Derl DeWayne Lunkwitz, 87, of North Platte, passed away March 16, 2022 at North Platte Care Center. He was born July 1, 1934 to Otto and Doris (Bockus) Lunkwitz in North Platte.
Derl attended school at Bignell and Maxwell. He enlisted in the United States Navy and served during the Korean War in the Pacific. After his discharge, he returned to North Platte and married Marlene Jaenicke in 1955. She preceded him in death on May 23, 2000. Derl worked for Nash Finch as a driver, then for Allen’s Self Service, Rainbow Bread, and Cash-Wa. After retirement, Derl delivered mail to Omaha and to rural post offices. On December 5, 2018, Derl married Patricia Wilson in North Platte.
Derl was a member of First Lutheran Church. He will be remembered as an outdoorsman, he enjoyed bowling, gardening, and watching westerns, especially John Wayne. He lived his life for his family and enjoyed German Shorthair dogs, horseraces and casino trips.
Surviving him are his wife, Patricia of North Platte; children, Rodney (Kristi) Lunkwitz of Keller, TX, Carol (Steve) Roberts of North Platte, Marsha (Mike) Gehman of Grand Island, Tom (Brenda) Lunkwitz of Hot Springs, AR; 16 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; 5 great great grandchildren; siblings, Margaret Norton of Maxwell, Gary Lunkwitz of Gothenburg, Ronnie Lunkwitz of Cheyenne, WY; numerous other family members and many friends.
Derl was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Doris; wife, Marlene; brothers, Don, Dan, and Roger Lunkwitz.
Memorials are suggested to First Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.
Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Monday, March 21, 2022 at First Lutheran Church with Reverend Patrick Sipes officiating. Burial will follow at Fort McPherson Cemetery near Maxwell. Visitation will be held noon-4:00, with family present 2:00-4:00, Sunday, March 20, 2022 at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.