Richard L. “Rich” Richards of Cozad passed away Thursday, August 24, 2023 at Great Plains Hospital in North Platte at the age of 76. Richard was born May 19, 1947 in Lexington, Nebraska to Richard R. “Dick” and Mary Ella (Keller) Richards. He was the third of four children. After attending Cozad Schools, he began working alongside his dad at Paulsen, Inc. Richard spent his life in the Cozad area and worked many jobs including a meat packing plant, hay mills, washing trucks for Hood and Sons, and again at Paulsen, Inc. where he later retired.

Richard was a friend to everyone. He loved gathering together with family and friends for holidays, birthdays, and barbeques. He especially enjoyed socializing, drinking beer and eating bull fries on special occasions. Richard spent his free time working on the farm fixing tractors, cars, planting a garden and raising animals. Richard was generous to a fault and would do anything for his family and friends.

Richard had a few special women he cared for in his younger years, but never married or had any biological children. He, however, was blessed with a group of children he cared for like they were his own.&nbsp;

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Bob Richards, Bonnie Semler and William “Bill” Richards; best friend and brother by choice, William “Bill” Kostman Sr.; child by choice, William “Tuffy” Kostman Jr.; niece, Willa Mae Kostman Yeutter and nephew Willy Richards.

Richard is survived by his children by choice, Billie (Tim) Land of Cozad, Bobbie (Moy) Samayoa of Lexington, Angel Poore of Kearney, Anina Kostman (Trevor Yeutter), Luke Kostman (Heather Wilson), and Kent Kostman, all of Cozad; sister in law, Norma Richards of Cozad; and many nieces, nephews, and his beloved fur baby, Tiny.

Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. Funeral services will be held Friday, September 1, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at the Berryman Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Kathy Gundell officiating. Burial will follow at Cozad Cemetery. Visitation with family present will be Thursday, August 31, 2023 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Berryman Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693322048567.jpeg" alt="Rich Richards" />
 <figcaption>Rich Richards</figcaption>
 </figure>Richard L. “Rich” Richards of Cozad passed away Thursday, August 24, 2023 at Great Plains Hospital in North Platte at the age of 76. Richard was born May 19, 1947 in Lexington, Nebraska to Richard R. “Dick” and Mary Ella (Keller) Richards. He was the third of four children. After attending Cozad Schools, he began working alongside his dad at Paulsen, Inc. Richard spent his life in the Cozad area and worked many jobs including a meat packing plant, hay mills, washing trucks for Hood and Sons, and again at Paulsen, Inc. where he later retired.Richard was a friend to everyone. He loved gathering together with family and friends for holidays, birthdays, and barbeques. He especially enjoyed socializing, drinking beer and eating bull fries on special occasions. Richard spent his free time working on the farm fixing tractors, cars, planting a garden and raising animals. Richard was generous to a fault and would do anything for his family and friends.Richard had a few special women he cared for in his younger years, but never married or had any biological children. He, however, was blessed with a group of children he cared for like they were his own.&nbsp;Richard was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Bob Richards, Bonnie Semler and William “Bill” Richards; best friend and brother by choice, William “Bill” Kostman Sr.; child by choice, William “Tuffy” Kostman Jr.; niece, Willa Mae Kostman Yeutter and nephew Willy Richards.Richard is survived by his children by choice, Billie (Tim) Land of Cozad, Bobbie (Moy) Samayoa of Lexington, Angel Poore of Kearney, Anina Kostman (Trevor Yeutter), Luke Kostman (Heather Wilson), and Kent Kostman, all of Cozad; sister in law, Norma Richards of Cozad; and many nieces, nephews, and his beloved fur baby, Tiny.Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. Funeral services will be held Friday, September 1, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at the Berryman Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Kathy Gundell officiating. Burial will follow at Cozad Cemetery. Visitation with family present will be Thursday, August 31, 2023 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Berryman Funeral Home.

Richard LeRoy Richards (1947-2023)

LuAnna June Plymell was born August 20, 1933 in Wellfleet, Nebraska to Merle Plymell &amp; Gladys (Conklin) Plymell. She grew up and graduated from Hayes Center High School in 1950. She married Lawrence Shill on December 6, 1952. To this union 3 children were born: Christine Marie, Ivan Eugene &amp; Katherine Irene. They lived in North Platte, NE until moving to Elsie, NE in 1970, where they lived until Lawrence’s passing in 1989.

LuAnna moved to Imperial, NE and drove a school bus for 25 years. She loved being a school bus driver with the “extra children” she had throughout the years. To this day, many would stop LuAnna to give her a hug.

She never knew a stranger and could talk your leg off! She married Harold Schneider on February 12, 2000 and lived in Cozad, NE until his death on February 8, 2013. She returned to Imperial,NE in April of 2014 and renewed several old friendships and made new ones as well. LuAnna was proud to have made it to her 90th Birthday.

LuAnna found her way to heaven early morning August 27th, 2023 in Imperial, NE.

LuAnna is survived by her daughter, Christine (Donnie) Schilke of Imperial, NE, Kathy Johnstone of Pear Valley, TX and her son, Ivan (Brenda) Shill of Gothenburg, NE; one sister, Wanda Faimonof Kearney, NE; 7 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, numerous cousins and many friends. She will be sadly missed by all.

She was preceded in death by her parents, both husbands, and son-in-law, Ernie Johnstone.

A Graveside Service will be held 10:00 A.M. (MDT) Thursday, August 31, 2023 at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Imperial, NE with Randy Hayes officiating. At her request, Banjo &amp; Moose (her bear buddies) will dance with her in heaven!&nbsp; Memorials may be sent to McCook Humane Society, 100 South Street, McCook, NE 69001 or First Congregational Church P.O. Box 596 Grant, NE 69140.&nbsp;

Liewer Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

LuAnna June Plymell was born August 20, 1933 in Wellfleet, Nebraska to Merle Plymell &amp; Gladys (Conklin) Plymell. She grew up and graduated from Hayes Center High School in 1950. She married Lawrence Shill on December 6, 1952. To this union 3 children were born: Christine Marie, Ivan Eugene &amp; Katherine Irene. They lived in North Platte, NE until moving to Elsie, NE in 1970, where they lived until Lawrence’s passing in 1989.LuAnna moved to Imperial, NE and drove a school bus for 25 years. She loved being a school bus driver with the “extra children” she had throughout the years. To this day, many would stop LuAnna to give her a hug. She never knew a stranger and could talk your leg off! She married Harold Schneider on February 12, 2000 and lived in Cozad, NE until his death on February 8, 2013. She returned to Imperial,NE in April of 2014 and renewed several old friendships and made new ones as well. LuAnna was proud to have made it to her 90th Birthday.LuAnna found her way to heaven early morning August 27th, 2023 in Imperial, NE.LuAnna is survived by her daughter, Christine (Donnie) Schilke of Imperial, NE, Kathy Johnstone of Pear Valley, TX and her son, Ivan (Brenda) Shill of Gothenburg, NE; one sister, Wanda Faimonof Kearney, NE; 7 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, numerous cousins and many friends. She will be sadly missed by all.She was preceded in death by her parents, both husbands, and son-in-law, Ernie Johnstone.A Graveside Service will be held 10:00 A.M. (MDT) Thursday, August 31, 2023 at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Imperial, NE with Randy Hayes officiating. At her request, Banjo &amp; Moose (her bear buddies) will dance with her in heaven!&nbsp; Memorials may be sent to McCook Humane Society, 100 South Street, McCook, NE 69001 or First Congregational Church P.O. Box 596 Grant, NE 69140.&nbsp; Liewer Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

LuAnna J. Schneider (1933-2023)

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Warner Lee Teel was born on August 23, 2023 in McCook, Nebraska.&nbsp; He passed away shortly after his birth, but not before knowing the deep love of his parents, Miranda and Tanner Teel, and his brother and sister, Dierks and Vivian. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;He was preceded in death by great-grandparents, Bill and Barb Teel and Don Overleese. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Warner's memory will forever be carried with the family that loves him: his parents, Tanner and Miranda Teel of Indianola, Nebraska; his siblings, Dierks and Vivian; grandparents, Rick and Ann Teel of Indianola, Nebraska and Stacey and Monica James of Franklin, Nebraska; great-grandparents, Virgil and Eunice Guthrie of McCook, Nebraska, Barb Overleese of Franklin, Nebraska, Bill and Lois Goosic of Inavale, Nebraska, and Kenny and Dori James of Riverton, Nebraska; uncles and aunts Kyle and Brooke Teel of Indianola, Nebraska, Kyle and and Jenna Pritchard of Pleasanton, Nebraska, and Logan and Megan James of Bladen, Nebraska; as well as great-aunts and uncles, many cousins and countless family friends. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Visitation will be held from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. CST on Tuesday afternoon, August 20, 2023 at Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel in McCook, Nebraska.&nbsp; A Rosary will immediately follow the visitation, beginning at 7:00 p.m. CST. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. CST on Saturday morning, September 2, 2023 at St. Catherine Catholic Church in Indianola, Nebraska with Father Michael Houliham celebrating.&nbsp; Interment will follow in St. Catherine Cemetery in Indianola. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Memorials are suggested to the Warner Teel Family for future designation.&nbsp; Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com.&nbsp; Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook, Nebraska.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693241721158.jpeg" alt="Warner Lee Teel" />
 <figcaption>Warner Lee Teel</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Warner Lee Teel was born on August 23, 2023 in McCook, Nebraska.&nbsp; He passed away shortly after his birth, but not before knowing the deep love of his parents, Miranda and Tanner Teel, and his brother and sister, Dierks and Vivian. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;He was preceded in death by great-grandparents, Bill and Barb Teel and Don Overleese. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Warner's memory will forever be carried with the family that loves him: his parents, Tanner and Miranda Teel of Indianola, Nebraska; his siblings, Dierks and Vivian; grandparents, Rick and Ann Teel of Indianola, Nebraska and Stacey and Monica James of Franklin, Nebraska; great-grandparents, Virgil and Eunice Guthrie of McCook, Nebraska, Barb Overleese of Franklin, Nebraska, Bill and Lois Goosic of Inavale, Nebraska, and Kenny and Dori James of Riverton, Nebraska; uncles and aunts Kyle and Brooke Teel of Indianola, Nebraska, Kyle and and Jenna Pritchard of Pleasanton, Nebraska, and Logan and Megan James of Bladen, Nebraska; as well as great-aunts and uncles, many cousins and countless family friends. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Visitation will be held from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. CST on Tuesday afternoon, August 20, 2023 at Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel in McCook, Nebraska.&nbsp; A Rosary will immediately follow the visitation, beginning at 7:00 p.m. CST. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. CST on Saturday morning, September 2, 2023 at St. Catherine Catholic Church in Indianola, Nebraska with Father Michael Houliham celebrating.&nbsp; Interment will follow in St. Catherine Cemetery in Indianola. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Memorials are suggested to the Warner Teel Family for future designation.&nbsp; Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com.&nbsp; Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook, Nebraska.

Warner Lee Teel

Carl Elliott, 85, of Sidney, passed away Wednesday evening, August 23, 2023 in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Funeral Services will held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 2, 2023 at the Church of Jesus Christ- Latter-day Saints with Bishop Marvin Larson officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in the Greenwood Cemetery with military honors.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church.

Holechek-Bondegard Funeral Homes in Oshkosh and Chappell are serving the Elliott family.

Family and friends can leave condolences at www.bondegardfunerals.com.

Memorials in Carl’s name can be made to the family for later designation.

Carl Russell Elliott was born April 6, 1938, to Earl F. and Louse M. (Hoﬀman) Elliott&nbsp; in Monticello, Minnesota.&nbsp; Carl was the 10th of 12 children.&nbsp; At the tender age of 5, Carl’s mother died, and he and his twin sister, Carol, older sister, Mary, and younger sister, Sharon, were sent to the St Cloud Catholic Orphanage in St Cloud, Minnesota. He and his sisters would spend the next several years in and out of the orphanage until Carl and Carol went to live with their oldest sister, June, in California, at the age of 13.&nbsp; Carl completed High School in California and then joined the Air Force in 1956.

While in the service he was stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota where he met and married Betty Jean Frazee June 5th, 1960.&nbsp; They began their family in 1961 and have been joined by 5 children: Doug, Cindy, Amy, David and Jennifer.&nbsp; After his discharge he and Betty moved to Aurora, CO where he worked with the Air National Guard at Buckley Air Force Base.&nbsp; Then moved to Longmont for a short time to work as an Air Traffic Controller at the newly built FAA there.&nbsp;

In 1964, he began his career with IBM in Boulder, Colorado as a Drafting Engineer. He was ﬂown to New York for 3 months of training.&nbsp; While there he attended the 1964 World Fair.&nbsp; While at IBM, Carl was instrumental in the development of the CATIA program, that is still in use in various forms today.&nbsp; He continued this career until 1985 when he was able to retire.&nbsp; In 1994 he moved his family to Sidney, Nebraska, and has spent his retirement helping and serving so many friends and family in many ways from yard work, fixing just about anything, and working on cars.

Carl loved fishing, nature, hiking and camping, especially in the Rocky Mountains. He would often take Betty and the kids to Carter Lake. He was one of the ﬁrst to ﬁsh the newly constructed Dillon Reservoir in the summer of 1963, when he took a very pregnant Betty up and down the hills trying to ﬁnd the perfect ﬁshing spot.&nbsp; Carl also loved animals and along with his children had various pets over the years.&nbsp; But he never did get that Monkey for Jenny. He also would go out of his way to make the children around him happy.&nbsp; He could often be found mowing mazes in the tall grass of his acreage or towing a wagon full of little ones behind the riding mower.

He is survived by his wife, Betty of Sidney; children, Doug Elliott of Longmont, Colorado, Cindy and husband, Ben Sarsozo of Centennial, Colorado; Amy McManis of Ashland, Nebraska, David and his wife, Amie Elliott of Del City, Oklahoma, and Jennifer Elliott of Sidney; 23 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; twin sister, Carol Rose Wilson of Klamath Falls, Oregon; grand-dog, Lucy; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693241177872.jpeg" alt="Carl Elliott" />
 <figcaption>Carl Elliott</figcaption>
 </figure>Carl Elliott, 85, of Sidney, passed away Wednesday evening, August 23, 2023 in Fort Collins, Colorado.Funeral Services will held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 2, 2023 at the Church of Jesus Christ- Latter-day Saints with Bishop Marvin Larson officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in the Greenwood Cemetery with military honors.Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church.Holechek-Bondegard Funeral Homes in Oshkosh and Chappell are serving the Elliott family.Family and friends can leave condolences at www.bondegardfunerals.com.Memorials in Carl’s name can be made to the family for later designation.Carl Russell Elliott was born April 6, 1938, to Earl F. and Louse M. (Hoﬀman) Elliott&nbsp; in Monticello, Minnesota.&nbsp; Carl was the 10th of 12 children.&nbsp; At the tender age of 5, Carl’s mother died, and he and his twin sister, Carol, older sister, Mary, and younger sister, Sharon, were sent to the St Cloud Catholic Orphanage in St Cloud, Minnesota. He and his sisters would spend the next several years in and out of the orphanage until Carl and Carol went to live with their oldest sister, June, in California, at the age of 13.&nbsp; Carl completed High School in California and then joined the Air Force in 1956.While in the service he was stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota where he met and married Betty Jean Frazee June 5th, 1960.&nbsp; They began their family in 1961 and have been joined by 5 children: Doug, Cindy, Amy, David and Jennifer.&nbsp; After his discharge he and Betty moved to Aurora, CO where he worked with the Air National Guard at Buckley Air Force Base.&nbsp; Then moved to Longmont for a short time to work as an Air Traffic Controller at the newly built FAA there.&nbsp;In 1964, he began his career with IBM in Boulder, Colorado as a Drafting Engineer. He was ﬂown to New York for 3 months of training.&nbsp; While there he attended the 1964 World Fair.&nbsp; While at IBM, Carl was instrumental in the development of the CATIA program, that is still in use in various forms today.&nbsp; He continued this career until 1985 when he was able to retire.&nbsp; In 1994 he moved his family to Sidney, Nebraska, and has spent his retirement helping and serving so many friends and family in many ways from yard work, fixing just about anything, and working on cars.Carl loved fishing, nature, hiking and camping, especially in the Rocky Mountains. He would often take Betty and the kids to Carter Lake. He was one of the ﬁrst to ﬁsh the newly constructed Dillon Reservoir in the summer of 1963, when he took a very pregnant Betty up and down the hills trying to ﬁnd the perfect ﬁshing spot.&nbsp; Carl also loved animals and along with his children had various pets over the years.&nbsp; But he never did get that Monkey for Jenny. He also would go out of his way to make the children around him happy.&nbsp; He could often be found mowing mazes in the tall grass of his acreage or towing a wagon full of little ones behind the riding mower.He is survived by his wife, Betty of Sidney; children, Doug Elliott of Longmont, Colorado, Cindy and husband, Ben Sarsozo of Centennial, Colorado; Amy McManis of Ashland, Nebraska, David and his wife, Amie Elliott of Del City, Oklahoma, and Jennifer Elliott of Sidney; 23 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; twin sister, Carol Rose Wilson of Klamath Falls, Oregon; grand-dog, Lucy; and many nieces, nephews and friends.Carl was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings.

Carl Elliott  (1938-2023)

Leland “Lee” Dale DeGroff, age 85, of Brewster, NE passed away August 24, 2023, at his home in Brewster.

Graveside services will be Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at 11:00 am at the Brewster Cemetery in Brewster, NE. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Brewster Fire &amp; Rescue. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 29th from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm with family greeting 5:30 to 6:30 pm at Govier Brothers Mortuary in Broken Bow, NE. Govier Brothers Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.govierbrothers.com/">www.govierbrothers.com</a>.

Leland, fondly known as Lee, was born to Gerald and Jane DeGroff on March 31st, 1938, in Burwell, Nebraska. He married the love of his life, Beverly Dimmit, on June 12th, 1960. They raised four children together: Debra, Rhonda, Craig, and Ryan.

He was raised in southwest Holt County, NE in the Sandhills, nine miles west of Swan Lake, on a ranch. He attended high school at Burwell, participating in football, boxing, and long-distance track.

In 1962, the Holt County ranch was traded for the 10,000-acre Ericson Ranch northwest of Brewster, Nebraska. They drove 500 cows and calves across the sandhills. It took six days to get there, going through ranch after ranch for miles and sleeping under the stars.

He was widely recognized as one of the first to stock a large inventory of hale trailers, and ranchers came from all over. As the stock trailers were new to ranch country, he spent much time repairing and wiring brakes and lights.

He soon purchased a golden palomino stallion named “Skips Count.” “Skip” was his prized possession, and he bred hundreds of colts, also taking in outside mares.

In the mid-70s, he built a runway and hanger on the ranch and bought his first plane, the Piper J3 Cub, using it for both hobby and work. One of his favorite pastimes was coyote hunting with greyhounds. In the early days, he piloted the airplane, searching for stray coyotes in the sky. He also piloted around the ranch, checking the cattle’s water.

Three Bars was his Ranch Rodeo Team, with Craig DeGroff, Ryan DeGroff, Rex Spanel, Punch Howard, and Dale Pricket. Their team participated in the National Finals Ranch Rodeo in Fort Worth, Texas in 1988 &amp; 1989. They were Nebraska State Champions in 1990.

Lee was active in the Brewster Volunteer Fire Department, and he and his wife Beverly were EMTs for over 50 years. Recently retiring in 2022. He was awarded the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. Nebraska EMT award in the 1990s.

Lee and his beautiful wife continued to run mother cows and calves on the North Loup River in Blaine County. Raising quality black Angus cattle and cowboying with his favorite horses, Gray and Bem. &nbsp;

Lee and Beverly have owned the Sandhills Guest Ranch Bed &amp; Breakfast for 27 years. They had guests from all over the world having met so many wonderful people. They blessed many lives with their home-cooked meals and Sandhills hospitality.

Lee DeGroff is survived by his wife, Beverly; four children, Debra (Leon) Zimmerman of Broken Bow, NE, Rhonda (Mark) Haynes of Broken Bow, NE, Craig (Traci) DeGroff of Broken Bow, NE, and Ryan (Becky) DeGroff of Glenrock, WY; eight grandchildren: Jill (Jeremy) Houghtelling, Jaren Zimmerman, Jalee (Nick) Karmazin, Clinton (Megan) Haynes, Leigh (Matt) Stutzman, Kerri (Calder) Forcella, Kesha DeGroff, and Riley DeGroff; twelve great-grandchildren; siblings Ray DeGroff, Fay White, Mary Jane Riobotta, and Connie Strand.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Jane DeGroff, and his sibling infant, Donna.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693243280455.jpeg" alt="Lee DeGroff" />
 <figcaption>Lee DeGroff</figcaption>
 </figure>Leland “Lee” Dale DeGroff, age 85, of Brewster, NE passed away August 24, 2023, at his home in Brewster.Graveside services will be Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at 11:00 am at the Brewster Cemetery in Brewster, NE. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Brewster Fire &amp; Rescue. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 29th from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm with family greeting 5:30 to 6:30 pm at Govier Brothers Mortuary in Broken Bow, NE. Govier Brothers Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.govierbrothers.com/">www.govierbrothers.com</a>.Leland, fondly known as Lee, was born to Gerald and Jane DeGroff on March 31st, 1938, in Burwell, Nebraska. He married the love of his life, Beverly Dimmit, on June 12th, 1960. They raised four children together: Debra, Rhonda, Craig, and Ryan.He was raised in southwest Holt County, NE in the Sandhills, nine miles west of Swan Lake, on a ranch. He attended high school at Burwell, participating in football, boxing, and long-distance track.In 1962, the Holt County ranch was traded for the 10,000-acre Ericson Ranch northwest of Brewster, Nebraska. They drove 500 cows and calves across the sandhills. It took six days to get there, going through ranch after ranch for miles and sleeping under the stars.He was widely recognized as one of the first to stock a large inventory of hale trailers, and ranchers came from all over. As the stock trailers were new to ranch country, he spent much time repairing and wiring brakes and lights.He soon purchased a golden palomino stallion named “Skips Count.” “Skip” was his prized possession, and he bred hundreds of colts, also taking in outside mares.In the mid-70s, he built a runway and hanger on the ranch and bought his first plane, the Piper J3 Cub, using it for both hobby and work. One of his favorite pastimes was coyote hunting with greyhounds. In the early days, he piloted the airplane, searching for stray coyotes in the sky. He also piloted around the ranch, checking the cattle’s water.Three Bars was his Ranch Rodeo Team, with Craig DeGroff, Ryan DeGroff, Rex Spanel, Punch Howard, and Dale Pricket. Their team participated in the National Finals Ranch Rodeo in Fort Worth, Texas in 1988 &amp; 1989. They were Nebraska State Champions in 1990.Lee was active in the Brewster Volunteer Fire Department, and he and his wife Beverly were EMTs for over 50 years. Recently retiring in 2022. He was awarded the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. Nebraska EMT award in the 1990s.Lee and his beautiful wife continued to run mother cows and calves on the North Loup River in Blaine County. Raising quality black Angus cattle and cowboying with his favorite horses, Gray and Bem. &nbsp;Lee and Beverly have owned the Sandhills Guest Ranch Bed &amp; Breakfast for 27 years. They had guests from all over the world having met so many wonderful people. They blessed many lives with their home-cooked meals and Sandhills hospitality.Lee DeGroff is survived by his wife, Beverly; four children, Debra (Leon) Zimmerman of Broken Bow, NE, Rhonda (Mark) Haynes of Broken Bow, NE, Craig (Traci) DeGroff of Broken Bow, NE, and Ryan (Becky) DeGroff of Glenrock, WY; eight grandchildren: Jill (Jeremy) Houghtelling, Jaren Zimmerman, Jalee (Nick) Karmazin, Clinton (Megan) Haynes, Leigh (Matt) Stutzman, Kerri (Calder) Forcella, Kesha DeGroff, and Riley DeGroff; twelve great-grandchildren; siblings Ray DeGroff, Fay White, Mary Jane Riobotta, and Connie Strand.Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Jane DeGroff, and his sibling infant, Donna.

Leland "Lee" Dale DeGroff  (1938-2023)

John "Gene" E. Slattery, age 90, of Paxton, Nebraska died Friday, August 25th, 2023 at Hill Top Estates&nbsp; in Gothenburg, Nebraska.

Gene was born March 26th, 1933 to John and Margaret (Hassenstab) Slattery in Julesburg, Colorado. He graduated from St. Patrick's High School in North Platte, Nebraska. Gene married Anne Schmidt on June 28th, 1958 at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Julesburg, Colorado. To this union, three children were born. The couple resided on their family farm north of Roscoe, Nebraska for 64 years. During this time, Gene worked diligently farming his land. He also enlisted in the Nebraska National Guard in the fall of 1959.&nbsp;

During his pre-teen and teen years, Gene was known as "the kid who sold his shirt for the North Platte Canteen in the World War II years". The story begins with the sale of two goats that destroyed his mother's cherry trees. When asked what he was going to do with the ten dollars he received, he announced he was going to give it to the Canteen in North Platte in honor of his sister Evelyn, who was in the waves in California. This sparked an idea in the crowd and they asked what else he could give to the Canteen. He replied, "All I have is the shirt on my back." This sparked an idea that lasted for the next six years. He earned money from auctions and special events in the tri-state area and gave the proceeds to the Canteen. Gene earned thousands of dollars for the Canteen and became nationally and internationally know for his efforts.

Gene was a man of&nbsp; few words, was but always eager to learn more about his passions- which was "the farm". He was a man of faith, a man dedicated to his family, and a man who always went out of his way to be courteous and kind to others.&nbsp;

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother Larry; sisters Evelyn Kleinow and Helen Slattery; and two nephews, Scott Slattery and Kenneth Grasz.

He is survived by wife Anne; his sons Dr. Michael (Gale) Slattery of Indianola, Nebraska and David (Toni) Slattery of North Platte, Nebraska; his daughter Johnna (Michael) Arensdorf of North Platte, Nebraska; his grandchildren Michael (Chelsie) Slattery of Indianola, Nebraska, James Slattery of Gordon, Nebraska, Emily Slattery of Lincoln, Nebraska, Amanda (Will) Slattery Engell of McCook, Nebraska, Jordan (Ariane) Arensdorf of Kearney, Nebraska, Jared (Mandy) Arensdorf of Lincoln, Nebraska, Kari Slattery of Columbus, Nebraska, and Katie, Jessica, and Julie Slattery of Lincoln, Nebraska; nieces Joyce Kohler of North Platte, Nebraska, Helen Hackney of McCook, Nebraska, and Shannon Slattery of California; nephew Dick Grasz of East Sandusky, Ohio; sister-in-law Mary Slattery of California; and 4 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held at Draucker Funeral Home Chapel in Ogallala, Nebraska on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 from 2:00 p.m.to 5:00 p.m. MST.

Rosary will be held on Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. MST in St. Luke's&nbsp; Catholic Church in Ogallala, Nebraska with&nbsp; Mass of the Christian Burial&nbsp; following at 10:30 A.M. MST with Father Bryan Ernest officiating.

Interment will follow at the Ogallala Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to St. Luke's Catholic School in Ogallala, Nebraska or North Platte Catholic Schools Scholarship Fund in North Platte, Nebraska.

Services will be live streamed at www.drauckerfh.com. Online condolences may be left at www.drauckerfh.com.

Draucker Funeral Home of Ogallala, Nebraska has been entrusted with arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693239584285.jpeg" alt="Gene Slattery" />
 <figcaption>Gene Slattery</figcaption>
 </figure>John "Gene" E. Slattery, age 90, of Paxton, Nebraska died Friday, August 25th, 2023 at Hill Top Estates&nbsp; in Gothenburg, Nebraska.Gene was born March 26th, 1933 to John and Margaret (Hassenstab) Slattery in Julesburg, Colorado. He graduated from St. Patrick's High School in North Platte, Nebraska. Gene married Anne Schmidt on June 28th, 1958 at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Julesburg, Colorado. To this union, three children were born. The couple resided on their family farm north of Roscoe, Nebraska for 64 years. During this time, Gene worked diligently farming his land. He also enlisted in the Nebraska National Guard in the fall of 1959.&nbsp;During his pre-teen and teen years, Gene was known as "the kid who sold his shirt for the North Platte Canteen in the World War II years". The story begins with the sale of two goats that destroyed his mother's cherry trees. When asked what he was going to do with the ten dollars he received, he announced he was going to give it to the Canteen in North Platte in honor of his sister Evelyn, who was in the waves in California. This sparked an idea in the crowd and they asked what else he could give to the Canteen. He replied, "All I have is the shirt on my back." This sparked an idea that lasted for the next six years. He earned money from auctions and special events in the tri-state area and gave the proceeds to the Canteen. Gene earned thousands of dollars for the Canteen and became nationally and internationally know for his efforts.Gene was a man of&nbsp; few words, was but always eager to learn more about his passions- which was "the farm". He was a man of faith, a man dedicated to his family, and a man who always went out of his way to be courteous and kind to others.&nbsp;He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother Larry; sisters Evelyn Kleinow and Helen Slattery; and two nephews, Scott Slattery and Kenneth Grasz.He is survived by wife Anne; his sons Dr. Michael (Gale) Slattery of Indianola, Nebraska and David (Toni) Slattery of North Platte, Nebraska; his daughter Johnna (Michael) Arensdorf of North Platte, Nebraska; his grandchildren Michael (Chelsie) Slattery of Indianola, Nebraska, James Slattery of Gordon, Nebraska, Emily Slattery of Lincoln, Nebraska, Amanda (Will) Slattery Engell of McCook, Nebraska, Jordan (Ariane) Arensdorf of Kearney, Nebraska, Jared (Mandy) Arensdorf of Lincoln, Nebraska, Kari Slattery of Columbus, Nebraska, and Katie, Jessica, and Julie Slattery of Lincoln, Nebraska; nieces Joyce Kohler of North Platte, Nebraska, Helen Hackney of McCook, Nebraska, and Shannon Slattery of California; nephew Dick Grasz of East Sandusky, Ohio; sister-in-law Mary Slattery of California; and 4 great grandchildren.Visitation will be held at Draucker Funeral Home Chapel in Ogallala, Nebraska on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 from 2:00 p.m.to 5:00 p.m. MST.Rosary will be held on Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. MST in St. Luke's&nbsp; Catholic Church in Ogallala, Nebraska with&nbsp; Mass of the Christian Burial&nbsp; following at 10:30 A.M. MST with Father Bryan Ernest officiating.Interment will follow at the Ogallala Cemetery.Memorials are suggested to St. Luke's Catholic School in Ogallala, Nebraska or North Platte Catholic Schools Scholarship Fund in North Platte, Nebraska.Services will be live streamed at www.drauckerfh.com. Online condolences may be left at www.drauckerfh.com.Draucker Funeral Home of Ogallala, Nebraska has been entrusted with arrangements.

John "Gene" E. Slattery  (1933-2023)

Marian Lucille (Bakewell) Lanka, born March 31, 1932, went to be with Jesus, her Lord and Savior, on Sunday, August 27, 2023 at the age of 91. She was the oldest child of Myron and Velna (Bay) Bakewell.

Marian grew up on the farm west of Stapleton, Nebraska along with her two sisters, Judy and Arlene. &nbsp;She attended Nesbit grade school and Baker Rural High at Stapleton. &nbsp;She wed Elton C. Lanka in Stapleton, Nebraska on August 5, 1951 in a double wedding ceremony with Elton’s sister Lorna Lanka and Laron Wright, at the Presbyterian Church in Stapleton. &nbsp;They lived in a baled hay house on the Lanka ranch north of Stapleton. &nbsp;She taught at the Cody Lake school for several years. &nbsp;In 1960 they moved with their four children into a new house that viewed Cody Lake. &nbsp;Marian helped with much of the ranch; working cattle, calving, and haying, along with raising the children. &nbsp;Going to Sunday School and church was the Sunday priority. &nbsp;Marian was a mail carrier for the north route out of Stapleton for 32 years. &nbsp;She loved helping with school where a daughter taught and then helping to homeschool a number of great-grandchildren for the past 20 plus years.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Myron and Velna Bakewell; husband, Elton; brother-in-law, Frank Lanka; step-mother, Wilma (Foight) Bakewell; son-in-law, Mike Pollnow; and step sister-in-law, Beth Foight.

She is survived by daughters, Diane (Cecil Lee) Wonch of Gandy, NE, Vanessa (George) Grimsley of Blanchard, OK, Sue Pollnow of Eaton, CO; and son Rex (Bethany) Lanka of Stapleton, NE; sisters, Judy (Clarence) Lanka of Stapleton, NE, Arlene (Tom) Collins of Shawnee, KS; sisters-in-law, Lorna Lane of Kearney, NE, Connie Krusinowski of Omaha, NE; brother-in-law, Kenneth E. (Margie) Lanka of Lincoln, NE; step-sister, Darla Parker of North Platte, NE; step-brother, Lyle Foight of Paxton, NE; 10 grandchildren, Travi (D’Arcy) Rambali of McCook, NE, Angie (Daniel) Hoppe of, Stapleton, NE, Lee (DanDee) Wonch of Arnold, NE, Amanda (Mike) Fletcher of Arnold, NE, Adam (Melani) Wonch of Gandy, NE, Josh Nelson of Urbandale, IA, Ranae (DJ) Selmeyer of Lansing, MI, Samantha (Chris) Ewing of Mt. Pleasant, TN, Owen (Kim) Johnson, Eaton, CO, Luke (Maggie) Johnson of Gering, NE, 32 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss her great smile and many acts of kindness.

Memorials are suggested in her name. &nbsp;Online condolences can be shared at www.adamsswanson.com

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. CST on Friday, September 1, 2023 at the Gandy Community Bible Church, Gandy, NE, with Pastor Lee Wonch officiating. &nbsp;Burial will follow the service at Loup Valley Cemetery, Stapleton, NE. &nbsp;Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. CST on Thursday at Adams &amp; Swanson Funeral Home in North Platte, NE. &nbsp;

The service will be livestreamed at www.adamsswanson.com for those unable to attend. &nbsp;Adams &amp; Swanson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693242577979.jpeg" alt="Marian Lanka" />
 <figcaption>Marian Lanka</figcaption>
 </figure>Marian Lucille (Bakewell) Lanka, born March 31, 1932, went to be with Jesus, her Lord and Savior, on Sunday, August 27, 2023 at the age of 91. She was the oldest child of Myron and Velna (Bay) Bakewell.Marian grew up on the farm west of Stapleton, Nebraska along with her two sisters, Judy and Arlene. &nbsp;She attended Nesbit grade school and Baker Rural High at Stapleton. &nbsp;She wed Elton C. Lanka in Stapleton, Nebraska on August 5, 1951 in a double wedding ceremony with Elton’s sister Lorna Lanka and Laron Wright, at the Presbyterian Church in Stapleton. &nbsp;They lived in a baled hay house on the Lanka ranch north of Stapleton. &nbsp;She taught at the Cody Lake school for several years. &nbsp;In 1960 they moved with their four children into a new house that viewed Cody Lake. &nbsp;Marian helped with much of the ranch; working cattle, calving, and haying, along with raising the children. &nbsp;Going to Sunday School and church was the Sunday priority. &nbsp;Marian was a mail carrier for the north route out of Stapleton for 32 years. &nbsp;She loved helping with school where a daughter taught and then helping to homeschool a number of great-grandchildren for the past 20 plus years.She is preceded in death by her parents, Myron and Velna Bakewell; husband, Elton; brother-in-law, Frank Lanka; step-mother, Wilma (Foight) Bakewell; son-in-law, Mike Pollnow; and step sister-in-law, Beth Foight.She is survived by daughters, Diane (Cecil Lee) Wonch of Gandy, NE, Vanessa (George) Grimsley of Blanchard, OK, Sue Pollnow of Eaton, CO; and son Rex (Bethany) Lanka of Stapleton, NE; sisters, Judy (Clarence) Lanka of Stapleton, NE, Arlene (Tom) Collins of Shawnee, KS; sisters-in-law, Lorna Lane of Kearney, NE, Connie Krusinowski of Omaha, NE; brother-in-law, Kenneth E. (Margie) Lanka of Lincoln, NE; step-sister, Darla Parker of North Platte, NE; step-brother, Lyle Foight of Paxton, NE; 10 grandchildren, Travi (D’Arcy) Rambali of McCook, NE, Angie (Daniel) Hoppe of, Stapleton, NE, Lee (DanDee) Wonch of Arnold, NE, Amanda (Mike) Fletcher of Arnold, NE, Adam (Melani) Wonch of Gandy, NE, Josh Nelson of Urbandale, IA, Ranae (DJ) Selmeyer of Lansing, MI, Samantha (Chris) Ewing of Mt. Pleasant, TN, Owen (Kim) Johnson, Eaton, CO, Luke (Maggie) Johnson of Gering, NE, 32 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss her great smile and many acts of kindness.Memorials are suggested in her name. &nbsp;Online condolences can be shared at www.adamsswanson.comFuneral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. CST on Friday, September 1, 2023 at the Gandy Community Bible Church, Gandy, NE, with Pastor Lee Wonch officiating. &nbsp;Burial will follow the service at Loup Valley Cemetery, Stapleton, NE. &nbsp;Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. CST on Thursday at Adams &amp; Swanson Funeral Home in North Platte, NE. &nbsp;The service will be livestreamed at www.adamsswanson.com for those unable to attend. &nbsp;Adams &amp; Swanson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Marian Lucille Lanka  (1932-2023)

Roy Irven Lunkwitz, age 61, of Ogallala, Nebraska died on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

Roy was born in Ogallala, Nebraska on August 21, 1962 to his loving parents, Irven Clarence Lunkwitz and Iris Loraine Loebig.&nbsp; Roy lived in and attended Keystone School until the 8th grade when he started school in Ogallala and graduated in 1981.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Roy's early years were marked with deep curiosity and an innate talent for understanding how things worked, a trait that would define his life's passions.&nbsp; Toy's inquisitive nature led him to a love for hunting, fishing and motorcycles.&nbsp; These outdoor pursuits became not only hobbies, but avenues for him to connect with nature and the world around him.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In his journey through life, Roy's family remained his guiding light.&nbsp; He married his beloved Aimee Dawn Gage on September 20, 1997, and they had 25 years and 11 months filled with love, laughter and shared dreams.&nbsp; Roy's dedication to Aimee was unwavering.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As a father, Roy embraced his role with boundless love and devotion.&nbsp; He leaves behind a legacy of children who were blessed to call him dad.&nbsp; Roy was also a cherished Papa to his grandchildren and found immense joy in watching and listening to their laughter and fun curiosities about life.

He is survived by his loving wife, Aimee Lunkwitz; two sons Jacob (Allyssa) Lunkwitz and Zachary Lunkwitz; and one daughter Emilee Lunkwitz; two brothers Richard Harms and Wayne Lunkwitz; two sisters Gayle (Rex) Thorne and Geraline Ashley; three grandchildren Mitzi, Ethan, and Jaden Lunkwitz; along with numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Roy is preceded in death by both his parents and an infant sister.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. MST at Draucker Funeral Home Chapel in Ogallala, Nebraska.

Memorial Services will be held on Friday, September 1, 2023 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Ogallala in Ogallala Nebraska at 10:00 a.m. MST with Rev. Albert Bader officiating.

Inurnment will follow at 1:30 p.m. MST in St. John's Lutheran Cemetery.

Online condolences may be left at www.drauckerfh.com.&nbsp; Services will be live-streamed at www.drauckerfh.com by clicking the "Watch Live" button.

Draucker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693238803737.jpeg" alt="Roy Lunkwitz" />
 <figcaption>Roy Lunkwitz</figcaption>
 </figure>Roy Irven Lunkwitz, age 61, of Ogallala, Nebraska died on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska.Roy was born in Ogallala, Nebraska on August 21, 1962 to his loving parents, Irven Clarence Lunkwitz and Iris Loraine Loebig.&nbsp; Roy lived in and attended Keystone School until the 8th grade when he started school in Ogallala and graduated in 1981.&nbsp;&nbsp;Roy's early years were marked with deep curiosity and an innate talent for understanding how things worked, a trait that would define his life's passions.&nbsp; Toy's inquisitive nature led him to a love for hunting, fishing and motorcycles.&nbsp; These outdoor pursuits became not only hobbies, but avenues for him to connect with nature and the world around him.&nbsp;&nbsp;In his journey through life, Roy's family remained his guiding light.&nbsp; He married his beloved Aimee Dawn Gage on September 20, 1997, and they had 25 years and 11 months filled with love, laughter and shared dreams.&nbsp; Roy's dedication to Aimee was unwavering.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a father, Roy embraced his role with boundless love and devotion.&nbsp; He leaves behind a legacy of children who were blessed to call him dad.&nbsp; Roy was also a cherished Papa to his grandchildren and found immense joy in watching and listening to their laughter and fun curiosities about life.He is survived by his loving wife, Aimee Lunkwitz; two sons Jacob (Allyssa) Lunkwitz and Zachary Lunkwitz; and one daughter Emilee Lunkwitz; two brothers Richard Harms and Wayne Lunkwitz; two sisters Gayle (Rex) Thorne and Geraline Ashley; three grandchildren Mitzi, Ethan, and Jaden Lunkwitz; along with numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.Roy is preceded in death by both his parents and an infant sister.Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. MST at Draucker Funeral Home Chapel in Ogallala, Nebraska.Memorial Services will be held on Friday, September 1, 2023 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Ogallala in Ogallala Nebraska at 10:00 a.m. MST with Rev. Albert Bader officiating.Inurnment will follow at 1:30 p.m. MST in St. John's Lutheran Cemetery.Online condolences may be left at www.drauckerfh.com.&nbsp; Services will be live-streamed at www.drauckerfh.com by clicking the "Watch Live" button.Draucker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

Roy Irven Lunkwitz  (1962-2023)

Chad Anthony Brown, age 48, of Hershey, Nebraska passed away on August 24, 2023 in North Platte, Nebraska.

Chad was born to Marijo and William Brown on January 17, 1975 in North Platte, Nebraska.&nbsp; He attended Saint Patrick's High School and graduated in 1993.&nbsp; Chad was born and raised on his family ranch and enjoyed every minute of it.&nbsp; He was a loving man who loved his animals and family.&nbsp; Chad married his loving wife, Lisa, and loved being able to go hunting with their hunting dogs.&nbsp; Chad also enjoyed being able to gather cattle early in the morning with his wife.&nbsp; Chad loved his family and was always there at family events, even if he had worked a long day at the ranch.&nbsp; He enjoyed spending time trapping, fishing, hunting, and being a dad.&nbsp; If you met Chad, he spent half of his life talking about his children, nephews, and nieces.

Chad is survived by his wife, Lisa; two children, Makayla (Chris Counce) and Alex; his parents, William and Marijo Brown; three sisters, Julie (Adam) Wilhelmson and their three children, Emma, Grace, and Kaden, Kylie (Dave) Buettner and their two children, Sophia and Jaxson, and Emily (Trent) Allison and their three children, Trey, Kelsie and Caleb.

Chad was preceded in death by his grandparents, Dorothy and William Brown and L.L. and Edith Hubka; great uncles and aunt, Joe Brown, Don Brown, Bob Brown and Sylvia Brown.

A memorial has been established in his name and online condolences and live stream of the services can be seen at www.adamsswanson.com.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. CST on Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in&nbsp; North Platte, NE with the Rev. Jonathon Sorenson as celebrant.&nbsp; Christian Wake Services will be at 7:00 p.m. CST on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at Adams &amp; Swanson Funeral Home in North Platte, NE with Deacon Mark Lister leading the rosary.&nbsp; The register book signing will be Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.&nbsp; Adams &amp; Swanson Funeral Home in North Platte has been entrusted with the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693241535349.jpeg" alt="Chad Brown" />
 <figcaption>Chad Brown</figcaption>
 </figure>Chad Anthony Brown, age 48, of Hershey, Nebraska passed away on August 24, 2023 in North Platte, Nebraska.Chad was born to Marijo and William Brown on January 17, 1975 in North Platte, Nebraska.&nbsp; He attended Saint Patrick's High School and graduated in 1993.&nbsp; Chad was born and raised on his family ranch and enjoyed every minute of it.&nbsp; He was a loving man who loved his animals and family.&nbsp; Chad married his loving wife, Lisa, and loved being able to go hunting with their hunting dogs.&nbsp; Chad also enjoyed being able to gather cattle early in the morning with his wife.&nbsp; Chad loved his family and was always there at family events, even if he had worked a long day at the ranch.&nbsp; He enjoyed spending time trapping, fishing, hunting, and being a dad.&nbsp; If you met Chad, he spent half of his life talking about his children, nephews, and nieces.Chad is survived by his wife, Lisa; two children, Makayla (Chris Counce) and Alex; his parents, William and Marijo Brown; three sisters, Julie (Adam) Wilhelmson and their three children, Emma, Grace, and Kaden, Kylie (Dave) Buettner and their two children, Sophia and Jaxson, and Emily (Trent) Allison and their three children, Trey, Kelsie and Caleb.Chad was preceded in death by his grandparents, Dorothy and William Brown and L.L. and Edith Hubka; great uncles and aunt, Joe Brown, Don Brown, Bob Brown and Sylvia Brown.A memorial has been established in his name and online condolences and live stream of the services can be seen at www.adamsswanson.com.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. CST on Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in&nbsp; North Platte, NE with the Rev. Jonathon Sorenson as celebrant.&nbsp; Christian Wake Services will be at 7:00 p.m. CST on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at Adams &amp; Swanson Funeral Home in North Platte, NE with Deacon Mark Lister leading the rosary.&nbsp; The register book signing will be Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.&nbsp; Adams &amp; Swanson Funeral Home in North Platte has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Chad Anthony Brown  (1975-2023)

Jolene Marie Adams Fischer, 64, of Grand Island, Nebraska passed away unexpectedly at her home on Wednesday, August 23, 2023.

She was born on August 23, 1959, in Chicopee, Massachusetts, to Billy C and Rita Mae (Tingelhoff) Adams. She lived and traveled to different countries while her father was in the Air Force. This is where she began collecting coins. Jolene attended Overton High School in Nebraska and graduated with the class of 1977. She went on to further her education, becoming a registered nurse and began working in different hospitals and nursing homes in Nebraska.

Jolene met and married Jeffrey Fischer. They had three children: Eric, Tyler, and Brooke. This marriage would later end in divorce.

Jolene enjoyed reading, counting cross stitch and crocheting. In later life she enjoyed online games, Facebook and audio books. She took great joy in rooting for the Minnesota Vikings, Nebraska Cornhuskers, and the Cambridge Trojans. Jolene took great enjoyment of her children, her future daughter-in-law and her two granddaughters: Hailea and Annelise.

Jolene is survived by her children, Eric Fischer and daughter Hailea, Tyler Fischer and fiancée Kristin Sattler of Manhattan, Kansas, Brooke Fischer and daughter Annelise Messersmith of Grand Island; stepdaughter, Megan (Brad) Reed and her children, Kinlee and Brody of North Platte; sisters Marietta Adams of Cozad, Norma Yeutter of Cozad, Kellie (Brian) Anderson of North Platte and brother Thomas Adams of Bellevue. Her many nieces and nephews: Randi and Justin Cook, Dakota, Carolyn, and Logan of Cozad; Myriah and Austin Durner of Montana, Monte, and Milee of Cozad; Chareese and Shawn Daffer, Makenna and Kylie of Indianola; Clarissa and Tim Hansen of North Platte. She is also survived by her aunts, Ellen Adams of Winfield, KS, Dorothy Bergatraesser of Orleans, Nebraska, Kay Tingelhoff of Eustis, Nebraska, Phyllis Tingelhoff of Minnesota, Stacie Adams of Virginia, Cheryl Adams of Chapman, Kansas, and her uncle Jim Saulsbury of Hinton, Iowa.

Jolene was preceded in death by her parents Bill and Rita Adams, her sisters, Connie Joann, Marie Kathleen and Mary Elizabeth, and her brother-in-law, Gary Yeutter.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, August 28, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Lexington with Father Jose Chavez officiating.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, August 27, 2023, from 5-7 p.m. with a Rosary to follow at 7 p.m. at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Lexington.

Following the mass, cremation will take place and burial will be held at a later date.

Memorials are kindly suggested to the family for later designation.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.&nbsp; Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692999908738.jpeg" alt="Jolene Fischer" />
 <figcaption>Jolene Fischer</figcaption>
 </figure>Jolene Marie Adams Fischer, 64, of Grand Island, Nebraska passed away unexpectedly at her home on Wednesday, August 23, 2023.She was born on August 23, 1959, in Chicopee, Massachusetts, to Billy C and Rita Mae (Tingelhoff) Adams. She lived and traveled to different countries while her father was in the Air Force. This is where she began collecting coins. Jolene attended Overton High School in Nebraska and graduated with the class of 1977. She went on to further her education, becoming a registered nurse and began working in different hospitals and nursing homes in Nebraska.Jolene met and married Jeffrey Fischer. They had three children: Eric, Tyler, and Brooke. This marriage would later end in divorce.Jolene enjoyed reading, counting cross stitch and crocheting. In later life she enjoyed online games, Facebook and audio books. She took great joy in rooting for the Minnesota Vikings, Nebraska Cornhuskers, and the Cambridge Trojans. Jolene took great enjoyment of her children, her future daughter-in-law and her two granddaughters: Hailea and Annelise.Jolene is survived by her children, Eric Fischer and daughter Hailea, Tyler Fischer and fiancée Kristin Sattler of Manhattan, Kansas, Brooke Fischer and daughter Annelise Messersmith of Grand Island; stepdaughter, Megan (Brad) Reed and her children, Kinlee and Brody of North Platte; sisters Marietta Adams of Cozad, Norma Yeutter of Cozad, Kellie (Brian) Anderson of North Platte and brother Thomas Adams of Bellevue. Her many nieces and nephews: Randi and Justin Cook, Dakota, Carolyn, and Logan of Cozad; Myriah and Austin Durner of Montana, Monte, and Milee of Cozad; Chareese and Shawn Daffer, Makenna and Kylie of Indianola; Clarissa and Tim Hansen of North Platte. She is also survived by her aunts, Ellen Adams of Winfield, KS, Dorothy Bergatraesser of Orleans, Nebraska, Kay Tingelhoff of Eustis, Nebraska, Phyllis Tingelhoff of Minnesota, Stacie Adams of Virginia, Cheryl Adams of Chapman, Kansas, and her uncle Jim Saulsbury of Hinton, Iowa.Jolene was preceded in death by her parents Bill and Rita Adams, her sisters, Connie Joann, Marie Kathleen and Mary Elizabeth, and her brother-in-law, Gary Yeutter.Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, August 28, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Lexington with Father Jose Chavez officiating.Visitation will be held on Sunday, August 27, 2023, from 5-7 p.m. with a Rosary to follow at 7 p.m. at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Lexington.Following the mass, cremation will take place and burial will be held at a later date.Memorials are kindly suggested to the family for later designation.Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.&nbsp; Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com&nbsp;

Jolene M. Fischer (1959-2023)

Glenda Kay Debban, 81, of Kearney, Nebraska, passed away on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at home with her loving family by her side.

She was born on September 7, 1941, in Cozad, Nebraska, to William D. and Doris Ora (Peden) Armagost. She graduated from Cozad High School with the class of 1960. In 1960, she moved to Lexington. On October 15, 1960, Glenda was united in marriage to the love of her life, Kermit Debban, in Cozad, Nebraska. Three wonderful daughters were blessed to this union: Brenda, DeeDee, and Kandee.&nbsp;The family later moved to Kearney in 2016. Glenda's career journey was filled with diverse experiences that showcased her determination and versatility. She dedicated her time to various roles, starting in the meat department of grocery stores. She then began working the graveyard shift at Monroe's for many years. Her meticulous attention to detail led her to excel in bookkeeping for companies like Gunderson's, Bicentennial, and Cornland Beef before caring for little ones as a devoted babysitter.

She had a nurturing spirit that overflowed into her community as she selflessly taught Sunday school to instill faith in young hearts. Dancing also brought sheer joy to Glenda's life. She&nbsp;found solace in tending to her vibrant flower garden - a reflection of her own radiance. She possessed incredible craft skills and could bring any idea to life through crochet and various crafts. Her vast doll collection stood as a testament to both creativity and nostalgia. Family was everything to Glenda, particularly spending cherished moments alongside her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Their laughter echoed through the air as they created everlasting memories. Glenda's unconditional love also extended to her loyal companion, Kaden, who filled her days with warmth and companionship. Glenda's life was filled with passion, love, and unwavering devotion to the people and activities that brought her immense joy.&nbsp;Any occasion to host her beloved family brought her extreme joy. She showed her love by cooking and baking. &nbsp;In matters of faith, Glenda found solace in the embrace of her church community. She was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington before transitioning to Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Kearney. Her unwavering belief in a higher power carried her through life's challenges and allowed her to find strength even during the darkest moments. A belief that she instilled in her children that to this day sustains them through their grief.

Those left to cherish her memory are her loving husband of almost 63 years, Kermit Debban, of Kearney; her favorite daughters, Brenda (Tracy) Wolf of Lexington, DeeDee Debban of Kearney, and Kandee Nourse of Greeley, Colorado; beloved pup, Kaden; brothers, Delmar Armagost of Cozad, Jerry (Cherie) Armagost of Cozad, and William D. (Doris) Armagost of Lexington; grandchildren, Amanda (Ryan) Koch of Seward, Nebraska, Abby (Joshua) Johnson of Kearney, Brody Jackson of Greeley, Colorado, and Logan Jackson and his fiancée, Amalia Foy, of Asheville, North Carolina, great-grandchildren, Lavinia, Tyler, Ezra, Elias and Baby Girl Johnson due in October; as well as numerous cherished and beloved nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her in-laws, Marvin and Elsie Debban; her brother, Dennis Armagost; sisters, Pamela Armagost and Darla Dunn; sister-in-law, Sharon Armagost and son-in-law, Eric Nourse.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, with family receiving guests from 5-7 p.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington, Nebraska.

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at the Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Kearney, Nebraska with Pastor Tim Barone, officiating. The family is requesting all guests dress in casual attire.

Burial will be held at the Kearney City Cemetery in Kearney, Nebraska.

Memorials are kindly suggested to Tabitha House Hospice.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.&nbsp; Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692999498741.jpeg" alt="Glenda Debban" />
 <figcaption>Glenda Debban</figcaption>
 </figure>Glenda Kay Debban, 81, of Kearney, Nebraska, passed away on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at home with her loving family by her side.She was born on September 7, 1941, in Cozad, Nebraska, to William D. and Doris Ora (Peden) Armagost. She graduated from Cozad High School with the class of 1960. In 1960, she moved to Lexington. On October 15, 1960, Glenda was united in marriage to the love of her life, Kermit Debban, in Cozad, Nebraska. Three wonderful daughters were blessed to this union: Brenda, DeeDee, and Kandee.&nbsp;The family later moved to Kearney in 2016. Glenda's career journey was filled with diverse experiences that showcased her determination and versatility. She dedicated her time to various roles, starting in the meat department of grocery stores. She then began working the graveyard shift at Monroe's for many years. Her meticulous attention to detail led her to excel in bookkeeping for companies like Gunderson's, Bicentennial, and Cornland Beef before caring for little ones as a devoted babysitter.She had a nurturing spirit that overflowed into her community as she selflessly taught Sunday school to instill faith in young hearts. Dancing also brought sheer joy to Glenda's life. She&nbsp;found solace in tending to her vibrant flower garden - a reflection of her own radiance. She possessed incredible craft skills and could bring any idea to life through crochet and various crafts. Her vast doll collection stood as a testament to both creativity and nostalgia. Family was everything to Glenda, particularly spending cherished moments alongside her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Their laughter echoed through the air as they created everlasting memories. Glenda's unconditional love also extended to her loyal companion, Kaden, who filled her days with warmth and companionship. Glenda's life was filled with passion, love, and unwavering devotion to the people and activities that brought her immense joy.&nbsp;Any occasion to host her beloved family brought her extreme joy. She showed her love by cooking and baking. &nbsp;In matters of faith, Glenda found solace in the embrace of her church community. She was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington before transitioning to Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Kearney. Her unwavering belief in a higher power carried her through life's challenges and allowed her to find strength even during the darkest moments. A belief that she instilled in her children that to this day sustains them through their grief.Those left to cherish her memory are her loving husband of almost 63 years, Kermit Debban, of Kearney; her favorite daughters, Brenda (Tracy) Wolf of Lexington, DeeDee Debban of Kearney, and Kandee Nourse of Greeley, Colorado; beloved pup, Kaden; brothers, Delmar Armagost of Cozad, Jerry (Cherie) Armagost of Cozad, and William D. (Doris) Armagost of Lexington; grandchildren, Amanda (Ryan) Koch of Seward, Nebraska, Abby (Joshua) Johnson of Kearney, Brody Jackson of Greeley, Colorado, and Logan Jackson and his fiancée, Amalia Foy, of Asheville, North Carolina, great-grandchildren, Lavinia, Tyler, Ezra, Elias and Baby Girl Johnson due in October; as well as numerous cherished and beloved nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her in-laws, Marvin and Elsie Debban; her brother, Dennis Armagost; sisters, Pamela Armagost and Darla Dunn; sister-in-law, Sharon Armagost and son-in-law, Eric Nourse.Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, with family receiving guests from 5-7 p.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington, Nebraska.Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at the Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Kearney, Nebraska with Pastor Tim Barone, officiating. The family is requesting all guests dress in casual attire.Burial will be held at the Kearney City Cemetery in Kearney, Nebraska.Memorials are kindly suggested to Tabitha House Hospice.Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.&nbsp; Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com

Glenda Kay Debban (1941-2023)

Heaven gained a lively soul when Charlene "Penny" Kennedy passed away on August 24, 2023, at Great Plains Health. &nbsp;She was 86 years old.

Penny, the daughter of Randall and Vera Guy, was born April 3, 1937, in Denver. &nbsp;She was the oldest of five children and raised in Colorado. &nbsp;Because of her parents' divorce, she attended many schools. &nbsp;By 1950, she was living in Ogallala and attended grades 7-10. &nbsp;She didn't graduate at the time but did make many friends. &nbsp;By the time Penny was 15 she was living on her own and supporting herself; she lied about her age to get jobs working at a drive-in and Goodall Electric.

Penny became a wife at the age of 17 when she married Tom Kennedy of Sutherland in September of 1954. &nbsp;She was soon a young mother with three children: Susan, Montee and Karen. &nbsp;After divorcing in 1970, Penny realized good paying jobs required a high school diploma so she went back to school to earn her GED, but was later irritated that nobody ever asked to see it.

Penny was a hardworking woman who provided for her family anyway she could. &nbsp;She worked in the Sutherland Hospital kitchen, for Dr. Maxwell at Sutherland, at Metalcraft, Crawford Electric and tended bar for Rags Brouillette at night. &nbsp;In 1977, Penny started working at the Cavalier Motel, then Super 8. &nbsp;This led to being a motel manager for the next 17 years at Gering, Alliance, Crawford and Sidney.

Penny returned to Sutherland in 1994 to be closer to her children and later became the Director of the Sutherland Senior Center. &nbsp;Of all the jobs Penny had, this was the most rewarding of all! &nbsp;Her final job was Activities Director at Autumn Park when she moved to North Platte. &nbsp;Penny worked until retiring just a few years ago.

All in all Penny had a good life. &nbsp;She raised 3 fine children, has grandchildren who love her, got to travel to Germany, Hawaii and Canada and all Western states, learned to bowl, golf and even took cosmetology classes. &nbsp;And after 27 years of being divorced, Penny was able to have dinners with Tom and his wife, Barb, who she liked and got along with really well.

Penny was small in stature but large in personality and compassion. &nbsp;She loved being around people and dreamed of winning the lottery so she could build a nursing home where each resident had their own room with window boxes full of flowers and space for a separate chapel and activity room that wasn't a dining room.&nbsp; She especially loved her family and for their sake gave up smoking "cold turkey". &nbsp;Penny enlightened the lives of all around her and will be greatly missed.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Charlotte Hinkle, Janice Guy and Jim Amerine; &nbsp;brother-in-law, Richard Grady; and great-granddaughter, Gracie White.

Penny is survived by her children, Susan Fisher (Bill) of Maxwell, Karen Kennedy (Ruth Larkin) of Lakewood, CO, and Montee Kennedy (Sandy) of North Platte; grandchildren, Carlee Cochran (Ted Simmons), Jennifer Welton and Spencer, Kadyn and Kristyn Kennedy-Larkin; great-grandchildren, William, Cheyenne and Gavin White and Wylee Simmons; her brother, George Guy (Terry); half siblings, Mike Amerine (Jamie) and Mickie Sanchez (Mike); sisters-in-law, Lou Guy and Carolyn Grady; and many other family members.

&nbsp; Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at Odean Colonial Chapel with Pastor Mark Baldwin officiating. Inurnment will follow at Riverview Cemetery in Sutherland.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, memorials are to the Goodfellow Shoe Fund or Riverview Cemetery.&nbsp; The memorial book may be signed at odeanchapel.com or at Odean Colonial Chapel at C &amp; Sycamore which is in charge of arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692998849060.jpeg" alt="Penny Kennedy" />
 <figcaption>Penny Kennedy</figcaption>
 </figure>Heaven gained a lively soul when Charlene "Penny" Kennedy passed away on August 24, 2023, at Great Plains Health. &nbsp;She was 86 years old.Penny, the daughter of Randall and Vera Guy, was born April 3, 1937, in Denver. &nbsp;She was the oldest of five children and raised in Colorado. &nbsp;Because of her parents' divorce, she attended many schools. &nbsp;By 1950, she was living in Ogallala and attended grades 7-10. &nbsp;She didn't graduate at the time but did make many friends. &nbsp;By the time Penny was 15 she was living on her own and supporting herself; she lied about her age to get jobs working at a drive-in and Goodall Electric.Penny became a wife at the age of 17 when she married Tom Kennedy of Sutherland in September of 1954. &nbsp;She was soon a young mother with three children: Susan, Montee and Karen. &nbsp;After divorcing in 1970, Penny realized good paying jobs required a high school diploma so she went back to school to earn her GED, but was later irritated that nobody ever asked to see it.Penny was a hardworking woman who provided for her family anyway she could. &nbsp;She worked in the Sutherland Hospital kitchen, for Dr. Maxwell at Sutherland, at Metalcraft, Crawford Electric and tended bar for Rags Brouillette at night. &nbsp;In 1977, Penny started working at the Cavalier Motel, then Super 8. &nbsp;This led to being a motel manager for the next 17 years at Gering, Alliance, Crawford and Sidney.Penny returned to Sutherland in 1994 to be closer to her children and later became the Director of the Sutherland Senior Center. &nbsp;Of all the jobs Penny had, this was the most rewarding of all! &nbsp;Her final job was Activities Director at Autumn Park when she moved to North Platte. &nbsp;Penny worked until retiring just a few years ago.All in all Penny had a good life. &nbsp;She raised 3 fine children, has grandchildren who love her, got to travel to Germany, Hawaii and Canada and all Western states, learned to bowl, golf and even took cosmetology classes. &nbsp;And after 27 years of being divorced, Penny was able to have dinners with Tom and his wife, Barb, who she liked and got along with really well.Penny was small in stature but large in personality and compassion. &nbsp;She loved being around people and dreamed of winning the lottery so she could build a nursing home where each resident had their own room with window boxes full of flowers and space for a separate chapel and activity room that wasn't a dining room.&nbsp; She especially loved her family and for their sake gave up smoking "cold turkey". &nbsp;Penny enlightened the lives of all around her and will be greatly missed.She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Charlotte Hinkle, Janice Guy and Jim Amerine; &nbsp;brother-in-law, Richard Grady; and great-granddaughter, Gracie White.Penny is survived by her children, Susan Fisher (Bill) of Maxwell, Karen Kennedy (Ruth Larkin) of Lakewood, CO, and Montee Kennedy (Sandy) of North Platte; grandchildren, Carlee Cochran (Ted Simmons), Jennifer Welton and Spencer, Kadyn and Kristyn Kennedy-Larkin; great-grandchildren, William, Cheyenne and Gavin White and Wylee Simmons; her brother, George Guy (Terry); half siblings, Mike Amerine (Jamie) and Mickie Sanchez (Mike); sisters-in-law, Lou Guy and Carolyn Grady; and many other family members.&nbsp; Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at Odean Colonial Chapel with Pastor Mark Baldwin officiating. Inurnment will follow at Riverview Cemetery in Sutherland.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, memorials are to the Goodfellow Shoe Fund or Riverview Cemetery.&nbsp; The memorial book may be signed at odeanchapel.com or at Odean Colonial Chapel at C &amp; Sycamore which is in charge of arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Penny Kennedy (1937-2023)

Verla Kay Naylor, 86, of Cozad, Nebraska, passed away Wednesday, August 24, 2023 at home with sons Steve and Stan by her side. She was born October 31, 1923 in Cozad, Nebraska to Frank Lynn and Frances Ada (Newhouse) Hemphill, the youngest of seven children. She was baptized May 18, 1956, at the First United Methodist Church of Cozad. Kay was united in marriage to Garlyn Ross (Bud) Naylor at Callaway, Nebraska, December 7, 1952, (On Pearl Harbor Day). To this union three children were born: Steven Glen, Stanley Ross and Tamara Sue. Together the couple raised their family and lived in the Cozad community their entire life. As a young child, she took joy in being a Baton Majorette and also playing the clarinet, drums and bassoon in the band. Kay had passion for adventure, fun and had an amazing work ethic. She was given an opportunity to join the grocery store business in Cozad owned by Nash Finch, (old Jack and Jill Food Store) as a store clerk and bookkeeper for most of her career. She then went on to work at Evans Bakery where she decorated cakes, which she truly loved doing. She then went back into the grocery store business and joined the team at Sonny's Super Foods, where she retired. Kay was a very active mom, wife and grandmother and enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, watching them in all their sporting events and school activities. She had numerous activities she enjoyed from water skiing, lake life, reading a good book, crocheting, cross stitching, playing pinochle, gambling, dancing, bowling and cake decorating. She was involved in the Cozad Does 177, and served a term as President. Kay also enjoyed spending time at the Cozad Grand Generation Center, volunteering at the Thrift store and belonging to the Red Hatters Society. Verla was preceded in death by her parents and step-father-father, August Hueftle; husband Garlyn; daughter, Tamara Lemmon; great-grandson, Thorne Phillips; siblings: Annie Tucker, Pauline Coover, Clara Lantz, Doyle Hemphill, Dale Hemphill and Wayne Hemphill. She is survived by her sons, Steve (Barbara) Naylor; Stanley Naylor both of Cozad; son-in-law, Rick Lemmon of Cozad; special friend of 20 years, Glen Koch of North Platte; grandchildren, Sandra (Ty) Phillips of Kearney, NE; Carrie (Dustin) Ludeke of Oxford, NE; Bryan Naylor, Kevin Lemmon of Cozad; five great-grandchildren: Stone Phillips of Kearney; Cole Norris of Oxford; Saffron Phillips (fiance Chase Middleswart) of Kearney; Carlyn and Collin Stephen of Oxford; and great-grandson, Thorn Bliss-Norris of Lincoln, NE; soon to be great-great-granddaughter, Mabree Jean Middleswart, arriving in December.

Memorials are suggested to Children Hospital of Omaha. Kay's wishes were to be cremated. A memorial service will be held Monday, August 28, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at the Cozad United Methodist Church with Pastor Billarmee Milosi officiating. Those wishing to sign the memorial book may do so on Sunday, August 27, 2023 from 5-7 p.m., with family present, at Berryman Funeral Home in Cozad.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693000012958.jpeg" alt="Verla Naylor" />
 <figcaption>Verla Naylor</figcaption>
 </figure>Verla Kay Naylor, 86, of Cozad, Nebraska, passed away Wednesday, August 24, 2023 at home with sons Steve and Stan by her side. She was born October 31, 1923 in Cozad, Nebraska to Frank Lynn and Frances Ada (Newhouse) Hemphill, the youngest of seven children. She was baptized May 18, 1956, at the First United Methodist Church of Cozad. Kay was united in marriage to Garlyn Ross (Bud) Naylor at Callaway, Nebraska, December 7, 1952, (On Pearl Harbor Day). To this union three children were born: Steven Glen, Stanley Ross and Tamara Sue. Together the couple raised their family and lived in the Cozad community their entire life. As a young child, she took joy in being a Baton Majorette and also playing the clarinet, drums and bassoon in the band. Kay had passion for adventure, fun and had an amazing work ethic. She was given an opportunity to join the grocery store business in Cozad owned by Nash Finch, (old Jack and Jill Food Store) as a store clerk and bookkeeper for most of her career. She then went on to work at Evans Bakery where she decorated cakes, which she truly loved doing. She then went back into the grocery store business and joined the team at Sonny's Super Foods, where she retired. Kay was a very active mom, wife and grandmother and enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, watching them in all their sporting events and school activities. She had numerous activities she enjoyed from water skiing, lake life, reading a good book, crocheting, cross stitching, playing pinochle, gambling, dancing, bowling and cake decorating. She was involved in the Cozad Does 177, and served a term as President. Kay also enjoyed spending time at the Cozad Grand Generation Center, volunteering at the Thrift store and belonging to the Red Hatters Society. Verla was preceded in death by her parents and step-father-father, August Hueftle; husband Garlyn; daughter, Tamara Lemmon; great-grandson, Thorne Phillips; siblings: Annie Tucker, Pauline Coover, Clara Lantz, Doyle Hemphill, Dale Hemphill and Wayne Hemphill. She is survived by her sons, Steve (Barbara) Naylor; Stanley Naylor both of Cozad; son-in-law, Rick Lemmon of Cozad; special friend of 20 years, Glen Koch of North Platte; grandchildren, Sandra (Ty) Phillips of Kearney, NE; Carrie (Dustin) Ludeke of Oxford, NE; Bryan Naylor, Kevin Lemmon of Cozad; five great-grandchildren: Stone Phillips of Kearney; Cole Norris of Oxford; Saffron Phillips (fiance Chase Middleswart) of Kearney; Carlyn and Collin Stephen of Oxford; and great-grandson, Thorn Bliss-Norris of Lincoln, NE; soon to be great-great-granddaughter, Mabree Jean Middleswart, arriving in December.Memorials are suggested to Children Hospital of Omaha. Kay's wishes were to be cremated. A memorial service will be held Monday, August 28, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at the Cozad United Methodist Church with Pastor Billarmee Milosi officiating. Those wishing to sign the memorial book may do so on Sunday, August 27, 2023 from 5-7 p.m., with family present, at Berryman Funeral Home in Cozad.&nbsp;

Verla Kay Naylor (1936-2023)

Michael Keith "Lefty" Loeffler, 64, of Paxton, Nebraska passed away on August 22, 2023, at the Imperial Manor.

Mike was born on March 9, 1959 at La Junat, Colorado to Stanley and Merle (Goodrich) Loeffler.&nbsp; He attended Cheraw Schools in Cheraw, Colorado before moving to Grant, Nebraska going into this Junior year of high school, and graduated from Grant High School with the Class of 1977.&nbsp; Right out of school, he began working at Midwest Electric.&nbsp; He started as a janitor, working his way up through the lineman training, and eventually became the manager of the Paxton, Nebraska branch.

On February 16, 1980, he married Beverly "Susie" Lee at the Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church in Grant, Nebraska.&nbsp; Their union was blessed with two children:&nbsp; son, Justin, and daughter, Jennifer.&nbsp; While his friends early in life always knew him as Mike, he would eventually garner a nickname with such staying power that most only knew him by Lefty.&nbsp; He and his wife eventually purchased the bar in Wallace, Nebraska, which would appropriately be called "Lefty's," and ran it together until 1990 while Lefty continued working for Midwest Electric.

Following the end of his first marriage, Lefty continued to work for Midwest Electric.&nbsp; He eventually met Dana Langmacher, and on October 10, 1992, the two were married at Paxton, Nebraska.&nbsp; They made their home south of town, where Lefty immensely enjoyed farm life.&nbsp; The two were blessed with twins: a daughter, Cheyanne, and a son, Jordan.

Lefty was a great guy, and everyone loved him.&nbsp; He was seemingly a friend to everyone and was reliably a great time to be around.&nbsp; His personable nature and humor had a way of drawing people to him or him to people.

Everywhere he went, Lefty was an active contributor to the community.&nbsp; From involvement in Optimists, 4th of July Display, Fundraisers, Fall Festivals, and special fundraising projects for high school athletics, Lefty always had a passion for people and his community.

Lefty loved to fish, camp, and farm.&nbsp; He had a great love for his family, and his grandkids added such a rich dimension to his life.&nbsp; His dog, Otto, also held a special place in his life.&nbsp; Lefty had a consuming love for Husker Football and left little tolerance for opposing fandom.&nbsp; His allegiance to the New Orleans Saints was only permissible because the two teams competed in different leagues.

Lefty had a love for music, especially tunes from the 70's and 80's.&nbsp; He was resourceful:&nbsp; there wasn't much Lefty couldn't fix with duct tape, silicone spray, or, if the situation was grave enough, JB Weld.&nbsp; Lefty had a quirkiness that made his loved ones grin, affectionately known for his avid use of Sharpies and sticky notes.

In the end, Lefty made a great mark on the world he left behind, from cherished memories and stories to all the people wearing big smiles and Husker Red.&nbsp; Rest in peace, Lefty.

Lefty was preceded in death by his father, Stanley Loeffler; Uncle William and Aunt Edna Shoaf and Aunt Dorthy Roberts, and Uncle Blaine Clark; and his father-in-law, Donald Langmacher.

Survivors include his wife, Dana, of Paxton, Nebraska; children, Justin (Kelly) Loeffler of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Jennifer (Jade) Reimers of Torrington, Wyoming, Cheyanne (Jathan) Loeffler of Omaha, Nebraska, and Jordan (Gabby) Loeffler of Paxton, Nebraska; grandchildren, Isabelle, Taven, Hayden, and Harper; his mother, Merle Loeffler of Grant, Nebraska; brother, Steve (Chris) Loeffler of Grant, Nebraska; sister, Sonja Loeffler of Kearney, Nebraska; aunt, Virginia Clark of Colorado Springs, Colorado; mother-in-law, Marcia Langmacher of Paxton, Nebraska; along with many nieces, nephews, friends and family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Imperial Manor Nursing Home or Great Western Sky Nursing Home project in Grant, Nebraska.

Services will be held on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. MST at New Hope Church in Ogallala, Nebraska with Pastor Don Larreau officiating. Husker game day gear is encouraged. Interment will be in the Paxton Cemetery in Paxton, Nebraska.&nbsp; Following the burial, a memorial tailgate party will be held in Lefty's honor at the Public Park in Paxton, Nebraska.

Visitation will be on Monday from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. MST at the Prairie Hills Funeral Home in Ogallala, Nebraska.

Prairie Hills Funeral Home of Ogallala is in charge of arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692978076858.jpeg" alt="Michael Loeffler" />
 <figcaption>Michael Loeffler</figcaption>
 </figure>Michael Keith "Lefty" Loeffler, 64, of Paxton, Nebraska passed away on August 22, 2023, at the Imperial Manor.Mike was born on March 9, 1959 at La Junat, Colorado to Stanley and Merle (Goodrich) Loeffler.&nbsp; He attended Cheraw Schools in Cheraw, Colorado before moving to Grant, Nebraska going into this Junior year of high school, and graduated from Grant High School with the Class of 1977.&nbsp; Right out of school, he began working at Midwest Electric.&nbsp; He started as a janitor, working his way up through the lineman training, and eventually became the manager of the Paxton, Nebraska branch.On February 16, 1980, he married Beverly "Susie" Lee at the Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church in Grant, Nebraska.&nbsp; Their union was blessed with two children:&nbsp; son, Justin, and daughter, Jennifer.&nbsp; While his friends early in life always knew him as Mike, he would eventually garner a nickname with such staying power that most only knew him by Lefty.&nbsp; He and his wife eventually purchased the bar in Wallace, Nebraska, which would appropriately be called "Lefty's," and ran it together until 1990 while Lefty continued working for Midwest Electric.Following the end of his first marriage, Lefty continued to work for Midwest Electric.&nbsp; He eventually met Dana Langmacher, and on October 10, 1992, the two were married at Paxton, Nebraska.&nbsp; They made their home south of town, where Lefty immensely enjoyed farm life.&nbsp; The two were blessed with twins: a daughter, Cheyanne, and a son, Jordan.Lefty was a great guy, and everyone loved him.&nbsp; He was seemingly a friend to everyone and was reliably a great time to be around.&nbsp; His personable nature and humor had a way of drawing people to him or him to people.Everywhere he went, Lefty was an active contributor to the community.&nbsp; From involvement in Optimists, 4th of July Display, Fundraisers, Fall Festivals, and special fundraising projects for high school athletics, Lefty always had a passion for people and his community.Lefty loved to fish, camp, and farm.&nbsp; He had a great love for his family, and his grandkids added such a rich dimension to his life.&nbsp; His dog, Otto, also held a special place in his life.&nbsp; Lefty had a consuming love for Husker Football and left little tolerance for opposing fandom.&nbsp; His allegiance to the New Orleans Saints was only permissible because the two teams competed in different leagues.Lefty had a love for music, especially tunes from the 70's and 80's.&nbsp; He was resourceful:&nbsp; there wasn't much Lefty couldn't fix with duct tape, silicone spray, or, if the situation was grave enough, JB Weld.&nbsp; Lefty had a quirkiness that made his loved ones grin, affectionately known for his avid use of Sharpies and sticky notes.In the end, Lefty made a great mark on the world he left behind, from cherished memories and stories to all the people wearing big smiles and Husker Red.&nbsp; Rest in peace, Lefty.Lefty was preceded in death by his father, Stanley Loeffler; Uncle William and Aunt Edna Shoaf and Aunt Dorthy Roberts, and Uncle Blaine Clark; and his father-in-law, Donald Langmacher.Survivors include his wife, Dana, of Paxton, Nebraska; children, Justin (Kelly) Loeffler of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Jennifer (Jade) Reimers of Torrington, Wyoming, Cheyanne (Jathan) Loeffler of Omaha, Nebraska, and Jordan (Gabby) Loeffler of Paxton, Nebraska; grandchildren, Isabelle, Taven, Hayden, and Harper; his mother, Merle Loeffler of Grant, Nebraska; brother, Steve (Chris) Loeffler of Grant, Nebraska; sister, Sonja Loeffler of Kearney, Nebraska; aunt, Virginia Clark of Colorado Springs, Colorado; mother-in-law, Marcia Langmacher of Paxton, Nebraska; along with many nieces, nephews, friends and family.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Imperial Manor Nursing Home or Great Western Sky Nursing Home project in Grant, Nebraska.Services will be held on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. MST at New Hope Church in Ogallala, Nebraska with Pastor Don Larreau officiating. Husker game day gear is encouraged. Interment will be in the Paxton Cemetery in Paxton, Nebraska.&nbsp; Following the burial, a memorial tailgate party will be held in Lefty's honor at the Public Park in Paxton, Nebraska.Visitation will be on Monday from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. MST at the Prairie Hills Funeral Home in Ogallala, Nebraska.Prairie Hills Funeral Home of Ogallala is in charge of arrangements.

Michael "Lefty" Loeffler (1959-2023)

Levi Asa Queen, age 43, of Loveland, Colorado, formerly of Ogallala, NE, was killed in a car/motorcycle accident in Scottsbluff, Nebraska on Saturday, August 19, 2023.

Levi was born at home in Brule, Nebraska on May 20, 1980, to Jay and Starla (Cambell) Queen. He attended Ogallala Public Schools and eventually received his GED from them. As a young man, he worked in construction for several different companies before moving to Fort Collins, Colorado where he continued working in construction.

He married Shawna Rae Beeken on August 1, 2009, in Brule, NE, and they made their home in Fort Collins, CO, and then Loveland. They divorced in 2016. He got his master plumber’s license and opened his own business called Levi Does It in 2019. He loved music and the outdoors (camping, hiking, and snowboarding). His favorite place in the world was Lake McConaughy.

He is survived by his parents, Jay and Starla (Campbell) Queen of Brule, and son Rowan Queen of Silverdale, WA, Paige Queen of Loveland, CO, and step-son Owen Scripter of Loveland, CO, special friend Mandy Cahill of Loveland, CO, sister Shauna Queen Perez of San Antonio, TX and Sheri (Jake) Queen-Carr of Sioux City, IA; three nieces and four nephews, and many aunts, uncles, cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Asa and Maxine Queen, Lee and Gloria Campbell.

A celebration of Life will be held at the Keith County Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall in Ogallala, NE on Saturday, September 2, 2023, from 11 am to 3 pm. Come prepared to share your memories of Levi, and if you play a musical instrument, please bring it.

A memorial established in Levi’s name and will be designated by his children at a later date.

A private family interment will be held at a later date at the Antelope Valley Cemetery north of Oshkosh. Online condolences may be left at www.drauckerfh.com. Draucker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692977761617.jpeg" alt="Levi Asa Queen" />
 <figcaption>Levi Asa Queen</figcaption>
 </figure>Levi Asa Queen, age 43, of Loveland, Colorado, formerly of Ogallala, NE, was killed in a car/motorcycle accident in Scottsbluff, Nebraska on Saturday, August 19, 2023.Levi was born at home in Brule, Nebraska on May 20, 1980, to Jay and Starla (Cambell) Queen. He attended Ogallala Public Schools and eventually received his GED from them. As a young man, he worked in construction for several different companies before moving to Fort Collins, Colorado where he continued working in construction.He married Shawna Rae Beeken on August 1, 2009, in Brule, NE, and they made their home in Fort Collins, CO, and then Loveland. They divorced in 2016. He got his master plumber’s license and opened his own business called Levi Does It in 2019. He loved music and the outdoors (camping, hiking, and snowboarding). His favorite place in the world was Lake McConaughy.He is survived by his parents, Jay and Starla (Campbell) Queen of Brule, and son Rowan Queen of Silverdale, WA, Paige Queen of Loveland, CO, and step-son Owen Scripter of Loveland, CO, special friend Mandy Cahill of Loveland, CO, sister Shauna Queen Perez of San Antonio, TX and Sheri (Jake) Queen-Carr of Sioux City, IA; three nieces and four nephews, and many aunts, uncles, cousins.He was preceded in death by his grandparents Asa and Maxine Queen, Lee and Gloria Campbell.A celebration of Life will be held at the Keith County Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall in Ogallala, NE on Saturday, September 2, 2023, from 11 am to 3 pm. Come prepared to share your memories of Levi, and if you play a musical instrument, please bring it.A memorial established in Levi’s name and will be designated by his children at a later date.A private family interment will be held at a later date at the Antelope Valley Cemetery north of Oshkosh. Online condolences may be left at www.drauckerfh.com. Draucker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

Levi Asa Queen (1980-2023)

&nbsp; Marilyn Joan Cook of North Platte passed away at age 86 on August 23, 2023, following a short stay at Linden Court. Marilyn was born September 5, 1936, to Joel and Katherine (McEvoy) Sandberg at North Platte and grew up south of Hershey. She attended Star School and North Platte High School, graduating in 1953. On October 31, 1954, Marilyn married Clayton "Lee" Cook in Hershey. They lived in North Platte until 1969 when they moved to Sutherland. Marilyn and Lee raised four children and were married for nearly 50 years when he passed away in 2003. Along with being a wife and mother, Marilyn worked various positions over the years.&nbsp; She was an operator for Northwestern Bell Telephone Company for 10 years, worked at TRW in Ogallala, then NPPD at Sutherland, was proprietor for the Depot Café, south of Sutherland, and later worked at the Sutherland Nursing Home until retiring. Marilyn eventually moved to North Platte and made a home with her friend, Lloyd Boyer.&nbsp; She was an excellent cook, and enjoyed shopping, gardening, dancing and sewing but most importantly, Marilyn loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.&nbsp; She had a wonderful quick wit and a smile that lit up her whole face. Along with her husband, Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents; son-in-law, Butch Gamble; and brother-in-law, Marvin Arensdorf. Survivors include her children, Teresa Woods (Scott) Troisi of Kittery, ME, Dawn Gamble (Jay Longacre) of Sutherland, Alisa Lauer (Steve) of Santa Fe, NM, and Craig Cook (Pam) of Wasilla, AK; her sisters, Connie Arensdorf of North Platte and Janet (James) Holmstedt of Cedar Rapids, IA; brother, Patrick (Marilyn) Sandberg of Hershey; her special friend, Lloyd Boyer and his family; grandchildren, Bruce Gamble, Tonya Christensen, John Woods, Dillon Cook, Nick Reitz and Chris Reitz; as well as 12 great-grandchildren, 2 great great-grandsons, many grand-pets and other family. Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at Odean Colonial Chapel with Pastor Wade Hudson officiating. Burial will follow in the Riverview Cemetery at Sutherland. Visitation is prior to the service at Odean Colonial Chapel at C &amp; Sycamore, which is in charge of arrangements.&nbsp; Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com. Memorials are suggested to FUR Animal Rescue or Paws-itive Partners. --&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692977596623.jpeg" alt="Marilyn Cook" />
 <figcaption>Marilyn Cook</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Marilyn Joan Cook of North Platte passed away at age 86 on August 23, 2023, following a short stay at Linden Court. Marilyn was born September 5, 1936, to Joel and Katherine (McEvoy) Sandberg at North Platte and grew up south of Hershey. She attended Star School and North Platte High School, graduating in 1953. On October 31, 1954, Marilyn married Clayton "Lee" Cook in Hershey. They lived in North Platte until 1969 when they moved to Sutherland. Marilyn and Lee raised four children and were married for nearly 50 years when he passed away in 2003. Along with being a wife and mother, Marilyn worked various positions over the years.&nbsp; She was an operator for Northwestern Bell Telephone Company for 10 years, worked at TRW in Ogallala, then NPPD at Sutherland, was proprietor for the Depot Café, south of Sutherland, and later worked at the Sutherland Nursing Home until retiring. Marilyn eventually moved to North Platte and made a home with her friend, Lloyd Boyer.&nbsp; She was an excellent cook, and enjoyed shopping, gardening, dancing and sewing but most importantly, Marilyn loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.&nbsp; She had a wonderful quick wit and a smile that lit up her whole face. Along with her husband, Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents; son-in-law, Butch Gamble; and brother-in-law, Marvin Arensdorf. Survivors include her children, Teresa Woods (Scott) Troisi of Kittery, ME, Dawn Gamble (Jay Longacre) of Sutherland, Alisa Lauer (Steve) of Santa Fe, NM, and Craig Cook (Pam) of Wasilla, AK; her sisters, Connie Arensdorf of North Platte and Janet (James) Holmstedt of Cedar Rapids, IA; brother, Patrick (Marilyn) Sandberg of Hershey; her special friend, Lloyd Boyer and his family; grandchildren, Bruce Gamble, Tonya Christensen, John Woods, Dillon Cook, Nick Reitz and Chris Reitz; as well as 12 great-grandchildren, 2 great great-grandsons, many grand-pets and other family. Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at Odean Colonial Chapel with Pastor Wade Hudson officiating. Burial will follow in the Riverview Cemetery at Sutherland. Visitation is prior to the service at Odean Colonial Chapel at C &amp; Sycamore, which is in charge of arrangements.&nbsp; Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com. Memorials are suggested to FUR Animal Rescue or Paws-itive Partners. --&nbsp;&nbsp;

Marilyn Joan Cook (1936-2023)

Wayne Hansmeier, age 86 of Keystone, Nebraska died Monday, August 21st, 2023 at Ogallala Community Hospital in Ogallala, Nebraska.

Wayne was born March 15th, 1937 in rural Keith County, southeast of Ogallala to Frederick and Sophia (Rentschler) Hansmeier.&nbsp; He was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Ogallala. He attended District 22 school. Wayne then attended Ogallala High School where he was very active in 4H.&nbsp; He graduated in 1954. He then went on to enlist in the Army National Guard on April 19th, 1957.&nbsp; While still active on the family farm and the National Guard he met the love of his life, Edie Marshall.&nbsp; They were married on January 29th, 1956.

Wayne and Edie worked and raised their children on the Hansmeier family farm.

Wayne then met Joan (Coble) and they married on February 21, 1993, giving them 30 wonderful, loving years together.

Survivors: Spouse, Joan Hansmeier, Ogallala; 2 sons, Lonne (Beth) Hansmeier, Ogallala; Scott (Karie) Hansmeier, Ogallala; 2 daughters, Cindy (Paul) Gallenstein, Fort Collins, Colorado; Shelly Orozco (Byron), Phoenix, Arizona; 1 sister, Connie (LaVern) Eichner, Ogallala; 1 sister-in-law, Merva (Mark) Hansmeier, Ogallala. 6 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, Evan (Amy) Hansmeier, Lincoln, Nebraska; Logan Hansmeier, Ogallala; &amp; Brandt Hansmeier, Ogallala; Zac (Nicki), Zoe, &amp; Kiera Fornander, Sidney, Nebraska; Molly (Kent), Kooper, Kingston, &amp; Kash Koehn, Gothenburg, Nebraska; Leon (Amanda), Lily &amp; Elsa Hansmeier, Lincoln, Nebraska.

He is also survived by his loving step-children; Ted (Alexi) Jochum, Longmont, Colorado, Celine (Mike) Sawyer, North Platte, Harry Coble, North Platte. 5 step grandchildren and 1 step great grandchild, Sydney (Robert) Lee, Dylan Jochum, Garet (Katie) Jochum, Allison Sawyer (Geo) Taya Sawyer, Chicago, Illinois, Alec Sawyer, Lincoln, Nebraska.

Preceding him in Death were: Grandparents, Frederick and Sophia Hansmeier;&nbsp; Spouse, Edie Hansmeier; Infant brother, Bobby Dean Hansmeier; brother, Gary Hansmeier; Sister, Darlene Hatch; Godson &amp; Nephew; Kevin Hatch.

Visitation will be Sunday, August 27th, 2023, at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Ogallala, Nebraska from 2:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.

Funeral Services will be held Monday, August 28th, 2023 at 10:00 A.M. in St. John’s Lutheran Church of Ogallala, Nebraska with Rev. Albert Bader officiating.

Internment is at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Ogallala, Nebraska.

Online condolences may be left at www.drauckerfh.com. Services will be live-streamed at www.drauckerfh.com by clicking the "watch live" button.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692910380395.jpeg" alt="Wayne Hansmeier" />
 <figcaption>Wayne Hansmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Wayne Hansmeier, age 86 of Keystone, Nebraska died Monday, August 21st, 2023 at Ogallala Community Hospital in Ogallala, Nebraska.Wayne was born March 15th, 1937 in rural Keith County, southeast of Ogallala to Frederick and Sophia (Rentschler) Hansmeier.&nbsp; He was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Ogallala. He attended District 22 school. Wayne then attended Ogallala High School where he was very active in 4H.&nbsp; He graduated in 1954. He then went on to enlist in the Army National Guard on April 19th, 1957.&nbsp; While still active on the family farm and the National Guard he met the love of his life, Edie Marshall.&nbsp; They were married on January 29th, 1956.Wayne and Edie worked and raised their children on the Hansmeier family farm.In 1992, Edie passed away.Wayne then met Joan (Coble) and they married on February 21, 1993, giving them 30 wonderful, loving years together.Survivors: Spouse, Joan Hansmeier, Ogallala; 2 sons, Lonne (Beth) Hansmeier, Ogallala; Scott (Karie) Hansmeier, Ogallala; 2 daughters, Cindy (Paul) Gallenstein, Fort Collins, Colorado; Shelly Orozco (Byron), Phoenix, Arizona; 1 sister, Connie (LaVern) Eichner, Ogallala; 1 sister-in-law, Merva (Mark) Hansmeier, Ogallala. 6 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, Evan (Amy) Hansmeier, Lincoln, Nebraska; Logan Hansmeier, Ogallala; &amp; Brandt Hansmeier, Ogallala; Zac (Nicki), Zoe, &amp; Kiera Fornander, Sidney, Nebraska; Molly (Kent), Kooper, Kingston, &amp; Kash Koehn, Gothenburg, Nebraska; Leon (Amanda), Lily &amp; Elsa Hansmeier, Lincoln, Nebraska.He is also survived by his loving step-children; Ted (Alexi) Jochum, Longmont, Colorado, Celine (Mike) Sawyer, North Platte, Harry Coble, North Platte. 5 step grandchildren and 1 step great grandchild, Sydney (Robert) Lee, Dylan Jochum, Garet (Katie) Jochum, Allison Sawyer (Geo) Taya Sawyer, Chicago, Illinois, Alec Sawyer, Lincoln, Nebraska.Preceding him in Death were: Grandparents, Frederick and Sophia Hansmeier;&nbsp; Spouse, Edie Hansmeier; Infant brother, Bobby Dean Hansmeier; brother, Gary Hansmeier; Sister, Darlene Hatch; Godson &amp; Nephew; Kevin Hatch.Visitation will be Sunday, August 27th, 2023, at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Ogallala, Nebraska from 2:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.Funeral Services will be held Monday, August 28th, 2023 at 10:00 A.M. in St. John’s Lutheran Church of Ogallala, Nebraska with Rev. Albert Bader officiating.Internment is at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Ogallala, Nebraska.Online condolences may be left at www.drauckerfh.com. Services will be live-streamed at www.drauckerfh.com by clicking the "watch live" button.Draucker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

Wayne Hansmeier  (1937-2023)

Linda K. James, aged 75, of North Platte, passed away on August 24, 2023, at North Platte Care Center. &nbsp;She was born on June 19, 1948, to Donal and Mary (Clemons) Pixler in Rawlins, WY.

Linda grew up in Rawlins, WY, graduating from high school with the class of 1966. &nbsp;She brought two sons into the world, Gail and Troy. &nbsp;Linda worked as a hotel manager at various locations for 35 years. &nbsp;She moved to North Platte, where she lived for the last 5 years since her illness. &nbsp;Linda was a member of Job’s Daughters and the Carbon County Chamber of Commerce. &nbsp;

Those preceding her in death include her parents, Donal and Mary; brothers, Bob and Donal Pixler; sister, Pamela Rollison.

Linda will be remembered by her sons, Gail James of North Platte, and Troy (Sheila) James of North Platte; grandchildren, Cory James, Casey James, Garrett James, Ashley (Casey) Werkmeister, Chase (Chadler Erickson) Weiss; 9 great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Patrick Rollison, Saratoga, Wyoming; sisters-in-law, Jeanne Pixler of Rawlins, Wyoming, and Susan Pixler of Lexington, Kentucky; several nieces and nephews and many friends.

Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. &nbsp;Online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.

A committal service will be held at the Rawlins Cemetery in Rawlins, WY at a later date. &nbsp;Adams &amp; Swanson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692910644232.jpeg" alt="Linda K. James" />
 <figcaption>Linda K. James</figcaption>
 </figure>Linda K. James, aged 75, of North Platte, passed away on August 24, 2023, at North Platte Care Center. &nbsp;She was born on June 19, 1948, to Donal and Mary (Clemons) Pixler in Rawlins, WY.Linda grew up in Rawlins, WY, graduating from high school with the class of 1966. &nbsp;She brought two sons into the world, Gail and Troy. &nbsp;Linda worked as a hotel manager at various locations for 35 years. &nbsp;She moved to North Platte, where she lived for the last 5 years since her illness. &nbsp;Linda was a member of Job’s Daughters and the Carbon County Chamber of Commerce. &nbsp;Those preceding her in death include her parents, Donal and Mary; brothers, Bob and Donal Pixler; sister, Pamela Rollison.Linda will be remembered by her sons, Gail James of North Platte, and Troy (Sheila) James of North Platte; grandchildren, Cory James, Casey James, Garrett James, Ashley (Casey) Werkmeister, Chase (Chadler Erickson) Weiss; 9 great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Patrick Rollison, Saratoga, Wyoming; sisters-in-law, Jeanne Pixler of Rawlins, Wyoming, and Susan Pixler of Lexington, Kentucky; several nieces and nephews and many friends.Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. &nbsp;Online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.A committal service will be held at the Rawlins Cemetery in Rawlins, WY at a later date. &nbsp;Adams &amp; Swanson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Linda K. James (1948-2023)

Janice Faye Gonzales, 80, of Gothenburg, Nebraska, died August 21, 2023 at Stone Hearth Estates in Gothenburg, NE.

Janice Faye Gonzales was born March 8, 1943 to Ed and Mabel (Franzen) Kuhlman in Gothenburg, NE. She grew up on a farm north of town with her three siblings Patricia, Don, and Rhonda. Janice attended Gothenburg High School, where she met the love of her life John (Jim) Gonzales. It did not take long for them to notice this love was serious and was going to be never ending. The couple traveled to Council Bluffs, IA to be married on May 27,1958. This was just the beginning of the traveling for the two as they lived many different places coast to coast with a few stops in between. In this union, Janice and Jim had four children: John, Joy, Judith, and Jill. The family lived in many different places before they came back to Gothenburg and decided to settle down. Later in life Janice, added her favorite title to her name: grandma. &nbsp;Janice and Jim have 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Janice spent most of her time working as a Secretary at American Lutheran Church in Gothenburg, where she touched the lives of many people in the community and became a fixture of the church. She was also a member of the church choir for many years. After retirement, Janice and Jim spent most of their time working out in the yard and gardening together. They followed their grandchildren around to watch many different sporting events and concerts. Janice and Jim made it to as many cross country, wrestling, and golf meets, and basketball, volleyball and softball games, and band and choir concerts decked out in school color. The couple enjoyed going to church and visiting over coffee when service was over. &nbsp;They also made sure to watch all things Huskers and Royals.

Janice is survived by her husband, Jim Gonzales, of Gothenburg, NE; her children, John (Anastasia) Gonzales of Cape Girardeau, MO, Judith (Darin) Nichols of McCook, NE, and Jill (Bob) Jorgenson of Gothenburg, NE; her siblings Don (Marbara) Kuhlman of Brady, NE and Rhonda (Tom) Jobman of Gothenburg, NE, her grandchildren Emilyne (Austen) Sis of McCook NE, Alex (Kim) Jorgenson of Gothenburg, NE, Helena (Spencer) Dorn of Lenexa, KS, Olivia Jorgenson of Chadron, NE, Hannah (Bryce) Dame of McCook NE, Matthew Nichols of McCook, NE, Augustus Gonzales of Cape Girardeau, MO, and Bethany Nichols of McCook NE, and her two great grandsons Bennett Sis and Bowe Jorgenson. She is also survived by several sisters- and brothers-in-law as well as nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her daughter Joy Gonzales, parents Ed and Mabel Kuhlman, her sister Patricia Aden, brother in law Gene Aden, brother in law Paul Gonzales, and nephew Matt Kuhlman.

Services will be held at American Lutheran Church, October 13, 2023 at 10:30 am with &nbsp;Pastor Doug Hjelmstad officiating.

Interment will follow in the Gothenburg Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to the ELCA World Hunger Fund, or the American Lutheran Church

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692910033100.png" alt="Janice Gonzales" />
 <figcaption>Janice Gonzales</figcaption>
 </figure>Janice Faye Gonzales, 80, of Gothenburg, Nebraska, died August 21, 2023 at Stone Hearth Estates in Gothenburg, NE.Janice Faye Gonzales was born March 8, 1943 to Ed and Mabel (Franzen) Kuhlman in Gothenburg, NE. She grew up on a farm north of town with her three siblings Patricia, Don, and Rhonda. Janice attended Gothenburg High School, where she met the love of her life John (Jim) Gonzales. It did not take long for them to notice this love was serious and was going to be never ending. The couple traveled to Council Bluffs, IA to be married on May 27,1958. This was just the beginning of the traveling for the two as they lived many different places coast to coast with a few stops in between. In this union, Janice and Jim had four children: John, Joy, Judith, and Jill. The family lived in many different places before they came back to Gothenburg and decided to settle down. Later in life Janice, added her favorite title to her name: grandma. &nbsp;Janice and Jim have 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.Janice spent most of her time working as a Secretary at American Lutheran Church in Gothenburg, where she touched the lives of many people in the community and became a fixture of the church. She was also a member of the church choir for many years. After retirement, Janice and Jim spent most of their time working out in the yard and gardening together. They followed their grandchildren around to watch many different sporting events and concerts. Janice and Jim made it to as many cross country, wrestling, and golf meets, and basketball, volleyball and softball games, and band and choir concerts decked out in school color. The couple enjoyed going to church and visiting over coffee when service was over. &nbsp;They also made sure to watch all things Huskers and Royals.Janice is survived by her husband, Jim Gonzales, of Gothenburg, NE; her children, John (Anastasia) Gonzales of Cape Girardeau, MO, Judith (Darin) Nichols of McCook, NE, and Jill (Bob) Jorgenson of Gothenburg, NE; her siblings Don (Marbara) Kuhlman of Brady, NE and Rhonda (Tom) Jobman of Gothenburg, NE, her grandchildren Emilyne (Austen) Sis of McCook NE, Alex (Kim) Jorgenson of Gothenburg, NE, Helena (Spencer) Dorn of Lenexa, KS, Olivia Jorgenson of Chadron, NE, Hannah (Bryce) Dame of McCook NE, Matthew Nichols of McCook, NE, Augustus Gonzales of Cape Girardeau, MO, and Bethany Nichols of McCook NE, and her two great grandsons Bennett Sis and Bowe Jorgenson. She is also survived by several sisters- and brothers-in-law as well as nieces and nephews.She is preceded in death by her daughter Joy Gonzales, parents Ed and Mabel Kuhlman, her sister Patricia Aden, brother in law Gene Aden, brother in law Paul Gonzales, and nephew Matt Kuhlman.Services will be held at American Lutheran Church, October 13, 2023 at 10:30 am with &nbsp;Pastor Doug Hjelmstad officiating.Interment will follow in the Gothenburg Cemetery.Memorials may be given to the ELCA World Hunger Fund, or the American Lutheran Church

Janice Faye Gonzales (1943-2023)

Charles Albert Blowers Jr, age 93, of Arnold, Nebraska, died peacefully August 22, 2023, in Callaway, NE.

Junior was born June 28, 1930, to Charles Albert Sr and Della (Boyer) Blowers by Arnold, Nebraska, at the family home. He graduated from Arnold Public Schools in 1947 at the age of 16. He married his one and only love, Janet Charlene Olson, on August 23, 1954. &nbsp;To this union five children were born: Rebecca Colleen (Becky), Tami Ann, Carolyn Ann, Charles Eric (Chip), and Daniel Lee. Charles joined the US army in 1955, proudly serving his country for two years. &nbsp;

After the service, Junior came home to the family farm. Although his family was his greatest passion, it was only rivaled by his love of farming and ranching on Tallin Table. He was widely recognized for being one of the first farmers to get an M tractor with a two-row planter. The first year he planted 1,000 acres with it. He was always a hard worker willing to lend a helping hand to his neighbors or anyone else in need. His philosophy was that if you go to work, you don’t get into trouble. He continued his love of farming until the day his sons had to pull the keys out of the farm equipment.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692911198022.jpeg" alt="Charles Blowers Jr." />
 <figcaption>Charles Blowers Jr.</figcaption>
 </figure>Charles Albert Blowers Jr, age 93, of Arnold, Nebraska, died peacefully August 22, 2023, in Callaway, NE.Junior was born June 28, 1930, to Charles Albert Sr and Della (Boyer) Blowers by Arnold, Nebraska, at the family home. He graduated from Arnold Public Schools in 1947 at the age of 16. He married his one and only love, Janet Charlene Olson, on August 23, 1954. &nbsp;To this union five children were born: Rebecca Colleen (Becky), Tami Ann, Carolyn Ann, Charles Eric (Chip), and Daniel Lee. Charles joined the US army in 1955, proudly serving his country for two years. &nbsp;After the service, Junior came home to the family farm. Although his family was his greatest passion, it was only rivaled by his love of farming and ranching on Tallin Table. He was widely recognized for being one of the first farmers to get an M tractor with a two-row planter. The first year he planted 1,000 acres with it. He was always a hard worker willing to lend a helping hand to his neighbors or anyone else in need. His philosophy was that if you go to work, you don’t get into trouble. He continued his love of farming until the day his sons had to pull the keys out of the farm equipment.&nbsp;Junior’s commitment and responsibility to the growth of his family’s farm developed simply to serve multiple generations with advances in both farming practices and ranching. His favorite annual activity was the yearly cattle drive from the Sandhills to the pasture south of Arnold. Although he truly enjoyed the successes and challenges of farm life, it was personally more important to him to leave a lasting legacy and a passion for agriculture.Avid in his faith and a true servant leader, Junior loved everything about his church. As a deacon and a trustee, he willingly gave his time serving his church family and enjoyed their fellowship. He always made time for visiting with his neighbors and friends. His faith was something he developed in multiple generations. Junior took his responsibility of raising his children alongside the Lord with the highest regard.Junior had quite a sense of humor keeping it even in his later years as his mind was slipping. In that time, he enjoyed watching his grandkids and great grandkids playing as well as eating ice cream and cookies with them. His love for music and singing continued to inspire not only his grandkids’ love of familiar hymns, but everyone who had the pleasure of hearing him.&nbsp;Charles Junior is survived by wife Janet, his four children, Becky (Art) Ryan of Carl Junction, MO, Carolyn (Duane) Bowers, Chip (Kerri) Blowers, Dan (Katie) Blowers all of Arnold, NE. Fourteen grandchildren, Josh (Faith) Ryan of Edmond, OK, Esther (Ryan) Docter of Hershey, NE, Adam Ryan of Joplin, MO, Rachel (Joseph) Warden of Fayette, AR, Della (Lindy) Dailey, Derrick Bowers, Drew Bowers all of Arnold, NE, Charlie (Corin) Blowers of Arnold, NE, Brooke (Britt) McIntosh of Mullen, NE, Cole, Carly, and Cache Gracey, Bree and Brody Blowers of Arnold, NE. Eleven great-grandchildren, Paityn and Colter Dailey, Riley and Jackson Docter, Collins, Charles Lane and Calvin Blowers, Max and Clara Warden and Chasin and Ady McIntosh. He is also survived by two siblings, Sharon (Duwane) Decker of Frankfort, SD, and Diane (Leonard) Johnson of Council Bluffs, IA.He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Albert Sr. and Della Blowers, his daughter, Tami Blowers, brother, Herman Blowers and wife Betty, his father and mother-in-law, Eric and Alice Olson, brother-in-law, Ira (Bub) Olson and wife Mary Lou, sister-in-law, Jolene Olson and brother-in-law, Lloyd Olson.A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 26, 2023, at 10:00 AM at the Baptist Church in Arnold with Pastor Irv Jennings officiating. &nbsp;Burial with Military Honors will be held at the Tallin Cemetery south of Arnold. &nbsp;A visitation will be held on Friday, August 25, 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Arnold Baptist Church with the family greeting friends 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the church. &nbsp;Govier Brothers Mortuary/Arnold Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. &nbsp;Online condolences can be left at www.govierbrothers.com &nbsp;

Obituaries