Klingemann and Marianne and Karl Ziethen, all of Garrison, and Diane and Stan Musil of Columbus; 12 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Frieda Kindler and Mabel Huisenga, both of David City; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 1959; daughter, Holly in 2006; brothers, Walt, George, Edwin, John and Norman Daro; and sisters, Florence Clayton and Catherine Homolka.

Memorials: In care of family.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Ronald Raskey

Ronald A. Raskey, 57, of Brainard died Monday, Aug. 24, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Services were Thursday, Aug. 27, at Brainard United Methodist Church. Burial was at Brainard National Cemetery.

Mr. Raskey was born Aug. 20, 1952, to Dwayne and Jenny (Hausner) Raskey at David City. He graduated from East Butler High School in Brainard in 1970. He then worked with his dad and uncle in the Honda Motorcycle shop in Brainard.

He was a member of the Brainard Fire Department, the WFLA Lodge and the Brainard United Methodist Church. He enjoyed motocross, stock car racing and a wide range of music and was an original member of the Grateful Dead Fan Club back in the early 1960s.

He was in two auto accidents, with the last accident occurring in 1973 and leaving him disabled and in the care of his parents.

Survivors include his parents; sisters and brother-in-law, Diane Foster of Brainard and Susan and John Danaher of Lincoln; brother, Donald Raskey of Lincoln; aunts and uncles, Louis and Rose Marie Helgoth of St. Libory, Edward Raskey of Bee and Hazel Raskey; and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Edward and Bertha Raskey and Frank and Bertha Hausner; and uncle, Eugene Raskey.

Memorials: Brainard Volunteer Fire Department; Brainard Methodist Church; WFLA Lodge.

Arrangements by Holesovsky Mortuary, Brainard.

Richard Kirchner

ALLIANCE -- Richard P. Kirchner, 83, of Alliance, formerly of Bellwood, died Saturday, Aug. 29, 2009, at his home.

Services are at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Alliance, with Father James Heithoff officiating. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery with military honors. Visitation is 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home, with a wake service at 7 p.m. at the church.

Mr. Kirchner was born Sept. 15, 1925, at Bellwood to Joseph J. and Minnie E. (Zwiener) Kirchner.

He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and the Korean War.

He worked as the manager of the fertilizer department of Alliance Consumers Co-op for many years until his retirement.

He was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Survivors include sisters and brother-in-law, Meraldeen Hough of Bellwood and Norma and William Will of Huron, S.D.; brother, John of North Platte; sisters-in-law, Yvonne Kirchner of Alliance and Wilma Kirchner of Scottsbluff; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Carroll and Harold.

Memorials: Prairie Haven Hospice, 2409 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance, NE 69301; Jane's Closet, c/o Box Butte General Hospital, 2091 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance, NE 69301. Condolences: www.batesgould.com

Arrangements by Bates-Gould Funeral Home, Alliance.

Robert Hanus

OMAHA - Robert John Hanus, 91, of Omaha, formerly of Butler County, died Saturday, Aug. 22, 2009, at Papillion Nursing Home.

Services were Tuesday, Aug. 25, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Omaha. Entombment was at Calvary Mausoleum with military honors.

Mr. Hanus was born March 16, 1918, at Brainard to Louis and Emma (Chalupnik) Hanus. He attended Holy Trinity Catholic Grade School and graduated from Brainard High School.

He served in the U.S. Army Air Force in Italy during World War II.

On April 21, 1951, he married Leona Winkler in Atkinson. They lived in Omaha where he worked with Herman Engraving Co. He was well known as a trumpet player in several polka bands in the Omaha area.

Survivors include children and spouses: Mark and Teresa Hanus of Omaha, Karen and Pat Porter of Bailey, Colo., Duane Hanus of Omaha and Diane Borst of Papillion; grandchildren, Bryan and wife, Shayna, Amy and Eric; seven stepgrandchildren; two great-grandchildren; a stepgreat-grandson; brother and wife, Lad and Betty Hanus of Omaha; and sister and husband, Rose (Hanus) and Ted Divis of Wahoo.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; brothers, Vladimir and Alois; and sister, Eleanor Burrows.

Memorials: Holy Cross Catholic Church.

Walter Umshler Jr.

OSCEOLA - Walter Raymond Umshler Jr., 79, of Osceola, formerly of Shelby, died Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2009, at Osceola Good Samaritan Society.

Services were Saturday, Aug. 22, at Shelby United Methodist Church, with Pastor Glenn Hubbard officiating. Burial will be at a later date at Shelby Cemetery.

Mr. Umshler was born Nov. 14, 1929, in Grand Island to Walter Raymond Sr. and Vera (Hardy) Umshler. He attended school in Grand Island and York. He then stayed with his sister in York and worked at various places, including Burlington Northern Railroad and Geis Motors.

He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War from Feb. 1, 1952, to Jan. 31, 1955.

He married Joyce Joan Shipferling June 15, 1957, at her parents' home in York. They lived in Lincoln, where he worked as a car detailer and for a fruit company. He then returned to York, where he was a janitor at York High School until retiring in the early 1990s. They then moved to Gresham and in 1993 to Shelby. On Dec. 30, 2007, he moved to Osceola Good Samaritan Society.

He was a member of Shelby United Methodist Church and Shelby American Legion Post 296. He enjoyed Nebraska football and music.

Survivors include his wife of Shelby; sons and wives, Walter Umshler and fiancŽe, Dawn Svehla of Friend, Terry and Deanne Umshler of York and Carl and Shanda Umshler of Lincoln; daughters and husbands, Teresa Umshler and companion Michael Smetter of Shelby, Deb and Bryan Williams of York and Kris and Wes Covert of Defuniak, Fla.; 15 grandchildren; sister, Joanne Collingham of York; and brother, Bill Umshler of Phoenix.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Tracy; brothers, Warren and Art Umshler; and sisters, Shirley Lamont and Elaine Mason.

Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Osceola.

 

Robert Wagner

SCHUYLER -- Robert "Bob" J. Wagner, 71, of Schuyler died Monday, Aug. 31, 2009, at his home at Whispering Pines in Schuyler.

Services were Friday, Sept. 4, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in Schuyler.

Mr. Wagner was born May 15, 1938, to Clyde and Mary (Lewis) Wagner at Dunning. He graduated from Cortland High School on his birthday. He was salutatorian of his class.

On Feb. 5, 1970, he married Frieda Hoesche in North Platte. He had lived in Schuyler since 1975, living at Whispering Pines for the last 11 years. He had worked construction, drove a cement truck for Woods Brothers in Schuyler and a dump truck for the county hauling gravel and also hauling snow in the winter. He also drove a mail route for Zelda trucking and worked for Doernemann Construction of Clarkson.

Survivors include his wife of Clarkson; sons and daughter-in-law, Quentin Wagner and friend Yong Park of Norfolk and Mike and Toon Wagner of Atlanta; daughters and sons-in-law, Mary and Dustin White of Columbus, Vicki and Tim Burley of Atlanta and Lori and George Kritikos of Brooklyn, N.Y.; grandchildren, Ryan Burley and Lia and Stephen Kritikos; three great-grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Denise Wagner of Kearney; and sister and brother-in-law, Martha Rae and Desmond Miller of Summersville, Mo.

He was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter Brandi Burley; and nephew Randy Wagner.

Memorials: Whispering Pines, Schuyler. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

 

Tom Anderson

LOS ALTOS, Calif. - Tom Anderson, 92, of Los Altos, Calif., formerly of Bellwood, died Thursday, Aug. 13, 2009, at El Camino Hospital in Mountain View, Calif.

Services were Friday, Aug. 28, at Los Altos United Methodist Church.

Mr. Anderson was born July 17, 1917, on a farm near Bellwood to Thomas Lloyd and Elna Pauline (Evers) Anderson. He graduated from Bellwood High School in 1934, where he played on the basketball team that won the Class B State Championship in 1934. A scholarship enabled him to attend the University of Nebraska, where he graduated in 1939 with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering.

He married Evelyn Park in 1940 in Marysville, Kan. They celeberated 62 years of marriage in 2002.

He served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps as a student at MIT Radar School and later as an instructor, 4T Los Alamos. He was involved in the design and operation of telemetric equipment for the Manhattan Project. He received an honorable discharge as captain in 1946.

After World War II, he earned a master's degree in an engineering executive program at UCLA in 1957 and completed an advanced management course for senior executives at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1964.

He began his career with Iowa-Nebraska Light & Power Co. as a technical service representative. While with Glenn L. Martin Co., he was a group engineer responsible for the matador prototype missile and later became chief instrumentation engineer for all Martin products, data reduction and analyses with a background in field-testing and direct involvement with the missile instrumentation.

In 1954, he joined Lockheed Missile & Space Co. in Van Nuys, Calif. He managed several programs, including the XQ-5 drone missile development. Later, he served as chief engineer and assistant general manager of the covert Corona Program in the Space Systems Division.

In 1967, he moved to New Jersey, where he managed the Military Systems Division of Lockheed Electronics. Due to their dislike of the New Jersey climate, he and his wife returned to California, where he accepted the directorship of the Oceans Systems Division of the Lockheed Missile & Space Co. in Sunnyvale. He retired in 1983 as deputy for the Austin Division general manager. During this time, he developed a system that automated information for the engineers to expedite proposals and reports.

In his retirement, he mastered computer programming, which evolved into volunteer income-tax preparation, became involved in local city politics and contributed other community work. He was active in the Los Altos Homeowners League, which evolved into the Los Altos Neighborhood Network. He enjoyed ballroom dancing, duplicate bridge and reading.

Survivors include his companion, Lorie Hartman; brothers, Richard of Omaha and John of Seattle; sister, Harriet Louise of Paso Robles, Calif.; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife and sister, Mary Jean of Grand Island.

Memorials: El Camino Hospital Foundation, 2500 Grant Road, Mountain View, CA 94040-4378.

July 2009 Obituaries

Jonathan R. Moravec
 

Jonathan"Jon" R. Moravec, 26, of David City, died Thursday, July 9, 2009 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney as a result of an ATV accident on July 4 at Harlan County Resevoir.
 


Services were at 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 13, 2009 at Immaculate Conception Church in Ulysses, Nebraska. There will be a private family burial at a later date.

The family will greet friends from 5:30 pm - 7 p.m. Sunday, July 12 at the church, followed by a 7 pm Rosary.

Jonathan was born on April 4, 1983 in David City to Russ and Diane (Kush) Moravec. He graduated from Aquinas High School in 2001 and from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in 2005 with a B.A. in Finance.

Jonathan was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, a 3rd Degree Knight of Columbus, Delta Upsilon Fraternity at UNL, and the Nebraska Auctioneers Association. He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, working auctions with the family business, camping, polka music and dancing, people, working on computers, photography, running, cooking, baking and his work. He touched many lives and made many friends.

Jonathan is survived by his parents, Russ and Diane (Kush) Moravec, of David City, significant other, Jeralee Shotkoski of Central City; brothers, Matt Moravec of David City and Trev Moravec of Lincoln; grandparents, Richard & MaryAnn Moravec of David City and Al & Marjorie Kush of Genoa, NE; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins, and close friend and spiritual guide, Fr. Raymond Jansen.

He was preceded in death by his great grandparents.In lieu of flowers, the familiy has requested memorials to the Aquinas Endowment Fund.

 
 

Marcia Wolfe

MARIETTA, Ga. -- Marcia Jean Wolfe, 82, of Bremen, Ga., formerly of David City, died Friday, July 3, 2009, after an extended illness.

A memorial service is Saturday, July 11, at 1 p.m. at Cottage Landing, 105 Cottage Lane, Carrollton, GA. Her ashes will rest in the family plot in Wolfsville, Md.

Mrs. Wolfe was born Sept. 9, 1926, to Charles E. and Hazel O. Davis in David City. She was particularly fond of animals.

Survivors include her husband of 64 years, Marvin W. Wolfe; daughter, Karen L. Wolfe, LPC, of Bremen; son, Mark W. Wolfe of Simpsonville, S.C.; grandchildren, Brett Wolfe, of Simpsonville and Ashley Wolfe of Chicago; great-granddaughter, Abberly Wolfe, of Simpsonville; and brother, Robert L. Davis of Pleasant Hill, Mo.

Memorials: West Georgia Animal Rescue (attn: Rena), P.O. Box 596, Bowdon, GA 30108. Condolences: www.valleyoflife.com/marciajeanwolfe/

Arrangements by Cremation Society of the SOUTH, Marietta, Ga. 770-420-5557.

Kenneth Hofpar

BRAINARD -- Kenneth L. Hofpar, 53, of Dwight, died Saturday, July 4, 2009, at Memorial Hospital in Seward.

Services were Tuesday, July 7, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard, with Father Matthew Eickhoff officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mr. Hofpar was born Feb. 14, 1956, in David City to John and Rosalyn (Hula) Hofpar. He attended East Butler High School in Brainard, graduating in 1974. He went on to receive his associate's degree from Milford.

He married LuAnn Kozisek of Brainard. He was a rural mail carrier and farmer.

He was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard. He recently joined the Knights of Columbus Council 8889 in Brainard.

A big part of his life was dedicated to American Legion Baseball. He coached Dwight and Brainard teams for many years. He was also a past member of the East Butler School Board for many years. He enjoyed going to family gatherings, spending time with his wife, children and grandson, watching sports, especially baseball, and doing carpentry work. He was also a trumpet player in the Policky Orchestra for many years.

Survivors include his wife; his son, Michael of Omaha; daughters and son-in-law,

Laura and Craig Meysenburg and Linda Hofpar, all of Lincoln; grandson, Colin Meysenburg; his mother of David City; and sisters and brothers-in-law, Diane and Doug White and Janet and Larry Timoney, all of Ulysses.

He was preceded in death by his father; three infant brothers; and an infant niece.

Memorials: In care of family.

Arrangements by Holesovsky Mortuary, Brainard.

Margaret Heavican

SCHUYLER -- Margaret Ann "Mag" Heavican, 84, of Schuyler died Saturday, July 4, 2009, at Golden Living Center in Schuyler.

Services are at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 10, at St. Augustine's Catholic Church in Schuyler, with Father Gerald Leise officiating. Lunch will be at the parish hall. Visitation is 5-8 p.m. Thursday at Kracl Funeral Chapel in Schuyler and a rosary service at 7:30 p.m. with the Knights of Columbus and parish. Burial will be at a later date.

Mrs. Heavican was born July 10, 1924, in Schuyler to Joseph J. and Greta (Dolan) Sinkula. She graduated from Schuyler High School in 1942.

On Sept. 14, 1944, she married Michael James "Pete" Heavican at St. Augustine's Catholic Church in Schuyler. He died in 1960. Following his death, she ran the Schuyler Newsstand, worked as a cook at Schuyler High School and was a U.S. Postal worker for 22 years.

She was a member of St. Augustine's Catholic Church, Mother Cabrini Study Club, Little Flower Altar Society, Schuyler Chamber of Commerce and American Legion Auxiliary, former member of Grandview Extension Club and Colfax County ARC and served 12 years as a member and secretary of Schuyler Central High School Board of

Education. She was an avid bridge player, loved reading and sports, kept score for the Schuyler Girls Track Team in its early years and belonged to the Coca-Cola Collectors of America.

Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Katherine "Kak" and Allen Ernst of Schuyler; grandsons, Martin James Ernst of Schuyler and Patrick Allen Ernst of Lake City, Iowa; brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Kathleen Sinkula of Cincinnati; and sisters-in law, Bernice Heavican of Schuyler and Monica Peiper of Dodge.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Marie Sinkula.

Memorials: Family choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

Julius Pelan

SCHUYLER -- Julius "Joe" E. Pelan, 65, of Schuyler, formerly of Butler County, died Friday, July 3, 2009, at his home following a courageous battle with cancer.

Services were Monday, July 6, at Divine Mercy Parish (St. Mary's Catholic Church) in Schuyler, with Father Gerald Leise officiating. Burial was at Schuyler Cemetery.

Mr. Pelan was born Aug. 1, 1943, in David City to Ben and Agnes (Stava) Pelan. He attended school in David City and graduated from David City High School.

On Sept. 16, 1967, he married Eleanor Codr at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Cedar Hill. They lived in Schuyler, and he farmed and worked in electrical maintenance for Cargill for over 41 years.

He served in the National Guard from 1964-70.

He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, UFCW Local 22 and Schuyler Eagle's Club.

Survivors include his wife; sons and daughters-in-law, Doug and Lisa Pelan of Lincoln and Jeff and Vicki Pelan of Elkhorn; grandchildren, Dylan, Jessica and Tanner; sister and brother-in-law, Evelyn and Don Goodman of Omaha; and brother, Emanuel Pelan of David City.

He was preceded in death by his parents and infant brother, Junior Pelan.

Memorials: Family choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, Schuyler.

Barbara Rohwer

FREMONT -- Barbara A. Rohwer, 55, of Fremont, formerly of Butler County, died Wednesday, July 1, 2009, at her home.

Services were Saturday, July 4, at Good Shepard Lutheran Church in Fremont. Burial was at Union Cemetery.

Mrs. Rohwer was born Aug. 10, 1953, in York to Eilert and Margaret (Glock) Fricke. She received her eighth grade diploma from Immanuel Lutheran Parochial School. She graduated from David City High School in 1971 and received a bachelor's degree from Midland Lutheran College in Fremont in 1975, with both elementary and special education teaching endorsements.

On Dec. 20, 1975, she married Keith Rohwer at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Rising City.

She began her teaching career in 1975 as a fourth grade teacher at Grant Elementary School in Fremont. She left that position in December 1979. She worked as an elementary substitute teacher in Nebraska City for 13 years. She served as a tour guide for Arbor Day Farm and Arbor Day Foundation.

She also served as a Sunday school teacher, Catechism teacher and vacation Bible school teacher, sang in the church choir, played the piano for the church choir and served on numerous church committees. She served as a Teammate to a student in Nebraska City for several years and has been an active member of both Phi Delta Kappa Teacher's Sorority and PEO.

Survivors include her husband; son, daughter-in-law and granddaughters, Andrew, Karen, Sydney and Chloe of Kearney; daughter and son-in-law, Elizabeth and Peter Stout of Kearney; her parents of Ulysses; sister, Patricia Wilcox of Springfield; brother and sister-in-law, Jan and Lori Fricke of Ulysses; and sister and brother-in-law, Marla Fricke and Robert Ottaviano of Kansas City.

She was preceded in death by her mother-in-law, Martha Rohwer in 1993; father-in-law, Arnold Rohwer in 1999; brother-in-law, Ken Rohwer in 2003; sister-in-law, Lila Rohwer in 2003; and nephew, Aaron Wilcox in 2008.

Memorials: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Condolences: www.duganchapel.com

Arrangements by Dugan Funeral Chapel, Fremont.


 

Frank Mastera

Frank J. Mastera, 87, of David City died Thursday, July 2, 2009, at David Place in David City.

Services were Monday, July 6, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Burial was at Assumption Cemetery, Appleton, with Kregger Legion Post 125 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5814 providing military rites.

Mr. Mastera was born Oct. 21, 1921, on the farm near Ceresco to Frank A. and Frances (Slama) Mastera. He attended the local schools as well as helped his father farm.

He was drafted into the U.S. Army during World War II. After his discharge, he returned to Nebraska and moved to Butler County.

He married Mildred Sabata Sept. 7, 1954, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. They lived in the Butler County area all of their married lives.

He was a member of Assumption Catholic Church, Appleton, and was on the church and cemetery board. He was also on the District 42 School Board. He was a 3rd degree Knight of Columbus and a member of Tihen Council 1717 of David City.

He enjoyed raising a large garden and sharing the fruits of his labor with friends, neighbors and family. He also enjoyed canning, cooking and playing cards. He loved to be engaged in good conversation with friends and had a wonderful sense of humor.

Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Jane and Tom Samek of David City; grandchildren and spouse, Michelle and Nate Spath, Scott Samek and Rebecca Samek; great-grandchildren, Kaylee Spath and Kendall Samek; brothers and wife, Alfons and Bea Mastera and George Mastera, all of David City; and sisters, Helen Nelson of Tulsa, Okla., Mary Richardson of Lincoln and Frances Styskal of Wahoo.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife on May 9, 2009; brothers, Ed and Louis Mastera; and sister, Agnes Priess.

Memorials: Masses or in care of family.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Alice Staggs

Alice Marie Staggs, 83, of David City, died Wednesday, July 1, 2009, at St.

Elizabeth's Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.

Services were Monday, July 6, at Chermok Funeral Home in David City, with the Rev. Mark Schutt officiating. Burial was at Edholm Valley Cemetery, rural Octavia.

Mrs. Staggs was born April 1, 1926, at Bellwood to Charles and Hattie (Vandermuelen) Hill. She grew up in the area.

She married Eulis Staggs March 22, 1944, at Hastings. She was a homemaker.

She enjoyed bird watching, movies on TV, talking on the telephone to friends and family, having picnics, taking car rides, baking, gardening in her younger years, playing dominoes and working jig saw puzzles and crossword puzzles.

Survivors include sons, Richard and David, both of David City; daughters and sons-in-law, Evalena and Vern Fox of Valley Falls, Kan., Cindy Wolfe and Dan Harris of Columbus and Linda and Duane Cech of Schuyler; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and sister, Mabel Fisher of Yakima, Wash.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 2006; daughters, Marilyn Staggs and Alice Marie Roberts; two brothers; two sisters; daughter-in-law, Janet Staggs; and two grandchildren.

Memorials: In care of family.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home


 

Esther Rech

Esther L. Rech, widow of Louis, died Friday in Fremont, Calif. Graveside services at St. Mary's Cemetery, David City, are pending with Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Dorothy Kucera

BRAINARD -- Dorothy M. Kucera, 80, of Columbus, formerly of Brainard, died Tuesday at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln. Services are pending with Holesovsky Mortuary in Brainard.

Gladys Truksa

Gladys M. Truska, 84, of David City, died Saturday, July 11, 2009, at her home.

Services are at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 15, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Burial is at the parish cemetery.

Mrs. Truksa was born Aug. 18, 1924, to Louis and Frances (Kriz) Coufal on the farm near Goehner. Her family soon moved to the Staplehurst area where they farmed until moving to Oregon. She moved back to Nebraska in 1947.

She married Joseph A. Truksa June 10, 1947, at Bee. She was a farm wife, homemaker and mother, as well as working for many years at Becton Dickinson in Columbus before retiring.

She enjoyed baking, cooking, going to the Senior Center and volunteering, playing cards, polka music, gardening, fishing, spending time with friends and family and family gatherings and was a huge Husker fan. She and her husband raised dogs and they enjoyed watching them race. She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and PCCW.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Joseph Truksa, Ronald and Diane Truksa, Daniel and Jeri Truksa and James and Vicki Truksa, all of David City; seven grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 1993; a sister; and a brother.

Memorials: In care of family.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Robert DeFord

ALLIANCE -- Robert E. DeFord, 81, of Alliance, formerly of David City, died Sunday, July 12, 2009, at Box Butte General Hospital.

Services are at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 15, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Alliance, with Father James Heithoff officiating. Burial is at Calvary Cemetery with military honors.

Mr. DeFord was born March 28, 1928, in David City to Jessie and Dulcie (Durkee) DeFord.

He served in the U.S. Navy from June 18, 1946, to April 19, 1948.

On July 5, 1949, he married Elaine Rerucha in David City.

In 1949, he began his career with C.B. & Q. Railroad and later Burlington Northern, living in York, Aurora, Staplehurst, Garland and Sutton before moving to Alliance in 1968. From 1982-83, he lived in Fort Worth, Texas, before returning to Alliance. He started as a telegraph operator and freight agent and worked his way up through the operations systems, eventually to the position of personnel manager. During his biggest year as a personnel manager, he hired 3,000 people for the railroad. He has been retired for the past 25 years.

He was a member of the American Legion, Sutton Volunteer Fire Department and Holy Rosary Catholic Church. In his youth, he had been a member of First Christian Church. He enjoyed his family and looked forward to Husker Football and HBO Boxing.

Survivors include his wife; daughters and husbands, Becky and Tom Brandt of Norfolk and Deb and Rod Salomon and Lori and Mark Hare of Alliance; grandchildren, Lesley Brandt and husband, J.J. Crouse; two great-grandsons, Taggart and Easton of Omaha; Adam Salomon of Denver, Anna Salomon of Lincoln and Jessica Hare, Amanda Hare and Anthony Hare of Alliance.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Maybelle Rerucha.

Memorials: Holy Rosary Catholic Church. Condolences: www.batesgould.com

Arrangements by Bates-Gould Funeral Home of Alliance.

John Scheffler

COLUMBUS - John Arthur Scheffler, 70, of Creston died Saturday, July 11, 2009, at Columbus Community Hospital.

Services are at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 16, at the Creston Gymnasium, with burial at Creston Fairview Cemetery. Visitation is 4-8 p.m. Wednesday at Gass-Haney Funeral Home in Columbus and also 9-10 a.m. Thursday at the Creston Gymnasium.

Mr. Scheffler, son of Arthur and Amelia (Walters) Scheffler, was born Nov. 14, 1938, at the farm home of his parents near Creston. He was a member of the Creston Baptist Church. He attended elementary school in Creston and graduated from Creston High School in 1956. He then joined the U.S. Navy and later received a medical discharge.

In 1957, upon the death of his father, he took over the family farm where he continued to farm until his death. He married Nancy Dasenbrock Aug. 21, 1960, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Leigh.

He loved to laugh and play practical jokes. He was a man who believed that those who lived in a community had a vested interest in its success. He was a man who didn't talk about what should be done, but did it! Leading by example, he was a founding member of the Creston Rescue Unit from 1971 - present. He had the distinction of being the last remaining charter member to still actively serve on the unit.

He was clerk of the Creston Township as well as a trustee of the Creston Baptist Church for many years, member of Creston Fairview Cemetery Board and volunteered throughout the community moving snow, mowing and offering a helping hand to anyone. In 1993, he was awarded the Helping Hand Award from the Creston Community Club, and in 1994, awarded the Knights of Aksarben's Good Neighbor Citation.

He was best known as the man behind Creston's annual July 4th fireworks celebration that started in the Schefflers' backyard as a get-together. It blossomed into one that was shared with the entire town and area. His efforts as a licensed pyro-technician annually brought "oohs" from generations of people with his annual fireworks display that was done with the help of family and friends.

He was an avid gardener, sharing the fruits of his labor with family and friends, a walker and mechanic, played the accordion and enjoyed spending winters in Yuma, Ariz., with his wife and friends, where he played the accordion in the Sunday Night Jam Sessions.

Survivors include his wife; children and families, Jim Scheffler and Rita Sempek of Columbus, Lynn Olmer (Michaela and Holly Olmer of Omaha, Jamie and Allison Olmer) of Creston, Joani and Randy Bruhn (Jennifer and Gene Higgins and family of Redding, Calif., Andy Bruhn and family of Omaha, Angela, Adrian, Austin and Anthony Bruhn) of Creston, and Rob and Jolene Scheffler (Kaleb and Jonah Scheffler) of David City; and sister, Helen Schwanebeck and family of Creston.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Logan Scheffler of David City; brother-in-law, Floyd Schwanebeck of Creston; and sister and brother-in-law, Merle and Wilma Heddinger of Long Beach, Calif.

Memorials: Creston Rescue Unit or family's choice.

Arrangements by Gass-Haney Funeral Home.

 

Ronald Sladek Sr.

WAHOO -- Ronald G. Sladek Sr., 69, of Mead died Friday, July 10, 2009, at Fremont Area Medical Center.

Services are at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 15, at Svoboda Funeral Home in Wahoo. A private burial is at Morningside Cemetery at Mead.

Mr. Sladek was born at Atkinson on Feb. 6, 1940, to Ladd and Mabel (Raymer) Sladek. He grew up in the Atkinson and Chambers areas and attended school there. He moved to Mead in the early 1960s.

He owned and operated his own trucking business for many years. During the last 20 years he had worked for Aggregate Carriers in Mead.

He enjoyed being outdoors, camping and fishing with his grandkids.

Survivors include his spouse of 21 years, Karen Greaser; daughter and son-in-law, Laurie and Randy Valish of David City; sons and daughters-in-law, Ronald Jr. and Angie Sladek of Colon and Mike and Tonia Sladek of Broomfield, Colo.; 14 grandchildren; twin brother and wife, Donald and Lynn Sladek of Independence, Mo.; sister and husband, Betty and Don Waak of Schuyler; and sister-in-law, Phyllis Sladek of Bellwood.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Chuck Sladek, and special friend Buff.

Memorials: To family.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

Leonard Bokelman

Leonard A. Bokelman, 75, of Chadron, formerly of Butler County, died Saturday, July 4, 2009, in Chadron.

Services were Friday, July 10, at Immanuel Lutheran Church at Rising City, with the Rev. David Palomaki officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mr. Bokelman was born April 7, 1934, at Garrison to William H. and Marie (Poppe) Bokelman. He graduated from Concordia High School in Seward in 1952. He worked on the family farm in Ulysses.

He was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in Babenhausen, Germany, until 1958. On June 12, 1960, he married Kathryn Janssen in Platte Center. He was a furniture salesman for Montgomery Ward in Columbus and Lincoln for 45 years.

Survivors include a son, Dana, and grandson, Jacob Bokelman of Crawford; daughter, Kala Bokelman (Christine Miele) and grandchildren, Susanna and Isaac Len Miele-Bokelman of Washington, D.C.; sisters and husbands, Elinor Wolff of Lincoln and Esther and Stan DePue' and Lola and Howard Leggett, all of California; brothers and wives, William and Roseanne Bokelman of Texas, Norman Bokelman of Lincoln, Max and Edith Bokelman of California and Herman and Diane Bokelman of Indiana; and sister-in-law, Christine Boxerman of Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Lonnie; infant daughter, Ronda; brother, Kenneth Bokelman; brother-in-law, the Rev. Fred Wolff; and sister-in-law, Dianna Bokelman.

Memorials: Family choice.

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Janet O'Brien

OSCEOLA - Janet G. O'Brien, 70, of Shelby died Monday, July 6, 2009, at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln.

Services were Friday, July 10, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shelby, with Father John Rooney officiating. Burial was at Shelby Catholic Cemetery.

Mrs. O'Brien was born April 10, 1939, in Benkelman to Basil and Bernice (Humphreys) Crook. The family resided in Benkelman and moved to McCook in 1951, where she graduated from high school in 1957.

She married John O'Brien May 31, 1958, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in McCook. They resided in Cambridge for six years before moving to Lincoln, where they lived two years. In 1965, they moved to Shelby. She was employed at Osceola Good Samaritan starting as a CNA. She then worked in physical therapy and finally as social services director, retiring in 2001 after 25 years.

She enjoyed camping, quilting, sewing and family. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, St. Anne's Guild, Legion Auxiliary and the board of directors of Shelby Public Library.

Survivors include her husband; daughters and sons-in-law, Deb and Craig Saum of Gothenburg and Teresa and Mike Davis of Yutan; sons and daughters-in-law, Michael and Sue O'Brien of Norfolk and Pat and Julie O'Brien of Lincoln; nine grandchildren; a great-granddaughter; brothers and wives, Keith and Bernice A. Crook of Minneapolis and Larry and Jan Crook of West Palm Beach, Fla.; and sister and husband, Betty and Deane Thomson of Kent, Wash.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Osceola.

Jean Howard

OSCEOLA - Jean M. Howard, 46, of Winston-Salem, N.C., formerly of Shelby, died Thursday, July 2, 2009, in Winston-Salem.

A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 23, at St. Vincent Parish Hall in Osceola. Services were Monday, July 6, at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, with Father Brian Cook officiating. Burial was at Forsyth Memorial Park.

Mrs. Howard was born Dec. 29, 1962, in Osceola to Francis and Alliene DeBaets Krumbach. She attended Shelby Public School and graduated in 1981. She attended St. Joseph Beauty College and Platte Community College in Columbus and became a LPN.

She married Craig Burkett and moved to Winston-Salem in 1995. To this union, two children were born, Kaitlyn and Benjamin. She performed in-home health care and worked as a LPN in various nursing homes. She was very active in the Pop Warner youth football program and followed her children's activities.

Survivors include her son and friend, Zachary Krumbach and Caroline Cook; daughter, Kaitlyn Burkett; and son, Benjamin Burkett, all of Winston-Salem; brothers and wives, Joe and Barb Krumbach of Osceola, Roger and Ruth Krumbach of York and Tom and Mikie Krumbach of Columbus; and sisters and husbands, Kathleen and Dale Donelson and Mary Jo and Mike Uphoff, all of Stromsburg.

She was preceded in death by her parents.


 


Elizabeth Roh

Elizabeth A. Roh, 79, of Abie, died Tuesday at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Services are 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Abie, with Fr. Ronald Homes and Msgr. Robert Roh concelebrating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Viewing is Friday from 1-4 p.m. at Chermok Funeral Home in David City and after 6 p.m. at the church followed by a 7 p.m. rosary. Additional viewing will be Saturday, one hour before services at the church.

Memorials: Aquinas Endowment Fund; Sts. Peter and Paul Building Fund; St. Joseph's Villa.

Marie Rejda

VALPARAISO -- Marie Ann Rejda, 88, of Lincoln died Sunday, July 26, 2009.

Services are at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 30, at Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso. Visitation is noon-5 p.m. Wednesday at Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home, 424 Pine Street, in Valparaiso, with a rosary at 7 p.m. at the church. Celebrant will be Father Lothar Gilde and co-celebrant Father Keith Rezac.

Mrs. Rejda was a secretary for School District 118 (rural Saunders County) for 35 years. She also worked for Russell Stovers, Miller & Paine, State Fair Grounds and Devaney Sports Center, Norden Labs and Isco.

She was a member of Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church and Altar Society.

Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Gwen and Gene Kliment of Lincoln; sons and daughters-in-law, Larry and Rose Rejda of Miami, Harvey and Kristy Rejda of Lincoln and Randy and Kathy Rejda of Wentzville, Mo.; grandchildren, Michelle and Dale Juranek, Melissa and Lou Walling, Loren and Deanna, Lee, Lonnie, Marty, Kristopher, Cody and Jeremy Rejda and Nichole, Melanie, Lisa, Adolph and Diana; great-grandchildren, Sarah, Julia, Devin, Maisen, Kaylin and Emma; brothers, Gene Rezac of Lincoln and Adrian Rezac of Wahoo; and sister, Evelyn Coufal of Brainard.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John; parents, Joseph and Sophia Rezac; brothers, Elmer, Bill, Joe, Cel, Ray, Earnest, Johnny and Stanley Rezac; and sister, Adeline Bouc.

Memorials: Family's choice.

Arrangements by Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home.

Gordon Jens

Gordon Keith Jens, 71, of Shelby died Tuesday, July 21, 2009, at Butler County Health Center in David City, following a brief illness.

Services were Friday, July 24, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in rural Rising City, with the Rev. David Palomaki officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mr. Jens was born Nov. 19, 1937, to William Hans and Alma Margaret (Gocken) Jens at David City. He spent his childhood in the York and Rising City areas, attended Immanuel Elementary School and graduated from Rising City High School in 1955, earning letters in football, basketball track and baseball. He attended Norfolk Junior College on academic and athletic scholarships for one year. He received the All-Nebraska Junior College Conference football award during that season.

He entered active duty Nov. 8, 1956, in the U.S. Army at Omaha. He served as a lineman while stationed in Korea for 16 months along with playing football when time permitted. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Specialist Fourth

Class Nov. 7, 1958, at Fort Riley, Kan.

He then had hopes of becoming a coach and enrolled at Kearney State College and later at Doane College, Crete, earning several letters and awards.

He married Erma Jean Rosenberry April 10, 1963, in Lincoln. He worked at Gamble-Robinson Co. He later retired as warehouse supervisor in 1988 after working there 27 years. The couple then moved to Rising City and he was employed as a custodian at the Surprise Elementary School for 10 years. He enjoyed working around the children and there was always plenty of fixing at the school.

After moving to Shelby in 2005, he worked part time as a handyman on Gary Otto's farm in addition to fixing things for neighbors and friends.

He enjoyed fishing and his family has many fond memories of camping at Branched Oak Lake, Hickman and annual outings to Gavins Point Dam, Yankton, S.D.

Survivors include his wife; daughter and son-in-law, Brenda and Jerry Stotts of Council Bluffs, Iowa; son, Mike Jens of Lincoln; and grandchildren, Chelsey and Justin Stotts.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Kenneth.

Memorials: In care of family for future designation.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.


WAHOO -- Patricia "Patsy" F. Kastl, 63, of Wahoo died Thursday, July 23, 2009, at Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha.

Services were Monday, July 27, at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, Plasi, with Father Jamie Hottovy officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Pallbearers were Jim Chmelka, Lloyd Welniak, Robert Belik, John Kastl, Curt

Zavodny and Ernest Bongers. Honorary pallbearers were Jarod, Tad, Adam, Aaron, Zach, Ted, Paul and Jaymes Kastl, Kari Specht, Tom Kastl, Miranda Fontenot, Tyler and Alexis Kastl, Kristy and Traci Mitchem, Billie Witzel, Matt, Lucas and Wyat Kastl and her other first cousins.

Ms. Kastl was born July 30, 1945, in Wahoo to Theodore F. and Frances E. (Belik) Kastl. She grew up on the family farm near Bruno. She attended a country school by the home place and then attended Holy Trinity School in Brainard. In the late 70s, she lived in Ashland with Region V and later moved to Wahoo with Region V.

She enjoyed traveling, working at Region V's workshop and made numerous friends while there. She had an infectious smile, loved babies and her favorite food was chicken. Her given name was Patricia, but she insisted on being called Patsy. She will be greatly missed by family, caregivers and roommates. If life was measured by love, she lived a very long life.

Survivors include her mother, Frances Kastl, of David City; siblings and spouses,

David K. and Kathleen Kastl of Wahoo, Theodore L. and Kathy Kastl of Lincoln, Ben L. and Jackie Kastl of Weston, Valerie and Bill Witzel of Dwight and Timothy R. Kastl of Bruno; 13 nephews; six nieces; and nine great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father; brother, Bernard Kastl; nephew, Christopher Kastl; and infant sisters, Mary and Bernice.

Memorials: Masses or Pro-Life.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

Michael Meyer

NORTH PLATTE -- Michael L. Meyer, 55, of North Platte died Sunday, July 19, 2009, in Omaha from complications due to a work-related accident.

Services were Friday, July 24, at First Evangelical Lutheran Church in York, with the Rev. Terry Cosier officiating. His body was cremated, with inurnment at a later date.

Mr. Meyer was born May 29, 1954, at York, to Paul and Lorraine (Brunssen) Meyer. He was a 1972 graduate of York High School and received his associate's degree from Milford Community College.

He previously worked for Excel Fabrication, a division of Cargill Industries, and was presently working for Knobel Refrigeration in North Platte. While working for Excel, he was the vice president of its union. He also did construction and drywall work on the side.

He married Karen M. Lulow Nov. 1, 1975, at York.

He was an artist, writer and photographer and worked with leather. He earned numerous awards for his leatherwork projects and was a member of the Columbine

Leather Guild and North Platte Art Guild. He enjoyed spending time in the outdoors and doing volunteer work with children, senior citizens and Salvation Army. His nieces and nephews were special to him and he loved sharing in their lives.

Survivors include his wife; his parents of York; siblings and spouses, Paula and Bill Brandenburgh of Bellwood, Loren Meyer of York, Daryl and Sherri Meyer of Davenport, Iowa, Karen and Jeff Horton of Americus, Kan., and David Meyer of York; parents-in-law, Don and Helen Lulow of York; brother-in-law, Keith Lulow of Grand Island; sister-in-law and husband, Kim and Jim Hoffman of York; special friends, Zebulun Gunn and family and Pam and Gary Lillich; 10 nieces and nephews; and five great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents and a niece.

Memorials: To family for later designation. Condolences: metz@metzmortuary.com

Arrangements by Metz Mortuary, York.

Patricia Kastl

WAHOO -- Patricia "Patsy" F. Kastl, 63, of Wahoo died Thursday, July 23, 2009, at Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha.

Services were Monday, July 27, at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, Plasi, with Father Jamie Hottovy officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Pallbearers were Jim Chmelka, Lloyd Welniak, Robert Belik, John Kastl, Curt

Zavodny and Ernest Bongers. Honorary pallbearers were Jarod, Tad, Adam, Aaron, Zach, Ted, Paul and Jaymes Kastl, Kari Specht, Tom Kastl, Miranda Fontenot, Tyler and Alexis Kastl, Kristy and Traci Mitchem, Billie Witzel, Matt, Lucas and Wyat Kastl and her other first cousins.

Ms. Kastl was born July 30, 1945, in Wahoo to Theodore F. and Frances E. (Belik) Kastl. She grew up on the family farm near Bruno. She attended a country school by the home place and then attended Holy Trinity School in Brainard. In the late 70s, she lived in Ashland with Region V and later moved to Wahoo with Region V.

She enjoyed traveling, working at Region V's workshop and made numerous friends while there. She had an infectious smile, loved babies and her favorite food was chicken. Her given name was Patricia, but she insisted on being called Patsy. She will be greatly missed by family, caregivers and roommates. If life was measured by love, she lived a very long life.

Survivors include her mother, Frances Kastl, of David City; siblings and spouses,

David K. and Kathleen Kastl of Wahoo, Theodore L. and Kathy Kastl of Lincoln, Ben L. and Jackie Kastl of Weston, Valerie and Bill Witzel of Dwight and Timothy R. Kastl of Bruno; 13 nephews; six nieces; and nine great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father; brother, Bernard Kastl; nephew, Christopher Kastl; and infant sisters, Mary and Bernice.

Memorials: Masses or Pro-Life.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

Michael Meyer

NORTH PLATTE -- Michael L. Meyer, 55, of North Platte died Sunday, July 19, 2009, in Omaha from complications due to a work-related accident.

Services were Friday, July 24, at First Evangelical Lutheran Church in York, with the Rev. Terry Cosier officiating. His body was cremated, with inurnment at a later date.

Mr. Meyer was born May 29, 1954, at York, to Paul and Lorraine (Brunssen) Meyer. He was a 1972 graduate of York High School and received his associate's degree from Milford Community College.

He previously worked for Excel Fabrication, a division of Cargill Industries, and was presently working for Knobel Refrigeration in North Platte. While working for Excel, he was the vice president of its union. He also did construction and drywall work on the side.

He married Karen M. Lulow Nov. 1, 1975, at York.

He was an artist, writer and photographer and worked with leather. He earned numerous awards for his leatherwork projects and was a member of the Columbine

Leather Guild and North Platte Art Guild. He enjoyed spending time in the outdoors and doing volunteer work with children, senior citizens and Salvation Army. His nieces and nephews were special to him and he loved sharing in their lives.

Survivors include his wife; his parents of York; siblings and spouses, Paula and Bill Brandenburgh of Bellwood, Loren Meyer of York, Daryl and Sherri Meyer of Davenport, Iowa, Karen and Jeff Horton of Americus, Kan., and David Meyer of York; parents-in-law, Don and Helen Lulow of York; brother-in-law, Keith Lulow of Grand Island; sister-in-law and husband, Kim and Jim Hoffman of York; special friends, Zebulun Gunn and family and Pam and Gary Lillich; 10 nieces and nephews; and five great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents and a niece.

Memorials: To family for later designation. Condolences: metz@metzmortuary.com

Arrangements by Metz Mortuary, York.

 

 



 

 

Orletha Dvorak

Orletha "Oley" Luella Dvorak, 80, of David City, formerly of Brainard, died Thursday, July 16, 2009, at David Place in David City.

Services were Monday, July 20, at Chermok Funeral Home in David City. Burial was at Bohemian National Cemetery, Brainard.

Mrs. Dvorak was born Aug. 2, 1928, to Adolph and Elsie (Fricke) Hlavac near Bruno, the seventh of 10 children. She attended country school through the eighth grade. She then worked as a farmhand for several years for area farmers, most notably Steve and Helen Macholan of Linwood. She also worked in Rapid City, S.D., and later in Lincoln, where she operated Spencer's CafŽ and was a hostess at The Steakhouse. It was there that she met her future husband, Oscar Dvorak of Brainard.

They were married Nov. 15, 1951, and lived their entire married life in Brainard. She was a homemaker, but did manage and operate Countryside Cafe, located in the truck stop they owned until 1996, when she had her first aneurysm.

They adopted a daughter, Debra Ann, and had a son, Steven Oscar, one year later. She was active in her children's lives. She enjoyed making treats for school and dressing up for Halloween to deliver those treats. She was a persuasive salesman for the Brainard Festival Raffle tickets.

Survivors include her daughter and husband, Debra and Larry Dauel of Malmo; son,

Steven of Lebanon, Mo.; grandchildren and spouses, Darrick and Rachel Urbanek of Rochester, Minn., Andrea and Eric Svoboda of Brainard and Bryce Urbanek and fiancee Corey of Kearney; great-granddaughter, Madeline Urbanek; stepgrandsons and wife, Torrey Dauel of Papillion and Aaron and Brenda Dauel of Omaha; a stepgreat-granddaughter, Addison Dauel; and brother, Alvern Hlavac of David City.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 2002; her parents; brothers, Norman, Harold, Duane, Merle "Butch" and Valerian "Tom"; and sisters, Ilene Northup, Delphine Rejda and Mae Petrzilka.

Memorials: In care of family.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.

Dorothy Kucera

BRAINARD -- Dorothy M. Kucera, 80, of Columbus, formerly of Brainard, died Tuesday, July 14, 2009, at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln.

Services were Saturday, July 18, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard, with Father Kenneth Hoesing officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mrs. Kucera was born Nov. 6, 1928, on the farm near Brainard to John and Emma (Hruska) Nekuda. She lived in the Staplehurst, David City and Brainard areas most of her life.

She married Raymond H. Kucera Jan. 21, 1946, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. She was a farm wife, homemaker and mother, as well as working at the ammunitions plant and the egg plant in David City.

She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard, Brainard Legion Auxiliary and PCCW. She enjoyed baking, cooking, spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, polka music, saying her daily rosary and in earlier years, going to dances.

Survivors include a son and wife, Gary and Mary Kay Kucera of Brainard; daughter and husband, Sharon and Don Niemann of Columbus; 10 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; daughter-in-law, Darlene T. Kucera of

Brainard; sister and husband, Rita and George Humlicek of Ponca; and aunt, Lillian Krepcik of Seward.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 2002; son, Edward in 2004; brothers, Leonard, Richard, Ernest and Raphael Nekuda; sisters, Alice Kouma and Lillian Rejda; two infant sisters; and an infant brother.

Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Holesovsky Mortuary, Brainard.

 

Kenneth White

COLUMBUS -- Kenneth J. White, 77, of Albuquerque, N.M., died Saturday, July 18, 2009, at his daughter's home in Shelby.

Services were Tuesday, July 21, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Columbus. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery in Albuquerque on Saturday, July 25.

Mr. White was born Sept. 24, 1931, in Ogden, Utah, to Earl and Minnie (Vanzyle) White. He received his education in Ogden and attended Weber State University in Ogden.

He entered the U.S. Air Force in 1950 and was honorably discharged in 1977. During his 26 years with the military, he spent time in Korea during the Korean War, Turkey, Wisconsin, California, Oklahoma, the Philippines and New Mexico.

He was married to Jeannette E. Vlaanderen for 57 years.

He was an avid bowler, golfer and woodworker.

Survivors include a son, Kenneth G. White; daughters and husbands, Lynne and Robert Rowe of Alamogordo, N.M., and Karen and Duane Jones of Shelby; 10 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife in May 2008.

 

Nicholas Cerny

OSCEOLA - Nicholas Julius Cerny, 73, of Osceola, died Saturday, July 18, 2009, at Osceola Good Samaritan Society.

Services were at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 22, at United Methodist Church in Osceola, with Pastor Robert Perry officiating. Burial will be at Osceola Cemetery at a later date.

Mr. Cerny was born May 9, 1936, at Shelby to Julius and Alberta (Glaubitz) Cerny. He attended Osceola schools.

He married Margie Mae Scott Nov. 24, 1958, in Osceola. They lived in several places, including Genoa, Silver Creek, Clarks and Polk, before moving to Osceola in 1989. He worked in construction and as a ranch and farmhand in the Clarks, Genoa and Silver Creek areas. He was also a Grandall operator for Polk County Highway Department for 31 years, until retiring in 2006.

He enjoyed gardening, woodworking, fishing, raising livestock and spending time with grandchildren and family.

Survivors include sons and wife, Dave and Diane Cerny of Shelby, Mike Cerny of Clarks and Ted Cerny of Osceola; daughters and husbands, Cindy and Marv Simonson of Osceola, Rita and Tim Pethoud of Cozad and Robin and Kenny Carlson of Osceola; grandchildren, Amy and Ashley Cerny of Shelby, Nicholas and Matthew McCormick, Kendra and Kristi Cerny and Kaden Carlson, all of Osceola, Brian Pethoud of Jonesboro, Ark., and Kayla Pethoud of Cozad; sisters, Rosella Gabriel of LeGrande, Iowa, Alberta Novacek of Littleton, Colo., and Mary Ann Way of Columbus; and brother, David Cerny of Osceola.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; brothers, Alvin and Julius Jr. Cerny; and sisters, Irene Schmid, Dorothy Czarnick and Vera Beck.

Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Osceola.

Gerald Petersen


Gerald "Pete" Petersen, 82, of David City died Thursday, July 30, 2009, at BryanLGH Medical Center West in Lincoln.

Services were Tuesday, Aug. 4, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.
Mr. Petersen was born Jan. 4, 1927, in Minneapolis to Gustav and Amelia (Petersen) Menz. His mother died shortly after his birth, and he was adopted by his maternal grandparents, Peter and Louise Petersen. His childhood years were spent in the Chetek, Wis., and Minneapolis areas.

He entered the U.S. Navy in 1944 and served on the USS Bennington CA, USS Ticonderoga CA and USS Lexington CA16. He was discharged in 1947.

He moved to Nebraska in 1950, where he married Adeline Hotovy Aug. 22, 1951, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. He owned and operated David City Transfer for many years. He then worked as a custodian for Dale Electronics in Columbus and at David City High School. After his retirement from the high school, he was the owner of Pete's Lawn Service.

He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, American Legion Post 125 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5814 of David City and a past member of the Junior Chamber of Commerce. He coached Little League Baseball and was a Boy Scout Leader. He was also a 3rd Degree Knight of Columbus with Tihen Council 1717 in David City.

He had a great love of the outdoors and especially enjoyed camping and fishing.
He was involved in his grandchildren's activities and especially loved spending time with them.

Survivors include sons and daughter-in-law, Bob Petersen and Pam Craig of Fremont and Bill and Shirley Petersen of Gordon; daughters and sons-in-law, Sue and Steve Topil of Rising City and Mary Lou and Tom Vossler of Exeter; grandchildren and spouses, Shelby and Daniel Burch, Amy and Corby Dayhoff, Anita Petersen and Jess Berg, Leigh Petersen and Joe Visaya, Grant Petersen, Clayton Petersen, Nicholas and Amanda Topil, Adam Topil, Julia Vossler and Rebecca Vossler; and sister-in-law, Margaret Ann Hotovy of David City.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife in 2006; sisters, Olivia, Dorothy, Lydia, Ethel, Hartha, Loletta and Pauline; brother, Arne; brothers-in-law, George and Ernest Hotovy; and sister-in-law, Bea Hotovy.
Memorials: In care of family.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Elizabeth Roh


Elizabeth "Betty" A. Roh, 79, of Abie, died Tuesday, July 28, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Services were Saturday, Aug. 1, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Abie, with Father Ronald Homes and Monsignor Robert Roh concelebrating. Burial was at the church cemetery.

Mrs. Roh was born Jan. 11, 1930, on the farm near Cedar Bluffs to Thomas and Tillie (Ladenburger) Shanahan. She graduated high school from Notre Dame Academy in Omaha and then attended St. Mary's College to obtain her teaching certificate. She taught elementary education several years until she married Jerome M. Roh Aug. 9, 1952, at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church of Plasi. She was a homemaker as well as a production worker for Henningsen Foods in David City, until her health forced her to retire.

She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church of Abie and was very active in the Altar Society. She was on the Abie School Board and a 4-H mom. She was very involved in church and civic duties most of her lifetime.

She loved to bake, especially kolaches; enjoyed working hard and was always a team player; attended the kids' sports events and worked the church bazaar every year.

Survivors include sons and spouse, Dan Roh and Carla Allenstein of Lenexa, Kan., John Roh of Columbus and Pat and Beth Roh of Abie; daughter, Jackie Roh of Greensboro, N.C.; grandchildren, Thomas, Kaitlin, Jenna and Matthew Roh, all of Columbus, and Mitchell, Nathan, Rebekah, Joshua, Travis and Elizabeth Roh, all of Abie; brothers and wives, Francis and Mary Shanahan of Lincoln, Robert and Eileen Shanahan of Wahoo and Marvin and Lori Shanahan of Valparaiso; and sisters and husbands, Lorene and Ed Stuchlik of Weston and Pat and Ken Tvrdy of Valparaiso. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 2004; and brothers, Tom and Leo Shanahan.

Memorials: Aquinas Endowment Fund; Sts. Peter and Paul Building Fund; St. Joseph's Villa. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.
 

Helen Siefert


COLUMBUS - Helen Leona Siefert, 82, of Columbus, formerly of Butler County, died Wednesday, July 29, 2009, at David Place in David City.
Services were Saturday, Aug. 1, at McKown Funeral Home in Columbus, with the Rev. Fred Andersen officiating. Burial was at Bellwood Cemetery.

Ms. Siefert was born May 23, 1927, at Minatare to George and Kate (Adams) Siefert. She was raised by Margaret Hoshor in the David City area. She received her education at the Helen Keller Institute in New York City. Following Hoshor's death, she lived with Dorothy Dunn for a year before coming to live with Judith and John Tate.

She enjoyed crocheting.
Survivors include many brothers and sisters; and friends, Judith and John Tate and Michela and John Jr. Tate, all of Columbus, Rita and Tom Soulliere of Platte Center, Dwaine and Bea Dunn and Gene and Joann Dunn, all of Bellwood, and Jon and Deb Dunn of Monroe.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and guardians, Margaret Hoshor and Dorothy Dunn.

Memorials: The Blind Foundation. Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home.

Lee Anderson


STROMSBURG - Lee Kenneth Anderson, 67, of Stromsburg, died Wednesday, July 29, 2009, at Annie Jeffrey Memorial County Health Center in Osceola.

Services were Saturday, Aug. 1, at Evangelical Covenant Church in Stromsburg, with Pastor Dick Olson officiating. Burial was at Circle Mound Cemetery near Rising City.

Mr. Anderson was born Nov. 15, 1941, to Kenneth Harold and Amy Gustav (Rudeen) Anderson in Stromsburg. He graduated from Stromsburg High School in 1959. He then began doing carpentry work with local contractor Con Olson.
He married Joliene Ann Lott June 11, 1961, at Wayland Church near Gresham.

He then worked for Kepner-Roberts Furniture Store and Funeral Home, where he learned to install floor covering, deliver furniture and help with funerals. In 1968, he started Lee Anderson Floor Covering. In the 1970s he began working for Champion Homes in Central City for 15 years. In the 1980s, he began installing floor covering again full time. He was diagnosed with lung cancer March 10, 2009.

He had been a friend of Bill Wilson since Oct. 7, 1988, and was active in Triangle Campers. He was a past Osceola firefighter, former Boy Scout leader, enjoyed fishing, camping, Husker football, watching and reading westerns and woodworking.

Survivors include his wife; children and spouses, Michael and Dawn Anderson of Shelby, Debra and Ron Bang of North Platte, Andrea and Steve Venneman of Clarkson and Steve Anderson of Ord; nine grandchildren; five stepgrandchildren; two great-grandchildren; a stepgreat-grandchild; and sister and husband, Carol Ann and Kent Lind of Eagle.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and infant daughter, Nicole LeAnn Anderson.
Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Stromsburg.
 

May 2010 Obituaries

Duane Henrichson

WAHOO -- Duane L. Henrichson, 76, of Ceresco died Sunday, May 16, 2010, at the Saunders County Care Center in Wahoo.

Funeral Mass is at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 20, at St. Mary's Catholic Church at Davey, with interment at Rock Creek Cemetery at Ceresco, with military honors by American Legion Post 244. Visitation is 2-4 p.m. Wednesday at Svoboda Funeral Home in Wahoo and after 6 p.m. at the church with scripture service and Knights of Columbus rosary at 7 p.m. One hour of visitation will precede service Thursday.

Duane was born in Wahoo on Dec. 22, 1933, to James and Ileta (Beaman) Henrichson. He grew up near Weston and attended Weston Public School through 11th grade. At that time, they moved to rural Ceresco and Duane graduated from Ceresco High School in 1951.

He entered the U.S. Navy on Feb. 4, 1952, and served until being honorably discharged on Feb. 3, 1956.

One week later, he met Mary Kozisek, and they were married Feb. 14, 1957, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Bruno. They lived on their farm northwest of Ceresco while Duane worked as a farmhand initially. He was soon farming on his own raising grain and livestock. He was actively farming until just last year when his health began to fail. Duane also kept busy with the restoration of many cars, trucks and tractors.

Duane was a parishioner at St. Mary's Catholic Church and a member of Knights of Columbus Council 8625. He served on the Ceresco Farmers Union Coop Board and the Ceresco Rural Fire District Board since 1974, was a member of Raymond Central FFA Alumni, where he was the treasurer the last 30 years, was a life member of the State and National FFA Alumni Association, member of Saunders County Soybean Association, Nebraska Sorghum Producers and American Legion Post 244. Duane was a longtime board member of the Rock Creek-Mt. Zion Cemetery Association.

He is survived by his wife, Mary, of Ceresco; children and spouses, Dean and Nancy Henrichson of Weston, Susan and David Miller of Lincoln, Greg "Henry" Henrichson of Ceresco, Julie Henrichson of Lincoln, Kevin Henrichson of Ceresco and Amy and Joel Moline of Omaha; granddaughter, Alexis Hobbs of Omaha; stepgrandchildren, Beth, Bobby, Derek and Stephanie; stepgreat-grandchildren; brothers, Willis (Rose) Henrichson of Ceresco, Merlin (Mary) Henrichson of Lincoln and Jimmy Henrichson of Omaha; many nieces and nephews; brothers-in-law, Joe (Marie) Kozisek of David City and Fred (Norma) Kozisek of Lees Summit, Mo.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Ileta (Beaman) Henrichson.

Memorials to St. Mary's Catholic Church or donor's choice.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home.

Jerry Kay

GRAND ISLAND -- Jerry E. Kay, 71, of Bruno, formerly of Grand Island, died Thursday, May 13, 2010, at David Place in David City.

Funeral services were Tuesday, May 18, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Grand Island. The Rev. Bill Pavuk officiated. Burial was at Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Grand Island.

Mr. Kay was born on Jan. 18, 1939, in Grand Island to Earl and Caroline (Schwieger) Kay. Mr. Kay received his education in Grand Island and graduated from Grand Island Senior High in 1957.

He then served in the U.S. Army Reserves.

He married Joan (Goettsche) Hathaway on Jan. 30, 1966, in Grand Island. Mr. Kay was employed for 17 years as a salesman for Hoppe Lumber in Grand Island. The couple then owned and operated the Villa Inn Restaurant and Lounge in Albion for 13 years. They moved to Columbus in 1986 and owned and operated Johnny's Steak House until 1996. The couple then moved to Bruno where they owned and operated the Bruno Restaurant and Lounge.

Mr. Kay enjoyed owning and racing racecars, and was a big NASCAR fan. His favorite driver was Jeff Gordon. He also enjoyed fishing, caring for his beautiful yard and spending time with his grandchildren.

He was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Grand Island.

Survivors of the immediate family include his wife, Joan, of Bruno; two daughters and one son-in-law, Vivian Hathaway Marr of Omaha, and Barbara (Bobbi) and Terry Lichtenberg of Norfolk; two sons and daughters-in-law, David and Joni Hathaway of Norfolk and John and Colleen Hathaway of Webb City, Mo.; two sisters and one brother-in-law, Marilyn Beyersdorf of St. Paul and Jean and Gary Caudill of Lincoln; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Kay was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Ray Beyersdorf; and a nephew, Michael Beyersdorf.

Memorials: To the family's choice. Condolences: www.livson.com

Arrangements by Livingston-Sondermann Funeral Home, Grand Island.

Lester Prochaska

Lester Prochaska, 83, of Prague, died Friday, May 14, 2010, at the Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Funeral services were Tuesday, May 18, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in David City, with Lay Minister Jerry L. Kracl officiating. Burial was at Prague National Cemetery, with military graveside services.

Lester was born at Prague on March 23, 1927, to Fred and Lillian (Rozanek) Prochaska.

Lester served in the United States Army from 1945-46 in Germany.

On March 16, 1954, he married Lorene Frohner at the courthouse in Wahoo. He farmed in the Prague area his entire life. He loved the land he lived on and was a true farmer. Lester also enjoyed tinkering with his cars and tractors and was very fond of his dogs.

Surviving Lester is his wife, Lorene of Abie; one son, Larry Prochaska of Columbus; one brother, Edwin Prochaska of Abie, stepsister, Lydia Prochaska of Wahoo; granddaughter, Morgan Prochaska of Columbus; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Elmer Prochaska; and stepsister, Eileen Prochaska.

Memorials: Family Choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

Sylvia Swoboda

Sylvia A. Swoboda, 93, of David City, died Thursday, May 13, 2010, at the Butler County Health Care Center in David City. A funeral Mass was Monday, May 17, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Burial was Monday in St. Francis Cemetery in Wahoo.

Sylvia was born on Feb. 15, 1917, at Weston, to Frank and Josephine (Bartek) Bouc. She graduated from Weston High School in 1934, attended Luther College in Wahoo, and then taught in District 32 for three years.

On Jan. 3, 1939, Sylvia was united in marriage to W.G. "Bill" Swoboda. They farmed in the Ceresco area until 1965 when they moved to the Bruno area. In 1991 they retired and moved to David City.

Sylvia was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, Parish Council of Catholic Women and the David City Senior Center. She enjoyed playing cards, baking and listening to accordion music.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, in 1998, son, Duane, in 1999, her parents, brothers, Julius, Edward and Stanley; sisters, Ludmilla Chapek and Theresa Noha; and sister-in-law, Ann Bouc.

Sylvia is survived by a son Ronald, of Clarkson, daughter-in-law, Sharon Swoboda, of La Vista, grandchildren, Daniel (Trish) Swoboda of Papillion, Jeff (Lucianna) of Costa Mesa, Calif., and Katie Swoboda of Denver; great-granddaughters, Ashton and Alexandra Swoboda of Papillion; sisters-in-law: Celestine and Georgianne Bouc; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Memorials: In care of the family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

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Rudy Rejda

 

BRAINARD -- Rudy R. Rejda, 75, of Endicott, N.Y., peacefully passed away May 12, 2010, at Lourdes Hospital, Binghamton, N.Y., with his children at his side.
 

Visitation is from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, May 28, at Holesovsky Mortuary in Brainard. His funeral Mass will be Saturday, May 29, at 3 p.m., preceded by a rosary at 2:45 p.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Brainard. Interment will follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery at Brainard.

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 41 years, Martha (Trojan), and his parents, Rudolph and Henrietta (Raus). With gentle patience and understanding, he guided his children to reach their hopes and dreams.

Dr. Joan Rejda-Heath and H. Russell Heath III, St. Louis, Mo., Ronald and Mary Rejda, Frisco, Texas, and Kathleen and Karl Lavo, Endicott, cherish many fond memories of their remarkable father. He was dedicated to his grandchildren, Kristin Lavo and fiance, Alex Dilello, Bloomfield, N.J., Lauren Lavo, Endicott, N.Y., H. Russell Heath IV, St. Louis, Mo., and Nicholas and Madeline Rejda, Frisco, Texas.


Rudy is survived by his brother and spouse, Roger and Yuko Reyda, Brainard; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Donald and Margaret Dolezal, Brainard; sister-in-law, Lucille Trojan, Dwight; several nieces and nephews and their families; and many close neighbors and friends.

A 1952 graduate of East Butler High School in Brainard, he lived in Lincoln, until 1963 when he transferred with IBM to Endicott. He worked for IBM until his retirement.  


He was an active member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish participating in the Soup Kitchen and acting as the parish representative for the Diocese of Syracuse Disability Committee, a member of the IBM Quarter Century Club, a coach in West Corners Little League and actively involved in supporting the activities of his children and grandchildren. Rudy was an avid flower and vegetable gardener, enjoyed fishing and woodworking and was fascinated with electronics.


Expressions of sympathy in his memory may be made to the Holy Trinity Building Fund, 623 North Madison St., Brainard, NE 68626 or Our Lady of Good Counsel Soup Kitchen, 701 West Main St., Endicott, NY 13760.

 

Messages of Condolence may be e-mailed to www.chermokfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements by Holesovsky Mortuary, Brainard.

 

 

 

October 2009 Obituaries

Leo Aerts

Leo Martin Aerts, 88, of David City died Sunday, Oct. 4, 2009, at david place in David City.

Services are at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Visitation is 3-7 p.m. Friday, with the family present 5-7 p.m., and a rosary service at 7 p.m. at Kracl Funeral Chapel in David City. Burial will be at the parish cemetery, with military honors by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5814 and American Legion Post 125 of David City. Lunch will be at the Knights of Columbus Hall.

Mr. Aerts was born Oct. 31, 1920, on the family farm, rural David City, to Frank and Mary (Theewen) Aerts. He attended Speedway School in rural Butler County.

On Nov. 23, 1943, he married Julia Hilger at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. They farmed for a short time and he was inducted into the U.S. Army, serving for a year and a half, one year in Japan.

Following the service, he was parts manager for International Harvester in David City until 1979. He then worked at Farmers Coop until retiring. After retirement, he was caretaker of the Butler County Fairgrounds for 13 years.

He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus for over 60 years and David City American Legion. He enjoyed teaching his grandchildren how to play cards, but never let them win.

Survivors include his wife; sons and wife, David Aerts of Kansas City and Richard and Linden Aerts of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; daughters and husbands, Carol and Jim Heineman of Falls City and Kathy and John Davis of Tarkio, Mo.; nine grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sisters and husband, Cecelia Svoboda of Columbus, Helen Riha of David City and Darlene and Leonard Darnell of Brownsdale, Minn.; and brother and wife, Frank and Mary Ann Aerts of Columbus.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant brother, James; brothers, William and Theodore; and sisters, Dorothy Samek, Elizabeth Kosch and his twin sister, Henrietta Hladky.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, family suggests memorials to donor's favorite charity or donor's choice.

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.
 

Dennis Jacobs


SCHUYLER -- Dennis B. Jacobs, 73, died Oct. 9 in Houston following a battle with cancer. Services are pending with Kracl Funeral Chapel, Schuyler.

Richard Alberts


Richard Ernest Alberts, 74, of David City died Thursday, Oct. 8, 2009, at David Place in David City, where he had been a resident for four months.
Inurnment will be at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16, at Fort McPherson National Cemetery at Maxwell, with Pastor Frank G. Schneider of Grand Island officiating.

Mr. Alberts was born July 31, 1935, in Hastings to Ernest E. and Jeannette (Rants) Alberts. He graduated from Hastings High School in 1953. He moved to California and was employed at Douglas Aircraft.
He was inducted into the U.S. Army in May 1958 at Fort Ord, Calif.
He married Ida Willyne Young in August 1958. They later divorced.

He served at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Md., and Fort G. Meade, Md., seeing active duty for two years. After being honorably discharged from the USAR, he resumed employment at Douglas Aircraft for 18 years.

He returned to Nebraska in 1971 and was employed as a painter with his father for 10 years. In 1997, he retired as a facilities maintenance supervisor at Hastings Regional Center in Hastings. He moved to David City in August 2005.

Survivors include children, Michael Alberts, Stephanie Castor of Bandera, Texas, Debra Witheral of Conifer, Colo., Valerie Alberts of Vancouver, British Columbia, and Melody Alberts of San Antonio; brother, Mark C. Alberts of Gautier, Miss.; nieces; nephews; and special friend Irene Gobler of Schuyler.

He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant brother; brother, Curtis E. Alberts; sisters, Selma Steiner, Doris Thaut, Maxine Stimbert and Mary Hohlen; and his former wife.
Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, Schuyler.

Paul Sloup


SCHUYLER -- Paul J. Sloup, 58, of Prague died Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2009, at his home.
Services were Monday, Oct. 12, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Prague, with Father Jamie Hottovy officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mr. Sloup was born Dec. 13, 1951, at Prague to James W. and Marie S. (Koranda) Sloup. He graduated from Wahoo Neumann High School in 1970. 

He was a truck driver throughout the country for many years, but settled in Prague and recently worked for Collins Construction of Wahoo.

Survivors include sisters and husbands, Theresa and Jerry Retzlaff of Plainview, Marilyn and Bob Coe of North Bend and Ann Sloup of Wahoo; nieces; and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant brother, Joseph; and brother, Gerald Sloup.
Memorials: Family choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, Schuyler.
 

Ricky Lord


Ricky L. Lord, 52, of David City died Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City as a result of a fire at his home.

Services are at 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15, at Chermok Funeral Home in David City.
Visitation is 7-9 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. A memorial service will be held at the Church of Christ in Sidney, Iowa, at 2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16, with inurnment following at the Sidney Cemetery.

Mr. Lord was born July 31, 1957, in Hamburg, Iowa, to Duane E. and Conda Kay
(Boone) Lord. He has resided in David City for 30 years. He was a supervisor at Henningsen Foods in David City.

Survivors include his significant other, Deb Sypal of David City; mother, Connie Lord of Sidney, Iowa; sons and wives, Sky and Jayme Lord of Riverton, Iowa, and
Ryan and Kristi Lord of Omaha; stepchildren, Nicole, Shaun and Jacque Sypal; brother and wife, Jason and Hattie Lord of Sidney, Iowa; sisters and husband, Deb and Steve Travis of Sidney, Iowa; and Karen Lord of New Jersey; grandchildren, Landon, Nolan and Raegan Lord and Tyson, Issac, Jaela, Mackenzie, Taedon, Madison and Aliaha.
Memorials: In care of family.
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.

Jerry Huggins


SEWARD -- Jerry L. Huggins, 68, of Lincoln, formerly of Ulysses, died Friday, Oct. 9, 2009.

Services were Tuesday, Oct. 13, at Zabka Funeral Home in Seward. Burial was at Ulysses Township Cemetery.
Mr. Huggins was born July 26, 1941.

Survivors include daughters, Christy Franks of Ashland, Shalla Spangler of Lincoln and Shanna Huggins of Seward; eight grandchildren; brothers, Milton Huggins of Kansas City, Mo., and Wayne Huggins of Lincoln; sisters, Erma Wilson of Ulysses and Kay Nave of Seward; half sister, Alberta Weddle of Oklahoma; nieces; and nephews.
Memorials: To the family in care of Zabka Funeral Home.               

Joyce Whitmore


SEWARD -- Joyce Annette Whitmore, 49, of Texarkana, Ark., formerly of Seward, died Thursday, Oct. 8, 2009, at her home.

Ms. Whitmore was the fifth child of Herbert Arthur and Wilma "Ruth" (Sherwood) Grosor, born on Jan. 27, 1960, in York. She attended Edison Elementary School and graduated from York High School in 1978. She attended as a member Emmanuel Lutheran Church in York.

On March 12, 1983, she married Lonnie Whitmore at Emmanuel. They resided in Seward, where they served as foster parents for several years and became members of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church. She also provided daycare in her home and was active in the Optimists Club.

Following her divorce, she and her daughter moved to Texarkana with friends. She enjoyed cooking, cleaning and watching her children grow.

Survivors include a son, Dustin, of Philadelphia; daughter, Whitney of Texarkana, who will be married on Oct. 17 to Steven Eddy Jr.; brother and sister-in-law, Jerry and Susan Grosor of Bradshaw; sisters and brothers-in-law Janet "Tootsie" and Jim Coon of Seward, Karen and Roger Vonfeldt of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Kathy and Stan Bruns of Beaver Crossing; nieces; nephews; and dear friend Betty Ann Richards with whom she lived in Texarkana.

She was preceded in death by grandparents and parents.

  Clayton Schofield Jr.


GRAND ISLAND -- Clayton B. Schofield Jr., 57, of Rising City died Friday, Oct. 16, 2009, at Grand Island Veterans Administration Medical Center.

A memorial service was Wednesday, Oct. 21, at Rising City Cemetery. The Rev. Paul Welch officiated. Military honors were provided by Columbus American Legion.
Mr. Schofield was born Oct. 6, 1952, at McCook to Clayton Sr. and Violet (Allen) Schofield.

He grew up and received his education at Kansas City, Mo.

He served in the U.S. Air Force.

He married Janice Rae Jones on Feb. 13, 2000.
Survivors include his wife; sons, Jacob Bruno, Michael Schofield and Clayton Schofield III of Baldwin City, Kan.; stepchildren, Chad, Wayne and Russ Edmonds and Nick and Dagan Walters, all of Lawrence, Kan.; many grandchildren; his mother; and sister, Ada Johnston of Missouri.

He was preceded in death by his father; and son, Casey Cleavenger.
Condolences: www.giallfaiths.com
Arrangements by All Faiths Funeral Home, Grand Island.

Lucille Wondra


SEWARD -- Lucille J. Wondra, 68, of Staplehurst died Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2009, in Seward.
Services were Monday, Oct. 19, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses, with

Father Raymond Jansen officiating. Burial was at Seward Cemetery.
Mrs. Wondra was born Feb. 24, 1941, in D Precinct, Seward County, to Ivan William and Anna Bessie (Stanek) Urbanek. She attended Rural School District 43 in Seward County and was a 1958 graduate of Ulysses High School.

On June 17, 1961, she married James D. Wondra. They lived all of their married life in the same house in Staplehurst. She was employed with Sundermann Home in Seward from 1984-91 and with the School District of Seward from 1991-2009.

She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and Altar Society in Ulysses.
Survivors include her husband; sons, Dan Wondra of La Vista and Bob Wondra and fiancee, Christine Wilson, of Papillion; grandchildren, Lauren, Erik and Reid Wondra; siblings and spouses, Ray and Helen Urbanek of Columbus, Rose and Edgar Stilwell of Lincoln, Marcie and Jim Sklenar of David City, Mildred and Joe Solis of Crossville, Tenn., Irene Humrick of Scottsdale, Ariz., Beatrice and Jim Headrick of North Port, Ala., Bernard and Phyllis Urbanek of Lotus Grove, Ga., and Emil and Kathy Urbanek and Joe and Barb Urbanek, all of Ulysses; brothers-in-law and sister-in-law, Bill and Marilyn Wondra of Columbus and David Wondra of Minden; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother and sisters-in-law, Adolph and Mildred Urbanek and Louise Urbanek; and parents-in-law, George and Audrey Wondra.
Memorials: Donor's choice in care of the Wondra family.              

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.

Gladys Swanson


SCHUYLER - Gladys M. Swanson, 83, of Schuyler died Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2009, at Golden Living Center in Clarkson.

Services were Thursday, Oct. 15, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in Schuyler, with Lay Minister Jerry L. Kracl officiating. Burial was at Schuyler Cemetery.
Mrs. Swanson was born on the family farm May 8, 1926, to Herman and Carrie (Nielsen) Kunneman. She graduated from Schuyler High School in 1944.

On May 30, 1944, she married Virgil Swanson in Stanton. They lived in Schuyler and she assisted her husband in operating the Roberts Dairy route in Schuyler. After his death in 1972, she worked at Ben Franklins and Schuyler Pharmacy and later was elected Colfax County treasurer, a position she held for 16 years. She was also very active in the Colfax County Democratic Party.

She was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church and LCW.
Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, LeeRoy and Virginia Swanson of Blair and Michael and Sharon Swanson of Columbus; daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Bob Prososki of Kearney; 12 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sister, Ruth Bailey; and brother, Willard Kunneman.
Memorials: St. John's Lutheran Church; Schuyler Rescue Squad.
Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

Russell Heins


YORK -- Russell Dean Heins, 85, of York, formerly of the Garrison area, died at his home Thursday, Oct. 15, 2009.

Services were Tuesday, Oct. 20, at First United Methodist Church in York, with the Rev. Art Phillips officiating. Burial was at York's Greenwood Cemetery.

Mr. Heins grew up on a farm near Garrison and graduated from David City High School in 1941.

He farmed and fed cattle at Surprise and Benedict. He served on the Benedict Coop Board and sold seed corn for Funks G Golden Harvest. In 1972, he moved to York where he sold Lutheran Mutual Life Insurance (later CUNA Mutual) until retirement in 1990.

A lifelong pilot and sportsman, he soloed after only five hours of dual flight instruction. Soon he was buzzing farmyards, landing in fields and perfecting acrobatics and stalls in his shiny Luscombe. He flew airplanes until the spring of 2007, flying in 20+ types of planes over his lifetime.

He enjoyed hunting and shooting. He hunted deer, antelope, geese, pheasants, ducks and prairie dogs. He shot trap and skeet, winning the Class C State Trap Shoot in 1992 and 1994. His lesser known hobbies and skills included roller skating (even backwards), English Springer Spaniels and Golden Retrievers, stock car racing in his 1935 Plymouth "58X", gardening, turning cartwheels and stained glasswork. He was a loving husband and father, held offices and participated in church activities.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Donna Rudisil Heins; daughter, Margo and husband, Gary Biba, of Austin, Texas; daughter, Joan Lush, and granddaughter, Rachel Lush, of Flower Mound, Texas; brothers and wives, Laverne and Orva Heins of Surprise and Loran and Wilma Heins of Rising City; sisters and husbands, Betty and Leslie Strickler of Kenai, Alaska, and Avis and John Kroft of Glade Park, Colo.; sister-in-law, Lorene Heins of Rising City; and brother-in-law and wife, Kent and Judith Rudisil of Mountain Home, Ark.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Herman and Edna (Egly) Heins; grandson, Connor Lush; and brother, Don Heins.

Memorials: York Adopt-A-Pet; First United Methodist Church in York. Condolences: www.metzmortuary.com    
Arrangements by Metz Mortuary, York.
 

Marie DeWispelare


Marie J. DeWispelare, 94, of David City, died Monday, Oct. 26, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Services are at 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Viewing is 1-5 p.m. Wednesday at Chermok Funeral Home in David City and after 6 p.m. at the church, followed by a 7 p.m. wake service and PCCW rosary. Refreshments and social time will follow the rosary at St. Mary's School. Catholic Daughters of America will recite a rosary at 4 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Additional viewing will be 9-10 a.m. Thursday at the church. Burial will be at Sts. Peter and Mary Cemetery, rural Bellwood.

Mrs. DeWispelare was born June 9, 1915, on the farm in the Luxemborg area to Henry and Margaret (Puetz) Birkel. She attended grade school and graduated from Marietta High School, rural Bellwood.

She married Emil F. DeWispelare Sept. 8, 1943, at Presentation Catholic Church, rural Bellwood. Three children were born to this union. She was a lifelong Butler County resident. She was a homemaker and managed the farm after her husband's death until she moved to David City.

She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, Catholic Daughters of America and PCCW. She was also a past member of American Legion Auxiliary of David City. She was very devoted to her faith and active in her church. Her life centered around her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved to cook, bake and do canning.

Survivors include children and spouses, Eva and Robert Kadavy of Fremont, Dan and Kathy DeWispelare of Denver and Ed DeWispelare and fiancŽe, Kim Yates of
Omaha; stepson and wife, Jerry and Wilma DeWispelare of Octavia; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and sisters, Rose Housh of Omaha and Ida
Burbach of Wichita, Kan.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 1961; brothers, the Rev. Harold Birkel, Matt Birkel and Clarence Birkel; and sisters, Anne Birkel, Florence Stump and Clair Bongers.

Memorials: In care of family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.
 

Phyllis Walls


LINCOLN -- Phyllis Rae Walls, 85, of Lincoln, formerly of Rising City, died Saturday, Oct. 17, 2009.

Services were Wednesday, Oct. 21, at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home in Lincoln. Entombment was at Lincoln Memorial Park.

Mrs. Walls was born to Edwin and Anna (Brandt) Glock on Feb. 16, 1924, at Rising City. 
She married Waldon D. Walls. She ran an in-home licensed day care for over 50 years.

She was a member of Southminster United Methodist Church. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband; son and daughter-in-law, Dennis and Marilyn Walls; daughter and son-in-law, Jeanne and Rex Sasso; grandchildren and spouses, Scott Walls, Jada and Justin Katt, Tera and Chad Blahak and Kristin and Jon VanMeter;
great-grandchildren, Creighton Blahak and Landon and Preston VanMeter; and brother, Maynard Glock.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Doris Ann Henle; and sister-in-law, Elietta Glock.

Memorials: Southminster UMC, 2915 S. 16th Street, Lincoln, NE 68502. Condolences:
www.lincolnfh.com
Arrangements by Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home.

Lilly Lesiak


SCHUYLER -- Lilly Anna Lesiak, 5 months, of Schuyler died Monday, Oct. 19, 2009, at Children's Hospital in Omaha from complications due to a birth defect in her heart known as Tetralogy of Fallot.

Services were Saturday, Oct. 24, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in Schuyler, with Lay Minister Jerry L. Kracl officiating.

Lilly Anna was born May 28, 2009, in Schuyler to Diana Clendenen and Tony Lesiak.
Survivors include her parents of Schuyler; brother, Logan Lesiak of Schuyler; grandparents, Les and Reyna Clendenen and Art and Tami Lindberg, all of Schuyler, and Jenny Lesiak.  

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Theodore Lesiak; and great-grandmother, Anne Clendenen.

Memorials: To family. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

Marvin Richards


LINCOLN -- Marvin Dale Richards, 84, of Lincoln, formerly of Butler County, died Thursday, Sept. 17, 2009, in the Alzheimer's Wing of Lancaster Manor in Lincoln.

A graveside service in Schuyler was held Oct. 10.

Mr. Richards, son of Kenneth Reynold and Pluma Hazel (Gillespie) Richards, was born in David City Oct. 6, 1924.

Marvin was a highly decorated corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve during World War II and was engaged in the skirmishes in the Southwest Pacific, including the Consolidation of the Solomon Islands (Guadalcanal), Samar (Philippines) and
Okinawa. He was honorably discharged on Nov. 16, 1945.

He majored in veterinary medicine at Peru State College and was a hatcheryman and feed dealer for the majority of his career.

Survivors include a son, Kenneth Ralph Richards of Greenville, S.C.; daughter, Debbie Marlene Burns of Lincoln; grandchildren, Gregory Ryan Burns of Virginia Beach, Va., and wife, Heather (Baily), Thomas Allen Burns of Scottsdale, Ariz., and wife, Brooke (Pinegar), and Michael Todd Burns of Lincoln; great-grandchildren, James, Jacquelyn and Aden; sister, Alice Marie Smith of Nebraska City; nieces; nephews; grandnieces and grandnephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Maurice Allen Richards; sisters, Judith Korleen Hageman and Lennae Grace Richards; his first wife, Ila Darlene (Barta) Richards); and his second love, Ina Jane Davey.

Starlyn Otte


Starlyn R. Otte, 47, of David City, died Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Services were Friday, Oct. 30, at St. Luke's United Methodist Church in David City, with the Rev. Mark Schutt officiating. Burial was at David City Cemetery.

Mrs. Otte was born June 19, 1962, at McCook to Roland and Donna (Weaver) Hilker. She graduated from McCook High School in 1980.

On Nov. 29, 1986, she married Mark Otte at Blair and moved to David City, where she worked as manager of E Street Discount Pharmacy.

Her life revolved around her family, especially her children. She was a member of the United Methodist Church.

Survivors include her husband of David City; daughters, Morgan Rose Otte of Lincoln and Corinn Grace Otte of David City; mother, Donna Sautner of McCook; brother, Wade Hilker of Columbus; sisters and husbands, Barbara and David Faimon of Grand Island, Donita and Darl Brunner of Windsor, Colo., Nanette and Don Schmid of Chadron and Treanna and Rick Richie of Eldora, Iowa; mother-in-law, Diane Otte of Omaha; nieces and nephews.

She was prededed in death by a brother, Tyger Hilker; and father-in-law, Gerald Otte.
Memorials: In care of family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Edward Kozisek


Edward G. Kozisek, 78, of Bruno died Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009, at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.

Services are at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in
Bruno, with Father Ron Homes officiating. Visitation continues Wednesday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the church. Burial is at the parish cemetery, with military honors by Rejda Post 273 of the American Legion in Brainard. Lunch will be at the parish hall.

Mr. Kozisek was born March 20, 1931, at Bruno to Joseph A. and Anna A. (Pekarek) Kozisek. He attended school in Bruno and David City High School.

He served in the U.S. Navy for three years.

He had worked for Sears in Omaha, Denver Rio Grande Railroad as a telegrapher and returned to Bruno where he was a heavy equipment operator for Proskovec Construction. He was also the local Amsoil salesman.

He was a member of St. Anthony's Catholic Church, a Fourth Degree Knight in Bishop Flavin Council 11652 of Abie and Bruno, John F. Kennedy Assembly 0605 of Bruno, Catholic Workman, Fremont-Elkhorn Valley Railroad Association, National Rifle Association, Camp Creek Thrashers Association and Bruno Volunteer Fire Department. He enjoyed trapshooting.

Survivors include brothers and wives, Joseph E. and Marie Kozisek of David City and Fred and Norma Kozisek of Lee's Summit, Mo.; sister and husband, Mary and Duane Henrichson of Ceresco; sister-in-law, Georgia Kozisek of Omaha; 29 nieces and nephews; great- and great-greatnieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Agnes Proskovec and Martha Mares; and brothers, Rudy, Leonard and Vince Kozisek.

Memorials: Butler County Right for Life; Donor's Choice.
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Violet Schofield


RAYMORE, Mo. - Violet I. Schofield, 80, of Raymore, Mo., died Thursday, Oct. 29, 2009.
Services were Monday, Nov. 2, at Cullen Funeral Home in Raymore. Graveside services were Tuesday, Nov. 3, at Circle Mound Cemetery at Rising City.

Mrs. Schofield was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary.
She married Clayton B. Schofield Sr.

Survivors include daughters and husbands, Ada and Ron Johnston of Raymore and Claudell and Jerry Garcia of Manassa, Colo.; nine grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and sister and husband, Joyce and Lewis Sutton.

She was preceded in death by her husband; and son, Clayton B. Schofield Jr.
Arrangements by Cullen Funeral Home.

Charles Augustine


COLUMBUS -- Charles Jacob Augustine was stillborn on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2009, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha.

Private services are at Faith Lutheran Church at Rising City.               

Survivors include his father, Charles "C.J." Augustine of Shelby; mother, Kendra Lawrence of Columbus; grandparents, Chris Lawrence and Steve Lawrence, both of Columbus, and Jim and Marche' Augustine of Shelby; great-grandparents; great-great-grandparents; and uncles.
Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Mckown Funeral Home, Columbus.

Betty Benes


WAHOO -- Betty I. Benes of Wahoo, 91, formerly of Brainard, died Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009, at Saunders Medical Center in Wahoo.
Services are at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 5, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wahoo.

Visitation is 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, with a 5 p.m. Altar Rosary Society Rosary and a 7 p.m. Scriptural Service at Svoboda Funeral Home in Wahoo. Burial is at St. Francis Cemetery, Wahoo.

Mrs. Benes was born Nov. 6, 1919, near Brainard to Adolph and Mary (Tejral) Komenda. She attended a country school near Brainard. When World War II began, she worked at the Ordnance Plant near Mead.

On Oct. 6, 1945, she was united in marriage to George F. Benes at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard by Monsignor Klein. They lived on a farm south of Wahoo the first four years of marriage and then moved to a farm south of Ceresco, where they farmed. She worked raising chickens, gardening, canning and doing many farm chores and was known for baking angel food cakes. They later retired and moved to Wahoo.

She was a parishioner at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, member of Altar Rosary Society and St. Ludmilla Guild, and a former parishioner of St. Mary Catholic Church in Davey.
Survivors include sisters and husband, Dorothy and Howard Novotny of Valparaiso and Agnes Benes of Wahoo; sisters-in-law, Glee Komenda of Brainard, Rose Komenda of Wahoo and
Anna Bouc of Lincoln; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband; sisters, Helen Tejral, Julia Kliment and
Marie Skokan; and brothers, Adolph, Anton and Ted Komenda.
Memorials: St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home.

Theodore Divis


WAHOO -- Theodore J. "Ted" Divis, 88, of Wahoo died Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2009, at his home.

Services were Monday, Oct. 26, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wahoo. Burial was at the parish cemetery, with Military Honors by American Legion Post 82 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4502.

Mr. Divis was born on a farm between Wahoo and Colon on March 20, 1921, to Karel and Anna Mach Divis. He attended School District 53 in grades first through third and fifth through ninth. He also attended St. John School in Prague in grade four; School District 70 in grade nine; Colon grade school in grade 10 and graduated from Wahoo High School in 1938. During his high school days, he sang in chorus and competed in state competition in music in Lincoln and Grand Island. From 1939-40 he worked for the Civilian Conservation Corps in Blair and later at
Ole Anderson Auto Co. in Wahoo.

In 1942, he worked at the Mead Ordnance Plant for six months. In October 1942, he joined the U.S. Army Air Force Ground Crew and received his training in Tucson, Ariz. He served eight months in the United States and 30 months overseas in the Hawaiian Islands, Canton Island, Macon Island, Gilbert Islands, Enewetak Islands and ended up in Iwo Jima after it was captured. After being discharged in November 1945, he took up farming and worked again at the Mead Ordnance Plant where fertilizer was made instead of bombs. In 1948, he began farming when he rented 200 acres of farmland. He also raised cattle.

On Oct. 13, 1952, he married Rose Hanus of David City at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. They moved to Wahoo Dec. 11, 1999, after retiring from farming.

He was a member of American Legion Post 82 and VFW Post 4502 and served on the honor guard for many years. He was a member of Knights of Columbus Wahoo Council 1833, St. Wenceslaus Senior Choir from 1936-2009 and served as an acolyte for the church for many years. He belonged to the Saunders County Czech Singers several years and participated in Christmas on the Prairie at the Saunders County Museum.

Survivors include his wife; daughters and husband, Carol Divis of Wahoo and Connie and Steve Tippery of Omaha; grandson, Adam John "AJ" Tippery of Omaha; sisters and brother-in-law, Anastasia and Joe Sousek of Prague and Sister Ann Divis MS of Waverly; brothers and sisters-in-law, Charles Divis of Wahoo, Ernest and Rita Divis of El Paso, Texas, and Rita M. Divis and Ann Divis, both of Wahoo; nieces; nephews; and great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Frances and Anthony Divis; sisters, Jenny Simodynes, Josephine Divis, Sr. Camilla Divis ND and Julia Connelly; brothers-in-law, Vincent Simodynes and Gene Connelly; and sisters-in-law, Shirley Divis and Dorothy Divis.
Memorials: St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church or masses.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

Dennis Jacobs


Dennis B. Jacobs, 72, of Houston, formerly of Butler County, died Friday, Oct. 9, 2009, in Houston, following a battle with cancer.

Services were Friday, Oct. 16, at St. Luke's Methodist Church in David City, with the Rev. Mark Schutt officiating. Burial was at David City Cemetery.
Mr. Jacobs was born Aug. 23, 1937, at Bellwood to Carl and Sara (McGarvey) Jacobs. He graduated from David City High School in 1954 and received a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from New Mexico State. While there, he worked at White Sands Missile Range.

Prior to attending New Mexico State, he had worked as a draftsman at Behlen's in Columbus.
On Aug. 25, 1962, he married Lois Gibson at St. Luke's Methodist Church in David City. He worked for Humble Oil, which eventually became Exxon-Mobil, as a petroleum engineer. They lived in Houston since 1973.

He had served in the National Guard Reserves.
He loved to fish and was a stock car racer in his younger days.

Survivors include his wife; daughter, Nyla Jacobs of Houston; sister, Beth Bjorling of Scottsbluff; brother and wife, Carlin and Audrey Jacobs of Tacoma, Wash.; a nephew; and four nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Jim Jacobs.
Memorials: Family wishes. Condolences will reach the family at 8227 Renmark Lane, Houston, TX 77070.

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Rexford Peterson


OSCEOLA -Rexford H. Peterson, 98, of Shelby died Sunday, Oct. 25, 2009, at Osceola Good Samaritan Society, where he resided since Jan. 23, 2009.
Services were Wednesday, Oct. 28, at Shelby United Methodist Church, with Pastor Glenn Hubbard officiating. Burial was at Shelby Cemetery.
Mr. Peterson was born Sept. 23, 1911, to Telander and Johanna Frida (Anderson) Peterson in rural Stromsburg. He attended Victor country school. He then began working on the family farm.
On July 14, 1938, he married Genevieve Lucille Taddiken. They lived in various places in Polk County until settling at Shelby, where he farmed. He was employed part time for the county and served a term as a county commissioner in the 1970s.

His wife died on May 26, 1969. On May 28, 1972, he married Ruth (Boden) Eklund. They lived in Shelby.

He was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed baseball and playing cards.
Survivors include his wife of Osceola; sons and wives, Dan and Yvonne Peterson of Peoria, Ariz., and Randy and Kay Peterson of Shelby; daughter and husband, Debbie and Gaylen Schmoker of Shelby; 10 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; sister, Maurine Peterson of Stromsburg; daughter-in-law, Marlene Peterson of Shelby; sister-in-law and husband, Millie and Kermit Branting of Stromsburg; nieces; and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his first wife; infant daughter, Sandra Peterson; son, Jerry Peterson; grandson, Jason Schmoker; great-grandson, Preston Peterson; brothers, Helmer, Milford, Carrol, Severt and Elton; and sisters, Thelma Turner, Harriet Fraley, Lillian Mitchell, Elin Peterson and Verna McKeag.

Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Osceola.

Colbie Hermelbracht

Colbie Sophia Hermelbracht was born Friday, Oct. 30, 2009, to Brian and Sophie (Niemann) Hermelbracht at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln. She died Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009.

Private family services and burial were held.

Survivors include her parents; sister, Olivia Bell of David City; grandparents, Gary and Louise Niemann of David City and Lonny and Lori Hermelbracht of Bancroft; and great-grandmothers,
Sally Svoboda of David City and Genevieve Hermelbracht of Omaha.

Memorials: In care of family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Donald Wombacher


TACOMA, Wash. -- Donald R. Wombacher, formerly of Shelby, died Friday, Oct. 30, 2009, at Allenmore Hospital in Tacoma, Wash.

Services were Friday, Nov. 6, at Gaffney's Funeral Home in Tacoma.

Mr. Wombacher was born in Lawrence and raised in Shelby, where he graduated ninth in his class from Shelby High School.

He joined the U.S. Navy to see the world, however, the Navy also brought him out to the Pacific Northwest where he stayed and started his career and family.

He worked 30 years as a letter-pressman for Print Northwest until retirement.

He spent many years coaching little league baseball. He belonged to Bellarmine Boosters, The Eagles and Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed Mariner's baseball, Ellensburg Rodeo, camping, fishing, hanging out with friends at the VFW and country music, but his priority was his family.

Survivors include five children; 18 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and 11 siblings.
Condolences: www.gaffneycares.com

Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home.

 

September 2009 Obituaries

Neva Sorensen

Neva Irene Sorensen, 87, of David City, formerly of Rising City, died Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, at United Methodist Church in Rising City, with the Rev. Glenn Hubbard officiating. Lunch will follow in the church basement. There will be no visitation; a private family interment will be held prior to the service at the Rising City Circle Mound Cemetery.

Mrs. Sorensen was born Sept. 17, 1921, at Rising City to Greg and Florence (From) Callaghan. She attended Butler County District 67 School in Summit Township, known as Blue Mound School, and Rising City High School. She then chose to stay at home and help her parents on the farm.

On March 3, 1939, she married James DeMoss at Joplin, Mo. They were the parents of a daughter, Frances. They owned and operated the Standard Station in Rising City and later the Rising City CafŽ, DeMoss Grocery and the Hardware Store, along with her parents.

Following their divorce, she and her daughter moved to California where she met and married Kenneth Sorensen. They later returned to the Rising City area to care for her parents and assist with the farming. Following her parents' deaths, she chose to work outside the home. At the age of 65, she earned her GED and was employed at Region V Services in David City until her retirement at the age of 80.

She continued to enjoy life on the family farm, always raising a big garden. After losing her home in a tragic fire on Oct. 1, 2004, she moved to the Sunshine Court in David City. The past 15 months she was a resident of St. Joseph's Villa.

She was a member of the Bellwood Rebekah Lodge and a 64-year member of Daughters of Union Veterans, being eligible through her great-grandfather Edgar Fox's service in the Illinois Volunteer Infantry during the Civil War. She was dedicated to her family and friends, always there for anyone who needed her. She loved the farm and all the hard work. Her pleasant personality and friendly smile were a gift she shared.

Survivors include a daughter, Frances Sneed of David City; son and wife, Kevin and Rita Sorensen of David City; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands; brothers and wives, Dale and Billie Callaghan and Kenneth Sr. and Mary Callaghan; granddaughter, Krystle Sorensen; nephew, Kenneth Callaghan Jr.; and grandparents, Francis and Susan (Fox) From and Gregory and Julia (Armstrong) Callaghan.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Dick and Joanna Ross

A graveside service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, at the David City Cemetery for Dick and Joanna Ross, formerly of David City. Mrs. Ross died March 31, 2009, of congestive heart failure and her husband died Sept. 22, 2006. Richard lived in David City from 1920 into the 1940s and Joanna from 1972-85.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.
 

Linda Osantowski

COLUMBUS -- Linda J. Osantowski, 64, of Bellwood died Thursday, Sept. 10, 2009, at South Haven Nursing Home in Wahoo.

Services were Tuesday, Sept. 15, at McKown Funeral Home in Columbus, with the Rev. Joseph A. Miksch officiating. Burial was at St. Mary's Cemetery in David City.

Mrs. Osantowski was born Nov. 6, 1944, in Genoa to Conrad and Sylvia (Froistad) Eggli. She graduated from Monroe High School and Chadron State College, with a teaching degree. She went on to further her education at Dakota State College in Madison, S.D.

She married Leo "Bud" Osantowski in October 1970. She lived west of Bellwood where she enjoyed taking care of her grandchildren. She was a member of the Red Hat Society in David City.

Survivors include a son, Calvin Osantowski of Bellwood; daughters and sons-in-law, Sheryl and Rob Vanhove of Madison, S.D., and Tammy Jo and Mike Schwartz of Harrison; grandchildren, Casey, Taylor, Kristin and Kody; brother and wife, Philip and Jacque Eggli of Stromsburg; sister and husband, Patricia and Denny Taylor of Shady Cove, Ore.; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Ginette; and granddaughter, Mercedes.

Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home.

Myra Hopwood

COLUMBUS -- Myra Hopwood, 27, of Columbus died Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2009, at Columbus Community Hospital.

Services were Saturday, Sept. 12, at Highland Park Evangelical Free Church, with the Rev. Justin Erickson officiating.

Mrs. Hopwood was born May 13, 1982, in Hollywood, Calif., to Jesus and Otilia (Pulido) Medrano. She was raised in California before moving to Columbus in 1996. She graduated from Columbus Lakeview High School in 2001.

She married Brook Hopwood April 27, 2006, in Columbus. They lived in Columbus. She enjoyed watching movies and spending time with family and friends.

Survivors include her husband; her mother of Columbus; her father of Mexico; sisters, Joanna Medrano and Dalila Medrano, both of Columbus; and mother-in-law, Rebecca Hopwood of David City.

She was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Robert Mark Hopwood.

Arrangements by Gass Haney Funeral Home, Columbus.

 Marvin Richards


LINCOLN - Marvin Dale Richards, 84, of Lincoln, formerly of Schuyler, died Thursday, Sept. 17, 2009, in the Alzheimer's Wing of Lancaster Manor in Lincoln.
A graveside service in Schuyler will be held in October, with a date to be announced later.
Mr. Richards, son of Kenneth Reynold and Pluma Hazel (Gillespie) Richards, was born in David City Oct. 6, 1924.

He was a highly decorated corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve during World War II and was engaged in the skirmishes in the Southwest Pacific, including the Consolidation of the Solomon Islands (Guadalcanal), Samar (Philippines) and Okinawa.  

He majored in veterinary medicine at Peru State and was a hatchery man and feed dealer for the majority of his career.

Survivors include a son, Kenneth Ralph Richards of Greenville, S.C.; daughter, Debbie Marlene (Richards) Burns of Lincoln; grandchildren and spouses, Gregory Ryan and Heather (Baily) Burns of Virginia Beach, Va., Thomas Allen and Brooke (Pinegar) Burns of Scottsdale, Ariz., and Michael Todd Burns of Lincoln; great-grandchildren, James, Jacquelyn and Aden; nieces; nephews; grandnieces; grandnephews; and sister, Alice Marie Smith of Nebraska City.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Maurice Allen Richards; sisters, Judith Korleen Hageman and Lennae Grace Richards; his first wife, Ila Darlene (Barta) Richards; and his second love, Ina Jane Davey.
Condolences to www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, Schuyler.

Bernice Heavican 

SCHUYLER -- Bernice M. Heavican, 96, died Saturday, Sept. 19, 2009, at Golden Living Assisted Living in Schuyler.

Services are at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, at Divine Mercy Parish - St. Augustine's, with Father Gerald Leise officiating. Visitation is noon to 5 p.m. Friday at Kracl Funeral Chapel in Schuyler, 6-8 p.m. at the church and 8:30-9:30 a.m. Saturday at the funeral chapel. A parish and Knights of Columbus rosary service is at 7 p.m. Friday. Burial will be at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Mrs. Heavican was born Sept. 10, 1913, in Schuyler to George and Bertha (Held) Busch. She graduated from Schuyler High School in 1931, attended the University of Nebraska in Lincoln and taught country school in Colfax County six years.

On June 7, 1937, she married Martin F. Heavican at St. Augustine's Catholic Church in Schuyler. They farmed and raised their family northeast of Schuyler.
She was a member of St. Augustine's Catholic Church, served on the Parish Council, Little Flower Altar Society, was a Charter Member of Mother Cabrini Study Club, Hospital Auxiliary and Grandview Extension Club and a volunteer for the American Red Cross Bloodmobile. She enjoyed playing bridge.

Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Jean and Robert Augustine of Lincoln; sons and daughters-in-law, Robert and Sally Heavican of Mission Viejo, Calif., Mike Heavican of Lincoln and George and Christine Heavican of Ventura, Calif.; daughter-in-law, Marilyn Heavican of Schuyler; 15 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Monica Pieper of Dodge; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Richard Heavican; grandson, John Augustine; sisters, Maxine Winchester, Eileen Costello and Emma Becker; and brother, George Busch Jr.

Memorials: Masses, St. Augustine's Catholic Church, Benedictine Mission House.
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.
 

 

Leah Stites

Leah Stites, 71, of David City died Sunday at Genoa Community Hospital. Services are pending at Chermok Funeral Home in David City.

R.J. "Jim" Schemper

SCHUYLER -- R.J. "Jim" Schemper, 67, of Schuyler died Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2009, in Clarkson.

Services were Saturday, Sept. 26, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in Schuyler, with Speaker Jerry L. Kracl officiating. Committal will be at a later date.

Mr. Schemper was born Nov. 18, 1942, in Hull, Iowa, to Edward J. and Mabel Lucille (Van DeWeerd) Schemper.

After graduating from high school, he married Mary Jean Boerhave on Feb. 2, 1962, in Sheldon, Iowa. She died in 1980. On July 5, 1980, he married Cheryl Hughes in Worthington, Minn. She died in 2006.

He was a hog farmer in Worthington and moved to Schuyler in 1987 where he managed hog operations for O'Neill Farms. He also drove a truck for Cummings and Sons.

He was a member of Schuyler Eagles and Worthington Elks Club.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Jacki and Tim Meyer of Jordan, Minn., and Ami and Jeff Uselman of Austin, Texas; sons and daughters-in-law, Edward and Brittani Schemper of Fayetteville, N.C., and Henry and Wendy Schemper of Plymouth, Minn., and grandchildren, Taylor Meyer, Catalina, Jake and Jett Schemper.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wives; and sister, Coletta Goddard.

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

Georgia Kratochvil

VALPARAISO -- Georgia Maxine Kratochvil, 85, of Raymond, died Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2009.

Services were Friday, Sept. 25, at Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso, with Monsignor Daniel Seiker officiating.

Mrs. Kratochvil was retired from working at Russell Stover's. She was a member of Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church and Altar Society,

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Stephen and Sharon Kratochvil of Raymond; granddaughter and husband, Trina and Jamie Switzer of Gretna; and great-grandsons, Cal and Trey.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; three brothers; and five sisters.

Condolences: www.wadlowrozanek.com

Arrangements by Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home, Valparaiso.

Donald Johnk

SCHUYLER -- Donald E. "Don" Johnk, 86, of David City died Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Services were Friday, Sept. 25, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in Schuyler, with Speaker

Jerry L. Kracl officiating. Burial was at Schuyler Cemetery, with military honors by Hespen-Mitchell Post 4836 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and McLeod Post 47 of the American Legion.

Mr. Johnk was born June 7, 1923, in Colfax County to Herman and Anna Kucera (Sedlak) Johnk. He graduated from Schuyler High School in 1939.

He entered the U.S. Army in 1943 and served in the European Theater.

On July 8, 1947, he married Darlyne Speckman in Columbus. He was an electrician and owned and operated Modern Electric in Schuyler for 27 years. He then worked for Monfort of Colorado as an electrical superintendent from 1982-90. Following his retirement, he assumed the position of building inspector for the City of Schuyler for 17 years.

He was a past member of the American Legion, VFW, St. John's Lutheran Church and Masonic Lodge. He was also a member of the Last Man's Club.

Survivors include his wife of Schuyler and daughter, Candace Johnk of Columbus.

He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant brother; brother, Harold Johnk; and sisters, Dorothy Johnk, Mable Healy and Margaret Hashberger.

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

Charles Masek

WAHOO -- Charles D.L. Masek, 66, of Lincoln, formerly of David City, died Monday, Sept. 21, 2009, at BryanLGH Medical Center in Lincoln.

Services were Friday, Sept. 25, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wahoo, with Father Charles Townsend officiating. Burial was at David City Cemetery, with military honors by the David City Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion.

Mr. Masek was born in David City on Sept. 15, 1943, to Martin and Genevieve

(Sanley) Masek. He grew up in David City and attended David City Public Schools.

He served in the U.S. Marines and after being honorably discharged, he re-enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served from June 1963 to July 1965.

On Dec. 27, 1966, he married Glenda Zlomke at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus. They lived in Columbus until moving to Wahoo in 1976. They later retired and moved to Lincoln. They operated the C and G Sew and Vac in Columbus and Wahoo for 30 years. He also worked as a fireman in Columbus and was a route salesman for

Frito Lay for 20 years.

He was a licensed E.M.T. and was a former parishioner at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wahoo.

Survivors include his wife; children and spouses, Tina and Dave Zielke of Columbia, Mo., Lori Rockwell of Omaha and Scott and Nicole Masek of Council

Bluffs, Iowa; grandchildren, Sarah and Alec (wife Lindsey) Zielke, Brittney,

Payton and Brendan Rockwell and Breeanne, Jarred and Brayden Masek; sister and brother-in-law, Kathy and Mark Quick of Raymond; and stepfather, Charles Novacek.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials: To family.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

Alfred Divis

HEMPHILL, Texas - Alfred Divis, 77, of Hemphill, Texas, formerly of Butler County, died Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009, at his home.

A memorial service, open to the public, will be conducted by the Dwight American Legion at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7.

Mr. Divis was born Feb. 17, 1932, to Ludvik and Marie (Kudlacek) Divis. He grew up in the Brainard, Dwight and Loma area and graduated from Dwight High School in 1950.

He joined the U.S. Navy, making it his career, achieving the rank of chief. After retirement, he was an airline mechanic for American Airlines.

He married Delores Hromas. They had two sons. He later married Darlene Van Beek.

He was a 50+-year member of the Dwight American Legion.

Survivors include sons, Darrel Divis and Alan Divis, and their wives of California; four granddaughters of California; sisters and husband, Laurine and John Novacek of Dwight and Florence Parnham of Lincoln; and brothers, Art Divis of Brainard and Arnie Divis of Prague and their wives.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Darlene in 2007; brothers, Ted and Ray Divis; and infant sister, Eleanor.

Memorials: Dwight American Legion.

William French

COLUMBUS - William Douglas French, 63, of Columbus died Saturday, Sept. 19, 2009, after a battle with cancer at his home.

Services were Friday, Sept. 25, at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Spalding, with the Revs. Don Buhrman, Joe Hannappel and James Murphy officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery, with military honors by American Legion Post 299 of Spalding.

Mr. French was born June 24, 1946, to James and Dorothy (McManaman) French at Spalding. He attended Spalding High School.

On June 20, 1967, he entered the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged on June 10, 1969.

He married Irene Voichoskie Oct. 10, 1970, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus. He worked in Columbus as a cook at the restaurant DeFreeces. The couple then moved to Boise, Idaho, where he worked with his uncle Don French at the Pantry. They moved back to Columbus and he co-owned the Cookbook with his brother Bruce. He then purchased Park Avenue in Columbus. He later sold that and in 1992 they moved to Spalding to run the Antler. In 2001, they moved to Bartlett where he purchased the Sandhill Steaks and Spirits. He also started a car lot. They recently moved back to Columbus.

He was a member of St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus, St. Mark's Catholic Church in Boise and St. Michael's Catholic Church in Spalding and currently St. Theresa's Catholic Church in Erickson.

Survivors include his wife; sons and wives, Scott and Melissa of Omaha, Brad and Sandy of Columbus and Ryan of Lincoln; grandchildren, Logan, Gavin, Madison, Raya and Jordanna; his mother of Columbus; brothers, Bruce of Columbus, Dan of Spalding, Richard of Bartlett, Ron and wife, Linda, of Lincoln, Kevin and friend Mickie Senften of Columbus and Don and wife, Tracy, of Lincoln; sisters and husbands, Donna Esch of Columbus, Kathy and Dwight Briney of Edson, Kan., Chris and Ron Vrba of Silver Creek, Mary and Carlos Castillo of Beech Island, S.C.; sister-in-law, Beth French of Columbus; mother-in-law, Loretta Voichoskie of David City; brothers-in-law and wives, Ray and Kathy Voichoskie of Shelby, Clarence and Krista Voichoskie of Maquoketa, Iowa, and Richard and Patti Voichoskie and Mike and Julie Voichoskie, all of Columbus; and sister-in-law and husband, Jennie and Joe Flash of Columbus.

He was preceded in death by his father; brother, John French; sister-in-law, Lauri Kowalski; and father-in-law, Andy Voichoskie.

Memorials: To family or donor's choice.
 

Joyce Slavik

SCHUYLER - Joyce Slavik, 69, of Schuyler died Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2009, at Fremont Area Medical Center.

Services were Saturday, Oct. 3, at St. Mary's Catholic Church of Divine Mercy Parish in Schuyler. Fathers Gerald Leise and Richard Rieser con-celebrated. Burial was at Schuyler Cemetery.

Mrs. Slavik was born Sept. 11, 1940, in Schuyler to Leonard and Mayme (Jaros) Viglicky. She graduated from Schuyler High School in 1957. She started working as a sales clerk for Dudek Department Store in Schuyler while still in high school and worked there for 50 years before retiring.

She married her high school classmate Marvin Slavik Oct. 7, 1961, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Abie. They farmed north of Schuyler until 2000 when they moved to Schuyler.

She enjoyed playing cards, mostly bridge, and belonged to many card clubs, but her first love was her twin grandchildren. She also enjoyed cooking and always made sure that none of her family or friends never left hungry.

Survivors include her husband; daughter and son-in-law, Susan and Gregg Coghill of Omaha; grandchildren, Molly and Matt Coghill; her mother of Schuyler; and brother, Jim Viglicky of Schuyler.

She was preceded in death by her father on Aug. 9, 1976.

Memorials: Family Choice; Benedictine Mission Home; Divine Mercy Parish; Schuyler Senior Center; St. James Catholic Church in Omaha or St. James Seton Catholic School. Condolences: wwwsvobodafuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Schuyler.

Leah Stites

Leah E. Stites, 71, of David City died Sunday, Sept. 27, 2009, at Genoa Community Hospital.

Services were Monday, Oct. 5, at Congregational Christian Church in David City, with Pastor Jack McDonald officiating. Inurnment will be at a later date.

Ms. Stites was born June 9, 1938, to Omer and Geraldine (Peak) Stites in Omaha. She received her education through the Special Education Program of the Beatrice State Home, Region V of David City and in Bellwood.

She was blessed with the gift of making people happy. She enjoyed life and was a big Elvis fan. She worked various jobs with Region V in David City and Columbus.

Survivors include a brother, Paul Stites of Omaha; sister and husband, Judy and Bill Riha of Brainard; nieces; nephews; and all the people whose lives she touched in her special lifetime.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Boyd and Omer Stites; niece, Claudette Riha; and nephew, Jeremy Riha.

Memorials: In care of family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

 Celeste Canady


YUMA, Ariz. -- Celeste Canady, 96, of Yuma, Ariz., formerly of Octavia, died quietly in her sleep Monday, Sept. 28, 2009, in Yuma, AZ, after a brief illness.
Mrs. Canady was born in Fremont, the oldest of six girls, to Ralph and Olive Phillips.

She married Clarence Canady Feb. 12, 1934. They farmed in Central and Eastern Nebraska.
After retirement, they moved from a farm near Octavia to Gibbon, where she was a caregiver for her sister-in-law for many years. Her teaching skills later manifested themselves as a crochet instructor, artificial flowers crafts teacher and cake decorator during the winter seasons.

In addition to being a homemaker and farmer's wife, she also held various jobs throughout her life, such as an assistant postmaster, baker, school custodian and operated a grocery store. Her lifelong love was her family and her church.

She was an avid reader, taught Sunday school at all age levels and started an after school program for elementary school children in 1970. This effort was extremely successful and at its height, attracted 60 children daily on a Monday through Thursday schedule over four school year cycles.

In 2001, she moved to Arizona to be near her son and wife Paul and Karen.  
Survivors include sisters and husband, Beverly and Dale Smallcomb and Phyllis Hewitt, all of Mesa, Ariz., and Doris Tuffs of Bakersfield, Calif.; sons and wives, Lee and Mary Canady of Batavia, Ill., and Paul and Karen Canady of Yuma; grandchildren and spouses, Sheryl Canady-Tenant and Rob of Chapel Hill, N.C., Shawn Canady of Travelers Rest, S.C., and Scott and Billie Canady of Troy, Ohio; and three great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband in 1983.
Memorials: Open Bible Fellowship, P.O. Box 445, Gibbon, NE 68840.
 


Clement Demuth


SEWARD -- Clement Gerard Demuth, 87, of Reno, Nev., formerly of Bellwood and Seward, died Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2009.

Services were Saturday, Oct. 10, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Reno. A rosary service was Tuesday, Oct. 13, at Zabka Funeral Home chapel in Seward and graveside services were at 10:45 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, at Sts. Peter & Mary/Marietta Cemetery near Bellwood.

Mr. Demuth was born at Bellwood on March 14, 1922, to Nicholas and Margaret (Didier) Demuth. He was one of six children and grew up on a farm in rural Bellwood.
On Sept. 4, 1941, he married Geraldine (Schadegg) in Kimball.
In 1942, he was drafted into the U.S. Army Air Corps, serving overseas in Europe until December 1945.

In August 1957, he was hired by Chevron in California and moved the family from Kimball, where he had owned and operated a Mobil gas station, to El Segundo, Calif. In 1977, he retired from Chevron, and they spent their retirement years in Hemet, Calif., and Chelan, Wash., before returning to Seward. In March 2002, his wife died suddenly and he, wishing to be closer to his children, returned to El Segundo. After a couple of years there, he moved to Sun City, Ariz., and later to Reno to be closer to his children.

He made the news in 1969 when, socializing with his wife and friends at Alpine Village, Calif., he suffered a massive cardiac arrest. He was the first person treated and saved by Squad 59, the newly formed Los Angeles County paramedic unit out of Harbor General Hospital. He was featured on a television show, narrated by actor Robert Young, about this first ever rescue by this newly formed team.

He was a faithful follower of his Catholic faith, a diligent and loving father and a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. He was proud of his heritage and could be found telling the stories of his ancestry to whomever would listen.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Anthony and Betty Demuth of Taft, Calif., Thomas M. Demuth of El Segundo, James E. and Carol Demuth of Reno, Debra Demuth (wife of the late Richard L. Demuth) and Gerald and Debra Demuth, all of El Segundo; 19 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his wife; daughter, Patricia A. Dennell; grandson, Michael W. Dennell; son, Richard Demuth; his parents; brothers; and sisters.

 

June 2010 Obituaries

 Juanita Caskey

 

LINCOLN - Juanita Lucille Prater Anne Caskey, 72, was called home to be with God, on Wednesday, June 2, 2010. She was born January 21, 1938, and raised in Rulo and Omaha.

A Funeral Mass was held Monday, June 7, at the Cathedral of the Risen Christ. Interment was at Wyuka Cemetary.

She is survived by her second husband, Leland Caskey of Lincoln; sons and daughters-in-law, Dwaine LeRoy Jr. and Sandy Anno of Falls City, David Anno of Fairbury. Doug and Sue Anno of Lincoln, and stepson, Staff Sgt. Lynn Caskey of Calif.; daughters and sons-in-law, Anita Bentley of Lincoln, Geri and Tim Meyer of Avoca; stepdaughter and spouse, Lori and Brett Sieberg of Omaha; brother and sister-in-law, Henry and Robin Prater of Savannah, Mo; sisters and brothers-in-law, Sister Michaelene Prater of David City and Waverly, Theresa and Harry Marrs of Falls City, Robin and Gary Griener of Rulo; brothers-in-law and spouses, William Coonce of Rulo. Larry and Norma Caskey of Creighton, Gary and Vicky Caskey of Orchard; 23 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, Henry Leroy and Emma Lucille Prater; sister, Mary Coonce; daughter-in-law, Debbie Anno; and son-in-law, Kevin Bentley.

Memorials may be given to the family for a later designation. Condolences may be sent to www.wyuka.com.

George Barlean

DAVID CITY - George D. Barlean, 77, of David City, died Friday night, June 4, 2010, at his home near David City.

His funeral service was held Wednesday, June 9, 2010, at St. Luke's United Methodist Church with Rev. Mark Schutt officiating. Burial was at David City Cemetary with military honors.

He was born September 5, 1932, in David City to George A. and Anna(Muller) Barlean. George graduated from David City High School in 1949 at the age of 16 and took over farming operations following the death of his father. From 1952-1956 he served in the United States Air Force in Hayward, Calif., Wichita Falls, Texas, where he attended aircraft and engine school at Shepherd AFB, jet engine specialty training in Ill., spent six months in Ala. at flight lineand jet engine repair school, two years at Sembach AFB in Germany and was discharged in Brooklyn, NY.

George married Dorothy Fadschild on December 22, 1957, at St. Luke's United Methodist Church in David City. He lived his entire life on the farm which was in his family since 1877. George was a humble man and great horseman, loved reading and playing cards and especially enjoyed the grandchildren's sporting events. He was a past member of 4H, had served on the school board of District #26 and was a proud member of the NRA.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy of David City; son Sam(Angie) Barlean, David City; daughter Jan(Gary) Woita, Atkinson, Neb.; one brother, Tom(Barbara) Barlean, David City; six grandchildren, Lee, Eric and Lindy Woita and Ben, Brandy and Zack Barlean; and nieces and nephews.

George was preceded in death by his parents and two step-sisters, Marjorie Barlean and Phyllis Bradehoeft.

Memorials are the donor's choice.

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Home, David City.

George Schmid

DWIGHT - George W. Schmid, 86, of Dwight, Nebraska, passed away Saturday, June 5, 2010, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

A Funeral Mass was said on Tuesday, June 8, at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight.

George was born April 21, 1924, on a farm near Abie, to Joe and Albina (Zelda) Schmid. On November 20, 1945, George married Sally Janak at Assumption Church in Appleton. George lived in the Butler County area his entire life. He farmed and did carpentry work.

George was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Eagles in Schuyler, and Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight.

George is survived by his wife, Sally, of Dwight; sons, Gary Schmid of San Diego, Calif, Larry (Marian) of Hickman, and David (Renee) of Valparaiso; daughter, Judy (Jerry) Potter of Valparaiso; sisters Mildred Gaskill of North Bend and Marcella Bahns of Schuyler; 7 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Victor and Milo.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given "In Care of the Family."

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

 

Herman Hansen

Herman F. Hansen, 82, of David City, died Thursday, June 10, 2010, at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln after a brief illness.

Funeral Services were Tuesday, June 15, in St. Luke's United Methodist Church, David City, with the Rev. Mark Schutt officiating. Burial was at David City Cemetery.

Herman Frank Hansen was born on Feb. 1, 1928, to Frank Herman and Antonette Faytinger Hansen in David City. Herman attended school in David City and graduated from David City High School in 1945. He just recently enjoyed the 65th class reunion with his classmates.

He spent his entire lifetime in David City with the exception of the two years attending the University of Nebraska, where he was a member of the marching band.

On Sept. 24, 1950, he was united in marriage to L. Jean Martin at St. Luke's United Methodist Church in David City. They were the parents of three children: Kelly Hansen Oestmann, Frank Hansen and Beth Marie Hansen.

Herman was a member of St. Luke's United Methodist Church where he was a member of the bass section of the choir for more than 62 years and sang with them the last time on May 23 of this year. In the late 1940s and early 50s, he directed the choir, which was made up mainly of high school students. When the student population of the church diminished, he and other adults composed the membership of the choir.

Herman joined the Masons on his 21st birthday and was a 61 year member of Fidelity Lodge No. 51 of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons. He also held membership in Composite Lodge No. 81 of Rising City and Osceola Lodge No. 65 of Osceola. He thoroughly enjoyed assisting with the initiation ceremonies where he gave various lectures and especially enjoyed the camaraderie of the Masonic Brothers. Through the years, he served as Master, secretary and treasurer.

Herman was a past Associate Guardian of Job's Daughters Bethel No. 51 of the International Order of Job's Daughters. In 2000, he was made an honorary member of that organization.

He was raised in the Meat Market owned and operated by his father and uncle. His early responsibilities were sprouting potatoes, where he earned a nickel for each 100 pound bag sprouted. With this money, he could go next door and purchase a huge Baby Ruth candy bar. Later, he was able to make deliveries, wait on customers and assist with clean up.

Herman took early retirement after working for 35 years with the Lincoln Telephone and Telegraph Co. He then spent about a year working at the Hometown IGA and several years doing small engine repair at the Gambles Store. For the past 21 years, he has been caretaker of the Garden Manor Apartments where he took great pride in the beautiful lawn surrounding the buildings and was always up early to remove the snow.

Herman was an avid deer hunter with both bow and arrow and rifle and has many trophies mounted in their cabin. Spending time with family at the cabin on the Platte River was one of his favorite pastimes. He built the cabin in the mid-60s from telephone crossarms, which the phone company was discarding when their toll lines were placed underground.

For the past several years, he enjoyed a week of fishing in Canada with his son, Frank, and son-in-law, Ralph.

Herman is survived by Jean, his wife of 59 1/2 years; daughter Kelly and husband Ralph Oestmann of Bristow, Va.; son Frank and wife Judy of David City, daughter BethMarie and fiance Tom Rost of Minneapolis; granddaughters, Toni Oestmann of Arlington, Va., Didi Oestmann of Bristow, Va., and Lesley and Casey Hansen of Lincoln; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Elaine Tonniges of Columbus, Donna and Jim Lightbody of Lincoln, Maxine Riddle of Charlottesville, Va., and Jackie Mahlin and Kate Martin of David City; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Marie Hansen; and one half-brother, Donald Hansen.

Memorials: The Masonic Eastern Star Home for Children, David City High School Alumni Scholarship Fund or Donor's Choice. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

 

Wendel Otte

Wendel D. Otte, 73, of David City, died Tuesday, June 8, 2010, at David Place in David City.

Funeral services were Saturday, June 12, in Redeemer Lutheran Church, David City, with the Rev. David Palomaki officiating. Burial was at David City Cemetery.

Wendel D. Otte was born on Aug. 12, 1936, at Wayne to John and Opal (Miller) Otte. He graduated from Carroll High School in 1954.

He married Virgene Lichliter on March 9, 1958, in Rising City. Three children were born to this union.

Wendel farmed in the Rising City area for over 30 years and also worked at Becton-Dickenson in Columbus for 36 years. He was in the National Guard from 1958 until 1964. He also enjoyed working at Selden Trucking for six years.

In his spare time he enjoyed playing cards, especially Black Jack, fishing, hunting and annual trips to Las Vegas. Wendel enjoyed his grandkids and attending their activities and sports events. He also loved working in his shop and with his AC tractors.

He was a member of the Rising City Fire Department for 34 years and an active member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in David City.

Wendel is survived by his wife, Virgene, his son and daughter-in-law, Kyle and Bonnie Otte of Minatare; daughter and son-in-law, Kim and Dennis Jay of Grand Island; seven grandchildren; one sister, Marilyn (Robie) Nickels of Norfolk; sister-in-law, Charleen Otte of Columbus; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one infant son, Kevin William; and one brother, Stanley Otte.

Memorials: In care of the family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Ruth Peterson

OSCEOLA -- Ruth Doris Peterson, 90, of Osceola, died June 9, 2010, at the Osceola Good Samaritan Society in Osceola.

Funeral services were Monday, June 14, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Osceola, with Pastor Clifford Hoper officiating. Organist was Louise Wheeler. Soloist was Ingrid Hoper. Musical selections were "Just As I Am," "How Great Thou Art" and "What A Friend We Have In Jesus." Pallbearers were Ryan Eklund, Greg Eklund, Bret Eklund, Mike Peterson, Kevin Peterson and Joel Peterson. Interment was at the Shelby Cemetery.

Ruth was born May 19, 1920, to John Oscar and Sigrid (Johnson) Boden. She graduated from Osceola High School in 1937 and then taught at District 61 Crackerbox country school west of Osceola.

On Aug. 21, 1943, Ruth was united in marriage to Herman Gust Eklund. To this union two sons were born, Don and Bob.

In the late 1950s, Ruth began working at the ASCS Office in Osceola, retiring in the early 1980s.

On May 28, 1972, she was united in marriage to Rexford H. Peterson. They resided in Shelby until she moved to the Osceola Good Samaritan Society on Aug. 30, 2005, where she resided until her passing.

She was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Osceola and was active in many of the church's activities. She enjoyed quilting, knitting, crocheting, baking and cooking.

Survivors include one son, Bob (Linda) Eklund of Grand Island; daughter-in-law, Julie McMeekin of Albion; six grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren; one stepgreat-grandchild; stepchildren, Dan (Yvonne) Peterson and family of Peoria, Ariz,, Randy (Kay) Peterson and family of Shelby; stepdaughter, Debbie (Gaylen) Schmoker of Shelby; one stepdaughter-in-law, Marlene Peterson of Shelby; and a host of other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Herman Eklund and Rexford Peterson; one son, Don Eklund; one stepson, Jerry Peterson; and sisters, Frances I. Carlson Sandell and Margaret Buresh.

Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home of Osceola and Stromsburg.

Frances Styskal

WAHOO -- Frances A. Styskal, 86, of Wahoo died Friday, June 11, 2010, in Wahoo.

Mass of Christian Burial is at 10 a.m. on Thursday, June 17, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wahoo, with Father Charles Townsend officiating. Interment will be at St. Francis Cemetery. Visitation is 2-4 p.m. on Wednesday, with Altar Rosary Society Rosary at 3 p.m. at Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo, continuing after 6 p.m. at the church, with Wake Service at 7 p.m. Also, on Thursday one hour before the service at the church.

Casket bearers: Nathan Styskal, Anthony Styskal, Andrew Styskal, Jerry Bongers, Christopher Marsico and Michael Styskal.

Mrs. Styskal was born Nov. 28, 1923, in rural Ceresco to Frank and Frances (Slama) Mastera. She attended country school near Ceresco.

She married Edward J. Styskal June 30, 1941, at St. Mary's Cathedral in Lincoln. He preceded her in death on Jan. 1, 1986. After she was married, Frances moved to a farm west of Wahoo where she lived until her passing.

Frances loved gardening, quilting, sewing with the church ladies and most of all she loved spending time with her grandchildren and her many friends. She was an excellent baker and enjoyed taking her baked goods to the Farmer's Market in Lincoln and Wahoo.

She was a member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Wahoo, PCCW, St. Ludmilla's Guild, Altar Rosary Society and Hospital Auxiliary.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Theodore (Chris) Styskal of Lake Villa, Ill., Thomas (Shari) Styskal of Greenwood, George (Mary) Styskal of Lincoln and Lawrence Styskal of Wahoo; daughters and sons-in-law, Katherine (Ernest) Bongers of Brainard, Patricia Maly and Loretta Havlovic, both of Lincoln, and Cynthia (Robert) Marsico of Citrus Heights, Calif.; daughter-in-law, Teresa Styskal of Lincoln; 18 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; brother, George Mastera of David City; sisters, Mary Richardson of Lincoln and Helen Nelson of Tulsa, Okla.; sisters-in-law, Alice Mastera of Ceresco, Beatrice Mastera of David City and Darlene Mastera of Schuyler; many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Stanley; brothers, Frank, Edward, Alfons and Louis Mastera; sister, Agnes Priess; and great-grandchild, Morgan Bongers.

Memorials: In care of the family.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

David Kohl

CENTRAL CITY -- David N. Kohl, 43, of Central City died Friday, June 11, 2010, at Litzenberg Memorial County Hospital in Central City.

Mass of Christian Burial is at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 16, at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Central City. Monsignor Nelson Newman will officiate. Burial will be in the Central City Cemetery. Visitation was Tuesday.

Organist is Scott Musil. Vocalists are Pat Benson and Cris Larson. Congregational Hymns: "You Are Mine," "Because The Lord is My Shepherd," "Amazing Grace" and "On Eagles Wings." Pallbearers:

Steve Twiss, George Bozak, Glen Harvey, Kevin Senkbile, Kurt Reeves, Matt Green, Scott Brandenburg and Dave Lewis.

Dave was born on June 6, 1967, at Paso Robles, Calif., to Ken and Carolynn (Lovejoy) Kohl and Don and Sandy (Butler) Bragg. He grew up in California, and in 1979, when Dave was 12 years old, the family moved to Central City. He attended Central City Public Schools and graduated in 1985.

He was united in marriage to Michelle M. Pfeifer on April 29, 1995, at Lindsay Holy Family Catholic Church. The couple lived in Central City, and Dave worked at Atlantic Homes for 10 years. In 2005, he started Kohl and Bosak Construction, where he was currently working at the time of his death.

Dave was a member of St. Michael's Catholic Church, Ducks Unlimited, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, National Bowhunters Association, River Rat Association, Sportsman's Club, Valley View and Homeowners Association of Central City. He was also on the Board of Directors for Cottonwood Estates and Junior Wrestling Program. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, and taught hunter's education classes in Central City. He loved spending time with his family and friends.

Survivors left to cherish his memory include his parents; his wife, Michelle Kohl, of Central City; two sons, Colton Kohl and Dillon Kohl, both at home; two daughters, Allison Kohl, at home, and Lakin Kohl of Omaha; two brothers, Scott and Maria Kohl of Central City and Clay and Lacey Bragg of San Miguel, Calif.; two sisters, Mechell and Matt Djernes of Central City and Sherryl Bragg Hernandez of Paso Robles, Calif.; a grandmother, Marcella Kohl Mowinkle; father and mother-in-law, Dennis and Joan Pfeifer of David City; brother-in-law, Brian and Jen Pfeifer of Lincoln; sister-in-law, Melissa and Craig Pritchard of Kearney; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by a grandfather, LaVerne Kohl, and grandparents, Howard and Ila Kuhn Lovejoy.

Memorials: Donor's choice. Condolences: www.wagnerfuneral.com.

Arrangements by Wagner Funeral Home, Central City.

 Mary Swanda



BRAINARD -- Mary A. Swanda, 98, of Brainard, died Thursday, June 24, 2010, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.
A funeral Mass was held on Monday, June 28, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard, with burial following in the New Holy Trinity Cemetery.
Mary was born on Feb. 2, 1912, at Brainard to James and Frances (Riha) Petrzilka. She attended school in Brainard.
On Dec. 21,1933, she married Cyril C. Swanda in Iowa. She was a housewife, caregiver and correspondent for The Banner-Press newspaper.
Mary was a member of the PCCW and Holy Trinity Catholic Church. She enjoyed listening to polka music, reading and watching game shows on TV.
Mary is survived by her son, Gerald J. (Phyllis) Swanda of Brainard; daughter, Marlene L. (Jim) Linderman of Lincoln; brother, Ernest (Twila) Petrzilka of Brainard; sisters, Rita Herms of Brainard and Dorothy (Lloyd) Doeden of Glendale, Ariz.; sister-in-law, Edith Petrzilka of David City; 18 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Cyril, in January 1959; sons, Edward, Bill and Gary Lee; daughters, Norma Kavan, Darlene Maly and Margie Petrzilka; brothers, Jim and George Petrzilka; sisters, Bessie Patocka and Helen Hurt; and great-grandson, Jeremy Beckman.
Memorials: Holy Trinity Church Building Fund, Brainard Volunteer Fire Department or Family's Choice. Condolences: chermokfh@yahoo.com.
Arrangements by Holesovsky Mortuary in Brainard.

Quentin Vraspir


Quentin A. Vraspir, 82, of David City, died Saturday, June 26, 2010, at David Place in David City.
A funeral Mass is at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 30, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Visitation continues from Tuesday at 9 a.m. Wednesday, with burial following at St. Mary's Cemetery.
Quentin was born at Bruno on Dec. 5, 1927, to Adolph E. and Emma (Otoupal) Vraspir.
He served in the U.S. Army from Nov. 14, 1950, until Aug. 13, 1952.
On Oct. 17, 1970, Quentin married Marilyn Demuth. He was employed as a lineman for R.E.A.
He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and the David City Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5814.
Quentin is survived by a sister, Darlene (Richard) Speth, of Bellevue; nieces and nephews, Doug (T.J.) Speth of Omaha, Roger (Char) Speth of Vergennes, Ill., Karen (Todd) Horton of Omaha and Steve (Shae) Speth of Canyon City, Ore.; and six grand nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Marilyn, in 1995; and sister, Lorraine Sima.
Memorials: David City Volunteer Fire Department or Family's Choice. Condolences: chermokfuneralhome.com

Rose Housh


OMAHA - Rose H. Housh, 91, of Omaha, formerly of Butler County, died Monday, June 21, 2010, in Omaha.
Mass of Christian burial was at 10 a.m. Friday at St. Bernard's Church in Omaha. Burial was at Calvary Catholic Cemetery.
Mrs. Housh was born May 24, 1919, to Henry and Margaret (Puetz) Birkel at Bellwood. She graduated from Marietta High School of rural Bellwood and St. Joseph's Hospital, Omaha School of Nursing.
In June 1941, she was united in marriage to Harry Housh at Presentation Catholic Church, rural Bellwood. She worked at David City Hospital while her husband served his country during World War II. On his return, they resided in Omaha.
Rose is survived by her children: sons, Mike (La Donna), Pat (Ratree) and Bill (Sharon); daughters, Denise and Rose Marie; sister, Ida Burbach of Wichita, Kan.; sister-in-law, Ludy Birkel of David City; 12 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harry; granddaughter, Rose Ann; brothers, Matt, Clarence and Father Harold Birkel; and sisters, Clara Bongers, Florence Stump, Anne Birkel and Marie DeWispelare.
Memorials: St. Bernard Church.
Arrangements by Bramen Mortuary, Omaha.
 


Marvin Skala


CRETE - Marvin Skala, 83, of Crete died Friday, June 25, 2010, in Crete.

Funeral Mass was Wednesday, June 30, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Crete. Interment was at Riverside Cemetery at Crete.

He was born to Joe and Bertha Skala at Pleasant Hill on March 26, 1927.
Marvin enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1946 as a military dispatcher and also served with the 611th field artillery battalion as a cannoneer.

He was a charter member of The Eagles, as well as being a member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Marvin was employed with Crete Mills and farmed in his spare time.

In 1949, Marvin married Jeralyn Plachy at the Methodist Church in Dorchester. Following Jeralyn's passing, Marvin married Regina Riha in 1999 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City.

For fun, Marvin enjoyed socializing, polka dancing, playing cards and working on the farm. His greatest joys were his family, friends and faith.

Survivors include his wife, Regina of Crete; daughter, Diane and son-in-law, Edward Tuttle of Dorchester; son, Greg and daughter-in-law Vickie of Green River, Wyo.; sister, Mildred Skopec of O'Neill; stepchildren, Larry, Michael and Dan Riha of David City, Dale Riha, Randy and wife Roxy Riha, Connie and husband Tim Novicki and Jane and husband Clifford Ziemba, all of Columbus; four grandchildren; and nine stepgrandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jeralyn; brothers, Joe, Octavin, Otto, Milo, Albert, Alfred and Charley; sisters, Albie, Bertha, Elanore, Evelyn and Olga; daughter-in-law, Louise Skala; and stepson, Steve Riha.
Memorials: To the church or donor's choice.
Arrangements by Kuncl Funeral Home, Crete.

 

March 2010 Obituaries

Dorothy Hull

Dorothy M. Hull, 98, of David City, formerly of Grand Island, passed away Monday, March 1, 2010, in Lincoln.

Funeral Services are Wednesday, March 3, at 11 a.m. at Chermok Funeral Home in David City, with visitation one hour before the service. Burial will be at the David City Cemetery.

Dorothy was born Dec. 12, 1911, at Harrison to George and Etta (Pollman) Hascall. She attended school in Garrison through the eighth grade and graduated from David City High School in 1930. She was a sales clerk in Hills Bakery in David City.

She married Joe W. Hull on May 11, 1932, in York. Most of her married life was spent on the farm. They purchased a farm in the Bellwood area and later purchased an irrigated farm in Grand Island. She enjoyed livestock, farming and irrigating.

While in the Butler County area, she belonged to the Helping Hand Club and Extension Club. She kept up her interest in Extension Club, served as county president and as state vice president. She served on local school boards and was interested in the formation of the consolidation of 1 R (rural k-8) School and Northwest High School in Grand Island. She was active in the Northwest High School Booster Club. She belonged to the Nebraska School Improvement Association and was interested in government, working on many campaigns and serving on election boards. She only missed voting in one primary when she was on a trip to the Hawaiian Islands.

She visited all 50 states as well as Canada and Mexico. She loved to fly and was interested in airplanes.

She is survived by a sister-in-law, Thelma Hascall, many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brothers, Arlie, Earl and Lloyd; and sisters, Viva McCall and Hazel Wiegardt.

Memorials to David City Fire Department or David City Cemetery. Condolence may be sent to www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.

 

Kathryn Kirby

Kathryn Ann Kirby of Los Angeles, formerly of David City, died Monday, March 1, 2010, in Los Angeles.

Mass of Christian burial was held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, March 5, at Our Mother of Good Council Catholic Church in Los Angeles, with the Rev. James Mott celebrant. Graveside services will be held at noon on Saturday, March 13, at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in David City, with the Rev. Bernard Kimminau officiating.

Kathryn was born July 22, 1919, in David City to Edward and Henrietta (Knott) Kirby. She graduated from David City High School, moved to Chicago and later to Los Angeles where she and her sister Phyllis joined their family who had moved to California in the 1940s.

Kathryn worked as a deposition reporter in Los Angeles.

She is survived by one sister, Phyllis Kirby of Los Angeles; three nieces; Patricia (Richard) Neal, Kathleen Finazzo and Mary Susan (Glen) Smith, all of Los Angeles; three grand-nieces; three grand-nephews; seven great-grand-nieces; and six great-grand-nephews.

Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel of David City.

Gladys Burianek

OMAHA -- Gladys R. (Roh) Burianek, 101, of Omaha, formerly of Abie, died Monday, March 8, 2010.

Visitation begins at 5 p.m. Thursday, followed by a wake service at 6:30 p.m. at Heafey-Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road in Omaha. Funeral Service is at 11 a.m. Friday at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Abie. Interment is at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery at Abie.

Mrs. Burianek was born Dec 27, 1908, to Frank and Anna Roh.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Yarmel; parents, Frank and Anna Roh; sister, Rose Roh; and brothers, Joseph, Albin, Edward, Frank and Emil Roh.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, L.F. "Bud" and Arlene Burianek of Ralston; grandchildren, Lisa Burianek (John Cropley), Jeffrey Burianek (Jill Reel, M.D.), Laura (Mark) Gilliland, Becky (Bryan) Canaday, Bret Burianek (Melissa McFadden); eight great-grandchildren; brother, Dr. Roman C. (Martha) Roh; dear friend, Bernita Majerus; many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Peter Catholic Church of Omaha, Creighton Prep or a Charity of Choice.

Arrangements by Heafey-Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, Omaha.

 

Drew Fiala

Drew Paul Allen Fiala, 11, of David City died Friday, March 12, 2010, at his residence.

Funeral Mass is at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 17, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Burial will be at St. Mary's Cemetery. Additional viewing from Tuesday will be on Wednesday, one hour before services at the church.

Drew Paul Allen Fiala was born on March 17, 1998, at Columbus to Luke and Kandie (Gottschall) Fiala. He attended St. Mary's Grade School in David City and was currently a sixth grader at Aquinas Middle School in David City.

Drew enjoyed soccer and was looking forward to becoming a referee this year. He also enjoyed football, wrestling, golf, playing X-box and snowboarding. He played the trumpet in the middle school band and when he could get away, enjoyed fishing. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and Knights of the Altar.

He is survived by his parents; his sister, Brooke of David City; grandparents, Betty and Keith Carter of St. Edward, Paul and Marlene Gottschall of Shelby and Peg and Harry Fiala of David City; great-grandparents, Irene Gotschall of Columbus, Ernest and Lucille Fiala of David City and Gertrude Czapla of Spokane, Wash.; aunts and uncles, Jill and Dan Prochaska, Scott and MaryJan Fiala (Jill and Scott were Drew's godparents), Heath and Karen Fiala (Heath was to be Drew's confirmation sponsor), Dan and Sheri Fiala, Heather and Bud Engel, Patrick and Jamie Fiala, Johnathon Fiala, Brent Fiala, Rick Gottschall, Shane and Connie Gotschall, Kristen and Terry Topil and Heather Anderson,; many cousins and friends.

Memorials may be given to Aquinas Endowment Fund. On-line condolences may be sent to: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Roman Dietrich

SCHUYLER -- Roman Dietrich, 53, died Wednesday, March 10, 2010, at his home in Snyder.

A memorial service was Saturday, March 13, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in Schuyler.

Roman was born April 6, 1956, in Schuyler to Roman and Audrea (Hammond) Dietrich. He attended David City High School.

On March 3, 1984, he married Elizabeth Pawley in Fremont. They lived in Fremont, Linwood and now resided in Snyder. Roman had several jobs over the years and his favorite was his job at Smeal Manufacturing, where he worked until his health required his retirement.

Roman is survived by his wife, Beth, of Snyder; two daughters, Megan Dietrich of Omaha and Mackenzie Dietrich of Snyder; five sisters, Barb (Thom) Greenwood of Schuyler, Linda (Carrol) Jakub of Octavia, Shirley (John) Lozos of Schuyler, Kathy (John) Ehlers of Octavia and Bev Ladehoff of David City; one brother, Don (Berniece) Dietrich of Octavia; one sister-in-law, Gale (Gordon) Milne of Bellevue; brother-in-law, Ray (Lynn) Pawley of South Borrough, Mass.; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials: Family Choice. Condolences to www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

Lorraine Rezac

SEWARD -- Lorraine Marie Rezac, 61, of Seward died Thursday, March 11, 2010.

Mass of Christian burial was Monday, March 15, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with celebrant the Rev. Rafael Rodriguez. Burial was at Bee Catholic Cemetery.

Mrs. Rezac was born Dec. 21, 1948, to Leonard J. and Wilma (Pelan) Policky at Bee. Lorraine grew up in the rural Bee and Loma area. She was a 1967 graduate of East Butler High School in Brainard.

She was united in marriage to Elmer Rezac on Aug. 8, 1970, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Bee. Elmer passed away on Nov. 16, 1988. Lorraine worked part time at Husker Bar in Brainard and she also was a waitress in Dwight. Lorraine served as the primary babysitter through the years for nearly all of her nieces and nephews either in their homes or at her home by Bee.

Lorraine was a simple person who was content with going places locally, enjoying dances with her nephew's bands performing, attending fish fries, church festivals, summer parades and visiting with local friends. She was a member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church.

Survivors include brothers and sisters-in-law, Don and Kathy Policky of Seward, Les and Theresa Policky of Acworth, Ga., and Bob Policky of Pleasant Dale; sisters-in-law, Amy Policky of Dwight and Jan Policky of Pleasant Dale; sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Fred Vanis of Ulysses; and many nieces and nephews.

Lorraine is preceded in death by her husband, Elmer Rezac; her parents, Leonard and Wilma Policky; and brothers, Vic Policky, Ed Policky and Eldon Policky.

Memorials: Donor's Choice in care of the family. Condolences: www.zabkafuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.

L. Robert Kreizinger

COLUMBUS -- L. Robert (Bob) Kreizinger, 84, of Columbus died Saturday, March 13, 2010, at Golden Living Center in Columbus after a battle with lung cancer.

Mass of Christian burial is at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 17, at St. Isidore Catholic Church, 3921 20th Street in Columbus. Father Joseph Miksch will officiate. Visitation continues from Tuesday on Wednesday from 8-10:30 a.m. at McKown Funeral Home in Columbus. Interment is at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery at David City, with military honors by American Legion Hartman Post 84 Honor Guard.

L. Robert Kreizinger was born May 7, 1925, to Louis R. and Caroline (Meysenburg) Kreizinger at Bellwood. He graduated from David City High School in May 1943.

In November 1943, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served two years. He served in the Air Force Reserves in Lincoln for 28 years until retirement in 1972 at the rank of lieutenant colonel.

On June 7, 1945, he married Alice S. Janky at Gowen Air Force Chapel in Boise, Idaho. After active duty they farmed in Seward, Dodge and Butler counties for 10 years. He worked for Wells Lumber in David City and then for Northern Propane Gas Co. in Columbus and Buckeye Gas Co. in Tulsa, Okla., for a total of 20 years.

Upon retirement they moved back to Columbus in 1991.

He was a member of St. Isidore Catholic Church where he served as Eucharistic Minister, lector, song leader, and choir member. He was a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus and a 50-year member of the American Legion. Bob and his wife volunteered as Eucharistic Ministers and delivered Meals on Wheels for Columbus Community Hospital. They spent 15 years traveling the United States and Canada in their 5th wheel camper.

Bob enjoyed woodworking. He made many beautiful pieces of furniture and craft items for his children and his home. He enjoyed reading, playing cards and working on puzzles, several of which he framed.

He is survived by his wife, Alice; daughter, Dorothy (Gerald) Otoupal of Lincoln; son, Kenneth (Loreen) Kreizinger of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; daughters, Carol Cook and Betsy (Mike) Bonk of Columbus; seven grandchildren, Amy Otoupal Johnson, Krissy Otoupal Simonton, Kelly Cook, Nicole Bonk, Megan Bonk, Katie Kreizinger and Hunter Kreizinger; five great-grandchildren, Katlyn Simonton, Brooke Simonton, Blaine Simonton, Cole Johnson and Kelsey Johnson; his adopted brother, Dan (Zita) Hook of David City; nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceeded in death by his parents; brother Arthur Kreizinger; and sister Josephine Hille.

Memorials: St. Isidore Church building fund. Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home.

Arthur Schaefer

SEWARD -- Arthur Herman Schaefer, 89, of Seward, formerly of Garland, died Saturday, March 13, 2010, in Seward with his family by his side.

Mass of Christian burial was Tuesday, March 16, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with Father Rafael Rodriguez officiating. Interment was at Seward Cemetery.

Casketbearers were George Schaefer Jr., Leonard Buresh Jr., Chad Schaefer, Seth Schaefer, Jason Wagenknecht, Nick Schaefer, Scott Plautz, Zane Schaefer, Myron Schaefer, Andy Schaefer and Travis Wagenknecht.

Honorary casketbearers: Brenda Sebek, Peggie Masek, Darla Fleege, Brandi Turek, Krystal Schaefer, Casey Sova, Stacy Kopecky, Barb White, Laura Peters, Kelli Johnson, Courtney Cookus.

Arthur was born on Sept. 8, 1920, in Garland to William and Bertha (Wagenknecht) Schaefer. He went to Oak Grove School until the eighth grade.

Arthur was united in marriage to Margaret Zitek on Sept. 29, 1942, at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight. Together they raised nine children. Arthur farmed near Garland and worked for Burlington Northern Railroad for 30 years.

Arthur enjoyed baseball. He especially loved to watch all of his grandchildren's sports and activities. He also played the accordion and loved polka music.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret; four sons and four daughters, George and Phyllis Schaefer, Garland, Tom and Dana Schaefer, Garland, Art "Butch" and Jodi Schaefer, Seward, Rick and Melody Schaefer, Garland, Darlene and Leonard Buresh, Raymond, Elaine Plautz, Garland, Diane and Eugene "Cork" Wagenknecht, Garland, MaryAnne and Jack White, Beaver Crossing; 22 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren.

Art was preceded in death by his parents, William and Bertha Schaefer; son, Gerald "Jerry" Schaefer; son-in-law, Gary Plautz; grandsons, Michael Wagenknecht and Steve Plautz; great-grandchild, Cameron Brecka; and 13 siblings.

Memorials to family choice. Condolences: www.volzkefuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Volzke Funeral Home, Seward.

Carol Yound

EXETER -- Carol Elaine Johnson Yound, 73, of Exeter died late in the evening of March 5, 2010.

Private burial services with a public memorial service were held on Wednesday, March 10, at the United Church of Christ in Exeter, with Pastor Tim and Ginny Adams officiating. Diane Hanson accompanied the congregation in the singing of "How Great Thou Art," "Amazing Grace" and "Here I Am Lord."

Honorary pallbearers were grandchildren, Matt and fiancŽ Jocelyn Davis, Jeremy and Brandon Zoubek (Sandy), Lara Yound (Cindy), Anthony, Travis and Erica Yound (Greg), Jennifer and Nathan Yound (Scott), Ashley and Adam Oltman (Sara), great-granddaughter, Presley Jolene Zoubek (Matt).

Mrs. Yound was born to Harold Johnson and Mildred Barker Johnson on Jan. 14, 1937, on a farm near Greenleaf, Kan. She was one of two children in the family. Carol attended country school until they moved to Washington, Kan., where she attended and graduated from Washington High School in 1954.

On April 3, 1955, Carol married Norman Leo Yound, and to this union, six children were born. Carol was active in the church playing the organ, singing in the choir and teaching Sunday school.

In 1970, Carol and Norm moved to Exeter from Washington and opened Norm's IGA. She worked beside Norm until he retired, and then continued working for their son, Greg, until her retirement in 2002. They enjoyed their retirement years together traveling the United States by bus and car. Carol was an avid reader and a member of the library board for several years. She also enjoyed putting jigsaw puzzles together and loved music.

Due to declining health, Carol moved to the Exeter Care Center in July 2009.

She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Norm, of Exeter; children, Sandy and husband, Myron Zoubek, of Milligan, Cindy Yound of David City, Greg and

wife, Jackie, Yound of Exeter, Scott and wife, Jeanette, Yound of Lincoln, Sara and husband, Darrell Oltman, of Lincoln and Shari Yound of Roeland Park, Kan.; sister-in-law Karel Johnson; sister- and brother-in-law, Verda and Larry Lindsley; three nieces; and a nephew.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents; father- and mother-in-law, Emmett and Myrtle Yound of Washington, Kan.; brother, Delvin Johnson of Tonganoxie, Kan.,

sister- and brother-in-law, Eunice and Charles Griffiths of Washington, Kan.

Memorials to United Church of Christ or Exeter Public Library.

Arrangements by Farmer and Son Funeral Home, Exeter.

Joseph Plasek

FREMONT -- Joseph G. Plasek, 62, of Fremont died Friday, March 12, 2010, in Omaha.

The funeral Mass was Tuesday, March 16, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Fremont, with the Rev. Steve Stillmunks of Christ the King Catholic Church in Omaha officiating. Burial was at Appleton Catholic Cemetery near David City, with military graveside honors by American Legion Post 125 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5814 of David City.

He was born Jan. 17, 1948, in David City to Joseph and Emily Plasek. He grew up in David City and graduated from Aquinas High School in David City in 1967. He attended college in Milford.

He served in the United States Army from 1969 to 1977 and served in Vietnam and Germany. He moved to Fremont in 1977. He served in the Army National Guard from 1977 to 2008 and was deployed to Iraq once during that time. He was employed at Victor's Inc. in Fremont for 30 years as a mechanic.

He was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Fremont. He also was active at St. Bernard's Catholic Church in Omaha and with Amway. He was a farmer, soldier, mechanic and hard worker. He loved to cut wood, fixing and building things and was always ready to help others.

Survivors include three daughters, Khristina Plasek of Hickman, Noisha Plasek of Fremont and Jolene (Mrs. Craig) Massey of Front Royal, Va.; his mother, Emily Plasek of David City; three brothers, Jerry (and wife, Deb) Plasek of Lincoln and Steve (and wife, Julie) Plasek and Timothy Plasek, all of David City; three sisters, Kathleen (Mrs. Dean) Wesch of Schuyler and Margret Plasek and Cheryl Plasek, both of David City; life partner, Marcy Stefan of Omaha; three grandchildren, Cheyanne, Cade and Andrew; and his pets, Abbey and Romeo.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph F. Plasek.

Memorials may be made to St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Fremont and American Cancer Society. Condolences: www.mosermemorialchapels.com

Arrangements by Moser Memorial Chapel, Fremont.

Emma Kocian

SEWARD -- Emma C. Kocian, 97, of Dwight died Friday. Services were Tuesday at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight. Burial was at St. Luke's Catholic Cemetery at Loma. Memorials: Donor's choice in care of family. Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.

Harold Stoddard

STROMSBURG -- Harold Dean Stoddard, 84, of Stromsburg died Saturday, Feb. 20, 2010, at Annie Jeffrey Memorial County Health Center in Osceola.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, Feb. 24, at United Methodist Church in Rising City, with Pastor Glenn Hubbard officiating. Graveside services were held at the Stromsburg Cemetery with Military Rites by Stromsburg Legion Post 132.

Organist was Ramona Ellison. Musical selections were "Amazing Grace", "How Great Thou Art" and "In The Garden." Pallbearers were Dennis Nuttelman, Dave Thompson, Scott Lindburg, Scott Prigge, Rex Prigge and Jim Prochaska. Honorary pallbearers were Carrie Cramer, Beth Phillips, Gary Otto, Stephanie Thompson, Michelle Thompson, Wayne Beatty and John Prigge.

Harold was born Oct. 3, 1925, to Merle and Anna (Uphoff) Stoddard in Rising City. He attended Newland country school southwest of Surprise and graduated from Surprise High School in 1942.

He then entered the U.S. Navy where he served his country. Harold was present at the signing of the Articles of Surrender between the United States and Japan in September 1945 on the decks of the U.S.S. Missouri in Tokyo Bay. He returned to the Surprise area where he began farming and raising livestock.

On July 20, 1974, he was united in marriage to Marcia Klein at St. Vincent's Catholic Church in Osceola. Harold and Marcia farmed near Surprise until retiring to Stromsburg in the early 1990s. Harold and Marcia remained in their home until recently moving to Park Villa for the past four months.

Harold enjoyed farming and going to Council Bluffs, Iowa, with his wife. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Rising City, Scottish Rite of Free Masonry and the Shriners of Lincoln. He was also a member of the VFW, Stromsburg Legion Post 132, and United Methodist Church of Rising City.

Survivors include his wife, Marcia of Stromsburg; two brothers, Kenneth (Dorothy) Stoddard of Malta, Ill., and Merle Jr. (Mary) Stoddard of Florida; one sister-in-law, Maxine Stoddard of DeKalb, Ill.; and one brother-in-law, Orville Smith of Shelby; nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Merle and Anna; two brothers, Ivan and

Fred; and three sisters, Mae Davidson, Gladys Arenkill and Mary Ann Smith.

Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Stromsburg.
 

Daniel Samek


TOPEKA, Kan. - Daniel Marion Samek, 76, of Topeka, Kan., died Thursday, March 11, 2010, at the V.A. Hospital in Topeka after a short, unexpected illness.
Funeral services were held Monday, March 15, at Davidson Funeral Home in Topeka. Military honors and graveside services followed at Half-Day Cemetery at Elmont, Kan.

Mr. Samek was born Feb. 24, 1934, at Bruno, the son of Alois and Mary (Sabata) Samek. He was raised in Nebraska and had lived in Topeka since the early 1960s.
He served in the U.S. Navy and later the U.S. Army.
Dan owned and operated Dan's Mower Shop in North Topeka over 30 years.

He was a lifetime member of Post 400 of the American Legion.
Dan was married to Carol Stone in Norfolk, Va. Three children were born to this union, sons, Ron (Ruth) Samek of Fremont and Don (Cheryl) Samek of Lincoln, and daughter, Linda Lanik of Omaha. He married Emma Kennedy on Feb. 4, 1985, in Topeka. Emma survives at their home.

Other survivors include his sister, Mary Jane (Bill) Riha of Seward; stepchildren, Lee Kennedy, Shirley Cummings and Wesley (Grace) Kennedy, all of Topeka, Barbara (Bill) Mikijanis of Tonganoxie, Kan.; 16 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Valerian; and former wife, Carol.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Topeka Rescue Mission in care of Davidson Funeral Home, 1035 North Kansas Avenue, Topeka, KS 66608 or any charity.

Edward O'Brien


Edward L. O'Brien, 87, died Saturday, March 20, 2010.

Funeral Services are at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, March 24, at Chermok Funeral Home Chapel in David City. Visitation is one hour before the funeral.
Edward was born on April 28, 1922, in Loretto to Irvin J. and Frances (Reed) O'Brien.
He married Arlene Carnahan on July 9, 1941, in Barrington, Ill.

He served during World War II as a Tank Commander in France and Germany.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, reading, playing the accordion, dancing and telling stories and talking about the Sandhills.  

Edward is survived by grandchildren, Gina (Chris) Limmer of Omaha and Pat (Amy) O'Brien of Omaha; daughter-in-law, Doris O'Brien of Omaha; sisters, Patti O'Brien of Tucson, Ariz., and Cheryl (Pete) Coronel of Yuma, Ariz.; great-grandchildren, Jordan and Trevor Limmer, Michael, Ty and Caleb O'Brien; brothers-in-law; sister-in-law; and nieces and nephews.  
Edward was preceded in death by his parents; wife; son, Michael; brother, Jay; and stepmother, Gladys.

Memorials: Nebraska Games and Park Commission and Alzheimer's Association. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.

George Remmers


George Philip Remmers, 72, of Garrison died Sunday, March 21, 2010, at David Place in David City.

Funeral Services were at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 24, at Faith Lutheran Church in Rising City. Burial was at Faith East Cemetery.

George was born Jan. 30, 1938, in Garrison to George and Esther M. (Daro) Remmers. He graduated from David City High School in 1956 and served in the U.S. Army from January 1958 to January 1960.

George is survived by his brothers, Stephen (Judy) Remmers of York, John Remmers of David City and David (Alice) Remmers of Lincoln; sisters, Marianne (Karl) Ziethen of Garrison, Marjorie (Kenneth) Klingemann of Garrison, and Dianne (Stanley) Musil of Columbus; special friend, Teresa Garihan of Omaha; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Holly Remmers.
Memorials may be given "In Care of the Family." Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Geraldine Polacek   


Geraldine Polacek, 66, of Bruno, died Sunday, March 21, 2010, at Merrick Manor in Fremont.
Mass of Christian Burial is at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 24, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Bruno, with Father Ron Homes, celebrant. Burial is at St. Anthony's Cemetery.
Geraldine was born Feb. 29, 1944, in North Bend to Edward T. and Agnes (Haba) Kucera. She graduated from David City High School in 1962. 

On May 5, 1964, she married Gary Polacek at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Bruno. They farmed near Bruno and Geraldine worked at the Butler County Health Care Center for over 10 years.

She loved cooking, baking kolaches, dancing and teaching the children how to dance. She was a member of St. Anthony's Catholic Church and PCCW.

Geraldine is survived by her husband, Gary of Bruno; one daughter, Stephanie Polacek of Norfolk; one son, Jeremy (Sarah) Polacek of Norfolk; three sisters; Karen (Alden) Kment of Schuyler, Loretta (Ed) Patchen Jr. of Fremont and Jeanette (Tim) Blake of Schuyler; two sisters-in-law, Dott Polacek of Gulf Port, Miss., and Rita (Leonard) Chapek of Weston; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Agnes Kucera; and a brother-in-law, Eldon Polacek.
Memorials: Family Wishes. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

 

Martha Horacek


LAWTON, Okla. -- Martha B. Horacek, 97, died Monday, March 15, 2010, in Lawton, Okla.
Memorial service was Tuesday at Concordia University, The Rock House, 200 Faculty Lane, in Seward. A private family interment will be at Bohemian National Cemetery at Brainard.
Martha was born May 30, 1912, in Rushville to Morris A. and Josie Merl (Clark) Horn. She grew up in Norfolk and was married to Lad A. (Jake) Horacek on Sept. 24, 1933, in Norfolk. He preceded her in death on Aug. 17, 1975. 

Prior to her marriage, she had worked as a sales clerk before managing her home and family with great love and skills. She was a member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Omaha.
She is survived by her sons, Perry, Jerry and David; 16 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.

Several brothers, sisters and son, Charles, preceded her in death.
Memorials: Bohemian National Cemetery, 1630 30th Road, David City, NE 68632.
Arrangements by Becker Funeral Home Inc., 1502 Fort Sill Blvd. Lawton, OK 73507;   (580)353-3030; email@beckerfuneral.com
 

Stanley Bartek


VALPARAISO -- Stanley W. Bartek, 94, of Lincoln, formerly of Valparaiso, died Sunday, March 21, 2010.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Friday, March 26, at Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso. Celebrant Monsignor Adrian Herbek will officiate. Visitation is noon to 5 p.m. Thursday at Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home, 424 Pine Street, Valparaiso, with a 6:30 p.m. rosary at the church. Burial will be at St. Joseph's Cemetery at Agnew. 

Mr. Bartek was born Dec. 2, 1915, at Agnew to Charles and Frances (Novak) Bartek.  He was a member of Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso and Catholic Workman.
Stanley was a retired farmer.

Survivors include sons and daughters, Gregory Bartek of Lincoln, Mary Lou Rerucha of Ralston, Georgiann Gerner of Crete, Rose Ann Oborny of Bellwood, Dennis Bartek of Valparaiso, Sylvester Bartek of Lincoln, Daniel Bartek of Valparaiso and Jean Clausen of Lincoln; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Rose; three daughters; a son; a grandson; a son-in-law; parents; and two sisters.

Memorials: Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church.
Condolences or personal reflections may be sent on line at www.wadlowrozanek.com
Arrangements by Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home.

Martha Demuth 


SEWARD -- Martha Marie Demuth, 89, of Seward, died Friday, March 19, 2010, in York.
Mass of Christian Burial was Tuesday, March 23, at St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with Father Rand Langhorst officiating. Burial was at Seward Cemetery.

She was born to Frank and Rose (Trojan) Zitek on Sept. 11, 1920, at Ulysses. Martha was a 1937 graduate of Assumption High School in Dwight.

She was united in marriage to George W. Demuth on Nov. 25, 1941, in Dwight. They lived on a farm near Staplehurst until 1970 when they moved into Staplehurst. They remained in Staplehurst until moving to Seward in 1998. 

She was a devoted farmwife and worked at Seward Memorial Hospital for 31 years as a nurses aide. Martha enjoyed gardening, baking and listening and dancing to Czech music.
Martha is preceded in death by her husband, George Demuth; son, Dr. David Demuth; parents, Frank and Rose (Trojan) Zitek; brothers, Edwin and Leo Zitek; brother-in-law, Art Schaefer.

Left to cherish her memories are her son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Barb Demuth of Seward; daughters and sons-in-law, Connie and Dave Wimmer of West Point, Paula and Don Volker of York and Pam and Lonn Hutcheson of Lewisville, Texas; daughter-in-law, Deb Demuth of York; 13 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; sister, Margaret Schaefer of Seward; sisters-in-law, Loretta Zitek of Lincoln and Nell DeMuth of Spokane, Wash.; many nieces and nephews.

Memorials: To family. Condolences: www.zabkafuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.

Bill Kuncl


PRAGUE -- William J. "Bill" Kuncl, 50, died Wednesday, March 17, 2010, at his home in Prague.

Funeral Mass was Saturday, March 20, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Prague, with Father Jamie Hottovy, clergy. Interment was at St. John Cemetery. Pallbearers were Glenn Chvatal, Bob Dauel, Greg Ourada, Larry Ourada, Gary Prochaska and Roger Drews.

Honorary pallbearers were Bob Furasek, Chris, T.J., Jesse, Darren and Nathan Kuncl.
Bill was born in Wahoo on Dec. 17, 1959, to Victor and Helen (Klein) Kuncl. He attended Prague Public School, graduating in 1978.

Bill married Lori Chadek on Oct. 4, 1980, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Prague. Bill lived in Prague his whole life and operated a tractor and truck tire repair business for many years. In recent years, he had been working for Bauer Built in North Bend.

Bill is survived by his daughters, Kendra Kuncl of Omaha and Kelsey Kuncl of Lincoln; mother, Helen Kuncl of Prague; sisters and brother-in-law, Joan and Ray Furasek of Weston and Ruth Kuncl of Prague; brothers and sister-in-law, Tom and Val Kuncl of Prague and Steve Kuncl of Malmo; many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Victor Kuncl.
Memorials: In care of family.
Arrangements by Kucera Funeral Home, Prague.

Milo Kaspar


Milo Kaspar, 92, of Columbus, formerly of David City, died Sunday, March 21, 2010, in Wahoo.

Funeral Mass is at 10 a.m. Friday, March 26, at St. Francis Catholic Church at Center, with Father Kenneth Hoesing, celebrant. Visitation is 1-4 p.m. Thursday, March 25, at Chermok Funeral Home in David City.

Visitation will continue after 6 p.m. at St. Francis Church, followed by a 7:30 p.m. rosary. Burial will be at St. Francis Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Michael Grant, Tyler Grant, Matt Kaspar, Mark Kaspar, Neil Kaspar and Tom Kaspar. Acolyte: Doug Matulka; Lector: Jim Stara; Reader: Jim Daro.  
Milo was born July 22, 1917, on a farm near Prague to Thomas and Emma (Curda) Kaspar. He attended grade school near Weston and graduated from Weston High School in 1935. In the early 1940s Milo worked for Bell Aircraft in Buffalo, N.Y., and also at Glen L. Martin in Omaha.

In January 1944 he joined the U.S. Army Air Corps ground crew and was discharged in June 1946 as a sergeant.  

On April 5, 1945, Milo married Antonia Sisel in Loma. He started farming with Antonia in 1947 near Weston. Two children were born during this time, a daughter, Sharon, and son, Norman. In 1955, the family moved near David City, where they farmed until retiring in 1982. In 1990, they moved to Columbus.  

Milo served on the District 23 County School Board, Center Township Board and St. Francis Church Board. In addition, he was a 50-year member of Rejda Post 273 American Legion in Brainard and member of the Knights of Columbus and St. Isidore Catholic Church in Columbus. He enjoyed bowling, dancing, working with wood and playing cards.  


Milo is survived by a son, Norman (Cheryl) Kaspar of David City; daughter, Sharon Werner of Lincoln; grandchildren, Rebecca (Mike) Grant, Matt (Amber) Kaspar, Natalie (Jimmy) Bunch, Mark Kaspar and Neil Kaspar; great-grandchildren, Mekayla, Tyler, Caden Addison and Bailey Grant and Olivia and Adison Kaspar; brother-in-law, Ernie Sabatka; sister-in-law, Helen Sisel; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Milo was preceded in death by his parents; wife; grandson, Michael Benes; and brother, Max Kaspar.

Memorials: Parkinson Disease Foundation. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.
 

 

Stanley Bartek

VALPARAISO -- Stanley W. Bartek, 94, of Lincoln, formerly of Valparaiso, died Sunday, March 21, 2010.

Mass of Christian Burial was Friday, March 26, at Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso, with Monsignor Adrian Herbek officiating. Burial was at St. Joseph's Cemetery at Agnew.

Mr. Bartek was born Dec. 2, 1915, at Agnew to Charles and Frances (Novak) Bartek. He was a member of Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso and Catholic Workman.

Stanley was a retired farmer.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Gregory and Lu Bartek of Lincoln, Dennis Bartek of Valparaiso, Sylvester and Patricia Bartek of Lincoln and Daniel Bartek of Valparaiso; daughters and sons-in-law, Mary Lou Rerucha of Ralston, Georgiann and Gary Gerner of Crete, Rose Ann Louis Oborny of Bellwood, Jean and Brian Clausen of Lincoln, Glenn Bouc and Arlen Warta; sister, Lillian Jirovsky; brother, Ivan Bartek; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Rose; daughters, Virginia Skipper, Diane Warta and Doris Bouc; son, Joseph; grandson, Glen Gerner; son-in-law, Joe Rerucha; and sisters, Sister Marie Bartek and Josephine Navracil.

Memorials: Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church.

Condolences: www.wadlowrozanek.com

Arrangements by Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home, Valparaiso.

Steve Riha

Steve M. Riha, 51, of David City, died Friday, March 26, 2010, at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln.

Funeral Mass is at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 31, in St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Additional viewing from Tuesday will be Wednesday, one hour before services at the church. Burial will be at the church cemetery.

Steven M. Riha was born on March 18, 1959, at David City to Eugene and Regina (Vrbka) Riha. He graduated from Aquinas High School in David City in 1978.

He worked at the Schuyler Packing Plant for 10 years and he also farmed. Farming was his life's work. He farmed with his brother Dan most of his adult life. Steve's other hobbies included watching the stock market daily and knowing what prices grain, gold and silver were at each day. He also enjoyed being with family and socializing at Northside or Stop-Inn. He would occasionally enjoy a trip to the horse races when time permitted. He also spent time playing cards at the senior center in David City.

Steve is survived by his mother, Regina (Marvin) Skala of Crete; his siblings, Larry Riha of David City, Connie (Tim) Novicki of Columbus, Michael Riha and Daniel Riha, both of David City, and Randy (Roxene) Riha, Janie (Cliff) Ziemba and Dale Riha, all of Columbus; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Eugene, in 1994; and his grandparents, John and Agnes Vrbka and Anton and Matilda Riha.

The family has requested in lieu of flowers, memorials be given towards Mass Intentions or In Care of the Family. Condolences may be sent to www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Glenna Betzen

MCPHERSON, Kan. -- Glenna Merle Betzen, 88, of McPherson, Kan., died Wednesday, March 17, 2010, at Cedars House in McPherson.

A private family funeral service was held at Glidden-Ediger Chapel in McPherson, with Chaplain Scott Watford officiating. Private family graveside services were at Elmwood Cemetery at Woodward, Okla.

Glenna Merle was born in Woodward on Oct. 23, 1921, the daughter of Farris W. and Ethel (Lucas) Campbell. Glenna Merle attended a Woodward country school and graduated from Woodward High School. She attended business school.

She was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in McPherson, a former member of the Altar Society and Legion of Mary of St. Joseph Catholic Church in McPherson and a former member of St. Peter Catholic Church in Woodward.

Glenna Merle was a homemaker and a bookkeeper for C. R. Anthony's Clothier's and worked alongside Francis for many years. Glenna Merle was a former member of the Elk's Club of McPherson. She was the widow of Francis J. Betzen. They were married on Sept. 8, 1940, at Woodward and Francis died on Dec. 28, 1987.

Surviving members of her family include two daughters, Carol (John) Austin of McPherson and Cathy (Tom) McProud of Olathe, Kan.; a son, Kendall Betzen of David City; 10 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Glenna Merle was preceded in death by her parents; husband; a son, F. Keith Betzen; and a younger brother Bob Campbell.

Memorials: St. Joseph Catholic Church or American Diabetes Association in care of Glidden-Ediger Funeral Home, 222 W. Euclid Street, McPherson, KS 67460.

 

Emma Kocian

SEWARD -- Emma Christina Kocian, 97, of Dwight died Friday, March 12, 2010, in David City.

Mass of Christian Burial was Tuesday, March 16, at Assumption Catholic Church in

Dwight, with Celebrant Father Sean Timmerman. Burial was at St. Luke's Catholic Cemetery at Loma.

Emma was born Dec. 18, 1912, southwest of Loma, to Thomas J. and Emilie (Klima) Kocian. Emma attended rural school in Seward County and Butler County.

On May 21, 1934, Emma was united in marriage to Emil Alois Kocian at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Bee. Their marriage was blessed with two children, Geraldine and Donald. They farmed near Loma until 1964 when they moved to Dwight.

Emma was a member of Assumption Catholic Church, Altar Society and KD Workmen.

Emma is preceded in death by her husband, Emil Kocian; her parents, Thomas and Emilie Kocian; son-in-law, Don Rejda; sisters and brothers-in-law, Lillian and Anton Kocian and Marie and Louis Ruzicka; brothers and sisters-in-law, Louis and Lydia Kocian and Roman and Phyllis Kocian; two infant brothers, Stanley and Thomas Kocian; sister-in-law, May Kocian; and brother-in-law, Wilmer Virgil.

Emma is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Geraldine and Arnold Kouma of Lincoln; son and daughter-in-law, Donald and Geraldine Kocian of Dwight; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; sister, Blanche Virgil of Raymond; four step grandchildren; 20 step great-grandchildren; two step great-great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

Memorials: Donor's choice in care of the family.

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.

Darlene Jurgensmeier

VALPARAISO -- Darlene M. (Vondra) Jurgensmeier, 80, of David City, formerly of Agnew, died peacefully on Saturday, March 27, 2010.

Mass of Christian Burial is at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 31, at Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso, with Monsignor Adrian Herbek officiating. Burial is at St. Joseph's Cemetery at Agnew.

She was born on Sept. 29, 1929, to Ernest and Mildred (Rehovsky) Vondra at Bee. Darlene graduated from Valparaiso High School in 1947, then pursued a career in teaching. She taught at a county school near Raymond and also worked at Elgin Watch Co. in Lincoln. A short time later she met the love of her life, Jerry Jurgensmeier, and they were united in marriage on June 30, 1949. From that point on she devoted her entire life to caring for her family.

Darlene's devotion to God, her parents, husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was her greatest gift. By way of example, she instilled the importance of family and the bond that holds it together, for which her children are eternally grateful.

Darlene is preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; parents; and brother, Melvin Vondra.

She is survived by her children and spouses, Lois Joyce of Raymond, Lee and Vicki Jurgensmeier of Lakewood, Wash., Keith and Sherry Jurgensmeier of Gresham, Laurie and Bill Kreitman of David City and Terri and Lloyd Jakoubek of Raymond; 13 grandchildren and spouses; three great-grandchildren; sister and brother-in-law, Jeannie and Hal Waller; brother and sister-in-law, Norman and Doris Vondra; nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be directed to the family for future designation. Condolences: www.wadlowrozanek.com

Arrangements by Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home, Valparaiso.

Kenneth Moser

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - Kenneth Moser of Overland Park, Kan., died Saturday, March 6, 2010.

The funeral was Tuesday, March 9, in Mission, Kan. Burial was March 10 at David City.

Kenneth was born Aug. 1, 1932, at Niobrara (Verdel) to Ralph Moser and Josephine McAffee.

Survivors include his wife, Rita (Dolezal) Moser; sons, Keith and wife, Lori, of Una, Idaho, and Roger of Olathe, Kan.; grandson, Logan Moser of Forrest Grove, Ore.; sisters, Delores (Bob) Morgan of Lincoln and Janet (Don) Christensen of Henderson, Nev.; brother, Karen (Dixie) Moser of Omaha; sister-in-law, Agnes (Bill) Kobza of Lincoln; and brothers-in-law, Al (Christine) Dolezal of Columbus and Anton (Betty) Dolezal of David City.

 

Jean Skripek

RANCHO SANTA FE, Calif. - Jean Elizabeth (Lowry) Skripek of Rancho Santa Fe, Calif., died peacefully at home on Tuesday, March 23, 2010.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 23, in the El Camino Memorial - Sorrento Valley Chapel, 5600 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego, CA.

Jean was born and spent her early childhood in New York City. As a young child, along with her twin sister, she spent many summers and attended school in Rising City. Returning to the East Coast, she graduated from Verona High School in Verona, N.J. Continuing her education, she graduated from Montclair State University and later received her law degree from Rutgers Law School.

She was admitted to the New Jersey Bar in 1984 and joined the law firm of Brach, Eichler, Rosenberg and Silver, et al in Roseland, N.J. In 1989, Jean moved to San Diego, where she was admitted to the California State Bar. She was associated with the law firm of Jennings, Engstrom and Hendrikson and then the firm of Duckor and Spradling. She later formed her own Family Law practice.

In 1963, Jean married Joseph P. Skripek, Esq., and they had two sons, Michael and Craig.

She is survived by her sons, Michael and wife, Kathy, and Craig and wife, Annabell; twin sister, Joan L. Apisa; mother, Marcella DiMele; five grandchildren; niece; nephew; cousin; and many friends and associates. Jean was the granddaughter of Olive (Ruth) Thomas of Rising City.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Scripps Green Hospital Cancer Center, 10666 North Torrey Pines Road, LaJolla, CA 92037.

April 2010 Obituaries

Louis Svoboda

Funeral services for Louis Svoboda, 94, of David City are pending with Kracl Funeral Chapel of Schuyler and David City.

Norma Jean Kovar

Norma Jean Kovar, 77, of David City died Saturday at Butler County Health Care Center in David City. Mass of Christian burial is at 10 a.m. Friday, April 9, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Visitation with family receiving friends is from 4-8 p.m., with a rosary at 7 p.m., on Thursday, both at Kracl Funeral Chapel in David City.

 

Ann Kassmeier

SCHUYLER -- Ann M. Kassmeier, 69, of Schuyler died Thursday, April 1, 2010, at Golden Living Center in Schuyler. Mass of Christian Burial was Tuesday, April 6, at Divine Mercy Parish (St. Augustine Catholic Church) in Schuyler, with Father Gerald Leise, celebrant. Burial was at Schuyler Cemetery.

Ann Tschantre was born July 28, 1940, in Columbus to Joseph and Anna (Bartunek)

Tschantre. She graduated from Clarkson High School.

On June 5, 1958, Ann was united in marriage to Kenneth Kassmeier at Wilson Catholic Church in Colfax County. Ann and Kenny lived in North Bend, Hooper and Schuyler. She worked in banks in Hooper and Schuyler, retiring from First National Bank in Schuyler. Ann also worked at Golden Living Center in Schuyler for two years.

She was a member of Divine Mercy, St. Augustine's Parish, and a member of Divine Mercy Ladies Guild.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Kenneth, on Jan. 3, 2010; and sisters, JoAnn Bingham Molacek and Monica Pickhinke.

She is survived by a sister and brother-in-law, Lucille (Marvin) Pickhinke of Howells; brother and sister-in-law, Daniel (Alice) Tschantre of Columbus; sisters-in-law, Karen (Rodney) Perrin of Schuyler and Jani Kassmeier Born of Loveland, Colo.; 13 nieces and 15 nephews, Brenda Cech, Shell Byrnes, Joseph Tschantre, Daniel Tschantre Jr., Kevin Tschantre, Ann Finley, Bill Bingham, Linda Tayler, Joe Molacek, Gary Pickhinke, Larry Pickhinke, Dennis Pickhinke, Duane Pickhinke, Russ Pickhinke, Mina Will, Karen Terry, Barbara Sobota, Debra Tomcak, James Pickhinke, Betty Dirkschnieder, John Pickhinke, Theresa Vernoy, Mike Pickhinke, DeAnn Silvester, Paul Pickhinke, Randy Kassmeier, Connie Groene and Carrie Blum.

Memorials: To the family. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapels, Schuyler.

Gary Otto

Gary L. Otto, 67, of Ulysses died Thursday, April 1, 2010, at David Place in David City.

Funeral services were Monday, April 5, at United Methodist Church in Rising City, with Pastor Glenn Hubbard officiating. Graveside services were at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, rural Rising City, with Pastor David Palomaki officiating.

Gary was born March 29, 1943, in David City to Read and Berniece (Kelly) Otto. He graduated from David City High School in 1961.

On Jan. 24, 1976, he married Sandra Schroeder at Christ Lutheran Church in Lincoln. Gary was a lifelong farmer in the Surprise-Ulysses area.

He was a lifelong member of the Ulysses Methodist Church, member of Ulysses Volunteer Fire Department, Composite Lodge 81 of Rising City and Ulysses Rural Fire Department Board and served in the National Guard.

He enjoyed farming, livestock, watching the markets and driving around on his four-wheeler and in his truck. He enjoyed watching the garden grow in the summer and lived for the sweet corn patch. He was a people person and liked having people around. He especially liked watching his grandkids play.

Gary is survived by his wife, Sandra, of Ulysses; son, Matthew (April) Otto of Ceresco; daughters, Tamra (Joe) Mick of Lincoln and Heidi Otto of Beaufort, S.C.; mother, Berniece Otto of Lincoln; brother, Rick (Terry) Otto of Lincoln; sister, Lynda (Jim) Endicott of Poway, Calif.; and grandchildren, Andrew, Reid and Alexa Otto and Carter and Tyler Mick.

He was preceded in death by his father, Read Otto, in 1977.

Memorials: Ulysses Fire Department or American Heart Association. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Leonard Masek

WAHOO -- Leonard J. Masek, 84, of Touhy died Thursday, April 1, 2010, in Lincoln.

Mass of Christian Burial was Tuesday, April 6, at St. Vitus Catholic Church, Touhy, with Father Thomas Brouilette officiating. Interment was at St. Vitus Cemetery. Casket bearers were Grant Evert, Ethan Evert, Seth Evert, Annalee Masek, Jason Masek and Brent Masek.

Mr. Masek was born Jan. 18, 1926, at Weston to William and Mary (Houska) Masek. He attended grade school at Weston and then graduated from Weston High School.

He married Maxine Jambor June 20, 1950, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Prague. He was a lifetime resident of the Touhy area. He was a longtime buyer and seller of cattle.

He was a member of St. Vitus Catholic Church, Touhy.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Maxine; son, Duane Masek; son-in-law, Tom Conneally; and grandson, Jeremy Masek.

Survivors include daughters and son-in-law, Collette and Gary Evert of Lincoln and Renee Conneally of Northville, Mich.; sons and daughter-in-law, Randy Masek and Roxanne Durbin of Lincoln and Paul and Kim Masek of Malcolm; grandchildren, Grant, Ethan and his wife, Stephanie, Seth and Alison Evert, Annalee Masek, Jason and his wife, Holli, and Brent Masek and Erin Conneally; sisters, Gladys Cajka of Wahoo, Grace Carrier of Phoenix, Genevieve Muench of Cheney, Wash., and Georgianette Downen of Phoenix; and brother, Larry Masek of Touhy.

Memorials: To family.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

Meldean Bomar

 

PIERCE -- Meldean I. Bomar, 80, of Pierce died Saturday, April 3, 2010, at Heritage of Bel-Air in Norfolk.

Funeral services are at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 8, at Zion Lutheran Church in Pierce, with the Rev. Gordon Bruce officiating. Visitation is 4-8 p.m. Wednesday at the church. Interment is at Prospect Hill Cemetery at Norfolk.

Organist will be Dottie Ahlers and soloist, Rick Higgins. Casket bearers are Justin Bomar, Lukas Bomar, Mike Bomar, Chad Hoffman, Curtis Robertson, Robbie Robinson and Caleb Sullivan. Honorary casket bearers are grandchildren, great- grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Bomar was born Feb. 22, 1930, in Norfolk to William and Elsie (Schwede) Viergutz. She was baptized March 9, 1930, and confirmed on March 28, 1944, both at Christ Lutheran Church, Norfolk. She attended Christ Lutheran Parochial School in Norfolk and Norfolk High School through the 11th grade.

She married Fred L. Bomar April 20, 1946, at Maryville, Kan. They lived in Norfolk, then moved to Pierce. They owned and operated the Corner Bar in Pierce five years. Meldean then worked at Bill's Place CafŽ and Bar in Pierce. They then owned and operated the Old Home Cafe in Pierce.

Meldean was instrumental in getting the Senior Center going with "Meals on Wheels." She had adult foster care out of her home for 25 years. Then, she retired. She has been a resident of Heritage of Bel-Air since November 2009. She was a loving Mother and Grandmother. She was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, Pierce, and Pierce American Legion Auxiliary.

Survivors include children, Rita and husband Charles Wragge of Foster, John and wife Marlene Bomar of Madison, Dorothy Freudenburg of Battle Creek, Melvin and wife Gail Bomar of Bellwood, Mary Wragge of Pierce, Susan and husband Tim Hoffman of Madison and Lorie Sullivan of Pierce; 25 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sister, Norma and husband Jack Bush of Omaha; sister-in-law, Lois Viergutz of Norfolk; and son-in-law, Alvin Synovec of Kearney.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elsie and William Viergutz; her husband on Jan. 24, 2006; sisters, Helen Pennewell and Elois Ohler; brothers, Marvin Viergutz and William Viergutz Jr.; daughter, Beverly Synovec; two grandchildren, Ashley Kuether and Wade Sullivan; and son-in-law, Randy Wragge.

Arrangements By Stonacek Memorial Chapel, Pierce.

Anton Samek

Anton "Tony" L. Samek, 88, of David City, died Easter Sunday, April 4, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

A Funeral Mass was held on April 6 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Burial was at St. Mary's Cemetery.

Tony was born Aug. 19, 1921, at Appleton to Adolph and Antonia (Svoboda) Samek. He was a lifelong farmer.

He served as an altar boy for six years, a trustee for eight years, an usher for six years, a commentator for 10 years and was one of the first in the parish to acolyte. He was a 3rd degree Knight and member of the Knights of Columbus for 56 years.

Tony was a Butler County Supervisor for 32 years and during that time was instrumental in the building of the new courthouse, the new hospital, the construction of the Abie-David City highway and bringing Region 5 to David City.

Tony was a 15-gallon blood donor and worked for Knott Funeral Home in David City for three years.

Tony served in the U.S. Army during World War II and recently donated some of his army memorabilia to the David City Veterans Museum. He was a 50-year member of the David City American Legion.

Tony is survived by his wife, Rose, of David City; daughters, Carole Essink of Grand Island, Jan (Dick) Schmid of David City, Mary (Randy) Schultz of David City, Judy (Mark) Moravec of Grand Island and Susan (Kevin) Gustafson of Seward; sons, Tom (Jane) Samek of David City, Bob (Dee) Samek of David City and Steve (Monica) Samek of Omaha; 24 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren and three on the way; three stepgreat-grandchildren; brother, Fred Samek; brother-in-law, John Rerucha; and sister-in-law, Marie Jirovsky.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bill; sisters, Martha Piitz, Anna Rerucha and Rose Kozisek; and son-in-law, Jim Essink.

Memorials: Family's Wishes.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

 

Clarence Ewert

Clarence Edwin Ewert, 84, of Bellwood died Wednesday, April 7, 2010, at David Place in David City.

The funeral service was Monday, April 12, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Columbus, with the Rev. Patrick Sparling officiating. Interment was at Roselawn Memorial Cemetery, with military honors by American Legion Post 327 Honor Guard of Bellwood.

Clarence Ewert was born Nov. 7, 1925, on a farm in Platte County to Paul and Anna (Bell) Ewert. In 1929, the family moved to Octavia, until 1940 when they moved to Bellwood. He was confirmed in 1940 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Columbus. Clarence graduated from Bellwood High School in 1943.

He entered the U.S. Army on Dec. 4, 1950. He served his country as a CPL in Korea from 1951-52 with the 13th Engineers Combat Battalion, 7th Infantry Division. Clarence was honorably discharged on Aug. 27, 1956.

Clarence was united in marriage to Norma Langhorst on June 16, 1953, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Columbus. They lived and farmed in the Bellwood area until retiring in 1995. Clarence did seasonal jobs, including working at the Columbus Berg Vault Co.

He attended Immanuel Lutheran Church and was a member of American Legion Post 327 of Bellwood. Clarence enjoyed playing cards, the accordion, dancing, hunting and spending time with his family and friends.

Clarence is survived by sons, Michael Ewert and Patrick Ewert, both of Bellwood; daughters, Sandra (Mark) Zechmann of Grand Island and Brenda (Ron) Shipley of David City; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sister, Frances Ewert of Bellwood; sister-in-law, Zelda Bullock of Friend; brother-in-law, Francis Langhorst of North Bend; many nieces and nephews.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Anna Ewert; his wife, Norma Ewert in 2001; daughter, Patricia Marie Ewert; and granddaughter, Tammy Lynn Ewert.

Memorials may be directed to the family's choice. Condolences may be sent to www.gasshaney.com

Arrangements by Gass Haney Funeral Home, Columbus

Henrietta Bartek

LINCOLN -- Henrietta Bartek, 84, of Lincoln, died Friday, April 9, 2010.

Mass of Christian Burial was Tuesday, April 13, at St. John's Catholic Church in Lincoln. Father Lyle Johnson officiated. Burial was at Lincoln Memorial Park.

Mrs. Bartek was a member of St. John's Catholic Church, Church Altar Society and Legion of Mary.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Linda and David Egr of Lincoln, Charlene and Greg Smith of Omaha, Roberta Pernicek of Lincoln and Shelly Bartek of Omaha; grandchildren and spouses, Brian and Jamie Egr, Kelly and Ryan Duncan, Brandy and Ryan Escamilla, Todd Pernicek and fiancee Michelle Clarke, GR Smith and Cody Smith; four great-grandchildren; sisters and brothers-in-law, Josephine and Bob McGurk, Clarice and Joseph Sladky; brother and sister-in-law, Edwin and Dolly Kudlacek, Gerald and Mary Ann Kudlacek; sisters-in-law, Clara Karpisek, Marge Gubser, Berniece Houska and Mary Bartek; many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Rudolph B. Bartek in 2000; parents, Edward Kudlacek and Stella (Ratkovec) Kudlacek; brothers, Richard Kudlacek and George Bartek; and nephews, Alan Kudlacek and Michael McGurk.

Memorials: Tabitha Hospice, Mass Offerings, Henrietta Bartek family. Condolences: www.bmlfh.com

Arrangements by Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home, Lincoln.

Veronica Rerucha

Veronica Rerucha, 99, of Bruno, died Tuesday, April 6, 2010, at David Place in David City.

Funeral Mass was Friday, April 9, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Bruno, with Father Ronald Homes officiating. Burial was at the church cemetery.

Veronica C. Rerucha was born on Aug. 1, 1910, on the farm near Valparaiso to Joseph and Anna (Jirovsky) Masek. She helped out with farm work while growing up and eventually moved to Lincoln and worked in the meat department of the Ideal Grocery Store on North 27th Street.

She married Frank Rerucha on Sept. 20, 1949, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Valparaiso and moved to Butler County to work alongside her husband on the farm.

Veronica loved to work in her garden, raising flowers, and was also considered the top baker of kolaches in the area. She enjoyed being with family, sewing, canning and most of all making sure those around her never went without. She had a giving spirit that was known by all who ever associated with her.

She is survived by her daughter, Marjorie Rerucha, and her fiance, David Casipit of Antioch, Calif.; one brother, Leonard (Bonnie) Masek of Valparaiso; two sisters, Elizabeth (Glen) Gates of Prague and Genevieve Kobza of Valparaiso; one brother-in-law, John Rerucha of David City; two sisters-in-law, Dolores Roh of Schuyler and Rose Masek of Seward; many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank, in 1976; four sisters, two in infancy and Anna Masek and Antonia Kobza; and three brothers, Frank (infant), Joseph C. and Harry Masek.

Memorials: Masses or in care of the family.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City

Richard Tomasevicz

 

OMAHA -- Richard "Dick" Tomasevicz died April 7, 2010.

Services were Monday, April 12, at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 5801 Oak Hills Drive, in Omaha. Interment was at Resurrection Cemetery.

Dick was born Dec. 5, 1943, at Shelby to John and Virginia (Bernt) Tomasevicz. He attended elementary and high school in Shelby. He graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1966.

On Dec. 3, 1966, Dick married Elaine Kohout. Shortly thereafter, Dick went to work for Union Insurance Co. in North Platte, then State Farm Insurance in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In 1974, he and his wife bought Service Master of Omaha where they both worked together for 35 years, retiring in 2009 due to his health.

Dick was a great storyteller and loved nothing better than to be with friends and tell stories and jokes. He also enjoyed boating, golf, bowling, photography and the horse races. He was also a Husker fan. Dick loved to travel, taking his family to Florida and California. Later in life, Dick and Elaine enjoyed cruises to the Caribbean and trips to Las Vegas.

Dick is preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Elaine; daughter, Kris Tomasevicz; son, Mike Tomasevicz, all of Omaha; sister, Donna and husband Don Wehunt of Atlanta, Ga.; brother, Dennis Tomasevicz and wife Amy of Shelby; numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Memorials: American Heart Association.

Arrangements by John A. Gentleman Mortuaries, Omaha.

Oren Kennedy

COLUMBUS -- Oren Kennedy, 78, of Columbus died Thursday, April 8, 2010, at the Golden Living Center in Schuyler.

Mass of Christian burial was Tuesday, April 13, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus, with Father Tom Weisbecker officiating. Interment is Wednesday, April 14, at 11 a.m. at Schuyler Cemetery, with military honors by American Legion Hartman Post 84 Honor Guard.

Oren Henry Kennedy was born April 18, 1931, in Burwell to Fred and Edna (Blackburn) Kennedy. Fred's job with the railroad took the family to many locations in Nebraska. They settled in Bellwood, where Oren graduated from high school.

Oren joined the Marine Corp on July 10, 1952, where he served in the Korean War. Oren was honorably discharged on April 14, 1954. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal and the UN Service Medal. Oren went to work for Behlen Manufacturing in Columbus upon his return from his military service.

He was united in marriage to Patricia Freeman on Feb. 14, 1957, at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Schuyler. They made their home in Columbus where they raised their three daughters. Oren started working at the Holiday Inn (New World Inn) during its construction, and continued as the maintenance manager for over 30 years. Oren retired from New World Inn to devote his time to caring for his wife, Pat, during her illness. Oren was a "jack of all trades," enjoyed woodworking, fishing, gardening and spending time with his family. He was a member of St. Bonaventure Catholic Church.

Oren is survived by daughters, Nancy (Tim) Koch, Jill (James) Sander and Laurie (Cody) Schilling, all of Columbus; grandchildren, Brian Sander (fiancŽe, Katie Nosal) of Columbus, Daniel (Chrisi) Koch of Bruning, Sara Sander of Columbus, Lindsay Koch of Carlsbad, Calif., Lauren (Nathan) Christensen of Lincoln and Hunter Schilling and Logan Schilling, both of Columbus; and sister-in-law, Irma Jean Meyers of Schuyler.

Oren was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Edna Kennedy; wife, Patricia Kennedy; and brother, Phillip Kennedy.

Memorials to family choice. Condolences: www.gasshaney.com

Arrangements by Gass Haney Funeral Home, Columbus.

Mildred Horacek

Mildred A. Horacek, 88, of Omaha, formerly of Brainard, died Tuesday, April 6, 2010, at the Nebraska Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Hospital in Omaha.

Funeral Services were Thursday, April 8, at Holesovsky Mortuary in Brainard, with the Rev. Glenn Hubbard officiating. Burial was at the New Holy Trinity Cemetery, Brainard.

Mildred was born Feb. 14, 1922, at Bruno to James and Anna (Cernohlavek) Proskovec. She was a homemaker and helped out in their grocery store and butcher shop.

She married Frank Stanek and after he passed away she married Doc Horacek.

Mildred enjoyed playing cards, family games, gardening, canning, baking pies and being with family.

Mildred is survived by her daughter, Frances Walters of Brainard; nine grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husbands; two sons, Ronald and James Stanek; one brother, Albin Proskovec; and four sisters, Rose Kralman, Evelyn Sima, Lydia Eller and Helen Jergens.

Memorials: In care of the family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

 

Michael Lieberman

Michael D. Lieberman, 49, of David City, died Thursday, April 8, 2010, at David Place in David City.

Funeral Services were Monday, April 12, at Congregational Christian Church of David City, with Pastor Jack McDonald officiating. Burial was at David City Cemetery.

Michael D. Lieberman was born on Feb. 16, 1961, to Anton and Janis (Carlson) Lieberman at Omaha. He worked at the Schuyler Pack in production until his accident in January 1981.

He married Maxine Dush on Nov. 22, 1978, at Hot Springs, S.D. Two sons were born to this union. Mike and Maxine later divorced.

Mike enjoyed fishing, playing baseball and foosball and riding his motorcycle, being the great outdoorsman. He always had a smile for all those who would visit him and for the many friends he made at David Place over the years.

Michael is survived by his mother, Janis Deavers of David City; two sons, Michael (Karla) Lieberman of Silver Creek and Matthew (Dana) Lieberman of Omaha; three brothers, Steve Lieberman of Arizona, Don Lieberman of Oklahoma and Jim Deavers of Grand Island; three sisters, Cheryl Lieberman of Columbus, Peggy (Bruce) Brahmsteadt of Dodge and Janice (Clarence) Holland of Texas; several nieces and nephews; and two grandchildren, Easton and Matison Lieberman.

He was preceded in death by his father, Anton; stepfather, Eugene Deavers; grandparents; brother, Ace; and nephew, Dustin Mulenex.

Memorials: In care of the family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Louis Svoboda

Louis H. "L.H." Svoboda, 94, of David City died Tuesday, April 6, 2010, at his home.

Mass of Christian Burial was Saturday, April 10, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau celebrant. Burial was at Assumption Cemetery at Dwight.

Louis H. "L.H." Svoboda was born April 28, 1915, at Appleton to Anton L. and Stacie (Sabata) Svoboda.

On Nov. 2, 1935, "L.H." was united in marriage to Agnes M. Kulhanek at St. Mary's Cathedral in Lincoln. Louis and Agnes have lived many places over the years, and have resided in David City for the past 30 years. Louis had many jobs in life including a meat cutter, carpenter, tavern owner, cafe owner and a farmer. He was a very good businessman.

He also was an avid gardener and sold his produce at farmers markets for over 30 years. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, Heritage Singers and Heritage Club of David City and W.F.L.A. Lodge 68 of Brainard. Louis was preceded in death by his parents; son, Danny Svoboda; daughter, Karla Magdalin; two great-grandchildren, Jason Alexander and Erin Svoboda; brothers, Jim, Joe, Adolph and Laddie; and sisters, Martha, Mary, Lucille and Mildred.

He is survived by his loving wife of 74 years, Agnes, of David City; sons and daughters-in-law, Gene (Ruth) Svoboda of Hastings and Ruddy (Mary) Svoboda and Arnie Svoboda, all of David City; daughter, Beatrice Alexander (Ed) of David City; daughter-in-law, Linda Svoboda of Lincoln; son-in-law, Barry Magdalin of Canada; 26 grandchildren; 60 great-grandchildren; 40 great-great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters-in-law, Rudy (Marcella) Svoboda, Cyril (Irene) Svoboda,

Dennis Svoboda, Valerian (JoAnn) Svoboda and Emil Svoboda, all of David City;

sister-in-law, Margie Svoboda of David City; and sisters, Rose Jakub and Elsie Ponec of David City.

Memorials: Family choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Lillian Pekrek

Lillian Pekarek, 86, of David City, died Monday, April 12, 2010, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Funeral Mass is at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 14, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Additional viewing from Tuesday will be 9-10 a.m. Wednesday at the church. Burial will be at St. Mary's Cemetery.

Lillian Pekarek was born Dec. 24, 1923, on the farm near Dwight to George and Celestina (Vala) Bartek.

She married Frank F. Pekarek on Nov. 25, 1945, at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight. She retired from Western Electric in Omaha after many years of working as a shift foreman. Frank and Lillian lived in the Valparaiso and Wahoo areas before moving to David City in 1988.

She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City.

Survivors include many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Frank, in 2009; five brothers, Jerry, Frank, Ed, Anton, and Joseph Bartek; and three sisters, Antonette Bartek, Marie C. Kobza and Julia Policky.

Memorials: In care of the family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Norma Jean Kovar

Norma Jean Kovar, 77, of David City died Saturday, April 3, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Mass of Christian Burial was Friday, April 9, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in

David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau, celebrant. Committal was at David City Cemetery.

Norma Jean (Howe) Kovar was born Feb. 3, 1933, in David City to Glen N. and

Irene G (Shaver) Howe. She attended District 60 country school and graduated from David City High School in 1951.

On Jan. 14, 1954, she was united in marriage to Lawrence F. Kovar at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Two children, Steve and Sherie, were born to this union. Norma Jean worked at the Butler County Health Care Center for 52 years, first as a nurses aide and later in the X-ray department. She had worked at the hospital as an admissions clerk for the last 20 years of her career.

Norma Jean was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and P.C.C.W. She had a love for genealogy and enjoyed taking trips with her brother Bob to research family history. She also enjoyed knitting and belonged to a knitting club in David City. She was a very giving and caring person and was very devoted to her family, especially her children and grandchildren. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and they all loved Grandma. She always put her family first and they all knew they were truly blessed and loved by a special Mom and Grandma. She will be sadly missed forever. She is with the angels now, but she was their "Angel" here on earth.

Blessed for having shared in her life are her son and daughter-in-law, Steve

(Evelyn) Kovar of Columbus; daughter and son-in-law, Sherie (Marvin) Albert of Schuyler; sister, Shirley Fenning of Arcadia, Calif.; brothers and sisters-in-law, Don (Marci) Howe of David City, Jim (Rita) Howe of Plainview and Robert Howe of Kansas City, Mo.; sister-in-law, Greta Kovar of Staplehurst; grandsons, Michael Albert of Schuyler and Brian Kovar of Columbus; uncle, Sylvester Kovar of David City; nieces and nephews, Peggy Pickering, Jeff Howe, Sandy Hoeft, Randy Howe, Michelle Howe, Brian Howe, Brad Howe, Gail Chmiel and Alan Kovar.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence, in 1985; parents; and brother, Terry Howe, in 1957.

Memorials: Butler County Health Care Center; Family wishes. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Fr. Mark Tasler

LINCOLN -- Father Mark Tasler, 55, of York died Tuesday, April 6, 2010, in a single-car crash on Interstate 80 near Milford.

Mass of Christian Burial was Saturday, April 10, at the Cathedral of the Risen Christ in Lincoln, with the Most Rev. Fabian W. Bruskewitz, Bishop of Lincoln, officiating. Burial was at Calvary Cemetery.

Father Tasler was pastor of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in York for nearly four years. He was also superintendent of St. Joseph Elementary School in York. Before being ordained in 1990, he worked for an airline. From 1990-94, he was an assistant pastor at Blessed Sacrament, St. Patrick and St. Thomas Aquinas churches in Lincoln. He also taught at Pius X High School in Lincoln. From 1994-96, he was pastor of Presentation Catholic Church (Marietta) near Bellwood and also taught at Aquinas High School in David City. He then was pastor at St. Benedict Catholic Church and superintendent of Lourdes Central Catholic Schools in Nebraska City from 1996-2006.

He was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Survivors include his parents, Norman and Norma (Arlene) Tasler of Omaha; brothers, Mike (Kathy) Tasler of Gretna and Matt (Joan) Tasler of Lincoln; sisters, Jolene (Bob) Keiter of Louisville and Sister Marie Jacqueline C.K. of Lincoln; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and brother priests.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Janis Tasler; and brother, Robert Tasler.

Memorials to School Sisters of Christ The King, Saint Gregory The Great Seminary or Mass offerings.

Arrangements by Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home, Lincoln.

Jeanette Semin

SEWARD -- Jeanette "Jan" Semin, 65, of Ulysses died Thursday, April 8, 2010, at her home.

Mass of Christian Burial was Monday, April 12, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses, with Father Raymond Jansen, celebrant. Interment was at Ulysses Catholic Cemetery.

Casket bearers were Marty Mehrhoff, Matt Mehrhoff, Terry Belsan, Mike Tesina, Mike Fiala and Roy Fiala. Honorary casket bearers were Kenny Tesina, Boots Baesler and Colin Baesler.

Jeanette Marie "Jan" (Tesina) Semin was born May 10, 1944, in Seward to Emil Sr. and Rose Mildred (Belsan) Tesina. She was a 1962 graduate of East Butler High School in Brainard.

Jan was united in marriage to Alvin J. Semin on Sept. 11, 1965, at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight, and their marriage was blessed with five children, Randy, DeAnn, Kay, Audra and Tim. Jan was employed at The Bakery and Liberty House, both in Seward, where she made many friends.

She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses, Altar Society and First Catholic Slovak Ladies #32. Jan enjoyed crafts, gardening, antiques, baking, traveling and spending time with friends and family. Jan will be remembered as being very patriotic.

Preceding Jan in death were her father, Emil Tesina Sr.; brother, Emil Tesina Jr; parents-in-law, Edmond and Lydia Semin; and sister-in-law, MaryAnn Fiala.

Jan is survived by her husband, Al Semin of Ulysses; mother, Rose Tesina of Dwight; sons, Randy Semin of Dwight and Tim Semin of Bee; daughters and sons-in-law, DeAnn and Kirt White of Lincoln, Kay and Cory Kudlacek of Eureka, Mo., and Audra and Paul Hoffschneider of Lincoln; grandchildren, Sarah and Jarod White and Ava and Ryan Hoffschneider; siblings, Jim Tesina and wife JoAnn of Dwight and Rosmarie Tesina and Dennis Mehrhoff of Lincoln; sister-in-law, Polly Tesina of Dwight; brother-in-law, Leroy Fiala of Seward; many nieces and nephews.

Memorials: Donor's choice in care of the family. Condolences: www.zabkafuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.

 

Irene Wortman

 COLUMBUS -- Irene E. Wortman, 94, of David City, formerly of Columbus, died Friday, April 16, 2010, at David Place in David City.

Mass of Christian Burial was Monday, April 19, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus, with Father Mike Keating officiating. Interment was Tuesday at Fort McPherson National Cemetery at Maxwell.

Irene Wortman was born May 14, 1915, in Austin, Minn., to Edward and Ella (Rohr) Hewitt. She graduated from Austin High School.

Irene married Leo Wortman on July 5, 1939, in Grinnell, Iowa. During the years that Leo served in the United States Army, Irene lived with an aunt in Grinnell and attended Grinnell College. When Leo returned from World War II, he went to work for Montgomery Ward. The couple finally moved to Columbus, where they made their permanent home. Irene worked for the Art Printery in Columbus for several years.

She was a faithful member of St. Bonaventure Catholic Church. She enjoyed her several bridge clubs, traveling, writing cards and letters and going to her grandchildren's events.

Irene is survived by: daughter-in-law, Belinda Wortman of David City; grandsons, Christopher Weber and Eddie Wortman, both of David City; granddaughter, Jody Sladek of Columbus; two great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and sister, Carol Wier of Birmingham, Ala.

Irene was preceded in death by: parents, Edward and Ella Hewitt; husband, Leo Wortman on Dec. 27, 2002; son, Bruce "Crash" Wortman on Nov. 5, 2009; and sisters, Leona and Wilma.

Condolences: www.gasshaney.com

Arrangements by Gass Haney Funeral Home, Columbus.

Betty Jackson

Betty L. Jackson, 71, of Rising City died Wednesday, April 14, 2010, at David Place in David City. At Betty's wish, she was cremated.

Betty L. Jackson was born on Feb. 1, 1939, on the family farm in Sargent County, North Dakota, to Clyde and Thelma (Olson) Jones. She was baptized on March 15, 1939, at the family farm. Betty attended school in Rising City. She was confirmed at First Lutheran Church on March 29, 1953.

She married Joy L. Decker on Feb. 28, 1956, in Holbrook. They later moved to Manhattan, Kan. Four children were born to this union.

Betty's second marriage was to Tony L. Jackson.

She was a homemaker and a waitress for many years in the Manhattan, Lincoln and Seward areas. Like her dad, she loved people and was a friend to everyone. She loved the outdoors, fishing, a good book and crafting with jewelry. She made Christmas trees and pictures with jewelry and was a collector of many things.

Betty is survived by her mother, Thelma Jones of Rising City; special friend, Tony Jackson; sons, Duane "Buck" (Jean) Jones of Neligh and Barry (Debbie) Decker and John Decker, both of Lansing, Mich.; daughters, Patrice (Jim) Balmer of Dansville, Mich., and Angela (Doug) Knauf of DeWitt, Mich.; grandchildren, Cassie Jones and fiance, Joe Tillis, Carly Ederington, Colin Jones and Chelsea Lonsdale. Amber (B.J.) Rodriguez, Levi Decker, Naomi (Steve) Simpson and Nicholas, Nathan, Natalie and Nolan Knauf; great-grandchildren, Brooklyn Edgerington, Savannah and Dominic Rodriguez and Julian and Ryan Simpson.

Betty was preceded in death by her father, Clyde, in 1997; first husband, Joy Decker, in 2003; grandparents; aunts and uncles.

Memorials: In care of the family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City
 

Christine Kozisek 


Christine Kozisek, 82, of David City, entered into rest Wednesday, April 21, 2010, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

A funeral Mass was said at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 24, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Burial was at St. Mary's Cemetery in David City.
Christine was born Feb. 11, 1928, in David City to Piet and Minnie (Jakub) Peters. She lived her entire life in the David City and Surprise areas.

On Feb. 7, 1950, Christine married Arthur A. Kozisek at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses. To this union eight children were born. Christine was a homemaker and mother and cooked for St. Mary's School, Aquinas High School and David City Public Elementary School.

She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and PCCW. She enjoyed NASCAR, baking, her flowers and animals.

Christine is survived by sons, Chuck (Heather) Kozisek of Omaha, Leo Kozisek of David City, Steve Kozisek of Greely, Colo., John (Kristy) Kozisek of Las Vegas and Tim (Diane) Kozisek of David City; daughters, Bea (Joe) Wilson of David City, Rita (Kevin) Sorensen of David City and Jill (Keith) Stara of Rising City; brothers, John (Norma) Peters of David City, Paul Peters of Seward and Bill Peters of Shelby; sisters, Nellie Brockeveldt, Marie (Joe) Kozisek, Dorothy Zegers and Virginia Brockeveldt, all of David City; grandchildren, Aaron Kozisek, Amy (Rob) Cook, Donna Morgan, Meagan (Josh) Noble, Kelly Kozisek, Traci McLain, Nick Kozisek, Brody Stara and Ariah Stara; and great-grandchildren, Colton Tichota and Janie Rae Noble.

Christine was preceded in death by her parents, and grandson, Brian Kozisek.
Memorials: In Care of the Family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

 

Merlyn Muntz


Merlyn "Merly" Muntz, 84, a lifelong funeral director in David City, died Sunday, April 25, 2010, at the Veterans Home in Minneapolis.

Funeral services are at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 30, at Kracl Funeral Chapel, with Lay Minister Jerry L. Kracl officiating. Visitations are 5-7 p.m. Thursday and 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday at Kracl Funeral Chapel. Burial will be at Garrison Cemetery with Military Honors.
Mr. Muntz was born Dec. 30, 1925, in Sheridan Lake, Colo., to Carl L. and Viola (Kindler) Muntz Sr. The family moved to David City in 1931 and Merly graduated from David City High School in 1943.

He then enlisted in the United States Navy and served during World War II in the Pacific Theater as an Aviator Ordnanceman 2nd Class from 1943-46. He was a recipient of the Victory Distinguished Flying Cross, Combat Air Insignia 3 stars, Asiatic Pacific Air Medal 1 star and the American-Philippine Liberation 1 star. 

Following the war, Merly graduated from Peru State College and the Worsham School of Mortuary Science in Chicago.

On Aug. 27, 1947, he married Rose Ramona Knott at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Merly was a longtime, esteemed and respected funeral director and embalmer for Knott Funeral Home in David City, where he was employed from 1950-2003. He also worked countless hours operating the 24-hour ambulance service for the funeral home.
Merly was a member of Sertoma and The David City Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Unit, coached Little League baseball and was an active supporter of American Legion Baseball.

He also was an assistant football coach for St. Mary's High School. He enjoyed attending the
College World Series in Omaha every year and enjoyed music of many genres. He was very proud of his military service and was a member and past commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Lunsford Post 5814 and American Legion.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Rose Ramona Knott Muntz of David City; three sons, John Carl (Annette) Muntz of Andover, Minn., Ronald Wayne (Sharon) Muntz of San Antonio and Steven Merle (Jo Ellen) Muntz of Chadds Ford, Pa.; five grandchildren, Brian, Jessica, Emily, Juliann and Jacob; and four great-grandchildren, Zariah, Dezhion, Ayden and Lorenzo Jr.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Carl L. Muntz Jr. and Norman (Tootie) Muntz.
Memorials: Donor's Choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

 

Orletha Hoshor


Orletha L. Hoshor, 81, of David City died Thursday, April 22, 2010, at David Place in David City.

Funeral services were Tuesday, April 27, at Chermok Funeral Home in David City. Burial was at the Bellwood Cemetery.

Orletha L. Hoshor was born Feb. 25, 1929, on the family farm near Bellwood to Francis and Molly (Raric) Hopkins. She grew up on Hopkins Island, which at that time was a part of Platte County. She attended and graduated from the Bellwood school system.

She married John Hoshor on March 16, 1948, in Columbus. Four children were born to this union. Orletha helped her husband on the farm as well as taking care of the household duties while the children grew to maturity.

She enjoyed her pets and flowers, especially her lilacs and peonies and was an avid gardener. She also was known for her homemade bread and pies. Her favorite hobbies included spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, playing cards and taking care of her pets.
Orletha and her husband started the Farmer's Market and loved to see all the produce that would come to town. She was a hard worker with strong values and passed those on to her family.

Surviving Orletha are her son Bill (Cindy) Hoshor of Bellwood; daugthers, Patricia (Ardell) Lostroh of David City, Vicki (Galen) Loomis of Grand Island and Cindy (Bryan) Benes of Norwalk, Iowa; two sisters, Anita Nickolite and Nancy Hopkins, both of Columbus; and eight grandchildren, Colby, Jeremy and Eric Hoshor, Zach Loomis, Ginger and Candi Lostroh and Bethany and Levi Benes.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John, in 1997; and two brothers, Russell and Boyd Hopkins.
Memorials: In care of the family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.

 

James Hofpar


LINCOLN - James "Jim" L. Hofpar, 62, of Lincoln died Tuesday, April 20, 2010, in Lincoln.

Services were Saturday, April 24, at Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home in Lincoln. Burial was at Lincoln Memorial Park.

Jim was born March 19, 1948, in David City, the eldest son of Louis and Mable (Hudkins) Hofpar. Jim lived in Loma and went to school at Aquinas High School in David City.
He joined the U.S. Marine Corp and served during the Vietnam War.

He then moved to Lincoln and started working for BN Railroad as a carman apprentice before becoming an engineer for Burlington Northern Santa Fe RR in 1974.
Jim married Pam on Oct. 24, 1980.

Jim had a strong interest in "black" cars and loved car activities and his son's athletic events. Jim loved to travel with his wife, Pam, whom he loved so very much. He also loved to watch for Nebraska Football recruits and loved to tailgate on football Saturdays.

Jim is survived by his wife, Pam, of Lincoln; sons, Justin of Lincoln and Brandon of Des Moines, Iowa; sisters, Judy (Arvid) Bejvancesky of Loma and Jenny Hofpar of Kona, Hawaii; brothers, Jerry (Norma) Hofpar of Loma and Jeff (Paige) Hofpar of Michigan; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Amy Rezny, Charles "Chip" Fullerton and daughter, Anna Fullerton; in-laws, Bob and Rose Rezny of Lincoln; and many nieces and nephews of whom he all loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials: American Heart Association. Condolences: www.bmlfh.com
Arrangements by Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home.

Isaac Erwin

LAUREL -- Isaac Cooper Erwin, infant son of Jonathan and Sarah Erwin of Dwight, was born and died Wednesday, April 21, 2010, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha.

Services were held Monday at St. Mary's Catholic Church at Laurel.

Survivors are his parents; sister, Sophia; grandparents, Ken and Sue Bohuslavsky of Bee and Jim Erwin of Laurel; great-grandmothers, Agnes Bohuslavksy of David City and Susy Wacker of Laurel; aunts; uncles; and cousins.

He was preceded in death by four great-grandfathers, Victor Bohuslavsky, Robert Witzel, Kenny Wacker and Ernie Carlson; two great-grandmothers, Betty Witzel and Mabel Carlson; and grandmother, Carla Erwin.  

Arrangements by Hasemann Funeral Home of Laurel.

Louise Kaufmann


COLUMBUS -- Louise M. "Charlie" Kaufmann, 79, of Columbus died Friday, April 30, 2010, at her home.

A Memorial Service will be on Saturday, May 8, at 10:30 a.m. at Gass Haney Funeral Home in Columbus, with the Rev. Mark Schutt officiating. Interment will be at Columbus Cemetery.

There will be no visitation. Memorials may be directed to: Columbus YMCA, Columbus Public Library or St. Luke's United Methodist Church of David City.
Louise was born Sept. 10, 1930, in Columbus to Herman and Louise C. (Moersen) Kaufmann.

She attended school in Columbus and graduated from Kramer High School in 1948. Charlie enjoyed playing volleyball and was a cheerleader in both high school and college. She graduated from Doane College and then taught English in Tekamah, Ord, Madison and Columbus. In addition to teaching, she was also a lifeguard and swimming instructor at the Columbus YMCA and Pawnee Park, and she also worked at the Columbus Library.

Louise is survived by a brother, Dr. Jack (Peggy) Kaufmann of David City; niece: Susan (Chuck) McLaughlin of Omaha; Susan's children, Aaron, Adam, Andrew and Benjamin McLaughlin; niece: Ann (Rodney) Thiemann of Blair; Ann's children, Jason, Amy, Sarah and Seth Thiemann; nephew, Peter (Sherri) Kaufmann of Elkhorn; and Peter's children, Tyler, Nicholas and Jake Kaufmann.

She is preceded in death by parents, Herman and Louise C. Kaufmann; and infant brother, Donald Kaufmann.

Condolences may be sent to www.gasshaney.com
Arrangements by Gass Haney Funeral Home.

 
Margaret Rezac


WAHOO -- Margaret M. Rezac, 91, of David City, formerly of Valparaiso, died Wednesday, April 28, 2010, at David Place in David City.
Funeral Mass was Saturday, May 1, at St. Vitus Catholic Church in Touhy, with Father Thomas Brouillette officiating. Interment was at St. Vitus Cemetery.

Pallbearers were: Mark Rezac, Matt Rezac, Joel Rezac, Nathan Rezac, Teddy Kastl, Paul Kastl and Jaymes Kastl.

She was born in rural Weston on July 6, 1918, to Josef and Antoinette (Fidler) Meduna. Margaret grew up on a farm near Weston and went to elementary school at District 74 country school. She had to quit school to help work on the farm during the Depression era.

On Sept. 28, 1936, she was united in marriage to Adolph Rezac at St. Vitus Catholic Church in Touhy. They made their home on a farm in rural Valparaiso for nearly 50 years. In 1986, the couple retired to Valparaiso. That was her home until two years ago when she moved to David
Place in David City. 

She was a parishioner at St. Vitus Catholic Church and a member of St. Vitus Altar Society
since 1936.

Margaret is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, Gene Rezac, Phil and Judy Rezac and Dave and Barb Rezac, all of Valparaiso; daughters and sons-in-law, Kathy and Ted Kastl of Lincoln and Karen and Lyle Dvorak of Brainard; 12 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Gertrude Meduna of Wahoo.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Adolph; daughter, Karol Mae Rezac; three brothers; and six sisters.
Memorials: St. Vitus Catholic Church.
Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.








 

February 2010 Obituaries

Dona Meysenburg

Dona D. Meysenburg, 76, of David City died Saturday, Feb. 20, 2010, at david place in David City.

Mass of Christian Burial is at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau, celebrant. There will be a private family burial. Lunch is at Par IV Golf Course.

Dona was born July 28, 1933, in David City to James H. and Emma T. (Selzer) Gans and graduated from David City High School.

On Sept. 28, 1954, Dona married Robert F. Meysenburg at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, where they spent their entire lives. She served as Deputy

County Clerk of Butler County for 34 years, retiring in 2007.

Dona is survived by her daughter, Michelle (Rex) Minert of David City; one brother, Richard (Jody) Gans of Brainard; sister-in-law, Bette Meysenburg of Torrance, Calif.; brother-in-law, Doug Trowbridge of O'Neill; three grandchildren, Sabrina Minert and special friend Ryan Sabata of Lincoln and Robert and Tyra Minert of David City; many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert (1990); sister, LaVina Trowbridge; and infant sister, Gwendolyn Gans.

Memorials: Family Choice. Condolences to www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel of David City.
 

Kenneth Brezina

 SCHUYLER - Kenneth J. Brezina, 66, of Schuyler died Monday, Feb. 15, 2010, at Merrick Manor in Fremont following a two-year battle with cancer.

Mass of Christian Burial was Thursday, Feb. 18, at St. Augustine's Catholic Church in Schuyler. Burial was at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery at Schuyler.

Pallbearers were Jason Shannon, Kent Grotelueschen, David Proskovec, David Novak, Allen Horejsi, Marv Roubal, Mark Arps and Andy Griess. Honorary Pallbearers: Danielle Brezina, Matt Brezina, Caleb Brezina, Mitch Brezina, Megan Brezina, Austen Brezina and Madison Brezina.

Kenny was born Oct. 24, 1943, in Columbus to James R. and Delores (Ludvik) Brezina. He attended Butler County District 10 School, David City High School and Schuyler High School.

On Feb. 25, 1963, he married Judy Weber at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Schuyler and they lived in the Linwood area, where Kenny farmed, until moving to Schuyler in 1994.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing and collecting antique tractors. Kenny had served on the District 10 School Board and had been active in the Schuyler FFA Alumni Association. He was a member of the Nebraska Gas Engine and Antique Tractor Association. Kenny was a retired farmer and truck driver.

Kenny is survived by his wife, Judy, of Schuyler; four sons, John Brezina and his fiancee, Jodi Zebert, of Grand Island, Jim Brezina and Carla Korth of David City, Michael Brezina and his wife, Lori, of Linwood and Bill Brezina and his wife, Nichole, of Schuyler; seven grandchildren; three stepgrandchildren; four stepgreat-grandchildren; and one sister, Patricia (Mrs. Mike) Griess of Sutton.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Donald; and one sister, Delores Gates.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home of Schuyler.

Fred Helman

Fred S. Helman, 86, of Lincoln, formerly of David City, passed away Thursday, Feb. 18, 2010, in Lincoln.

A funeral Mass was held at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City on Monday, Feb. 22, with Father Bernard Kimminau, celebrant. Burial was at St. Mary's Cemetery.

Fred was born at Brainard on Jan. 28, 1924, to Frank and Mary (Moravec) Helman. He graduated from Brainard High School.

On Oct. 8, 1945, Fred married Lucille Jisa at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight. They moved to David City in 1964. Fred sold and delivered gas for Farmers Co-Op. He also worked for Burlington Railroad, but his true love was being a farmer. In 2007, Fred and Lucille moved to Lincoln.

Fred was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

He is survived by his wife, Lucille, of Lincoln; son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Donna Helman of Lincoln; daughters and sons-in-law, Marcene and Ron Polivka of Lincoln, Carol and Tom Bogner of Gilbert, Ariz., Karen and Bill Tredway of Lincoln and Bonnie and Bob Schulte of Omaha; brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Rita Helman of Brainard; 14 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Albert, Adolph, Frank and Jim Helman; and sisters, Helen Krenk, Rose Hottovy, Mary Sypal, Lillian Brym, Amelia Novak, Agnes Swanda and Alice Behne.

Memorials may be made "In Care of the Family." On-line condolences may be sent to www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Mary Wilbur

OMAHA - Mary Ellen Wilbur, 68, of Omaha died Friday, Feb. 12, 2010.

Mass of Christian Burial was Tuesday, Feb. 16, at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church in Omaha. Burial was at Westlawn Hillcrest Memorial Park in Omaha.

Mrs. Wilbur was born March 15, 1941, in Fairbury to Maurice and Dorothy Huff. She graduated in 1959 from Marietta High School, rural Bellwood.

She taught school before marrying William "Bill" Wilbur in 1964.

Survivors include her husband; daughters and sons-in-law, Julie and Lt. Cmdr. Blake Ellis and Jill and Lt. Cmdr. Dave Vodicka; four grandchildren, Olivia, Camden, Ava and Libby; sisters and brothers, Thomas Huff of York, Charles and Martin Huff of Lincoln, Martha Feit of Beatrice and Monica Sloan-Haning of Kansas City; and mother-in-law, Margaret Wilbur of Lincoln.

She was preceded in death by two brothers and one sister.

Arrangements by Westlawn-Hillcrest Funeral Home, Omaha.


 

Florence Kamenske

Florence A. Kamenske, 92, of Bellwood, died Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2010, at David Place in David City.

Funeral Services were held Friday, Feb. 26, 2010, at 10:30 a.m. in the Bellwood United Methodist Church, with Pastor Mark Schutt officiating. Burial was at the Bellwood Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to the Bellwood United Methodist Church or Bellwood Volunteer Fire Department.

Florence A. West was born on Jan. 26, 1918, at Bellwood to Harry and Anna (Ladwig) West. She attended Bellwood schools and graduated from Bellwood High School.

She married Lloy Kamenske on May 15, 1941. Two children were born to this union.

Mrs. Kamenske worked for many years at Didier's Market in Bellwood as the front clerk. She also took on side jobs of hair styling/cutting in her home.

Florence enjoyed her cross-stitch work, needlepoint and embroidery and with her perfectionist style, she won many purple ribbons at the county fair. She was also known for her angel food cake. Raising flowers and traveling to the Black Hills on a motorcycle with her husband were some of her favorite memories.

She was a member of the Bellwood United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, the local Widow's Club and a 50 plus-year member of Daughters of the Union Veterans.

Florence is survived by her daughter, Marilyn; three brothers, Harry West of Glenville, Pa., Jim West of David City and John (Pearl) West of Nevada, Mo.; one sister, Thelma Hascall of David City; nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Lloy, in 1964; one daughter, Darlene, in 1954; and two sisters, Doris (infant) and Lois Backman.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

 

Larry Good

Larry Joe Good of Rising City died Sunday, Feb. 28, 2010, at Butler County

Health Care Center in David City.

Funeral service is at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 4, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in David City. Visitation is at 9 a.m. Thursday. Lunch will be at the Knights of Columbus Hall in David City.

Mr. Good was born in Kansas City, Mo., the son of Joseph M. and Eudora (Cooper) Good. He attended public schools in Topeka, Kan., and Grandview, Mo., graduating from Grandview High School. He attended Kansas City Junior College.

Larry played professional baseball for several years in the Chicago Cubs farm system playing second base for the Janesville Wisconsin Cubs and shortstop for the Blackwell Oklahoma Broncos.

He then toured and performed professionally in the field of country music for over 40 years, working with many of the Nashville legends and appearing in every state except Hawaii, with his bands the Countrymen and the Good Times. He co-founded Lari-Jon Music publishing company. In the mid-1980s he helped launch a TV country music show called "Country with a Touch of Brass," which was viewed throughout Nebraska.

Larry is survived by his wife, Jennifer Bockholt Good, of Rising City; one son, Larry Max Good of Kansas City, Mo.; a daughter, Kathy Kenigson, and her husband, Roger, of Springfield, Tenn.; grandson, Jonathan Kenigson; granddaughter, Jessica Kenigson; and a sister, Dixie, and her husband, Bob Kelley, of Topeka, Kan.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials: Family Choice and Rising City Rescue Squad. Condolences to www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

June 2010 Obituaries

William "Bill" Bartlett

Bill Bartlett, 54, of David City, died Thursday, June 17, 2010, at his home.

Funeral services were Tuesday, June 22, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in David City, with Jerry L. Kracl, speaker. Burial was at David City Cemetery.

Bill was born April 14, 1956, in David City to Hugh and Dorothy (Kovar) Bartlett. He graduated from David City High School and spent his entire life in David City.

Bill did landscaping work, helped at Sabata Farms and did odd jobs as a handyman in David City.

He is survived by his uncle and aunt, Gilbert and Lucy Kovar of Jackson, N.J.; cousins, Jennifer Reed and her husband, Kyle Schmidt, of Linden N.J., Kimberly (Rick) Allorto of Flemington, N.J., Mary Ellen (Howard) McLaughlin and Gregory (Kim) Kovar, all of Hazlet, N.J., William (Helen) Kovar of

Cherry Hill, N.J., and Kathy (Jeff) Hoefler of Jackson, N.J,; his best friend, Ron (Brenda) Shipley of David City; and many friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy, in 2000; and his father, Hugh, in 2007.

Memorials: Donor's choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

Raymond Vrbka

OSCEOLA -- Raymond, L. Vrbka, 85, of Shelby, died Thursday, June 17, 2010, at the Nebraska Heart Institute in Lincoln.

Memorial services were Monday, June 21, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shelby, with Father John Rooney officiating.

Organist was Judy Vrbka. Musical selections were "On Eagles Wings,"

"Amazing Grace," "I Am The Bread of Life," "Song of Farewel" and "America The Beautiful." A private family inurnment will be held at a later date.

Raymond was born May 29, 1925, to Joseph and O'Tillie (Sedlak) Vrbka in

Brainard. The family lived in Brainard and David City and then moved to Shelby. Raymond graduated from Shelby High School.

He then served in the United States Navy from Oct. 9, 1943, to May 6, 1946. Raymond received the Purple Heart while serving his country.

He then returned to the Shelby area and began working for Charles Augustin hauling cattle and farming.

On Feb. 17, 1949, he was united in marriage to Betty Jane Augustin. To this union eight children were born. They resided one and a half miles north of Shelby, where Raymond farmed and raised cattle. He retired in 1999 and began working as a part-time courtesy driver for Ernst Auto Center in Columbus.

He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shelby and Shelby Legion Post 296. He enjoyed his grandchildren, camping, playing cards, going to the boats and visiting with people.

Survivors include his wife, Betty of Shelby; three sons, Jerry (Peg) Vrbka of

Shelby, Callen Vrbka of Shelby and Andy (Jodie) Vrbka of Clarks; five daughters, Susan (Gary) Ott of Osceola, Judy (Kevin) McWilliams of Springfield, Mo., Lori Freeman of Lincoln, Angela (Virgil) King of Shelby and Nancy (Michael) Sigsbee of Kansas City, Mo.; 19 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one sister, Evelyn Patterson of Fort Collins, Colo.; five brothers, Leonard (Lois) Vrbka of Fairbanks, Alaska, Dr. Don (Peg) Vrbka of Columbus, LaVern (Polly) Vrbka of Millard, Bob (Dottie) Vrbka of Ravenna and Gary (Candy) Vrbka of Shelby; nieces; nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and O'Tillie; son-in-law LaVerne Kuhnel; and one brother-in-law, Pat Patterson.

Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Osceola and Stromsburg.

Elsie Novacek

WAHOO -- Elsie M. Novacek, 85, of Brainard died Saturday, June 19, 2010, at BryanLGH West Medical Center in Lincoln.

A gathering with the family will take place Wednesday, June 23, from 6-7:30 p.m., with a rosary and wake service at 7:30 p.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard. A private inurnment will be at St. Luke Cemetery at Loma. Honorary pallbearers are Neil Kotera, Kurtis Kotera, Nathan Kotera, Nevin Kotera and Mitchell Kotera

She was born May 14, 1925, at Loma to Emil and Mary (Hroach) Petrzilka. She attended elementary school at the Loma Elementary School and later graduated from David City High School. Following high school, she obtained a teaching certificate and taught school for three years in the Loma area. On June 10, 1946, Elsie was united in marriage to Leonard Novacek at St. Luke Catholic Church in Loma. They made their home on their farm near Loma where Elsie helped Leonard with all aspects of the farm operation. She drove tractors and helped with raising cattle, hogs, chickens and ducks.

She had been a parishioner at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard and a member of the PCCW and Altar Society. She was formerly a member of St. Luke Catholic Church in Loma.

Elsie is survived by her husband, Leonard; daughters and sons-in-law, LuJane and Ken Kotera of Brainard and Lynnette and Jerome Kotera of Wahoo; grandchildren, Neil (Jessica) Kotera, Kurtis Kotera, Nathan, Nevin and Mitchell Kotera.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two infant brothers.

Memorials: In care of the family.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

Gloria Bertschinger

NORFOLK -- Funeral services for Gloria J. Bertschinger, 56, of Dwight will be at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, June 24, at Christ Lutheran Church, Norfolk. Burial will be at Prospect Hill Cemetery, Norfolk. Visitation will be Wednesday from 3-7 p.m. at Home for Funerals, Norfolk.

She died Sunday, June 20, 2010, at her home.

Gloria was born on March 16, 1954, in Norfolk, the daughter of Frank D. and Arlene (Cole) Kadlec Sr. She lived in Norfolk until the age of 16 and then moved to Anchorage, Alaska, where she graduated from high school.

She then moved to Virginia and then moved back to Anchorage and then lived in Hawaii before moving back to Nebraska in 1995. She has been working as a press operator for Hughes Brothers Inc. in Seward since August 1999.

Gloria is survived by her mother, Arlene Barritt of Norfolk; her special friend Duane Prochaska of Dwight; one son, Christopher Hickman of Richmond, Va.; one brother, Frank Kadlec Jr.; three sisters, Roxanna Vitales, Melodie Salas and Deana and husband, Jeff Foster, all of Norfolk; and her special dog Shelbie.

She was preceded in death by her father and stepfather.

Arrangements by Home for Funerals.
 

John Petrzelka


PRAGUE -- John F. Petrzelka, 98, of Prague died Monday, June 28, 2010, at the Saunders Medical Center in Wahoo.
Mass of Christian Burial was Thursday, July 1, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, with Father Ronald Homes officiating. Interment was at St. John Cemetery, with military honors by American Legion Post 254. 
Casket bearers were Richard Sloup, Reuben Petrzelka, Mark Otte, Mark Lackey, Mike Rezac and Mike Steyer. Honorary bearers were Emil Snitily, Frank Sousek, Craig Steyer, Greg Gottberg, Jimmy Petrzelka, Mike Fender and Bud Musiel.
Mr. Petrzelka was born at Prague on Aug. 22, 1911, to Vaclav and Anna (Hines) Petrzelka. John attended school in Prague and graduated from Prague High School in 1929.
He served in the US Army Air Corp from Jan. 13, 1942, to Nov. 4, 1945, when he was honorably discharged. 
John was united in marriage to Alberta Gottberg on May 29, 1951, at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Weston. They made their home in Prague. John was a mechanic at the Mead Ordnance Plant for many years until its closing. He continued his career at Offutt Air Force Base until retiring in 1972. 
John was a member of the Prague Volunteer Fire Department for 50 years; served 10 years on the school board; was chairman of the community fund drive for 29 years; served as a director of the Prague Coop for 10 years; was commander of the Prague American Legion Post for five years and one year the commander of the Saunders County Legion; served four years as trustee of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church; was chairman of the Chester precinct board for 12 years and played on the Prague baseball town team for many years.
He was preceded in death by parents, Vaclav and Anna (Hines) Petrzelka; wife, Alberta; son, John D. Petrzelka, brothers, William and James Petrzelka; and sisters-in-law, Rita and Irene Petrzelka.
He is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Mark Hotovy of Dwight; daughter-in-law, Lorri Petrzelka of Prague; grandchildren, Nick (Ashley) Kumpula of Lincoln, Molly (Dennis) Holder of Bellevue, Trisha (J.D.) Steinbach of Fremont and Tiffany Petrzelka of Lincoln; great-granddaughter, Paige Bramhall; sisters-in-law, Loretta Zitek, Opal Rezac, Karen Gottberg and Marlene Gottberg; many loving nieces and nephews, relatives and many, many friends.
Memorials in care of the family
Arrangements by Kucera Funeral Home, Prague.

David Walden


David Michael Walden passed away at the Federal Heights Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Wednesday, June 23, 2010. His death was attributed to complications from diabetes.
Graveside services were Friday, July 2, at the David City Cemetery.
David was born on Nov. 6, 1947, to Blake C. and Charlotte A. (Brown) Walden in Omaha. He graduated from Holstein High School in Holstein, Iowa, in 1965 where he was active in football, wrestling, vocal music and band.
David graduated from Iowa State University in 1969 with a bachelor of science degree in zoology and bacteriology and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in December 1969 where he trained as a hospital corpsman. Dave was stationed at Bremerton Naval Hospital and the Naval Hospital on Guam.
Following his discharge from the Navy, David taught school and attended the University of Guam, receiving a master of arts degree in behavior science. Dave eventually settled in the Salt Lake City area and earned a master's degree from BYU in 1990. In addition to teaching American history at Salt Lake Community College, David authored, edited and/or published a number of business and personal histories. David was active in the local Republican Party and held a strong faith in the LDS Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; and nephew, Matthew Bryan Walden of Omaha.
He is survived by his brother, Kim (Susan) Walden of Columbus; nephews, Jeffrey of Brooklyn, N.Y., and Michael (Steven) of Lincoln; niece, Stephanie (Marty) Wurdeman; and great-nieces, Kaitlin Walden of Orlando, Fla., and Matthew Walden and Connor and Sophie Wurdeman, all of Omaha.
Memorials: In care of the family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Robert Want


AMARILLO, Texas - Robert "Bobby" Henry Want, 56, of Amarillo, Texas, died in Amarillo on Sunday, June 27, 2010.
Burial will be private in Palo Duro Wildarado Cemetery.
Bobby was born to Robert Lee and Fannie Margaret Hunt Want on Jan. 31, 1954, in David City. He graduated from Palo Duro High School in 1972.
He married Judy Green Ogden March 20, 1996.
He was preceded in death by grandparents Floyd and Helena Want; uncles, Ivan and Melvin Want of the David City area; grandparents, Walter and Emma Buchholtz Hunt; parents; sisters, Nancy Lee Want; uncle, Waldo Joey Hunt; and cousins, Klay Martin and Lori Lynn Little and her daughter, Kayli, all of the Amarillo area.
Survivors include his wife, Judy; her son, Thomas Lee Ogden; his children, Torrie Lee Fouts, Thomas Harold Ogden, Paton Bud Ogden and Ashten Groves; Judy's brothers, William and Charles Green; sisters, Doris Penley, Carol Mayton and Linda Millirans and their families, especially Mindy Findley; several family members of the David City and Columbus areas; great-uncle, Dean Want of Florida; aunts and uncles of the Amarillo area, Charles and Joyce Hunt, Lois and Don Alfred, Donald Hunt, Ethie and Jim Uptergrove and Kniela Phelps; cousins, Devora Moon, Billy Godsey, David Hunt, Josette Wilson, Kelly Martin, Kim Kubicek, Jimmy Uptergrove and Scott and Larry Hunt and all of their families; and good neighbor and friend Ben Ogden.
Arrangements by Griggs-Schooler Gordon Funeral Directors, Amarillo. Telephone 806-358-0441.


 

January 2010 Obituaries


Peter King


Peter J. King, 50, of David City died Friday, Jan. 1, 2010, at his residence in David City. A Celebration of Life will be held at 240 N. 3rd Street in David City on Friday, Jan. 8, with an open house beginning at 10 a.m. His band will be playing in his memory. Please come and celebrate Pete's life with his family and friends.

Peter was born May 11, 1959, to Hollis A. and Arlene (Domingue) King in St. Albans, Vt.
He moved to David City 10 years ago from Stromsburg. He was employed in the Shipping and Receiving Department for Kawasaki Motors in Lincoln.

He is survived by his significant other, Patty Ibsgaard of David City; daughter, Samantha King of David City; granddaughter, Katelynn Randall; step-daughter, Kaylyn Ibsgaard of David City; sons, Patrick Curtis of Richford, Vt., and Austin King of Stromsburg; stepson, Colton Ibsgaard of David City; mother, Arlene King of Richford, Vt.; brother, Dale King of Richford, Vt.; sisters, Helen Hoose of South Burlington, Vt., Maggie (Robert) Monty of Hinesburg, Vt., Barbara (Glenn) Embury of Berkshire, Vt., Lori (Keith) Sampietro of Montgomery, Vt., and Holly (George) of Richford, Vt. In addition, he is survived by E.J. (Beth) Hlavac and their children, Hunter and Emma, who were Peter's godchildren.

He is also survived by members of the X-Factor Band, in which Peter sang, these include: E.J. Hlavac, Jim and Samantha Higgins and Nick Wertz.

Peter was preceded in death by his father, Hollis, and brother-in-law, Mathias Hoose.
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Dorothy Raiter


WAHOO -- Dorothy Ann Raiter, 69, died unexpectedly Friday, Jan. 1, 2010, in Lincoln. 
Mass of Christian Burial: Wednesday, Jan. 6, at 10:30 a.m.; rosary at 10 a.m., Sts. Mary & Joseph Catholic Church, Valparasio, with celebrant the Rev. Msgr. Daniel Seiker. Interment: St. Vitus Cemetery, Touhy.
Mrs. Raiter was born Oct. 22, 1940, in rural Valparaiso to John G. and Anna J. (Moravec) Raiter. She grew up on a farm near Agnew before moving to rural Ceresco in 1953. She attended school in Agnew and District School 118 in rural Ceresco before graduating from Valparaiso High School in 1958. After high school Dorothy moved to Lincoln where she worked at Meadow Gold making cottage cheese for many years.
She enjoyed oil painting, reading, cooking, traveling, sending cards to family and friends for all occasions, monthly physical therapy trips to the casino, family gatherings, playing table games and watching Husker football games. She was a member of the North American Martyrs Catholic Church in Lincoln, where she belonged to the Altar Rosary Society and several prayer groups.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Patrick G. Raiter; nieces and nephew, twins Michael and Renee Raiter and Johanna Raiter; and aunt, Julia Prochaska.
She is survived by her son, Shawn Raiter; brothers and sister-in-law, John Lloyd and Carol Raiter and Ernest Joe Raiter, all of Ceresco, and George Raiter and special friend Jeanne Tlamka and Anton Raiter, all of Lincoln; sisters and brother-in-law, Margaret and John Buhr of Raymond and Susanne Raiter of Lincoln; nieces and nephews, Matt and Sheela Raiter of Lincoln, Andy and Mandy Raiter of Mead and Rebecca and Deborah Buhr of Lincoln; great-niece, Ashley Raiter of Lincoln; and aunt and uncle, Alice and Ernest Moravec of Ulysses.    
Memorials: In care of family.
Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

Palma Fetty


COLUMBUS - Palma Fetty, 83, of Columbus, formerly of David City, died Sunday, Jan. 3, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Services were Tuesday, Jan. 5, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Columbus, with Father Del Lape officiating. Burial was at All Saints Cemetery in Columbus.

Mrs. Fetty was born Nov. 4, 1926, in David City to Alfonse and Irma (Wallaert) Brockevelt. She grew up in David City and graduated from David City High School in 1944.

On June 7, 1947, she married Robert Fetty in David City. She lived in Columbus since the early 1960s where she worked at Becton Dickinson until her retirement in 1979.

She enjoyed quilting and fishing in her younger years. She was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Columbus.

Survivors include sisters-in-law, Nellie Brockevelt and Virginia Brockevelt, both of David City; nephews, Roger Brockevelt of Denver, Rich Brockevelt of Polk and Bob Brockevelt of Vermilion, S.D.; and nieces, Brenda Deahn of Lincoln and Beth Jones of Omaha.

She is preceded in death by her husband and brothers Ernest, Morris, Hank and Raymond Brockevelt.

Memorials: Family wishes. Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.    


Charles Novacek   


       
Charles R. Novacek, 85, of Lincoln, formerly of David City, died Monday, Jan. 4, 2010, at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln.

Services are at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 9, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with

Father Bernard Kimminau as celebrant. Visitation is Friday from 5-7 p.m., with a rosary at 7 p.m. at Kracl Funeral Chapel in David City. Visitation continues at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the church. Burial is at David City Cemetery, with military honors.

Mr. Novacek was born April 19, 1924, in David City to Charles and Mary (Hadraba) Novacek. He graduated from David City High School. 

He served in the United States Army, 90th Infantry Division from 1943-1946 and was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5814 in David City.
On June 15, 1949, he married Genevieve Sanley at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City.

He had owned and operated a dry cleaning establishment in David City and was a member of the David City Volunteer Fire Department. They later moved to Santa Maria, Calif., where he worked in the maintenance department at Vandenburg Air Force Base until retiring in 1981. He has lived in Lincoln for the past 15 years.

Survivors include a daughter, Kathy (Mark) Quick of Raymond; daughter-in-law, Glenda Masek of Lincoln; and sister, Ella Muntz of Omaha.

He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; son, Charles Masek; brother, Otto Novacek; and sister, Lillian Novacek.
Memorials: Family wishes. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.


Irene Dill


Irene J. Dill, 92, of David City died Friday, Jan. 8, 2010, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.
Mass of Christian Burial is at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 15, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau, celebrant. Visitation is 4-7 p.m. Thursday, with a rosary service at 7 p.m. at Kracl Funeral Chapel in David City. Visitation is also at 9:30 a.m. Friday at the church. Burial is at St. Mary's Cemetery. Lunch is at the Knights of Columbus Hall in David City.

Irene was born Sept. 18, 1917, in David City to Joseph and Ester (Litty) Kucera. 
She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. In her early years she worked at St. Mary's Elementary School as a cook. She spent the last 15 months at St. Joseph's Villa.
Irene is survived by her son, Kenneth (Dora) Dill, Lincoln; sister, Juanita Gates, Fremont; sister-in-law, Jackie Kucera, Fremont; grandchildren, Deborah (Dill) and her husband, Clint Frahm, Blair, Kevin and Stephanie Dill of Westminster, Colo., and Karen (Dill) and Russ Ronspies, Smithville, Mo.; great-grandchildren, Airman 1st Class Aaron, Tyler and Ryan Frahm, Elizabeth Dill and Brodie and Haleigh Ronspies; several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Oscar B. Dill; her parents; one sister; and four brothers.

Memorials: St. Mary's Catholic Church; St. Joseph's Villa. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

Sr. Thomas Patrick Dooley


Sister Thomas Patrick Dooley O.P., 82, of David City died Monday, Jan. 4, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Services were Friday, Jan. 8, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City.
Sister Thomas Patrick was born Eulalia M. Dooley in Greeley on Feb. 23, 1927, to Thomas and Rose (Dillon) Dooley.

Prior to entering religious life, she was the secretary to the credit manager at JL Brandeis Department Store in Omaha and then worked for the IRS in Idaho. She entered the Dominican Novitiate of the former St. Catharine of Siena congregation, St. Catharine, Ky., in 1950 and made her Profession of Vows in 1952, taking the religious name of Sister Thomas Patrick.

Sr. Thomas Patrick earned a bachelor of arts degree from Ursuline College (Louisville, Ky.) in biology with minors in secondary education, theology and philosophy. She also earned a masters of science degree in biology and ecology from St. Mary's College (Winona, Minn.).

Her ministry in education brought her to many schools: St. Patrick, Missouri Valley, Iowa, (1952-55); Our Lady of Peace, Chicago (1955-60); St. Bartholomew, Chicago (1960-61); St. Francis, Forrest City, Ark., (1961); St. Patrick, Missouri Valley, Iowa, (1961-62); Rosary Academy, Watertown, Mass. (1963-64); SS. Simon and Jude, Louisville, Ky., (1964-65); Kearney Catholic, Kearney (1965-68, 71-77); Sacred Heart High, Greeley (1968-70); Spalding Academy, Spalding (1977-80); and Aquinas High School, David City (1983-05), where she continued to substitute teach until her death. Sr. Thomas Patrick also ministered as the Assistant Treasurer for the Generalate in St. Catharine, Ky., (1980-83).

She is survived by her niece, nephew and cousins.

Sr. Thomas Patrick was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Mary Ursula; and brothers, Raymond, Lawrence and Richard.

Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.
           

Charles Novacek  

         
Charles R. Novacek, 85, of Lincoln, formerly of David City, died Monday, Jan. 4, 2010, at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln.

Services were Saturday, Jan. 9, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau, celebrant. Burial was at David City Cemetery, with military honors.

Mr. Novacek was born April 19, 1924, in David City to Charles and Mary (Hadraba) Novacek. He graduated from David City High School. 

He served in the United States Army, 90th Infantry Division from 1943-1946 and was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5814 in David City.

On June 15, 1949, he married Genevieve Sanley at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. He had owned and operated a dry cleaning establishment in David City and was a member of the David City Volunteer Fire Department. They later moved to Santa Maria, Calif., where he worked in the maintenance department at Vandenburg Air Force Base until retiring in 1981. He has lived in Lincoln for the past 15 years.

Survivors include a daughter, Kathy (Mark) Quick of Raymond; daughter-in-law, Glenda Masek of Lincoln; three grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and sister, Ella Muntz of Omaha.

He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; son, Charles Masek; brother, Otto Novacek; and sister, Lillian Novacek.

Memorials: Family wishes. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.


Romaine Pesicka


Romaine T. Pesicka, 82, of Shelby died Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2010, at Nebraska Heart Institute in Lincoln.

Services were Saturday, Jan. 9, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shelby, with Father John Rooney officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery, with Military Rites by Shelby Legion Post 296.

Mr. Pesicka was born Nov. 22, 1927, at Yankton, S.D., to Anton and Anna (Kreber) Pesicka. He graduated from Tabor, S.D., High School and the University of South Dakota at Springfield. He received a master's degree from Northern University at Aberdeen, S.D., and a specialist's degree from the University of Nebraska. He began his teaching career at Naper, Nebr., and continued at Niobrara and Tabor, S.D. He was superintendent of schools at Tabor, Hordville, and retired after 24 years at Shelby.

On May 28, 1953, he married Carmen Karolevitz.
He was serving on the Board of Education Service Unit 7 and substituted in area schools. He was active in the establishment of the library in Shelby.

He was a veteran of World War II and member of American Legion in Shelby.
Survivors include his wife; daughter, Lori Frasch of St. Joseph, Mo.; and grandson, Tyler.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, JoAnn Hlavac; and stepbrother, Kenneth Schneider.

Memorials: Shelby Public Library.
Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Osceola.

Mildred Anderson


GRAND ISLAND -- Mildred M. Anderson, 96, of Grand Island died Monday, Jan. 4, 2010, at Western Hall County Good Samaritan Center in Wood River.

Services were at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 7, at Gollaher Chapel, Trinity United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Jay Vetter officiating. Burial was at Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery.
She was born March 29, 1913, in Garrison, the daughter of Jacob and Emma (Dallege) Heins.

She was united in marriage to Kenneth Dale Anderson, June 3, 1933. Mildred and Dale lived on various farms from Ulysses, Garrison, Dannebrog and Alda, moving to Grand Island in the 1960s and then buying the International Harvester business in Sargent. In 1975, they moved to Ainsworth and purchased the John Deere Dealership with two of their sons, Don and Ken. In 1985, Mildred and Dale both retired and moved to Grand Island. She was a faithful wife and mother and her family was of highest importance to her throughout her life.

She enjoyed so many hobbies, from sewing, crafts, bowling, baking, playing cards, dancing and playing the organ. Her favorite hobby was quilting and she accomplished making one for each one of her grandchildren. Her biggest accomplishment during her life was writing the book "Memories of Home, the Heins family history."

Survivors include four sons and daughters-in-law, Norman and Sonya Anderson of Central City, Darrel and Connie Anderson of Grand Island, Donnie and Pat Anderson of Unionville, Mo., and Ken Anderson of North Platte; one daughter and son-in -law, Marlis and Tom Key of Casper, Wyo.; daughter-in-law, Carol Anderson of Sidney; 13 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Harold Heins of David City. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, (Jacob and Emma); her husband, Dale; three sons, Garry in 1961, Merle in 1972 and Lee in 2004.
Memorials: to the family to be designated at a later date.

Arrangements by Apfel Funeral Home. 
                            

Catherine Sedlak           

Catherine M. Sedlak, 92, of Wahoo, formerly of Seward and Bee, died Monday, Jan. 4, 2010.   

Mass of Christian burial was at 1:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 8, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with celebrant Father Rand Langhorst. Graveside services were at Bee Catholic Cemetery.

Catherine Marie (Krenk) Sedlak was born on Aug. 16, 1917, on a farm near Dwight to John F. and Katie (Shorney) Krenk. She attended school in Dwight.

On Nov. 14, 1939, Catherine was united in marriage to Ivan Simon Sedlak at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight. Their marriage was blessed with two children, John and MaryAnn.

They farmed near Bee, where they raised livestock and had a dairy farm. In 1972, they moved to Seward and Catherine was then employed as an aide at Sundermann Homes. Ivan passed away in 1990 and Catherine continued to make her home in Seward until moving to Valparaiso and then to South Haven Living Center in Wahoo.

Catherine was a member of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church and PCCW in Seward and was also a member of Saints Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso and Catholic Workman. She was formerly a member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church and PCCW in Bee. Catherine loved to make kolaches and her "homemade from scratch brownies" were famous with her family; she also enjoyed embroidery, gardening, canning her vegetables that she raised and she was an avid reader.

Catherine is preceded in death by her parents, John and Katie Krenk; her husband, Ivan Sedlak; grandchildren, Connie Johnson and Ben Masek; siblings and spouses, Emil and Lilly Krenk, Fred and Helen Krenk, Helen and Melvin Brammer, Tillie and Paul Fisher and John Krenk; an infant brother; one niece; one nephew; and parents-in-law, Rudolph A. and Josephine (Blazek) Sedlak.

Catherine is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, John and Betty Sedlak, Lincoln; daughter and son-in-law, MaryAnn and Eugene Masek, Ceresco; eight grandchildren, Dale and Nancy Sedlak, David and Monica Sedlak, Ken and Sue Sedlak, Jim and Mandi Sedlak, Marie and Dan Gruenes, Rebecca and Ron Gruenes, Jerome and Carisa Masek and Andrew and Jill Masek; 17 great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Rudolph F. "Junior" Sedlak, Denver; five nephews and a host of friends.

Memorials: Donor's choice in care of Zabka Funeral Home, Seward. Condolences: www.zabkafuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home.

Daniel Spatz


GRAND ISLAND -- Grand Island resident Daniel A. Spatz, 84, died Friday, Jan. 8, 2010, at the Nebraska Veterans Home in Grand Island.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, at All Faiths Chapel in the
Nebraska Veterans Home. Rosary will take place prior to Mass. Viewing will be one hour prior to service. Burial will be at Burkett Cemetery.

Daniel was born March 18, 1925, in Brainard, the son of Anton and Lyudmila (Kracman) Spatz. He attended county schools and graduated from Brainard High School. Following school, he went to work on the family farm before serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

When he returned, Daniel continued to work on the family farm. After the death of his parents,
he chose to move to Grand Island and resided at the Nebraska Veterans Home.
Daniel is survived by brothers, Adolph and wife, Margaret, of Bee and Emil and wife, Caroline, of Brainard; sister, Marge Ratkovec of Mead; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Louis, William and Ray; sisters, Gladys Ustahol and Irene Spatz; and two brothers-in-law, Alvin Ustahol and Leonard Ratkovec.
Arrangements by Kleine Funeral Home, 3213 W North Front Street, Grand Island, NE 68802.

Rebecca Hastings

SEWARD -- Rebecca "Becky" S. Hastings, 41, of Brainard died Sunday, Jan. 17, 2010, in Lincoln. Services are at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 22, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with Celebrant Father Rand Langhorst and Homilist Father Matthew Eickhoff. Visitation is 9 a.m.- 4 p.m., Thursday at Zabka Funeral Home in Seward, one hour prior to the 7 p.m. rosary on Thursday at the church and one hour prior to the Mass on Friday at the church. Burial will be at Seward Cemetery.

Mrs. Hastings was born Nov. 3, 1968, in Omaha to Richard and Toni Bohac.

She married Gary Hastings.

She served in the Nebraska Air National Guard.

She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard, where she was the PCCW president. She was a past president of the UNOPA and NeOPA.

Survivors include her husband of Brainard; daughters, Jamie Hastings and special friend Donnie Grose of Glen Rock, Wyo., and Kimberley O'Conner and husband, Thomas, of Centreville, Va.; sons, Garry Hastings of Fremont and Barry Hastings and wife, Rebecca, of Alliance; nine grandchildren; parents of Garland; sisters and brothers-in-law, Tammy and Alan Tejral of Brainard and Julie and Trevor Klimm of Garland; brother, Joe Bohac of David City; many nieces and nephews; mother-in-law and stepfather-in-law, Wilma and Virgil Kleensang of Hay Springs; brothers-in-law, Gene and Jeanne Hastings of Scottsbluff and Larry and Cori Hastings of Cheyenne, Wyo.; grandmother, Stacie Bohac of Wahoo; and dogs, Mattie and Elly.

She was preceded in death by grandparents, Anthony and Mary Catherine Valenti, Tonie and Leon Fiddler and Joseph Bohac; uncle, Gene Dostal; aunt, Jean Kovar, father-in-law, Lloyd Hastings; and sister-in-law, Judy Gonzales.

Memorials: To the family. Condolences: www.zabkafuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home.

Agnes Prucha

COLUMBUS -- Agnes Prucha, 91, of Columbus died Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2010, at Golden Living Center in Columbus.

Mass of Christian Burial was Saturday, Jan. 16, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus, with the Rev. Tom Weisbecker officiating. Interment was at St. Bonaventure Cemetery in Columbus.

Agnes Mary Prucha was born April 13, 1918, at Humphrey to Frank and Walburga (Hoffman) Zach. She grew up in Humphrey and attended St. Mary's Grade School. Agnes moved to Chicago, where she married James Prucha on July 18, 1942, at St. Leonard Catholic Church in Berwyn, Ill. The couple had a daughter, Christine, born July 8, 1948. She died that same day. Agnes and James became foster parents for three girls and a boy.

Agnes did factory work while living in Chicago. In 1975, the couple moved to Tennessee and then moved to Columbus in 1997. Agnes was a member of St. Bonaventure Catholic Church.

Survivors include a sister, Margaret Karr of Parkville, Mo.; brothers and wives, Denis (Dolores) Zach of Lincoln, Edward (Elaine) Zach of Hastings and Ferd (Adela) Zach of Humphrey; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James C. Prucha; father, Frank Zach; mother, Walburga Zach; and sister, Gertrude (Mrs. Henry) Wiehn.

Condolences may be sent to www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangments by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.

James Kelly

OMAHA -- It is with a great sigh of sadness that we announce the passing of James Frederick Kelly, 96, of Omaha, formerly of Surprise, on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2010.

He was born on a farmstead near Surprise on Aug. 23, 1913, to Hugh and Julia (Ficke) Kelly. Jim's childhood of hard work on the family's farm included driving a four-horse propelled single row plow starting at the age of 10.

In 1935, he moved to Omaha. He lived with his maternal grandparents, the Fickes, in North Omaha. Jim would walk five miles to downtown in search of jobs in order to save the nickel carfare. He found his "calling" in the restaurant business and, with the exception of four years service in the U.S. Army during World War II, he was an Omaha restaurateur for over 40 years.

Jimmy's Cafe and Kelly's Cafe served home cooked meals based on his mother's recipes. He told tales of truckers, Omaha policemen and cab drivers, in 1950's Omaha, lined up out the door and down the sidewalk just to have a lunch of his famous Hot Beef Sandwich or Navy Bean Soup.

In 1945, Jim, as a staff sergeant in the U. S. Army, along with his Company, met the Russians on the Elbe River in the final days of World War II.

Jim was preceded in death by his loving wife and business partner, Louise Ann; his firstborn daughter, Sheila Ann; brothers, Leo and John; and sister, Lucille.

He is survived by daughters, Diana Couture and Chris Nickerson of Washington State; sister, Mary Jones; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. His many nieces and nephews, who frequently visited and called, will miss him greatly. Rest in Peace dad, brother, grandfather, great-granddad, uncle and friend.

Vigil service was Friday, Jan. 15, at West Center Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial was Saturday, Jan. 16, at Christ the King Catholic Church, 654 South 86 Street, Omaha. Interment was at Calvary Cemetery, Omaha.

Memorials: Red Cloud Indian School in Pine Ridge, S.D., or Christ the King Catholic Church.

Arrangements by Heafey-Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler West Center Chapel, Omaha.

 

Robert Workman
 

SEWARD -- Robert "Jack" L. Workman, 83, of Seward, died Sunday, Jan. 17, 2010.

Visitation is 9 a.m.-8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 20, with family receiving friends from 6-8 p.m., both at Zabka Funeral Home in Seward, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday. Services are at 11 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 21, at the United Methodist Church, Seward, with officiant the Rev. Lee Johnson. Graveside services will be at the Ulysses Township Cemetery, with full military honors.

Mr. Workman was born July 28, 1926. He was a 1944 graduate of Ulysses High School.

He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

He was retired from Hughes Brothers in Seward.

He was a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4755 in Seward and member of Seward United Methodist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Maryanne Hubbard-Workman of Seward; daughters and sons-in-law, Susan and Larry Urbanek of Dwight, Laura Workman Eells and Michael Eells of McPherson, Kan.; grandchildren, Kristen and Aaron Finley and Daniel Robert Eells; great-grandchildren, Morgan and Logan Finley; stepchildren, David and Lori Sanders of Dwight and Diane and Dan Post of Lincoln; step-grandchildren, Nicholas Sanders, Melissa and Jason Smith and Gloria and Adam Olson.

Memorials: Donor's choice in care of the Workman family. Condolences: www.zabkafuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home.

 

Everette Hough


COLUMBUS -- Everette Hough, 83, of Bellwood died Friday, Jan. 22, 2010, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Mass of Christian Burial is at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 27, at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Bellwood, with a vigil at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the church. Visitation was Tuesday at McKown Funeral Home in Columbus and at the church.

Visitation continues from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the church. Interment is at
St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery at Bellwood.
Everette F. Hough was born June 13, 1926, at Bellwood to William and Margaret (Klein) Hough. Everette was born on the family farm and remained there his entire life. He went to rural District 7 grade school and graduated from Bellwood High School in 1943.

Everette married Helen Rerucha on Jan. 19, 1949, at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Bellwood. Everette farmed near Bellwood and had a great love for raising cattle his entire life. He was a resident at David Place from October 2002 to January 2010. Everette was a Dekalb dealer with his brother Ray from 1966 to 2000. In his later part of his life, he enjoyed watching his boys farm.

He was a member of the Bellwood Volunteer Fire Department for 29 years. He served many years on District 7 rural school board and Bellwood 3R school board. He was a member of The Knights of Columbus, David City Council. Everette enjoyed fishing on the Platte River, farming, gardening, playing cards, bowling and socializing. He also loved playing and refereeing basketball and enjoyed watching his grandchildren's activities.

Everette is survived by his wife, Helen Hough of Bellwood; sons, Thomas (Maxine) and David (Mary), all of Bellwood, and Michael (Jane) of Columbus; seven grandchildren, Pamela Hough of Kansas, Andy Hough of Omaha, Jeffrey (Raven) Hough of Bellwood, Thomas Hough Jr. of David City, Brooke Hough of Bellwood, Ryan Hough of Omaha and Kelly (Todd) Hanson of Bellwood; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Francis and Raymond Hough; and two grandchildren, Christopher Hough and Tammy Jo Hough.

Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home.
 

Frank Ostdiek



Frank Ostdiek, 54, of David City, died Thursday, Jan. 21, 2010, in Omaha.
Funeral Mass was 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Burial was at St. Mary's Cemetery in David City.

Frank was born Aug. 25, 1955, to Herman and Irene (Schroer) Ostdiek in Superior. He graduated from Lawrence High School in 1974.

On Nov. 24, 1979, he married Helen Tillemans at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Hastings. Frank was a maintenance mechanic at Cargill Meat Solution in Schuyler.

Frank moved to David City in 1996 from Mankato, Kan.

He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and 4th Degree member of The Knights of Columbus. He was a master gardener and loved his granddaughter.

Frank is survived by his wife, Helen, of David City, sons, John R. Ostdiek and his fiancŽe, Jennifer Krueger of Omaha, and Corey M. (Sara) Ostdiek of Hastings; daughter, Chanda M.
Ostdiek and her fiancŽ, Chris Nelsen of Yankton, S.D.; granddaughter, Addison Ostdeik of Yankton; brothers, John Ostdiek, Ed Ostdiek and Ray Ostdiek, all of Lawrence; sisters, Marge Buescher of South Bend and Marie Herbek of Deweese; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Vern Ostdiek.

The family has requested memorials to the Guardian Angel Fund at Aquinas High School or to Family's Choice.

On-line messages of condolence may be sent to www.chermokfuneralhome.
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Gary Fiala


SEWARD -- Gary Lee Fiala, 48, of Ulysses died Monday, Jan. 18, 2010, at his home.
Mass of Christian Burial was 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 22, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses, with Celebrant Father Raymond Jansen. Graveside service and interment was at Ulysses Catholic Cemetery at Ulysses.

Mr. Fiala was born Aug. 13, 1961, in David City to Leroy Michael and MaryAnn Katherine (Semin) Fiala. Gary was a 1979 graduate of East Butler High School in Brainard. He attended the University of Nebraska-Kearney for two years.

Gary was a 23-year employee of Goodyear Tire and Rubber in Lincoln and was currently self-employed in the family construction business. 

Preceding Gary in death were his mother, MaryAnn Fiala, in 1990, and his brother-in-law, Dewayne Bohac. 

Gary is survived by his sons, Austin Fiala of Lincoln, Aaron and his wife Faith Fiala of Lincoln, Garret Fiala and his friend Mindy Bykerk of David City and Adam Fiala of Lincoln; his father, Leroy Fiala of Seward; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mike and Mary Fiala of Seward, Roy and Nita Fiala of Houston; sisters, Kathy Bohac of Valparaiso and MaryLee Callender of Aurora, Colo.; his lifelong friend, Gary Ebeler; his significant other, Lori LaFour, and her son, Robbie LaFour; nieces and nephews, cousins and a host of friends.

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.
     

Elmer Haba

           
Elmer Haba, 84, of Prague died Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010, at his home south of Prague.
Services were Tuesday, Jan. 26, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in David City, with Jerry L. Kracl, speaker. Committal was at Prague National Cemetery.

William Elmer Haba was born March 30, 1925, in Rescue, Neb., to Joseph D. and
Rosalie (Kliment) Haba.

He was a farmer in the Prague area and loved raising hogs. He was an excellent dancer and was well known throughout the area for his tireless dancing. Elmer was a member of Eagle's Aerie 200 in Fremont.

He is survived by his special friend, Margaret Hladky of Prague, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters, Rosie Tomek, Christina Haba, Agnes Kucera and Bessie Dauel; and three brothers-in-law; Emil Tomek, Ed Kucera and William C. Dauel.

Memorials: Prague National Cemetery. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.

Alice Chromy


NORTH BEND - Alice A. Chromy, 95, died suddenly Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010, at Crowell Memorial Home in Blair.

Funeral Mass is at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, at St. Charles Catholic Church in North Bend, with Father Ronald Battiato officiating. Visitation is 3-8 p.m. Wednesday with a rosary service at 7 p.m. at Moser Memorial Chapel in North Bend. Interment will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery at Cedar Hill.

Alice was born Feb. 15, 1914, to Frank and Anna (Beranek) Nesladek near Morse Bluff.
She married Joseph F. Chromy Nov. 22, 1938, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church at Cedar Hill, near Morse Bluff. They were married for 57 years until he died Jan. 7, 1996. They lived for a short time near Linwood, Valley and Colon before moving to North Bend. In her later years she lived at Arlington, then at the Crowell Memorial Home in Blair.

Alice was a simple lady and homemaker. As a farmer's wife, she enjoyed raising ducks and geese. She knitted numerous bedroom slippers for her family and crocheted afghans. She sewed most of her own clothing until her eyesight made that impossible. She enjoyed the produce from their vegetable garden and fruit trees. She liked to cook and baked crescent rolls, kolaches and cinnamon rolls weekly for many years. She is also remembered for all the dill pickles she made and sauerkraut and potato dumplings. In her later years, she spent many hours at the senior citizen centers in North Bend and Arlington playing cards.

Survivors include a son, Ken, and wife Kathy Chromy of Ohiowa; daughters, Janice Boyd and husband Scott of David City, Bernice "Bing" Blatny of Lincoln and Margaret Nelson of Blair; 11 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; infant son, Joseph Jr.; brothers, Joseph, Adolph and Edward Nesladek; sister, Emma Heinemann; and sons-in-law, Hilbert "Hip" Stieren and Donald Nelson.

Memorials: Sacred Heart Cemetery or a charity of the donor's choice. Condolences: www.mosermemorialchapels.com
Arrangements by Moser Memorial Chapel.

Fr. John Glaves


LINCOLN - Father John Glaves, 82, a retired priest of the Diocese of Lincoln, died Sunday, Jan. 17, 2010, at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital in Lincoln, where he had been a resident for three years.

A funeral Mass was celebrated Thursday, Jan. 21, by Bishop Fabian Bruskewitz and priests of the Diocese at St. Peter Catholic Church in Lincoln. Burial was at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery.
Born in Lewiston, Mo., Father Glaves attended seminaries in Illinois, Texas, Ohio and Colorado. He was ordained to the priesthood March 19, 1956, by Bishop Louis Kucera.

He served parishes at Fairbury, Wallace, Wellfleet, Lawrence, Cambridge, Bellwood, David City, Curtis, Farnam, Paul, Dunbar, Lincoln, Palmyra, Douglas, Brainard, Valparaiso, Davey, Prague, Plasi, Alexandria, Gilead, Morse Bluff, Cedar Hill and Exeter.

He taught at Aquinas High School in David City, Lourdes Central Catholic Schools in Nebraska City and Bishop Neumann High School in Wahoo. He also was actively involved in the Knights of Columbus.

Arrangements by Butherus-Maser and Love Funeral Home, Lincoln.

Sr. Dominic Coufal


OMAHA - Sister Dominic Coufal, 87, a Notre Dame Sister for nearly 58 years, died Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, at Immanuel Fontenelle Home in Omaha.

Funeral Mass was Wednesday, Jan. 20, at Notre Dame Convent. Interment was at Calvary Cemetery.

She was born Helen Lucille Coufal at Dwight on Nov. 5, 1922. Before entering the convent, she helped her father in their home and then assisted her grandmother.

For 44 years, she was a housekeeper and cook for the sisters. She served in Prague, Dodge, Brainard, Dwight and Omaha. For 26 of the years, she worked with Sister Lucille Jelinek in the Notre Dame Motherhouse kitchen in Omaha.

Survivors include Notre Dame Sisters; sister and brother-in-law, Marcy and Julius Meduna of Weston; brother and sister-in-law, Alois and Phyllis Coufal of Bishop, Calif.; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; six brothers; and three sisters.
Memorials: Notre Dame Sisters.

Arrangements by Heafey-Heafey-Hoffmann Dworak-Cutler, Omaha.


 

Margaret "Peg" Byers 


COLUMBUS - Margaret "Peg" R. Byers, 81, of David City, formerly of Columbus, died Friday, Jan. 29, 2010, at David Place in David City.

Mass of Christian Burial was Tuesday, Feb. 2, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus, with Father Tom Weisbecker officiating. Burial was at Osceola Cemetery.
Margaret "Peg" R. Byers was born Jan. 16, 1929, in Osceola to John M. and Victoria (Micek) Staroscik. She graduated from Osceola High School in 1947.

On Dec. 30, 1948, Peg was united in marriage to Don R. Byers Jr. in Osceola. They moved to Columbus, where Peg raised their five children. Peg went to work at the City Water Office for five years, at Bircker Office Supply and worked in Dr. Conrad's office for six years.

Peg was a woman of devotion to God, her husband and to her family. She enjoyed baking, cooking, sewing, gardening and spending time with her family. She was a member of St. Bonaventure Catholic Church, Christian Mothers, 3rd Order of St. Francis and Catholic Daughters.

She is survived by daughters and husbands, Mary (Harry) Beller of North Bend, Connie (Tim) Siemek of Osceola and Vicki Husmann of Columbus; sons and wives, Don R. "Butch" (Joan) Byers III of Yankton, S.D., and Steve (Barb) Byers of David City; 11 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; sisters, Rose Gabriel of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Mary Ann Kinder of Virginia Beach, Va.; and sister-in-law, Dorothy Byers of David City.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Don R. Byers Jr., father, John M. Staroscik; mother, Victoria Staroscik; sister, Suzanne Staroscik; and grandson, Troy Beller.

Memorials: Alzheimer's Association. Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.

Ernest Fish
 

Ernest Lovell Fish, 91, of David City, formerly of Rising City, died Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City. He donated his body to science and there will be no services.
Mr. Fish, son of Charles and Maude (Chase) Fish, was born on a farm near Rising City on March 25, 1919. He attended Union Hill Grade School and Rising City High School, graduating in 1936.

He married Frances Ingleright on March 22, 1938. He worked for Roberts Construction at Mead and Hastings.

He was then inducted into the U.S. Army, serving from 1943-46. After his discharge, he managed laundry and dry cleaning services in Virginia Beach and Salem, Virginia, retiring in 1981.

He was an active member of First United Methodist Church in Salem. He always raised a big garden, sharing vegetables with other tenants in the condominium where he and his wife lived. Because of ill health, they moved back to Nebraska in 2005, residing in St. Joseph's Court and Villa in David City until his death.

Survivors include his wife; brother, Donald, and wife, Luella; sister-in-law, Edith Jackson; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Willard.
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.
 


       
Marion Hain


SEWARD -- Marion Edmund Hain, 65, of Bee died Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010, in Lincoln.
Mass of Christian Burial was Thursday, Feb. 4, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Bee, with Celebrant Father Sean Timmerman. Interment was at Assumption Catholic Cemetery, Dwight, with Military Honors provided by Dwight American Legion Post 110.

Mr. Hain was born June 14, 1944, in Seward to Charles F. Hain Jr. and Martha M. (Soukup) Hain. He was a 1962 graduate of East Butler High School in Brainard. Before his graduation, Marion enlisted in the National Guard.

Marion was united in marriage to Mary Lee Egr on Aug. 11, 1973, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Gretna. He was a member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Bee and Dwight American Legion Post 110.

Preceding Marion in death were his mother, Martha M. Hain; his father, Charles F. Hain Jr.; and aunts and uncles, Majorie Spragg, Ed Soukup and Ed and Marie Greguras.

Marion is survived by his wife, Mary Lee (Egr) Hain of Bee; brother and sister-in-law, Allen E. and Beverly Hain of Seward; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Clarence and Char Greguras of Brainard and David and Linda Egr of Lincoln; uncle and aunt, Anthony and Frances Hottovy of Dwight; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.
   

Rita Houdek


CENTRAL CITY - Rita D. Houdek, 80, of Grand Island, formerly of Central City and Dwight, died at Lakeview Golden Living Center in Grand Island.
Funeral services are at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 12, with Monsignor Nelson Newman officiating and visitation will be Friday from 9 a.m. to service time at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Central City. Interment will be at Central City Cemetery.

Rita Dorothy was born May 3, 1929, at Dwight to Charles J. and Mary A. (Ruzicka) Houdek. She grew up in the Dwight area and received her education at Butler County schools. In the mid-1960s, Rita moved with her parents to Central City. In the early 1980s, she went to live in Grand Island.

Rita was baptized at St. Luke's Catholic Church in Loma and was a member of St. Luke's until moving to Central City. She then was a faithful attendee at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Central City. Rita enjoyed listening to music, especially polka, and she loved birds. Rita will be remembered for always being happy.

Those left to cherish Rita's memory are her sister and brothers, Regina and Leonard Fiala of Geneva, Raymond and Adeline Houdek of Chapman, Edmund and Marilyn Houdek of Sedalia, Mo., Marvin and Ann Houdek of Mesquite, Texas, and Tom and Ann Houdek of Bedford, Texas; sister-in-law, Elsie Houdek of Chapman; many nieces and nephews and their families; and many cousins.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Joseph, Jerome and Charles Houdek; and two sisters, Charlotte Houdek and Margaret Hotovy.
Memorials suggested to Mass offerings or donor's choice. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.soltfh.com

Arrangements by Solt Funeral Home, Central City.

Anna Searles


Anna M. Searles, 81, of David City died Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City. Inurnment in the Oakwood Cemetery in Weeping Water took place on Feb. 12.
Anna was born in Venago on July 20, 1928, to Julius and Anna Nellie (Bates) Van Overbeck. Anna graduated from Louisville Public High School. She was a seamstress. 

Anna is survived by two sons, Doug (Kim) Searles of Ulysses and Jeff Searles of Centerville, S.D.; daughter, Dianna Cunningham of Alpharetta, Ga.; sister, Haellene (Joseph) Searles of St. Paul, Minn.; and eight grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Billy Van Overbeck.
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Raymond Houdesheldt


FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Raymond E. Houdesheldt, 70, of Fort Myers, Fla., formerly of David City and Columbus, died Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2010, at Hope Hospice in Fort Myers. A
memorial is planned in the future in Colorado.

Ray was born Sept. 22, 1939, in David City to Marion and Dorothy (Stevenson) Houdesheldt. He attended David City Public Schools and joined the U.S. Air Force during his senior year, serving from 1957 to 1961.

He was an automobile body repairman, working in several body shops in the area until opening his own shop in Columbus and later in Florida.
He enjoyed being with his family and friends, street rods and watching NASCAR races.

He is survived by his sons, Gary (Tonia) of Wellington, Colo., Dean (Sandy) of Loveland, Colo., Neil (Linda) of Frederick, Colo., ex-wife Jacki of Loveland, Ruth Houdesheldt of Fort Myers; brother, Leon (Cindy) of Columbus; step-sister, Donna Deavers of David City; niece, Kate Deavers of David City; and nephews, John Deavers of St Louis, Greg Houdesheldt of Lincoln and Allen (Tonya) Houdesheldt and Brian Houdesheldt, both of Columbus.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert; and nephew, Mike Houdesheldt.                


Services Friday for Starlyn Otte

Starlyn Otte, 47, of David City, died Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at the Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Funeral services will be Friday, October 30. 2009 at 10:30am at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, David City with Rev. Mark Schutt officiating. Burial will be in the David City Cemetery.

Closed casket visitation will be one one hour before services at the church.

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, memorials be given in care of the family.

Starlyn R. Otte was born on June 19, 1962 at McCook, Nebraska to Roland and Donna(Weaver) Hilker. She graduated from McCook High School in 1980. On November 29, 1986, she married Mark Otte at Blair, Nebraska and moved to David City where she worked as manager of E Street Discount Pharmacy.

Starlyn's life revolved around her family, especially her children. She was a member of the Methodist Church.

She is survived by her husband, Mark, her two daughters: Morgan Rose Otte of Lincoln and Corinn Grace Otte of David City, her mother: Donna Sautner of McCook, one brother: Wade Hilker of Columbus, four sisters: Barbara(David)Faimon of Grand Island, Donita(Darl)Brunner of Windsor, CO; Nanette(Don)Schmid of Chadron and Treanna(Rick)Richie of Eldora, Iowa. Mother-in-law: Diane Otte of Omaha; and many nieces and nephews.

She was prededed in death by one brother: Tyger Hilker, and father-in-law: Gerald Otte.

Services Saturday in Seward for Jim Zitek

James Anthony Zitek was born June 4, 1982 in David City, Nebraska to Gary Alan and Allison Kay (Tuma) Zitek and passed away on Sunday, December 6, 2009 near Holdrege, Nebraska at the age of 27 years, 6 months, 2 days.

Jim was one of five children raised on the family farm. He was a 2000 graduate of East Butler High School and was a graduate of  Southeast Community College in Milford in the Auto Body program. On September 25, 2004 Jim was united in marriage to Nicole "Niki" Deanne Novacek in Seward, Nebraska.

Jim was a team leader in the paint department at Duncan Aviation in Lincoln. He was a member of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and being a daddy to their daughter, Kallie and looking forward to the birth of their son in February.

Jim is preceded in death by his grandmother, Betty Tuma and an infant
son, Cole Zitek.

Mass of Christian Burial
10:00 A.M., Saturday, December 12, 2009
St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church
Seward, Nebraska
Celebrants: Father Rand Langhorst
and Father Raymond Jansen
Rosary
7:00 P.M., Friday, December 11, 2009
at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
Ulysses, Nebraska
Father Raymond Jansen
INTERMENT
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Cemetery
Ulysses, Nebraska
VISITATION
1:00 - 5:00 P.M., Thursday, December 10
and 9:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M., Friday, December 11
all at Zabka Funeral Home in Seward
and one hour prior to the Rosary in Ulysses on Friday
and one hour prior to the Mass in Seward on Saturday
MEMORIALS
To the Jim Zitek Family

Jim is survived by his wife, Niki Zitek of Seward; their daughter, Kallie Zitek of Seward; parents, Gary and Allison Zitek of Ulysses; siblings and spouses, Benjamin and Melissa Zitek of Lincoln, Angela and David Vandenberg of David City, Joel Zitek of Ulysses, Cassandra Zitek
of Ulysses; his grandparents, Marvin and Mary Lee Zitek of Ulysses and Dave Tuma of St. Paul; parents-in-law, Richard and Julie Novacek of Brainard; brother-in-law, Chad Novacek of Lincoln; nieces and nephews, Madison and Jordyn Vandenberg and Isaiah Novacek; several uncles and aunts and cousins and a host of friends.

June 2009 Obituaries

Dr. Robert Bierbower

Robert L. Bierbower, M.D., 81, died Monday, June 29, 2009, at David Place in David City.

Services were Thursday, July 2, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shelby, with Father John Rooney officiating. Burial was at Shelby Cemetery.

Dr. Bierbower was born Oct. 28, 1927, at Giltner to James C. and Margaret (Luby) Bierbower. He attended school in Giltner and graduated from Giltner High School. He then graduated from the University of Nebraska and the University of Nebraska Medical School.

On Oct. 27, 1951, he married Verla Bayne in Giltner.

He served in the U.S. Army in Korea from 1952-54.

He was in family practice in Shelby from 1955-87. In his spare time he was what his family called a "gentleman farmer."

He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Shelby American Legion.

Survivors include his wife; sons and daughters-in-law, Robert J. and Jeri Bierbower of Seward, James E. and Estelle Bierbower of Wakefield and Patrick Bierbower of Kearney; daughters and sons-in-law, Jean M. and Doug Hopwood of Rising City and Carol A. and Doug Carpenter of Grand Junction, Colo.; 17 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and sister, Joan Kersey of College Station, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant daughter, Mary Jane; grandson, Matthew Hopwood; brothers, James J. and John R. Bierbower; and sisters, June M. Bierbower, Margaret DeBord and Mary L. Albracht.

Memorials: Family choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

A.R. "Tony" Jakub

GRAND ISLAND -- A.R. "Tony" Jakub, 97, of Grand Island, formerly of Butler County, died Thursday, June 25, 2009, at Golden Lakeview Nursing Home in Grand Island.

Services were Wednesday, July 1, at St. Leo's Catholic Church in Grand Island, with Father Harry Kurtenbach officiating. Burial was at Grand Island Cemetery, with military honors by the Grand Island American Legion.

Mr. Jakub was born March 7, 1912, at Brainard to Joseph and Kristina Jakub. He graduated from Brainard High School in 1930 and then attended Grand Island Business College. He operated Tony's Loan Co. until 1976, when he retired.

He served two years in the European Theater with the 9th Army Headquarters in the Battle Casualty Division during World War II.

He married Letha Gish in 1936. They were the parents of a son, Marlyn, and daughter, LeAnne. She died in 1949. In 1950, he married Gertrude Wessel. She died Feb. 14, 2003.

He was a member of Riverside Gold Club, American Legion, Liederkranz and the Knights of Columbus, where he was a past Faithful Navigator. Earlier in life, he was an active sportsman, hunting pheasants and ducks and fishing. He enjoyed playing golf and attending Nebraska football games.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Marlyn and Pauline Jakub of Dunedin, New Zealand; daughter and son-in-law, LeAnne and Jerry Lau of Denver; seven grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; sister and husband, Mary and Ellis Proskovec of David City; and sister-in-law, Adeline Jakub of David City.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wives; grandson, Anthony Lau in 1994; brothers, Joseph Jr., Rudy, Fred, Ed and Henry Jakub; sisters, Veronica Polacek, Rose Sloup, Victoria Niemann, Kristina Jakub and Ann Jisa; and a half-sister, Agnes Ludvik.

Memorials: St. Leo's Catholic Church or Family's Choice.

Arrangements by Livingston-Sondermann Funeral Home.

Frances Matejcek

BRAINARD -- Frances Matejcek, 87, of Brainard, died Thursday, June 25, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.

Services were Saturday, June 27, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard, with burial at Holy Trinity Cemetery.

Mrs. Matejcek was born to Julius and Frances Zetocha on Sept. 12, 1921, on a farm near Brainard. She graduated from Wahoo High School in 1940.

On Feb. 18, 1943, she married Joseph E. Matejcek at St. Vitus Catholic Church in Touhy.

She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church and Holy Trinity PCCW, a Gold Star Member of Rejda Post 273 American Legion for 58 years and member of Wahoo Beaver - Bartek Ladies VFW 4502 for 46 years. She loved the outdoors, animals, farming and gardening.

Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Ben Steager of Brainard; grandchildren and spouses, Robert and Lisa Steager of Brainard and David and Michelle Steager and Aaron Steager, all of Lincoln; great-grandchildren, Christopher, Brianne, Mekayla, Jessie, Abbigail and Joseph; brother and wife, Ernest and Margie Zetocha of Brainard; and sister and husband, Bonita and Don Arney of Wahoo.

Memorials: American Legion Auxiliary, Brainard Fire and Rescue or in care of family.

Arrangements by Holesovsky Mortuary, Brainard.

Frank Pekarek

Frank A. Pekarek, 91, of David City died Wednesday, June 17, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Services were Friday, June 19, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Burial was at St. Mary's Cemetery.

Mr. Pekarek was born March 24, 1918, on the farm near Valparaiso to Frank and Frances (Svoboda) Pekarek. He attended the local schools and helped his dad farm.

He entered the U.S. Army on Aug. 27, 1942, at Fort Crook, Neb., and was honorably discharged May 18, 1943, at Camp Carson, Colo.

After his military service, he married Lillian Bartek Nov. 24, 1945, at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight. They lived in the Valparaiso, Omaha, Wahoo and David City areas. He farmed for a short period and then after his discharge, went to work at the Mead Ordnance Plant for several years. He then worked for a farm implement dealer in Wahoo, delivering farm machinery. He retired from the implement company and moved to David City in 1979.

He and his wife enjoyed traveling the local countryside and visiting their nieces and nephews. His routine included his daily stops for coffee at Northside Cafe, visiting with his coffee groups.

Survivors include his wife and several nieces and nephews.

Memorials: In care of family.

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Antoinette Stara

Antoinette A. Stara, 93, of Bruno died Tuesday, June 23, 2009.

Services were Saturday, June 27, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Bruno, with Father Ron Homes officiating. Burial was at St. Anthony's Cemetery at Bruno.

Mrs. Stara was born Jan. 19, 1916, at Plasi to Ludvik T. and Antonie (Fencl) Kaspar.

On Nov. 26, 1941, she married Stanley F. Stara at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Prague. They lived and farmed in the Bruno area. Not only did she work on the farm, she also cooked at various area restaurants over the years.

She was a member of the church and Altar Society and past member of the A&B Extension Club.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Delores and Ken White of Ulysses and Gladys and Ron Spicka of Weston; sons and daughters-in-law, Dennis and Nancy Stara of Lincoln and Dave and Peg Stara of Bruno; 12 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and brother and wife, Rudolph and Vera Kaspar of Clovis, N.M.

She was preceded in death by her husband; granddaughter, Deborah Spicka in 1969; and brother, Raymond Kaspar in 1998.

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.

Bruce Harper

LINCOLN -- Bruce R. Harper, 52, of Lincoln died Thursday, June 18, 2009, in Lincoln.

Services were Monday, June 22, at Messiah Lutheran Church in Lincoln, with Pastors John Kunze and Calvin L'Heureux officiating. Burial was at Wyuka Cemetery in Lincoln.

Mr. Harper was born June 11, 1957, in Omaha to William and Darlene (Japp) Harper.

He married Janice Klingemann of Rising City. He was a plumber for Quality Water Services and a member of Messiah Lutheran Church.

Survivors include his wife; son, Jacob Harper of Lincoln; his mother of Kennard; sister and brother-in-law, Teri and Doug Wolfe of Bennington; brothers and sisters-in-law, Steve and Laurie Harper of Omaha, Bob and Amy Harper of Kennard and Merle Harper of Arlington; mother-in-law, Frances Klingemann of Omaha; sisters-in-law and brothers-in law, Nancy and Wes Dodge and Tom and Carla Klingemann, all of Omaha, and Wanda and Johnny Dowdy of Dallas.

He was preceded in death by his father and father-in-law, William Klingemann.

Memorials: Messiah Lutheran Church, 1800 South 84th Street, Lincoln, NE 68506.

Arrangements by Roper & Sons Funeral Home, Lincoln.


Jessica Kula

POCATELLO, Idaho -- Jessica Danielle Kula, 21, of Pocatello, Idaho, formerly of Idaho Falls, Idaho, died Tuesday, May 19, 2009, at her home.

Services were Tuesday, May 26, at First Evangelical Lutheran Church, with Pastor Larry Cudmore officiating. Burial was at Iona, Idaho, Cemetery.

Jessica was born May 3, 1988, in Idaho Falls to David James Kula and Patricia Lynne Fruhling Kula. (Her father was formerly of the Bellwood area.) She attended Theresa Bunker Elementary School, Clair E. Gale Junior High and Idaho Falls High School. She graduated in 2006 and moved to Pocatello, where she had been attending Idaho State University for the past three years, majoring in psychology. She was working as a shipping clerk at UPS.

She loved life and had a variety of interests. She enjoyed drawing and participated in a number of sports, including softball, skiing, ice-skating and fencing. She most enjoyed fencing competitively, and had qualified to attend many national events across the United States. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family, friends and her boyfriend, Donavan Dennis.

Survivors include her parents of Idaho Falls; sister and husband, Melissa and Kirk Frecks of Minden; nephews, Hunter and Carter Frecks of Minden; and friend, Donavan Dennis of Pocatello.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Emil and Irene Kula of Bellwood.

Condolences may be sent to: Dave and Pat Kula, 1305 Rivera Dr., Idaho

Falls, IN 83404.

Arrangements by Wood Funeral Home of Idaho.

Mathias Sladky

WAHOO -- Mathias "Math" J. Sladky, 78, of Valparaiso, polka bandleader for 57 years, died Tuesday, June 9, 2009, at his home.

Services were Saturday, June 13, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wahoo, with Father Charles Townsend officiating. Burial was at St. Francis Cemetery, with military honors by Dwight American Legion 110.

Mr. Sladky was born Sept. 12, 1930, in Wahoo to Mathias G. and Sophie (Hobza) Sladky. He attended St. Wenceslaus School in Wahoo.

He was a 20-year military veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard, where he worked as an aircraft mechanic.

He married Dorothy "Dottie" Skoda Sept. 12, 1994, in Lincoln. He worked as an aircraft mechanic for the Nebraska State Patrol from 1975 until retiring in 1995. He and his wife formed M&D Tour and Travel, which specialized in taking people to Czechoslovakia.

He was a member of Dwight American Legion 110, Wisconsin Polka Boosters, No. 1 Mid-Western Polka Club of Kansas, Oklahoma Polka Club and Czech Heritage Foundation Inc. He was inducted into the Omaha Sokol Polka Hall of Fame in 1987, Milligan Hall of Fame in 2002 and Chicago National IPA Polka Music Hall of Fame in 2005. He was a former first vice president of the Lincoln Czech Club, a bandleader since 1952 and a musician since 1945.

Survivors include his wife; son and daughter-in-law, Robert A. and Rosemary Sladky of Waverly; daughter and son-in-law, Edna Mae and Bill Fencl of Bruno; eight grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; stepsons and wife, Leonard J. Pospisil

Jr. and Lawrence and Kim Pospisil, all of Lincoln; several stepgrandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ann and Anthony Osmera of Weston; and brothers and sisters-in-law, Joe and Clarice and Richard and Linda, all of Omaha, and Bernie and Emily of Wahoo.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials: To family for future distribution.

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Wahoo.

Bernie Friedrichsen

COLUMBUS - Bernard "Bernie" "BT" T. Friedrichsen, 80, of Columbus died Friday, June 12, 2009, at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln.

Services were at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 17, at Peace Lutheran Church in Columbus, with the Revs. Michael Klatt and Ernest Smith officiating. Burial is at Columbus Cemetery.

Mr. Friedrichsen was born on a wheat farm near Drake, Saskatchewan, Canada, on May 30, 1929, to Theodor and Emma (Peterson) Friedrichsen. The family moved to Bennington in 1936, where he graduated from Bennington High School.

He married Myrna Jensen Sept. 22, 1951, in Lincoln.

After graduating with an accounting degree from Wayne State College, he received the certified public accounting credential. He was an accountant most of his work life in various settings, including: a partnership, self-employment and later in his career as a corporate accountant in the Columbus area.

Over the years, he served on the Central Community College Board of Governors, Nebraska Public Power Review Board, Nebraska State Board of Public Accountancy, director for Loup Public Power District, and most notably as a Platte County Board Supervisor for the past 10 years, recently resigning due to his declining health. He also loved to teach and served as an instructor of multiple business classes during various times in the Platte Community College era. He lived his life as a dedicated Christian, was a member of Peace Lutheran Church and loved the Lord serving others in many ways.

He lettered in baseball as a freshman playing first base for the University of Nebraska before taking a break to serve his country as a sergeant in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Upon his return to the states and relocation from Plattsmouth to Columbus, he discovered softball and particularly enjoyed fast pitch softball during his early years in Columbus utilizing his NU baseball acquired skills.

He coached Little League baseball for many years and enjoyed watching various local high school sports games. He followed his Oregon grandsons' activities via phone calls, letters and occasional visits. He shared his love for Canada with his David City granddaughter on a road trip to Drake, Saskatchewan, and became a racecar fan when his David City grandsons competed in dirt track events. He also enjoyed learning about swimming events when his Columbus grandchildren competed for the Columbus Y-Swim Team. Grandchildren were always a special joy in his life. An avid Husker fan, he also never lost his love for NU baseball. Later in life, he developed a love for golf and enjoyed many years of exploring the golf courses of Nebraska, playing weekly with his golfing buddies.

He sang in many different choirs in Lincoln and Columbus drawing on his high school experiences of school plays and chorus groups. Woodworking commenced as a hobby but word spread quickly and he received many custom orders, ranging from Christmas yard and tree decorations to unique wood photo silhouette forms for many Columbus High School teams.

Survivors include his wife; son, daughter-in-law and family, Bruce and Becky Friedrichsen, Lucas and Adam of Monmouth, Ore.; daughters, sons-in-law and family, Deb and John Kobus, Amanda and Anthony of David City and Nathan Kobus of Lincoln and Michelle and John Ernst, Tommy and Nicole of Columbus.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two infant siblings; brothers, Christopher and Nicholas Friedrichsen; and sister, Caroline Schmidt.

Memorials: Columbus High Swim Team, Columbus YMCA Swim Team, David City Volunteer Fire Department, Peace Lutheran Church, Immanuel Lutheran Church or donor's choice.

Arrangements by Gass Haney Funeral Home, Columbus.

Marion Conrad

LEIGH -- Marion Alice Conrad, 85, of Leigh died Thursday, June 11, 2009, at Countryside Home in Madison.

Services were Monday, June 15, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Leigh, with

Pastor Teresa Meyer officiating. Burial was at Leigh Cemetery.

Mrs. Conrad was born July 31, 1923, to Benjamin Homer and Ida Mae (Hurst) Balderson in Pickrell. She, with her 12 brothers and sisters, was raised on a farm near Pickrell, where she also taught school for a time.

On June 6, 1948, she married Harold L. Conrad of David City at her home and they lived in Beatrice. They moved to Leigh in 1955, when they purchased the Leigh World. She worked at the newspaper office as a copy reporter, proofreader and jack-of-all-trades.

She was active in the Leigh Woman's Club and American Legion Auxiliary. A member of First Congregational/United Church of Christ Church in Leigh, she was active in Ladies Guild, taught Sunday school, sang in the choir and held various church offices. Upon the closing of the Congregational Church, she joined St. John's Lutheran Church.

She was a Brownie and Girl Scout Leader, Cub Scout Den Mother, promoter of Hands of Friendship and enjoyed attending musical programs in which her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren participated. Being raised with seven brothers, she learned to love sports and was a lifelong Nebraska football fan. In later years, she enjoyed helping make quilts at St. John's and working on crafts for the Christmas Festival.

She resided in Countryside Home in Madison the past 10 years. While in Madison, she showed her musical side by entertaining the nurses with renditions of "You are my Sunshine," "Nebraska Fight Song" and many other songs right up until her death. She will also be remembered for her fried chicken and Christmas cookies.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Gayle and June Borchers of Columbus and Larry and Jan Fuhr of Leigh; son, Steve of Lincoln; grandchildren and spouse, Dave and Tonya Fuhr of Leigh, Julie Neemeyer of Overland Park, Kan., and Jennifer Fuhr of Wimberley, Texas; great-grandchildren, Jeremy, Elizabeth and Shelby Fuhr of Leigh; brother-in-law, Lester Edwards of Oregon; and sisters-in-law, Marge Balderson of Lincoln and Helen Balderson of California.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; parents-in-law, Max and Marie Conrad; brothers, Homer, Lee, Dean, Allen, George, Don and Merle Balderson; and sisters, Mary Lou Mason, Vera Edwards, Letha Mitchell, Deloris Louise and Marjorie Balderson.

Memorials: St. John's Lutheran Church or family choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Arrangements by Kracl-Leigh Memorial Chapel, Leigh.
 

Dr John Thiesen

 

SCHUYLER -- Dr. John F. Theisen, 83, of Schuyler died Saturday, June 6, 2009, at his home.

Services were at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 10, at St. Augustine's Catholic Church in Schuyler, with Father Gerald Leise officiating. Burial is at Schuyler Cemetery, with Military Honors by Hespen-Mitchell Post 4836 of Veterans of Foreign Wars and McLeod Post 47 of American Legion.

Mr. Theisen was born April 10, 1926, in Omaha to Dr. Frank and Viola (Muldoon)

Theisen. He graduated from high school in 1944 from St. Ludger's Academy in Creighton. From 1943-46, he served in the U.S. Air Force, one year overseas.

He attended Creighton University from 1946-52 where he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree.

On Aug. 16, 1952, he married Valeria "Val" Schott at St. Vincent's Catholic Church in Osceola. They lived in Omaha prior to his graduation and then moved to Howells, where he began his dental practice. Shortly thereafter they moved to Schuyler where he practiced dentistry until retirement.

He was a Past American Legion Commander, member of Schuyler VFW, president of

Schuyler Chamber of Commerce two terms, one term Jaycees president, chairman of the original City of Schuyler Planning and Zoning Commission, First Ward City Councilman four years, Schuyler mayor eight years, chairman of Catholic Education Committee in Schuyler, appointed by Gov. Ben Nelson to Industrial Development Advisory Board, chairman of Schuyler Civil Service Commission, member of House of Delegates-Nebraska Dental Association, Grand Knight of Schuyler Knights of Columbus and member of Alpha Sigma Nu, a Jesuit Honor Society. He also received the Wal-mart Award for Mayors, Ak-Sar-Ben Good Neighbor Award and the Theisen family was Schuyler's Catholic Family of the year in 1992.

Survivors include his wife; son, Frank Theisen; daughters and sons-in-law, Mary Jo and Mark Stegman and Patty and Lans Brown; and grandchildren, Matt, Tom, Kate and Joe Stegman and Ashley and Morgan Brown, all of Omaha.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Dr. James Theisen.

Memorials: Donor's choice.

Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, Schuyler.

Lucille Peters

SEWARD -- Lucille Lillian Peters, 74, of Seward died Friday, June 5, 2009, at her home.

Services were Tuesday, June 9, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with Father Rand Langhorst officiating. Burial was at Seward Cemetery.

Mrs. Peters was born May 19, 1935, at Bee. She was raised by her grandmother after her mother died during childbirth. She attended school in Dwight and Ulysses, graduating from Ulysses High School in 1953.

She married Paul Raymond Peters at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses on Jan. 11, 1958. She was a rural schoolteacher, did clerical work at Concordia College and Hughes Brothers, worked as an aide in the medical office of Dr. Richard Pitsch and was also employed by Seward Public Schools in the cafeteria. She most recently worked for Heartland Park Retirement Home until she was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's Disease) in November 2008.

She was a member of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church where she was active in PCCW.

Survivors include her husband; daughters and sons-in-law, Julie and Gary Schaefer of Seward and Delores and Mark Pflueger of Staplehurst; son and daughter-in-law, Bob and Sharon Peters of Clive, Iowa; grandsons, Matt and Jason Schaefer and Nate and Austin Pflueger; sisters-in-law, Virginia Brockevelt, Dorothy Zegers, Christine Kozisek and Nellie Brockeveldt; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Marie and Joe Kozisek; and brothers-in-law and wife, Bill Peters and John and Norma Jean Peters.

Memorials: To family in care of Zabka Funeral Home, 410 Jackson Ave., Seward, NE 68434.

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home.

Lynn Dvorak

LINCOLN - Lynn R. Dvorak, 55, of Dwight died Friday, June 5, 2009.

A private memorial graveside service was held at Wyuka Cemetery on Tuesday, June 9.

Ms. Dvorak was born in Lincoln to the late Erma Delancey and Thomas Hiskey.

She worked at Kawasaki, Lincoln Public Schools cafeteria, Colby Ridge and Lincoln Plating.

Survivors include a sister, Sandy Thoman; and brother, Thomas Hiskey.

She was preceded in death by a son, Jeremy Lorenz.

Memorials: To family for graveside marker.

Verona Ebel

COLUMBUS - Verona Ebel, 86, of Columbus, formerly of the Bellwood area, died Sunday, June 7, 2009, at her home.

Services were at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 10, at St. Isidore Catholic Church in

Columbus, with Father Joseph A. Miksch officiating. Burial is at St. Bonaventure Cemetery in Columbus.

Mrs. Ebel was born Dec. 10, 1922, near Bellwood to Rudolph and Tena (Flaxel) Janicek. She was raised in Butler County and attended Kramer High School in Columbus.

On May 7, 1941, she married Harold Ebel at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus. They lived in Gulf Port, Miss., while he served in the U.S. Air Force. Following his discharge, they moved back to Columbus. She worked for Dale Electronics in Columbus for 19 years until retiring in 1985.

She was a Girl Scout volunteer, hospital volunteer as a Surgery Hostess, past president of the Clean Community System, Columbus Area Artist Group volunteer, Dale's Credit Union Board Member and Charter Member of Toastmaster Dale's Pick of the Week. She was a member of St. Bonaventure Catholic Church and had been attending St. Isidore's Catholic Church with her family the past five years.

While at St. Bonaventure's, she was active as an EME, Parish Council and Ladies

Guild.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Gary and Linda Ebel of Grand Island and Rick and Geri Ebel of Columbus; daughters and son-in-law, Connie Hauk of Big Pine Key, Fla., and Canice and Lavern Kobus and Annette Miller, all of Lincoln; grandchildren, Stephanie Horton, Tina Fagan, Jesse Benda, Ashlee and Whitney Ebel, Jena and Nathan Kobus and Alexandra and Nikki Miller; great-grandchildren, Connor and Carson Fagan, Jacob Horton and Cameron Clements; and brother and wife, Cyrus and Irma Janicek of Columbus.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two brothers; and two sisters.

Memorials: Humane Society or donor's choice. Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, Columbus.

Betty Humlicek

Betty Humlicek, 85, of David City died Friday, June 5, 2009, after a short illness, at St. Elizabeth's Regional Medical Center in Lincoln.

Services were Tuesday, June 9, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Monsignor Adrian Herbek officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mrs. Humlicek was born Jan. 20, 1924, in David City to Harry and Regina (Sieverding) Wilson. She was valedictorian of her graduating class, an accomplished violinist and a Regent's Scholar.

In 1943, she married Richard Humlicek in Virginia Beach, Va., at Camp Pendleton. They celebrated 65 years together. While he was in the service, she worked at the Military Base in Virginia Beach and then at the State Department in Arkansas.

They returned to David City and raised seven children and two foster children. In addition to raising her family, she worked at the David City Health Clinic, became executive director of HUD and served as president of the Nebraska State Board of Housing. She was an avid reader, Master Gardener, recipe collector and gourmet cook. She was always the epitome of a True Lady, and she taught everyone how to live with dignity and grace even in the end.

Survivors include her husband; children and spouses, Sharon Bennett of Grand Island, Dick and Angela Humlicek of Omaha, Jeanne and Mark Ingwersen and Sue Jelinek, all of David City, Mary Romshek of Columbus, Beth and Todd Hottovy of Nebraska City and Barbi Rasmussen of Lincoln; foster daughter, Silvia Noonan of David City; 24 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and brother and sisters-in-law, David and Jean Wilson of Linwood and Lorraine Wilson.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Tom Wilson; sister, Barb Thompson; grandson, Mark Romshek; and son-in-law, John Palik.

Memorials: Donor's choice or in care of family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Agnes Oborny

Agnes A. Oborny, 85, of David City died Sunday, June 7, 2009, at St. Joseph's Villa in David City.

Services were at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 10, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, with Monsignor Adrian Herbek officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.

Mrs. Oborny was born Feb. 19, 1924, at Appleton to William T. and Josephine (Fucik) Masek.

On Aug. 8, 1945, she married Steve Oborny at Assumption Catholic Church at Appleton. They lived for many years in Bruno before moving to David City.

She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, St. Mary's PCCW and Butler County Czech Club.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Stephen and Marilyn Oborny of Lincoln, Francis and Susie Oborny of Clovis, N.M., and Chuck and Patricia Oborny of David City; daughters and sons-in-law, Rosemary and Robert Sladky of Waverly and Marianne and Bernie Matulka of David City; 19 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband in 1998.

Memorials: Masses. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.

Joy Russell

SEWARD -- Joy Frances Russell, 82, of Ulysses died Wednesday, June 3, 2009, after a short battle with cancer.

Graveside service and burial were Friday, June 5, at Union Cemetery at Dwight.

Mrs. Russell was born Sept. 3, 1926, in Omaha to Rudolph and Della Berger. She was a graduate of Omaha South High School.

She was a member of American Legion Auxiliary Post 331, where she served as a past president. She enjoyed bowling, Husker football, going to casinos and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include daughters, Linda Smith and Sharon Wadland, both of Ulysses; grandchildren and families, Jeff and Brandy Smith, Zachary, Desirae and Cameron of Lincoln, Greg and Sheryl Smith and Katie and Shelly and Joe Soukup, Sidney, Madison and Reese, all of Ulysses; Nicole Smith and special friend Kristy Vlasak of Lincoln, Kara Miller and special friend Dan Janak of Seward and daughter, Danielle.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Lyle "Butch" Russell; and son-in-law, Donald Smith.

Memorials: To the family in care of Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.

Elmer Wolta

SCHUYLER - Elmer Wolta, 84, of Schuyler died Thursday, June 4, 2009, at his home.

Services were Monday, June 8, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Schuyler, with the Rev. Ruth Boettcher officiating. In lieu of a formal visitation, his wife asks friends to stop by the house in the quiet days that lie ahead. Committal will be at a later date.

Mr. Wolta was born Aug. 5, 1924, on the family farm in Colfax County to Carl and Edith (Schroeder) Wolta. He attended District 4 Grade School and Richland High School.

On June 20, 1945, he married Elaine Bauman at St. John's Lutheran Church in Schuyler, where he was an active member. He was a lifelong farmer in the Richland area and enjoyed raising cattle, fishing, camping, bowling and square dancing. He was a builder, all the way from the house and buildings on the place he raised his family to the furniture he made for his children and grandchildren. He was a member of Harolds Squares.

Survivors include his wife; sons and daughter-in-law, Larry of Palmer and Richard and Carol of Schuyler; grandchildren and spouses, Justin and Amy Wolta of Chicago, Thad and Tyler Wolta of Schuyler, Amber and Eric Johnson of San Antonio, Sarah and David Tonjes of Fremont and Casey Wolta of Norfolk; and great-granddaughter, Joselyn Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, John; baby sister, Dorothy; and daughter-in-law, Patricia (Fichtl) Woita.

Memorials: Donor's choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com

Helen Kobza

LINCOLN -- Helen E. Kobza, 95, of Lincoln, died Friday, June 5, 2009.

Services were Tuesday, June 9, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Lincoln.

Mrs. Kobza was born Dec. 20, 1913, at Ceresco to Rudolph and Albina (Jelinek) Pecha. She was formerly employed by Miller & Paine Deli in Lincoln.

She married Frank Kobza. She was a dedicated homemaker, devoting her life to her home and family. She was a member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Betty and Virgil Janecek of Omaha and Marge and Bill Karle of Hudson, Ill.; son, Michael Kobza of Lincoln; 11 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son, Gene; sisters, Bess Kuhn and Stella Wax; and brothers, George and Jim Pecha.

Memorials: In care of family. Condolences: www.lincolnfh.com

Arrangements by Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home.

 

Kenneth Klein

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - Kenneth Joseph Klein, 81, of Colorado Springs, Colo., formerly of Bellwood, died Thursday, June 11, 2009.

Services were Tuesday, June 16, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church and burial was at Evergreen Cemetery, both at Colorado Springs.

Mr. Klein was born July 22, 1927, at Bellwood to Joseph J. and Elizabeth (Schrier) Klein. He graduated from Bellwood High School in 1944.

He farmed the Klein family farm until he was inducted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War on June 14, 1951. He was a graduate of Airplane Engine and Rotary Wing Mechanics at San Marquis Air Force Base, Texas. He was assigned to the Air Training Faculty Battery at Fort Sill, Okla. He was transferred to Army Reserve July 17, 1953, and honorably discharged April 4, 1957.

He married Angela Rose Pavel Aug. 25, 1953, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Utica. He moved to Seward in 1953 and worked at Seward Ford Co. as an auto mechanic. In 1955, he worked for Hughes Brothers Inc. in Seward as an industrial mechanic and later became an industrial mechanic maintenance foreman. He retired in October 1992 after 38 years with Hughes Brothers. He and his wife moved to Colorado Springs in October 1992.

Survivors include his wife; sons and daughters-in-law, Dr. Gary J. and Shaun Klein, John J. Klein and the Rev. James J. Klein, all of Colorado Springs, Dennis J. and Kim Klein of Sterling, Colo., and Dale J. and Mary Klein of Highlands Ranch, Colo.; eight grandchildren; sisters and husbands, Betty Willensen of Lincoln, Mildred and Dan Stastny of Fremont and Mari and Ken Zitek of Goodyear, Ariz.; and sister-in-law, Rose Klein of David City.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Leonard Klein.

Memorials: To assist students with tuition at Divine Redeemer Catholic School: Divine Redeemer Angel Fund, 926 Farragut Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80909; or St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 6455 Brook Park Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80918.

Emil Walla

SCHUYLER -- Emil F. Walla, 83, of Lincoln, formerly of Linwood, died Wednesday, June 17, 2009, at Homestead Rehabilitation Center in Lincoln.

Services were Saturday, June 20, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Abie, with Father Ron Homes officiating. Burial was at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery at Linwood, with Military Honors by David City American Legion Post 25.

Mr. Walla was born May 6, 1926, in Fremont to Emil and Mary (Kavan) Walla. He graduated from Linwood High School, St. Ambrose Junior College and the University of Notre Dame.

He served three and a half years of active duty in the U.S. Navy during World War II and then was in the Navy Reserve for 20 years.

He married Angela Stuchl Aug. 14, 1947, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Abie. They farmed in the Linwood area until moving to Lincoln in 1999.

He was active in the Linwood Volunteer Fire Department and had served as president. He was a board member and president of Butler County School District 2 for 15 years and on the founding board of directors of Aquinas High School in David City. He was a member of David City American Legion Post 25. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a Chicago Cubs and Nebraska Cornhusker fan.

Survivors include his wife; son and daughter-in-law, E. J. and Karen Walla of Rapid City, S.D.; daughter, Gail Devine of Lincoln; granddaughters and husbands, Amy and David Murphy of Kansas City and Sara and Nick Kutovy of Lincoln; great-grandson, Jake Emil Kutovy; and sister, Theresa Danahy of Omaha.

He is preceded in death by a sister, Bernice Brown.

Memorials: Family choice. Condolences: www.svobodafuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Schuyler.

Marie Bodzek

SCHUYLER - Marie Bodzek, 85, of Linwood died Monday, June 15, 2009, at Columbus Community Hospital.

Services were Friday, June 19, at Divine Mercy Parish - St. Augustine's Catholic Church - in Schuyler, with Father Anthony Espinosa officiating. Military honors were conducted by Morse Bluff American Legion Post 340, North Bend Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8223 and North Bend American Veterans Post 20. Burial will be at later date.

Mrs. Bodzek was born July 20, 1923, at Weston to Frank and Mary (Woita) Kralik. She graduated from Weston High School at the age of 14 and received her business degree in two years from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln.

She met Mitchell Bodzek while she was serving in the U.S. Waves during World War II (from Nov. 2, 1943, to March 6, 1946,). They were married Jan. 19, 1946, in San Diego. In 1955, they moved to Linwood where she served as postmistress from 1959-92.

She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sewing, singing, writing poetry, dancing and working in her flower garden. Her faith was very important in her life. She always treasured the single red roses that she would receive from her family on special occasions. She was a member of Divine Mercy Parish St. Augustine's Catholic Church in Schuyler, Women of Divine Parish, Morse Bluff American Legion Post 340, Butler County Extension Club and Postmasters League.

Survivors include children and spouses, Thomas and Debra Bodzek of Omaha, Kathleen and Michael Anderson of Wahoo and Terri and Ed Johnson of Clearwater; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and sister, Lillian Saltzwadel of Fond Du Lac, Wis.

She is preceded in death by her husband on July 20, 1982; infant grandson, Paul Edward Johnson; brothers, Bill and Rudy Kralik; half brother, John Wondra; and half sisters, Emma Fagin and Helen Macholan.

Memorials: Family choice. Condolences: www.svobodafuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Svoboda Funeral Home, Schuyler.

Rose Stanislav

SEWARD -- Rose Martha Bohaty Stanislav, 88, of St. Petersburg, Fla., formerly of Seward and Bruno, died Tuesday, June 16, 2009, in St. Petersburg.

Services were Monday, June 22, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with Father Rand Langhorst officiating. Burial was at Seward Cemetery.

Mrs. Stanislav was born May 19, 1921, at Bruno to Edward and Anna (Trojan) Semin. She attended North Olive country school and was a 1938 graduate of David City High School.

On Feb. 24, 1941, she married Albin Bohaty at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses. They had a daughter, Beverly. She worked for Safeway Grocery and was head checker at Jack and Jill Grocery, both in Seward. She retired in May 1987. Her husband died Nov. 24, 1990.

She married Herman "Stan" Stanislav May 29, 1993, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward.

She was a member of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church, Altar Society and PCCW and was a life member of Seward VFW Post No. 4755 Auxiliary. She enjoyed playing bingo and was known to be a competitive card player to her grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband; daughter, Beverly Burtch of Clearwater, Fla.; grandchildren and spouses, John and Michelle Burtch of St. Petersburg, Daniel and Sarah Burtch of Knoxville, Tenn., and Anne Burtch of Clearwater; and great-grandchildren, Ansley, Finley and Cooper Burtch of St Petersburg.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband; brothers and sisters-in-law, Edward and Agnes Semin, Ray and Helena Semin and Nick and Caroline Semin; and sisters and brothers-in-law, Alice and Harold Barghahn and Anna and Joe Houska.

Memorials: Donor's choice in care of family. Condolences: www.zabkafuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.

 

People

Otte promoted to NSP captain



Kyle Otte, formerly of David City, was promoted to captain of field services for the Nebraska State Patrol on March 30. Otte assumed command of Troop E, located in the panhandle of Nebraska with the headquarters city of Scottsbluff.

Otte has been a law enforcement officer since 1985, when he was a David City officer for two years. He was also employed with the Norfolk Police Division and the Madison Sheriff's Department prior to joining the State Patrol in September 1991.

Otte and His wife, Bonnie (DeWispelare), have lived near Lake Minatare of rural Scottsbluff for 10 years. His parents are Wendel and Virgene Otte of David City.

 



Otte promoted to NSP captain

Piitz recognized for his music career

Leo Piitz of Brainard was inducted to the Sokol of Omaha Polka Hall of Fame on Sept. 13. He was inducted "In recognition of a Lifetime Achievement in the Field of Polka Music."

Piitz has played drums for over 67 years retiring in 2007. He has played with several bands over his career including: Golden Star, Math Slady, Six Fat Dutchman, Al Grebnick, Adolph Nemetz, Sparta Orchestra, Harry Czarnik, Dennis Wesely, Bud Comte, Ernie Kucera, Dean Hansen, Emil Herms, Kenny Schuda, Mark Vhylidal, Studio Trio, and The Leo Lonnie Orchestra.

His children and grandchildren are Willie Piitz of Columbus, Maria Lunde, Mathew and Bernita of Columbus and Lonnie and Kim Piitz, Suzie and Sylvia of Brainard.


Piitz recognized for his music career

Brainard Village Board honors Swanda's service with BVFD

“The Brainard Volunteer Fire Department is one of the strongest organizations in the community and that is due to people like you—you have given your time, talent and service to the community.” With those words, Brainard Village Board Chairman Greg Janak presented a plaque of appreciation to Jerry Swanda , who recently retired after 44 years on the BVFD including 31 as fire chief. Jerry Swanda and his wife, Phyllis, are flanked above by village board members, from left, Greg Havlovic, Elaine Fortik, the Swandas, Greg Janak, Leon Jakub and Alan Snyder.


Brainard Village Board honors Swanda's service with BVFD