Michael “Mike” Marvin Patrick McGinn of North Bend, passed away Dec. 30 at Methodist Fremont Health at the age of 69.
Mike was born on Aug. 12, 1953, to Marvin and Irene (Spath) McGinn in Fremont. He grew up in North Bend and graduated from North Bend Central High School in 1971.
Mike worked at McGinn’s IGA after high school while attending the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and earned his degree in business. He later worked to sell insurance and retired from OPPD after many years of service. Mike also farmed his whole life in North Bend.
Mike was a man who would help anyone. His grandchildren meant the world to him. In his spare time, Mike loved to golf, tailgate, play cards, and go airboating.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Patrick and Jimmy McGinn.
He is survived by his daughters Audrey McGinn, Erica File, and Emmily McGinn (Michael Christian); son Seth (Sonja) McGinn; grandchildren Jacob, Gunnar, Lexi, Reid, Lynden, Henley, Vivian and Scarlet.
His funeral Mass will be 10 a.m., Jan. 4 at the St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church Parish Center in North Bend. Visitation will be Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., with a rosary starting at 7 p.m. at Moser Memorial Chapel in North Bend.
Burial will be at Woodland Cemetery in North Bend.
Memorials may be directed to the North Bend Golf Club.

Published Jan. 4, 2023

Marvin Lee Winkelman loved Christmas. So it was only fitting that he passed into his Lord’s loving arms on Christmas day, Dec. 25, 2022. Formerly of North Bend, Marvin was at Pathfinder Place in Fremont where he had resided the last 4.5 years.
Marvin was born on June 24, 1938, in North Bend, the son of Clarence and Libbie (Sic) Winkelman. He grew up in North Bend and following graduation in 1955 served in the U.S. Army from April 11, 1958, to April 9, 1960, and continued to serve in the Reserve until April 10, 1964.
In December 1962 Marvin married Donna Wiebold. They had three children: Rhonda, Jim and Tracy. The couple later divorced. Marvin married Janice (Kratky) Albert on Feb. 13, 1976, in Zapata, Texas.
Marvin was employed by Coen Engineering as a surveyor and was Dodge County Surveyor from 1999 to 2015. Several children and grandchildren worked by his side over the years surveying. He loved woodworking in his garage, building toys for birthdays and Christmas, and making special wedding gifts. He liked playing cards, word puzzles and Sudoku. Marvin was an outdoorsman and loved fishing and hunting, feeding his squirrels and gardening. He truly enjoyed his time with his children and grandchildren.
Marvin was a member of the North Bend Volunteer Fire Department and the Prague American Legion Post 254.
His is survived by his children Rhonda (Dave) Wichman of Dakota City, Jim Winkelman of Omaha, Tracy (Scott) Lambley of Benkelman, Pat (Debra) Albert of Omaha, Scott (Monica) Albert of North Bend, Cheryl Albert of Fremont, Pam (Mike) Swanson of Malmo, and Jenny (Steve) Dickey of Denton, Texas; daughter-in-law Denise Albert of Omaha; brother William (Sue) Winkelman; 27 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Marvin was preceded in death by his parents, wife Janice, brother Cleon Winkelman, stepson Michael Albert and grandson James Albert.
His funeral was Dec. 30, 2022, at Moser Memorial Chapel in Fremont. Pastor Doug Hjelmstad officiated. Burial was at Prague National Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to the North Bend Fire Department and the Prague American Legion Post 254.
Online Condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com

Published Jan. 4, 2023

Mary Ann Brabec of Colon entered into eternal rest on Dec. 23, 2022, at the Saunders Care Center in Wahoo. She was born Aug. 8, 1931, in Colon to Charles and Agnes (Hanis) Vachal.
Mary Ann attended District 88 country school and graduated from Wahoo High school in 1949. After graduation she worked for the Saunders County Attorney. On Nov. 25, 1950, Mary Ann married William G. Brabec at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Colon.
Mary Ann enjoyed working on the farm with her husband and tending to the livestock. She loved playing the piano as a volunteer for the Saunders County nursing homes for many years. Her other interests were gardening, flowers, word search books and embroidering.
Mary Ann was a member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, St. Ludmilla’s Guild and the Serenading Seniors of Wahoo.
She is survived by children Steven (Carol) Brabec of Colon, Sharon (George) Vrana of Linwood, Diane (Greg) Bouc of Valparaiso; 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; sister Delores Beloyed of Omaha and many other family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband William Brabec, parents Charles and Agnes Vachal, sister Marcella Stava and great-grandchild Grace Vrana.
Mass of Christian Burial was Dec. 29 at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Wahoo, with celebrant, Rev. Andrew Schwenka. Interment was at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Wahoo. Memorials to St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church or Masses. Visit www.marcysvoboda.com to leave condolences.

Published Jan. 4, 2023

George J. Kaplan was born June 20, 1945, and died Dec. 17.
George lived simply, but loved fully. He grew up in Morse Bluff, along with his big sister, Carol, and younger brother, David. George played high school sports and developed a love of the great outdoors, especially fishing and hunting.
George married his high school sweetheart, Carolyn Miller, and together they had a daughter, Nicole, who was the pride and joy of his life. His love for Nicole was only rivaled by his adoration for his grandkids - Charli, George and Addie.
George served in the United States Army, then had a long career at the Omaha World-Herald before later stints as U.S. Postal carrier and, even, a blackjack dealer. Over the course of these varied pursuits, a couple of things remained constant – George’s love of family and his development of deep friendships. He cherished the times spent out at the lake with Carol and Doug, Jim, Barb, their spouses, children and grandchildren. George relished meeting new people and spending time with close friends, who are too numerable to list out.
If you spent time with George, you knew a couple of things – he cared about you and that “Life is Good.” Whether it was hanging out at hunting camp, serving on the Color Guard, spending time at the Legion, dancing at Bushwhackers or visiting Nicole and his grandkids; George loved talking to people and developing friendships.
George was extremely proud of Nicole, Charli, George and Addie. He loved them greatly and provided his unconditional support in their many pursuits and passions.
He was Cowboy George and a great friend to many, but he was Dad to Nicole and Grandpa George to Charli, George and Addie; in unique and personal relationships that conveyed his love and admiration for each of them.
George had a big presence and he will be missed greatly.
Survived by daughter Nicole (Dan) Dolan; grandchildren: Charli, George, Addison; sister Carol (Doug) Haase; niece Barb (Scott) Feldhacker; nephew Jim (Tonya) Haase; many other relatives and friends.
Celebration Of Life was Dec. 21 at Braman Mortuary (Southwest Chapel) with interment at the Omaha National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to American Legion Post 374.

Published Dec. 28, 2022

Patricia Ann (Draper) Chapman passed at South Haven in Wahoo on Dec. 18. She was born on March 4, 1942, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to James R. and Lois B. (Ward) Draper. Pat was a member of the Girl Scouts. She graduated from Schuyler High School in 1960. Pat attended Immanuel School of Nursing and worked in Omaha.
On July 16, 1966, Pat married Thomas E. Chapman at St. Charles Catholic Church where they were members their entire life. She was a dedicated and proud farm wife. Pat was a devoted mother to their six children. She and Tom farmed and milked registered Guernsey cows most of their life. In 1985 she went to work for ALCO in Fremont where she stayed for 8 yrs. Pat worked in dietary at Birchwood Manor in North Bend for 20 years until her retirement in 2013.
She was a member St. Anne Altar Society, St. Charles Circle #8, Nebraska Dairy Women, St. Charles Parish Center building committee, Dodge County Extension Club, 15 years as a 4-H leader, and 20+ years on the Dodge County Election Board. Pat joyfully taught 6th grade CCD for many years where she treated her classes each year to a traditional Passover meal. She participated in the local bloodmobile, was on a bowling league, was an avid reader and enjoyed cooking and sewing. In her spare time, Pat supported her own kids and countless other youngsters in their school activities. She was at her best on dairy show day at the fairs.
Pat is preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Tom, her parents, her parents-in-law Luke and Mabel Chapman, brothers and sisters in law: James and Judy Chapman, infant Gerald Chapman, Mel and Mary Catherine Ulrich, and infant granddaughter Josie Rae Chapman.
Pat is survived by children: Terry (Janel) Chapman of North Bend, Kris (Steward) Spath of Eagle, Doug (Kathy) Chapman of St Joseph, Mo, Bill (Kelly) Chapman of Denton, Kelly (Scott) Neal of Lincoln, Tom (Tiffany) Chapman of Bancroft, 21 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren and her brother and sister in law Jim (Carol) Draper of Lincoln. Also surviving are many treasured nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Funeral Mass will be held Tues., Dec. 27, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Parish Center in North Bend. Visitation will be held Mon., Dec. 26 from 4 to 7 p.m. with a Rosary to begin at 7 p.m. , also at the parish center. A reception will be held after the funeral at the North Bend City Auditorium. Burial will follow the reception at Woodland Cemetery in North Bend.
Memorials are suggested to St. Charles Catholic Church.

Published Dec. 21, 2022

Joseph A. “Joe” Widhelm of Fremont passed away Dec. 12 at the Saunders Medical Center Memory Care. He was born March 19, 1934, in Howell to John Julius and Catherine Marie (Wegener) Widhelm.
Joe lived at Howells until moving to North Bend in 1944, and lived and farmed at Valley from 1951 until 2003 when he retired from farming. After retiring he raised sweetcorn and donated it to many friends and organizations. In 2003 they moved to Fremont.
Joe married Helen (Hobza) June 16, 1956, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cedar Bluffs. He served in the U.S. Army from Aug. 8, 1956, to Aug. 8, 1958.
Joe was a former member at St. John’s Catholic Church in Valley and was on the church council for three years. He was on the Douglas County School Board District 23 for nine years and was a 71+ year member of Knights of Columbus 3736 of North Bend. Joe was a current member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Fremont and was a longtime Red Cross blood donor at North Bend.
Joe is survived by his wife Helen of Fremont; sons, John J. (Kim) Widhelm and Jeffrey T. (Connie) Widhelm all of Valley; daughters, Barbara S. (Ted) Moser of Norwalk, Iowa, Joyce A. (Steve) Hoppes of Fremont; 13 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren and 3 step-great-grandchildren.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Theodore, Raymond, Alois, Robert, Herman and Ralph; sisters, Dorothy Widhelm, Sister Marie Widhelm, OSF, and Wilma Dunker and great-grandson, Jacob Bray.
Private Family Mass will be at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Fremont. Military Graveside Service and burial will be at Woodland Cemetery in North Bend.
Memorials are suggested to St Patrick Catholic Church, Right To Life or Saunders Medical Center Memory Care. Online condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.

Published Dec. 21, 2022

David Edward Philippi of Lincoln went to be with his Lord on Dec. 9 surrounded by his family. He was born on March 30, 1939, in Omaha and adopted by Harold and Esther (Sprague) Philippi. He was a 1957 graduate of Wymore High School. He served God and his country as a sailor in the Navy from 1957 to 1961. He was stationed in Japan and the Philippines as a Cryptologic Technician Petty Officer 3rd Class.
David was married to Naomi Keck, daughter of James and Margeret, on May 8, 1960, and remained devoted to her until the day of his death. They received the Loving Cup at Old Settlers in 2019 for 60 wedded years. Together they raised 10 children who mourn his passing and celebrate the life he lived and the everlasting joy he will have in Heaven: Lisa (Jim) Kelly, Jeff Philippi; Michelle (David) Hall, Doug Philippi, Shanon Philippi, Brad (Jodie) Philippi, Niki (Phil) Connatser, Jamie (Chuck) Brodd, Matt (Katie) Philippi, and Richard Philippi. “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them.” Psalm 127:3-5 David’s quiver was overflowing with 36 grandchildren, three grandchildren born at rest, 21 great-grandchildren with three more expected in 2023. He loved to watch his children and grandchildren compete in sports and always had a bit of advice to offer.
There was never a task that he didn’t feel he could handle himself from car care and appliance repairs to home remodels and woodworking. He rose to the challenges put before him. He even decorated the kids’ birthday cakes through the years. He was a salesman for most of his life selling, cars, real estate, and insurance but was most proud of being the fifth-grossing salesman in the nation while working for the Research Institute of America.
He will be missed, but his legacy will live on. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Claudia.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 14 at the Wymore Church of Christ with Todd Grove officiating. Burial will be at the Wymore Cemetery with military honors being rendered by the United States Navy and Anderson Post 25 American Legion in Wymore. The body will lie in state one hour prior to the service on Wednesday with the family greeting relatives and friends at that time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wymore Church of Christ with Laughlin-Hoevet Funeral Home in Wymore in charge. Sign David’s online register book and view his video tribute when complete at www.ghchapel.com.
These services have been entrusted to the Laughlin-Hoevet Funeral Home in Wymore.

Published Dec. 14, 2022

Gregory R. “Jeep” Bloom of Lincoln passed away Dec. 6, 2022. Born to George and Pauline (Mattison) Bloom on July 9, 1937, in Lincoln, Greg grew up in northeast Lincoln where he found his love for music. At the age of 18, Greg joined the U.S. Army where he was stationed in Germany for most of his time.
Greg, known as Jeep to most friends and family, was a lifelong professional musician whose career began at the age of 18 and continued throughout his entire life culminating in his nomination and induction into the Nebraska Music Hall of Fame in 2001. His passion for playing bass and guitar was seen during many family jam sessions and passed down to his children and grandchildren who play with the same intensity. He was well known for his vocal impersonations of Willie Nelson and comedic stylings of Gabby Hayes.
Arguably one of the most faithful and loyal Nebraska Cornhusker sports fans, he never missed an opportunity to hear his Huskers play baseball, basketball, volleyball or football, predicting “another undefeated season ahead.” Greg will be remembered for all of this along with his thick silver hair, love of fishing and sunflower seeds.
Greg is survived by his children Douglas (Terri), Dean (Cristy), Deric (Ivy), Dustin (Jolin) and Mindy (Erik) Robart; 10 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and multiple nieces and nephews.
A private family gathering was held on Dec. 12.
A Celebration Of Life will be held Saturday, Jan. 7 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Fremont Eagle’s Club, 649 North Main Street, Fremont.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Nebraska Performing Arts Hall of Fame in care of Mike Semrad, 2132 N. Clarmar Avenue, Fremont, NE 68025.

Published Jan. 4, 2023

Vernon A. “Vern” Virka of Morse Bluff passed away Thursday, Dec. 1, at Nebraska Medicine in Omaha. He was born Jan. 15, 1944, in Fremont to Emil and Emma (Nesladek) Virka.
Vern was a lifelong farmer in the Morse Bluff area. He married Sharon Tank Feb. 7, 1961, at Faith Lutheran Church in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
Vern was a 30-plus year charter member of the Morse Bluff Volunteer Fire Department and was a former Fire Chief.
Vern is survived by his sons Randy E. Virka and Michael J. (Christine) Virka, all of Morse Bluff; sister Darlene (Jim) Becker; three grandchildren and one great-grandchild; brother-in-law Gary (Judy) Tank; stepbrothers Mert (Colleen) Heinemann, Eldon (Ellen) Heinemann and Myron (Doreen) Heinemann; step-sister Pam (Dick) Nolte and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Sharon and stepfather John Heinemann.
A memorial service will be 10:30 a.m., Dec. 7, at Moser Memorial Chapel in North Bend. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 5-7 also at Moser’s in North Bend. Interment will be at Woodland Cemetery in North Bend.
Memorials may be directed to the family for a fund yet to be established. Online condolences may be left at ww.mosermemorialchapels.com.

Published Dec. 7, 2022

Richard “Dick” R. Dunaway went home to be with the Lord on Nov. 24. He was born to Ralph and Faye (Lacey) Dunaway on June 30, 1937, in Fremont.
Dick served in the U.S. Navy on the Bon Homme Richard aircraft carrier. He served during the Korean War and was able to see many parts of the world. Dick was previously married and had two sons, Warren (Denise) Dunaway and Mitchell Dunaway. He married Judy Pavey on Aug. 20, 1967, in Omaha. They have three children: Ralph (Teresa) Dunaway of Cozad, Terri (Bruce) Wilkerson of Scribner and Sandra (Chris) Wardman of North Bend. Dick also has eight grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
He worked at Lodi Auto and Truck Sales in Lodi, Calif. Dick also worked for Roberts Dairy and owned the “Circle Lady” hog farm in Galt, Calif. He had many rental properties in Fremont and surrounding areas. Dick retired from Birchwood Manor in North Bend transporting residents. He and Judy have lived in North Bend since 1992.
Dick was a member of Fremont Evangelical Free Church in Fremont and a member of the VFW. His favorite Bible Verse was John 3:16.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Jim Dunaway and Danny Welsted Jr., sisters Diane Sandoval and Dorothy “Dode” Barcus and parents in-law Grace and Al Umberger.
The Funeral was Nov. 29, at the Fremont Evangelical Free Church. Burial with military honors was at Woodland Cemetery in North Bend. Memorials are suggested to the Fremont Evangelical Free Church.
Online condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.

Published Nov. 30, 2022

Ruth A. Pabian of Fremont passed away Nov. 23 at Heritage at Shalimar Gardens Memory Care in Fremont.
Ruth was born Aug. 7, 1930, in North Bend to Theodore and Josephine (Tresnak) Satorie.
She grew up in North Bend and graduated from North Bend High School in 1947.
Ruth married William “Spider” Pabian June 17, 1947, at St. Charles Catholic Church in North Bend. After their marriage they came to Fremont. Together they owned and ran Sizzler Steakhouses until about 1988.
Ruth was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Fremont and a former 4-H member.
She is survived by daughter Patty Buhl of Fremont; sons Larry (Darlene) Pabian, Randy (Brenda) Pabian all of Omaha and Dan Pabian of Fremont; brothers Dick (Mary Lou) Satorie of North Bend, Tom (Mary) Satorie of Lincoln; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister Betty (Jim) Argo and brother Don (Mary) Satorie.
A funeral Mass will be 10 a.m., Nov. 29 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Fremont. Visitation will be 4 to 7 p.m Monday with a Rosary at 6 p.m., all at Moser’s in Fremont. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Fremont.
Memorials are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Online condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.

Published Nov. 30, 2022

Ronald W. “Ron” Ondracek of North Bend passed away Nov. 9 at his home.
He is survived by his wife Janice Ondracek of North Bend, son Jordan Ondracek of Wayne, daughter Katrina Ondracek of Elkhorn; niece Michelle (Terry) Wemhoff of Humphrey; and great-nieces and nephew.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents Albin (Shorty) and Delores (Ma) (Laudenklos) Ondracek, his first wife Barbara Jean (Ussery) Ondracek and sister Norma (Larry) Gilmore.
Ron will be interred in Woodland Cemetery in North Bend.
Moser Memorial Chapel in North Bend is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.

Published Nov. 16, 2022

Carl H. Aschoff of West Point died Nov. 6 at Franciscan Healthcare in West Point. His funeral Mass was Nov. 11 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in West Point with Rev. James Weeder as celebrant. Burial was at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Ridgeley. Memorials may be made to the Cuming County Fair Foundation or Guardian Angels Central Catholic
Schools. Arrangements were by Stokely Funeral Home.
Carl Henry Aschoff was born on March 27, 1960, to Anthony and Jo Ann (Koke) Aschoff in West Point. He grew up on the family farm west of West Point and graduated from West Point Central Catholic High School in 1978. Carl furthered his education at Iowa Lakes Community College where he majored in Dairy Science.
On Aug. 13, 1994, Carl married Jan Glodowski at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Scribner.
He had a passion for the dairy industry and getting the youth involved in all aspects of it. His work with kids included being a herdsman at Father Flanagan’s Boys Town, past leader of the Eastside Livestock 4-H Club, Cuming County 4-H council member, and a Young Dairy Leaders Institute attendee. Carl was a member of the Nebraska Holstein Association, Nebraska Ayrshire Association, serving as current president, the Inter-Breed Dairy Council, and a lifetime member of the National Dairy Shrine. The “Cream of the Crop” Dairy Show in West Point was organized by Carl for 23 years. In anticipation of the 100th Cuming County Fair this past year, he assisted with putting together the Fair’s history.
As a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Carl’s faith was a pillar of his life along with his family. His strong faith and love of family will be remembered by those closest to him.
Survivors include his wife Jan of West Point; mother Jo Ann of West Point; sisters Cathy (Calvin) Dobias of Atkinson, Frances (Dan) Belling of Lincoln and Betty (Jeff) English of West Point; brothers
Cletus of West Point, Mark (Candy) of Wayne, Paul (Toni) of Pierre, South Dakota, John (Denise) of West Point and
Alan (Tina) of Hastings; and many nieces and nephews. Carl is preceded in death by his father Anthony, parents-in-law Ralph and Marge Glodowski and sister-in-law Kathy Glodowski.

Published Nov. 16, 2022

Kenneth Scholl of Fremont passed away Oct. 24 in Fremont. He was born June 24, 1942, in Falls City, to Elmer J. and Cecelia (Bauman) Scholl.
Kenneth married Donnetta Kirchmann in 1963 in Fremont. They later divorced. He then married Patsy Posey on Dec. 21, 1995, in Reno, Nevada.
Kenneth was raised in the Barada area. Following his father’s death in 1957, he became employed by Fiddler Farms to help support his family. Eventually, Kenneth obtained his GED. In 1964 he started farming in the Fremont and Scribner area and has lived in the area since. Kenneth enjoyed tractor pulling.
Kenneth was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Fremont.
Kenneth is survived by his wife Patsy of Fremont, daughters Dyann Bradbury of Scribner, Mary Scholl of North Bend, Lisa (Francis) Langhorst of Morse Bluff, step-sons Philip (Shannon) Roach of Montgomery, Texas, Garry (TeShauna) Roach of Beggs, Oklahoma; sister Dorothy (Fred) Brewer of Falls City, grandchildren Ian Bradbury, Kyle (Jill) Langhorst, Justin (Katie) Scholl, great-grandchildren Camdyn Hitner, Caedyn Hitner, Jakobi Rose Scholl, five step-grandchildren and three great-step-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Mark Brewer.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, Nov. 5 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Post 8223 VFW Club, 742 N Main St, North Bend.
A Mass of Christian burial was held on Oct. 27, at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church with the Rev. James Meysenburg as the presiding priest. Interment was at Falls City Catholic Cemetery.

Published Nov. 2, 2022

Dolores Bose of Fremont passed away Oct. 20 at Nye Pointe in Fremont. She was born Jan. 30, 1933, in North Bend to Joseph and Marie (Sedlacek) Nesladek.
Dolores grew up in North Bend and graduated from North Bend High School. After high school, Dolores attended college and became a teacher for a few years.  She married Arthur Bose on June 2, 1954, at St. Charles Catholic Church in North Bend. The couple resided on the farm near West Point for a couple years then settled on the family farm near North Bend in 1956. Dolores kept busy over the years raising their children at home. Dolores later worked as a cook for the nursing home in North Bend from 1994 until retiring in 2002. In 2013, Dolores and Art moved to Fremont.
Dolores was a member of St. Anne’s Altar Society, a CCD instructor at St. Charles and a member of Christian Mothers.  
She is survived by sons Joe Bose of North Bend, Jim (Cheryl) Bose of Lincoln; daughters Patricia (Russ) Harshman of Chuluota, Florida, Lois (Stan) Latimer of Chesapeake, Virginia, Diane (Steve) Poppe, Sharon (Loren) Soderling, both of Fremont, Linda (Lyle) Mach of Wahoo, Betty (Alan) Moore of Eagle, Cindy (Jeff) Pierce of Lincoln; sister Joyce (John) Veskerna; 24 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
Dolores was preceded in death by her parents, husband Arthur; one grandchild, one great-grandchild and brother Bill Nesladek.
A memorial Mass will be 10 a.m., Friday, Nov. 4 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Fremont. A memorial visitation will be held Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a rosary starting at 7 p.m. at Moser Memorial Chapel in Fremont. Burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery in Fremont.
Memorials may be directed to the family or St. Patrick Catholic Church. Online condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.

Published Oct. 26, 2022

Francis L. Fischer Sr. of Morse Bluff passed away Oct. 16. He was born on Dec. 6, 1934, in Wisner to Joseph and Marie Fischer.
Francis resided in West Point and North Bend where he married Mary Orendorff on May 19, 1953. She preceded him in death on Aug. 1, 2011.
Francis lived in Morse Bluff for almost 60 years. He was a member of St. George Catholic Church in Morse Bluff, Chapter 5, and AA in Fremont.
He is survived by sons, Daniel, Eugene (Della), Steven (Barb) Fischer all of Fremont, Francis Jr. (Kathy) Fischer of North Bend; daughter Sandy Eddins of Fremont; sister Cecilia Suramek of Elkhorn; 14 grandchildren snf 28 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Mary, three grandchildren, sister Mary Grovijohn; brothers Robert, Richard, and Harold; son-in-law, Alvis Eddins and many nieces and nephews.
The funeral Mass was Oct. 21 at St. George Catholic Church in Morse Bluff. Burial will be at Cedar Hill Cemetery at a later date.
Memorials may be directed to Chapter 5 and the North Bend rescue squad.
Online condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.

Published Oct. 26, 2022

Jean C. Groff, 102, of Morse Bluff passed away Oct. 16 at Nebraska Medicine in Omaha. She was born July 21, 1920, in Morse Bluff to Patrick and Clara (Walla) McGinn.
Jean grew up in the Morse Bluff area and graduated from North Bend High School in 1947. She taught school for a year and then attended and graduated from Marian College (now San Francisco State University). After college she came back to Nebraska and ran a grocery store in Craig. In 1959 Jean became the first manager at the first North Bend swimming pool. Jean worked at Miracle Hills Golf Course in Omaha for many years, retiring in the late 1980s.
She married J. DeForest Groff Dec. 18, 1959 in Columbus.
Jean was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in North Bend, St. Anne Altar Society and American Legion Post 340 Auxiliary.
She was proud to be named the Sportswomen of the Year at Marian College where she played first base in softball. Jean also lettered in badminton.
Jeane loved to golf and golfed up until she was 99. She also loved her many German shepherd dogs.
Jean is survived by stepson Neal Groff of Colorado; grandchildren Christian Groff, Fletcher (Julie) Groff, Brad Sindt, Kari (Joe) Winter, Robin (Jamie) Campbell, Tammy (Richard) Croson, Teresa (Eric Sauer) and Tanya (Chris) Simmons, 15 great-grandchildren, six great-great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother Marvin McGinn, step-daughters Carol Muller and Anita Sindt; and great-granddaughter Allison Groff.
A funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, Oct. 24, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church Parish Center in North Bend. Visitation will be on Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m., and a rosary will be at 6 p.m., all at Moser Memorial Chapel in North Bend. Interment will be at Woodland Cemetery in North Bend.
Memorials are suggested to the North Bend Golf Course or North Bend Groff Field or the baseball fields.
Online condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.

Published Oct. 19, 2022

Alice G. Colgan of Fremont passed away Oct. 2 at Nebraska Methodist Hospital in Omaha. She was born Sept. 29, 1944, in North Bend to Gail and Delores (Hartmann) Scott.
Alice was raised and lived most of her life in North Bend until moving to Fremont in 2015. She graduated from North Bend High School in 1962 and attended Wayne State College.
In 1963 Alice married her high school sweetheart, Jim Colgan, on Aug. 24. They raised four children, Derick (Jill) of Nebraska City, Erin of Yankton, South Dakota, Anne (Dave) of Ventura, California, and Heather (Phil) of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Alice stayed home and raised her children, while giving private piano lessons and taking night and summer courses. She graduated from Midland Lutheran College in 1978 and began her teaching career.
Alice taught for Snyder Public School from 1978 to 1980 and then Fremont Public Schools at Milliken Park Elementary in 1980. She later transferred to Linden Elementary until her retirement in 2004.
Alice was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, St. Charles Catholic Church and Altar Society and played organ for the church for over 40 years. She was a member of the Nebraska Education Association.
Alice was known for her love of reading and enjoyed reading to the loves of her life, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Alice was happiest when doing things with her nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband and children, Alice is survived by two sisters, Delores Ann Soukup of Lincoln and Beth Scott of Harlan, Iowa, and was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Wilson and Shawn Scott and sister Beverly Wunderlich.
A funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, Oct. 7 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Fremont. Visitation will be Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m., with a Rosary at 7 p.m., all at Moser’s in Fremont. A luncheon will follow the service. Graveside burial will be at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery (southwest of Scribner; County Road K and 10) at approximately 1:30 p.m. Friday.
Memorials are suggested to Milliken Park or Linden Elementary School Libraries for children’s books.
Online condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.

Published Oct. 4, 2022

Clayton Steven Snover of North Bend passed away Aug. 27 at Shalimar Gardens in Fremont.
Clayton was born on Oct. 3, 1929, in rural North Bend to Sylvester Jr. and Amanda “Mandy” (Klintworth) Snover. Clayton started farming at the age of 16. He worked at Pollard Implement until going into the service in 1951. He served in the U.S. Army in Korea from 1951 until 1952. He received the Purple Heart and Korean Service Medal. Clayton was chosen to participate in one of the Korean Honor Flights to Washington D.C. After discharge from the Army, Clayton began farming again and working part time for Pollard Implement, Kruger Feed and Seed and Ladehoff Trucking. He moved to a farm north of Ames in 1960, moving to North Bend in 1992. He continued to farm the rest of his life.
Clayton married Carol Kniep on May 31, 1953, at St. John Lutheran Church in Bennington. Clayton and Carol enjoyed dancing and wintering in Texas.
Clayton was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in North Bend since 1948. He was active and held several offices at Church. Clayton served on the Maple Township Board, Ames Co-Op Board, several school district boards, Adjustment Board at the Dodge County Courthouse and North Bend Drainage District Board. He also helped with building the North Bend Golf Course by being active on the North Bend Golf Course Board. He was a member of the Dodge County Feeders Association, receiving a special award for his dedication to the Association.
Clayton is survived by his son Terry Snover of North Bend; daughters Lynette (Rick) Elofson of North Bend, and Denise (Stu) Essman of Lincoln; brother Mark (Nancy) Snover of Stuart; sister Judith Snover of Fremont; sister in law Fayne Kniep of Clinton, Wisconsin; six grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
Clayton was preceded in death by his parents; wife Carol; sister and brother-in-law Phyllis and Curtis Dockweiler; brother-in-law Thomas Kniep; nephew Russell Dockweiler; niece Sandra (Dockweiler) Stevens; grandson-in-law Stacy Milligan.
The funeral will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, Sept. 2, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in North Bend. Visitation will be from 4 until 7 p.m., Thursday, at Moser Memorial Chapel in North Bend and continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Burial with military honors will be at Woodland Cemetery in North Bend.
Memorials may be directed to St. Peter Lutheran Church in North Bend, VFW/Veterans Park or North Bend Golf Course.
Online condolences may be directed to www.mosermemorialchapels.com.

Published August 31, 2022

Donald P. Happel, 95, of North Bend passed away Aug. 20 at Heritage at Shalimar Gardens in Fremont. He was born March 22, 1927, in Sterling to Louis and Amelia (Eilers) Happel.
Donald grew up in Sterling and was a 1944 graduate of Sterling High School. He was baptized and confirmed into the Lutheran faith at St. John’s Lutheran Church south of Sterling. He served in the U.S. Merchant Marines from 1945-1946 during WWII. After the service he returned home to Sterling and worked for Thompson Transfer. Donald married Donna Jean Aden June 16, 1947, in Sterling. They lived there and Donald began farming until 1954 when they moved to Dodge County to farm until retiring in 2010.
Donald was a member and on the church council and cemetery board of St. John Ridgeley Lutheran Church near Scribner. He was instrumental in establishing the grasslands and windbreak of trees surrounding the cemetery. He was also on the Jamestown School Board in Ames and secretary of Farmers COOP in Scribner. Donald was a farmer through and through who loved playing cards. He was a dearly loved husband, father, grandpa, brother, uncle and friend.
He is survived by his wife Donna Jean Happel; daughter Kay Poppe of North Bend; sister Lucille (Marvin) Stone of Kearney; granddaughters Kim of North Bend, Natilee of Lincoln and Beverly of Boone, North Carolina; seven great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents; son Randy Happel; and son-in-law Norman Poppe.
His funeral will be 2 p.m., Wednesday, Aug.24 at St. John Ridgeley Lutheran Church near Scribner. PMA Robert Ball will officiate. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 4-7 p.m., and family will receive friends from 6-7 p.m., all at Moser Memorial Chapel in North Bend. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday. Burial will be at the church cemetery.
Memorials to the family for a future designation. Online condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.

Published August 24, 2022

Sherry Ann Wolken was born to Clyde Ehrich and Joyce (Reese) Ehrich in Fremont on Nov. 19, 1953. She attended grade school in North Bend and graduated from North Bend Central High School in 1972.
Sherry attended the Methodist School of Nursing from 1972-75 and graduated with a Registered Nurse diploma and began working in Kearney. Through her career she worked at hospitals and clinics in Red Cloud, North Platte, Marysville, Kansas, and many years in Omaha and Papillion.
On June 11, 1977, she married James Wolken in North Bend.
Sherry passed away at her home on Aug. 16 with family at her side. She is survived by daughter Melissa Wolken, son John (Angie) Wolken, grandchildren Zachery and Adalyn Wolken, brother Pete Ehrich, and sisters Nancy Harrison, Susan Ehrich and Linda (Aaron) Elkins, nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life service will be held Aug. 25, 10 a.m., at Thanksgiving Lutheran Church, Bellevue, 36th and Hwy 370. Internment will take place at a later date at Woodland Cemetery in North Bend.

Published August 24, 2022

Brent Alan Zakovec of Morse Bluff passed away on Friday, July 29 at Nebraska Medicine in Omaha surrounded by his family.
Brent was born on June 23, 1981, in Fremont to Francis and Holly (Dahl) Zakovec. He was raised in Morse Bluff and Dodge. Brent graduated from North Bend Central High School in 2000. As a teenager and into his 20’s he worked for Bluff Gravel Company until he began his true passion of farming full time. He was a member of St. George Catholic Church in Morse Bluff. Brent had 24 years of service with Morse Bluff Fire Department where he served as Chief for a number of years. In conjunction, he also served on Cedar Bluffs Fire Department.
Brent married his high school sweetheart, Brook Ladenburger, on August 20, 2005, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in North Bend. They built a life together on their farm south of Morse Bluff where they were blessed with four beautiful children.
When Brent wasn’t dedicating his time to farming or the fire service, he also enjoyed creating almost anything out of steel. From yard ornaments to building useful tools or fixing things on the farm, if it could be fixed or built with a welder, he could do it. Brent was known to be the life of the party or center of attention, putting smiles on everyone’s face. He also had a passion for hunting and rodeoing. He created many new friends and hunting partners on his hunting trips, but probably none as special as being able to take his daughter, Ashtynn, on her first successful deer hunt this last year.
Brent was dedicated to his community and would drop everything at a moment’s notice to help anyone.
Survivors left to cherish his memory include his wife Brook; children Ashtynn (13), Kinsley (9), Grayden (6), Barrett (5) Zakovec, all of Morse Bluff; mother Holly (Dave) Henrickson of Dodge; father Francis (JoAnn) Zakovec of Morse Bluff; brother Ryan (Brienna) Zakovec of Morse Bluff, step-siblings Kellie (Jeff) Nelson of Fremont and Mike Albert of Gretna; brother-in-law Mark (Sheri) Ladenburger of Fremont; mother-and-father-in-law Charlene and Gary Ladenburger of North Bend; niece Haley and nephew Dustin Zakovec of Morse Bluff; and an unbelievable amount of friends.
The funeral Mass will be 10 a.m., Friday, August 5, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in North Bend. Burial will follow in Killian Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at St. Charles. Rosary services will be held at 7 p.m. also at the church. Memorials may be directed to the Morse Bluff Volunteer Fire Department or to the family.

Published August 3, 2022

Edward Humlicek of Linwood died July 28 at his home
Mass of Christian Burial was Aug. 2 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Abie  with the Rev. Ron Homes celebrant. Committal was in the church cemetery with military honors.
In lieu of flowers, plants and statues, the family requests memorials to the church.
Edward F. Humlicek Jr. was born May 9, 1941, in Columbus, to Edward F. and Anna (Oborny) Humlicek Sr.  He attended area schools and helped on the farm.  He worked at Campbell’s Soup in Fremont from 1961-1965.  In December of 1963, Ed entered the National Guard,with basic training at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri, and attended summer camps at Camp Ripply in Minnesota until 1969.  On April 21, 1966, he married Margaret Gall at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in  Dodge. They lived and farmed near Linwood for 56 years, farming and milking cows. Ed’s greatest passion was farming, his dairy cows and walking to work.
Ed is survived by his wife of 56 years, Margaret Humlicek of Linwood, daughter Mary (Tim) Vetick of Columbus, three sons: Joe (Deann Kavan) Humlicek of Prague, Gerald (Roxy) Humlicek, Gary (Brenda) Humlicek, all of Linwood; sister-in-law Bernadine Humlicek of Norfolk and nine grandchildren: Molly, Travis, Maggie and Marissa Vetick, Julie and Curtis Humlicek, Zach Peters, Alexandria (Caleb) Friendt and Ashley Humlicek. 
He was preceded  in death by his parents Edward F. and Anna (Oborny) Humlicek Sr.,  sisters Helen Dostal and Ann Voboril, brother Adolph Humlicek and two brothers-in-law, Dennis Dostal and Jerry Voboril.
  Kracl Funeral Chapel of David City in charge of arrangements

Published August 3, 2022

Barbara J. Felton of North Bend died July 21 at her home. She was born in Clay County, Iowa, June 16, 1939. Barbara was a Licensed Practical Nurse working in obstetrics in Omaha until she was 70. She moved to McGinn’s Lake in 2004.
She is preceded in death by daughter Cheryl J. Rief.
Barbara is survived by her sons Terry Bigge, Mike Bigge and Rich Bigge, all of Omaha, and significant other David Boswell of North Bend. A celebration of life is planned Sept. 10 at the North Bend City Park Pavillion from 10 a.m. to 5.

Published August 3, 2022

Melvajean Kluck of Schuyler died June 27 at the Dunklau Gardens in Fremont.
Her service will be live streamed on Kracl Funeral Chapel Facebook Page. Services are Friday, July 1 at  10:30 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, Schuyler, with the Rev. Bill Mattfeld officiating
Visitation will be Thursday, June 30, 5-7 p.m. at Kracl Funeral Chapel, Schuyler, with a prayer service at 7 p.m. at the chapel. Visitation Friday will be from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the church.
Committal will be at Schuyler Cemetery with lunch following in the church hall.
Memorials to the church or Colfax County Senior Center.
Melvajean was born Jan. 6, 1929, in Tobias, Nebraska to Joe and Clara (Most) Gewecke.  The family moved to Schuyler where she graduated from Schuyler High School in 1947. 
On June 8, 1949, she married M. Duane “Kinky” Kluck at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Shell Creek. They lived and farmed northwest of Schuyler and Melva moved to town in 1995.  She had taught rural schools and worked at Ben Franklins, Schuyler Pharmacy and Dufek’s Jack and Jill. She was a 50-year member of Immanuel Lutheran church, taught Sunday School, held offices in the Ladies Aid and Church Council, led girls 4-H at Wilson and was a member of the Wilson Extension Club.
Melvajean is survived by daughters Susan (Chuck) Emanuel of North Bend and Cindy (Al) Sadowski of Omaha; son Darrel (Nancy) Kluck of Center  Point, Iowa; nine grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren. 
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Kinky in 1994, daughter Kathy Kluck in 2018 and three brothers: Marvin was killed in World War II, Wesley and Gaylord Gewecke.

Published June 29, 2022

Lauretta (Reznicek) Muff passed away peacefully on June 25 at Nye Legacy with her family by her side.  Lauretta was born on August 9, 1944, in Fremont to Adolph and Emma (Semerad) Reznicek.
She graduated in 1963 from North Bend High School.  Lauretta married Dwayne Muff on Nov. 28, 1964, at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Clyde. They made their home in Lincoln before moving to Kansas City where they developed many lifelong friends. Then moved to Omaha in 1974 where she worked in telemarketing for several years before she started an in-home daycare, caring for many children as if they were her own.
Lauretta loved celebrating the seasons and holidays, especially Christmas. She so enjoyed Santa, gnomes, decorating and giving presents. She enjoyed lighting up everyone’s life celebrating the seasons and the birth of our savior. 
She is survived by her husband Dwayne Muff and sons Tom (Jacque) Muff of Blair, Jeff (Maria) Muff of Morse Bluff and Kevin (Misty) Muff of Lincoln along with seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents Adolph and Emma, brothers Norbert and Dave Reznicek and sister Evelyn Mihulka.  She is survived by her brother Kenneth (Phyllis) Reznicek and sister-in-law Patricia Reznicek.
A funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 29, at St James Catholic Church, 4710 N 90th St. in Omaha. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m. followed by a Rosary at 7 p.m. at Reichmuth Funeral Home in Elkhorn.    
Interment at Prospect Hill Cemetery in Elkhorn. 
Memorials may be directed to St. James Catholic church or the Cancer Society.

Published June 29, 2022

Charlotte Tawney of Fremont, formerly of North Bend, died June 22 at her home.
Charlotte was born August 14, 1935, in Fremont to Michael and Charlotte (Lake) O’Hare.
She was a 1954 graduate of Holy Name High School in Omaha. Charlotte married Jack E. Tawney on April 23, 1955, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in North Bend.
Charlotte was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, St. Anne’s Altar Society, and the Ladies Auxiliary of V.F.W. Post 8223, all in North Bend and the Catholic Daughters at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Fremont.
She is survived by daughters Theresa (Bruce) Busse, Mary Gaskill and Julie (Randy) Reznicek, all of North Bend, and Jill (David) Mendlik of Fremont; sons Pat (Jolene) Tawney of North Bend, Mike Tawney of Lincoln, John (Pam) North of Beaufort, South Carolina, 20 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.
Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jack, brothers John and Bernard O’Hare, sisters Mary Staley and Margaret Hulett and daughter-in-law Michelle Tawney.
Her funeral Mass was June 24 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in North Bend. Burial was at Calvary Cemetery in Fremont.
Memorials are suggested to St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, North Bend Senior Center or North Bend Volunteer Fire Department.
Online condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.

Published June 29, 2022

Donald A. Hochstein of Hartington died June 20 at the Providence Medical Center in Wayne.
Mass of Christian Burial was June 24 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Hartington with the Rev. An Duy Phan officiating. Burial was St. Michael’s cemetery in Hartington.
Pallbearers were his seven sons: Dale, Kirk, Neal, Nick, Karl, Glen and Greg Hochstein.
Donald Arthur was born on Feb. 10, 1927, to John and Rose (Schulte) Hochstein in Wynot. He grew up in the Wynot area and graduated from Wynot High School in 1945.
He married Elaine Helen Mary Burbach on June 2, 1953, in St. James. After his marriage they lived in Laurel from 1954 to 1960. While in Laurel, Don carpentered and worked for the State of Nebraska Department of Roads. In 1960 he and Elaine returned to the home farm northwest of Wynot. He raised livestock, milked cows, and raised row crops. Don was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Holy Name Society while in Wynot.
Don retired in 1992 and moved to Hartington. He was a member of the Ministry of Praise and Perpetual Adoration at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Don was a member and past president of the Senior Citizens Center in Hartington. He drove school bus for Wynot from 1976 to 1992. After moving to Hartington, he drove the school bus from 1992 to 2011 until he had his 84th birthday. Don moved to the Embers Assisted Living in Coleridge in November of 2015.
Don is survived by his 14 children, Jane and Richard Mehaffey of North Bend, Ann and Lee Shepherd of Rapid City, South Dakota, Susan and Terry Hupp of Spearfish, South Dakota, Dale and Laura of Wayne, Kirk and Barb of Wayne, Joyce and Roger Paseka of Prague, Nancy and Doug Vrbka of Brainard, Brenda and Doug Hummel of Omaha, Neal and Sharlee of Wynot, Bette and Keith Becker of Hartington, Nick and Jessi of Wayne, Karl and Carroll of Ankeny, Iowa, Glen and Pam of Seward, Greg and Stephanie of LaVista; 48 grandchildren; 53 great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren.
Don was preceded in death by his wife Elaine on March 21, 2018 at the age of 84 years; parents, infant son Russ Michael, granddaughter Megan Shepherd; brothers Lawrence, Reynold, Gilbert, Fritz, and John Jr. Hochstein; sisters Valeria (Sister Rose Jean), Rosine Pinkelman, Ruth Huennekens, Viola Lammers, Dolores Abbot, Freida (Don) Hoss and Mary (Ralph) Wieseler.

Published June 29, 2022

Duane Joseph Gaskill, known to some as “Duffy,” died in his sleep in the early hours of Monday, June 6, in York. Duane was the oldest son of Archie Dean and Mildred Marie (Schmid) Gaskill. He was born May 17, 1954, in Columbus and graduated from North Bend Central in 1972.
Duane was a truck driver and teacher of truck driving for most of his professional life before experiencing disability following multiple motor vehicle accidents. He was a charismatic dude with a very adventurous spirit, inclined toward the Rocky Mountains, motorcycling and sailing. Duane was also a complex man who struggled with addiction but succeeded with recovery. At least two of his children remember a camping trip where he bounded into a creek in hot pursuit of a large mushroom he had dropped, one intended for the grill.
Duane was preceded in death by his father Archie, mother Mildred, brothers Jay and Byron and daughter Marcella. He is remembered by former wife and dear friend Cindy Rossi, sons Nolan and Nathan, daughter Dora, sisters Valerie and Deanna, brother Brett, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many friends in Colorado who love him like family.
According to Duane’s wishes, there are no services planned. He has admirably donated his physical remains to the Forensic Investigation Research Station at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, Colorado.
Dora Gaskill is happy to receive and forward condolences to the family through duanejgaskill.inmemoriam@gmail.com.

Published June 15, 2022

Marjorie W. (Moser) Reynolds of Fremont, formerly of North Bend, died June 1, at Shalimar Gardens in Fremont.
Marjorie was born August 18, 1934, in Dodge to Edward A. and Hilda (Studt) Moser. She lived in Dodge until moving to North Bend in 1942. Marjorie was a 1952 graduate of North Bend High School. She worked as a waitress at the Corner Café in North Bend and then taught school at District 92 south of Morse Bluff. Marjorie was employed at North Bend Central High School as a secretary and study hall teacher for 20 years. She also worked as a receptionist at Moser Memorial Chapel in North Bend.
Margie married Gene Hynek on Aug. 1, 1953, in North Bend. She went from being a city girl to a farmer’s wife. They later divorced.
Margie was a lifelong member of St. Charles Catholic Church at North Bend and St. Anne’s Altar Society. She was known for her love of baking kolaches, cinnamon and dinner rolls. Margie would bake on Saturday mornings and sell them out of her house. She loved to dance.
Margie married John Reynolds on July 18, 1997, at St. Charles Catholic Church at North Bend. They lived in North Bend until moving to Shalimar Gardens at Fremont in 2017. John died Aug. 5, 2018.
Marjorie is survived by sons Larry (Kerry) Hynek of Morse Bluff, Bob Hynek of Talmage and Mike (Cailie) Hynek of Guide Rock; daughters Carolyn (Todd) Bornhoft of Lincoln and Barb (Jeff) Hines of Morse Bluff; sister Ardith (Richard) Cantral of Kearney; brothers Robert (Caryn) Moser of North Bend, Jim (Lynda) Moser of Fremont, Richard (Donna) Moser of Sacramento, Calif., Eldon (Cheryl) Moser of Yutan; brother-in-law, Mel Roth of Fremont; 14 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband John; daughter-in-law Connie Hynek; sisters Mae Rita Jirkovsky, Kathy Powers, Mercedes “Dee” Roth and infant sister Elizabeth Moser; brother and sister-in-law Edward L. and Doris Moser; brother-in-law Richard Hartmann; niece Susie Priester; and nephew Steve Hartmann.
Her funeral Mass was June 6, at St. Charles Catholic Church at North Bend. Burial was at Woodland Cemetery at North Bend.
Memorials may be directed to the family for a later designation.

Published June 8, 2022

Richard J. Thege of North Bend passed away May 9 at Methodist Fremont Health.
Richard was born on Dec. 13, 1932, to George Joseph and Rose Lillian (Houfek) Thege on the family farm near Linwood. He attended Linwood High School and enjoyed playing basketball and softball. Richard graduated in 1951 and was the senior class valedictorian.
Richard served in the United States Air Force from Feb. 20, 1953, to Feb. 19, 1957, and completed his reserve duty on Feb. 19,1961.
Richard farmed his whole life near Linwood and North Bend. He was a member of the Prague
Presbyterian Church until its closing in 2012. He was a board member of the Prague Presbyterian Cemetery.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents; brothers George (Mary Ann) Thege, Clarence Thege, Raynold Thege, and Donald Thege; and nephews David Thege and Mark Anthony Thege.
He is survived by his sisters-in-law Marlene Thege, Pauline Thege, and Alyce Thege and numerous nieces and nephews.
His funeral service was May 16 at Moser Memorial Chapel in North Bend. Rev. Sarah Gengler officiated. Burial was at the Prague Presbyterian Cemetery, west of Prague, with military honors.
Memorials may be directed to family or donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be left at: www.mosermemorialchapels.com.

Published May 18, 2022

Caleb Michael Ladehoff of Sutton died May 3 at Bryan Medical Center West Campus in Lincoln.
Caleb was born Sept. 1, 2004, to Jon and Kristi Ladehoff of Sutton. He gave his heart to Jesus as a young boy and is now fully restored and in the presence of his Savior.
Caleb grew up in Sutton and was proud to be a Mustang. He was an avid weightlifter and competed in football, basketball and track and field. He was a member of the Sutton FFA chapter and a member of the youth group at Stockham Community Church.
Caleb was the second of four siblings and many of his favorite memories were made while traveling with his family on summer vacations. “C-dawg” loved spending time outdoors, especially at his grandparents farms. He enjoyed fishing, four-wheeling and working with cattle. Caleb also enjoyed spending time with his friends and cousins and will be remembered for his ability to bring joy and laughter to those around him.
Caleb is survived by his parents; siblings Nathan, Lindsey and Eli, all of Sutton; grandmother Lavonne Ladehoff of North Bend; grandparents Bill and Judy Hamer of Scotia; aunts and uncles Fred Ladehoff of North Bend; Doug and Jennifer Johnson of Omaha; Brandon and Karmen Hamer of Central City; Cameron and Brenda Hamer of Greenfield, Iowa; Tiffani Wymer of Central City; many beloved cousins and a host of friends.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Harlan Ladehoff.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family to be designated later.
Condolences may be left at www.suttonmemorial.com.

Published May 11, 2022

Callie Witt of Rogers transitioned from her earthy home on April 29.  She was born Nov. 6, 2001, to father Timothy Witt and mother Jennifer Witt.
  Callie loved horses. She was born with them running through her veins. She also found joy in wresting and dance. She will be remembered as sassy, a teaser and sometimes even tormentor to the ones that knew her and loved her. Callie worked harder than anyone you would ever know, constantly raising the bar to be better, be stronger and at the top of her craft. She always knew the risk of her passion and she left us living out her dreams. 
Callie is survived by her parents, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, Nana, Papaw and Trey Miller.
  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in remembrance of her to Bluegrass Community and Technical College, Jockey’s Club Thoroughbred Safety Net Foundation or Bluegrass Farms Chaplaincy.
  For Arrangements for Callie please visit www.mosermemorialchapels.com

“No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle”.
~ Winston Churchill

Published May 11, 2022

Frank H. Kasal of Rogers died Saturday, April 23, at Brookstone Acres in Columbus.
Frank was born on the family farm on June 18, 1928, to Frank and Adele (Krula) Kasal and
baptized at Bethlehem Chapel Presbyterian Church. He attended Dist. 11 grade school and
graduated from Schuyler High School before attending the University of Nebraska College of
Agriculture. 
After serving in the Air Force during the Korean War in Japan and Korea, he returned to
farming in Colfax County. On January 31, 1959, Frank was united in marriage to Phyllis Koch at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Shell Creek. He enjoyed farming, raising cattle, and visiting with family and friends. 
Frank is survived by his wife Phyllis Kasal of Rogers; daughters Kimberly (Michael) Richtig
of Hesston, Kan., Kathleen Kasal of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Kristin (Jeffrey) Vavricek of Omaha, Karlyn (Marc) Cherry of Tucson, Ariz., and Karmen (Brian) Daake of Beatrice; grandchildren Heidi (Christopher) Piszczek, Mackenzie (Baylie) Richtig, Meredith Sulentic, Madeline Vavricek, Matthew Vavricek, Christopher (Chelsea) Cherry, Colin Cherry, Samantha Daake, Lauren Daake, Colten Daake; two great-grandsons, Bennett and Brooks Piszczek and sister-in-law Norma Koch.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Adele Kasal, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-
law Walter J. Koch, Dayle and Dolores Kallweit, Richard and Elaine Freudenburg, and Hugo
Koch.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the First Presbyterian Church of Schuyler or the Schuyler Cemetery Association.
Frank’s funeral service will be Saturday, April 30, 10:30 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church, Schuyler.  Rev. Sarah Gengler will officiate. Visitation is set for April 29, from  5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Kracl Funeral Chapel in Schuyler. Additional visitation will be one hour prior to service at the church with military honors and committal  at Schuyler Cemetery following the service. The funeral will be live streamed on Kracl Funeral Chapel Facebook Page. Kracl Funeral Chapel of Schuyler in charge of arrangements.
Published March 30, 2022

James W. Keeler of Fremont, passed away at Nye Legacy April 10. He was born on May 23, 1930, in rural Valley to Clyde and Hazel (Walraven) Keeler.
James grew up in Yutan and Valley, moving to Fremont after graduating from high school in 1947. He married Carolyn Fishel on Sept. 2, 1950, in North Bend.
After a short time working for Hormel in Fremont, Jim spent most of his life farming. First near Valley and then Linwood. When retiring from farming they moved to Schuyler where he was a truck driver for Husker Coop, which allowed him to continue time in rural areas, among the local farmers.
After Carolyn’s passing he married Muriel (Monke) Ringle and moved to Fremont and still continued trucking. At 80 he decided it was time to fully retire.
James was a member of Salem Lutheran Church of Fontenelle. He served on the Linwood School District board for several years, Platte Township of Butler County board, and was a former member of the First Presbyterian Church in Schuyler.
James is survived by wife Muriel, Fremont; daughters Lisa Renner-Ellermeier (Randy Kremlacek), Linwood and Linda (Dennis) Brichacek, Schuyler; son Terry (Rebecca) Keeler, Houston, Texas; step-children, John (Sandy) Ringle, James Ringle (Tracy Landis), Joni Ringle (Mark) Tyner and Jay (Lori) Ringle; sister Leatha Mumm, Yutan; grandchildren Brad (Sandy) Renner, Stacey (Shawn) Wieseman, Brian (Gina) Renner, Tim (Shannon) Renner, Tina McFadden and Jessicah (Shane) Prittchet; step-grandchildren Paige (Ben) Strobbe, Andrew Tyner (Mary McConnell), Rachel Tyner, Blake (Alex) Suurvarik and Barrett Ringle; great-grandchildren, Isaac Strobbe, Molly and Maddy Renner, Norah, Claire, Henry, Ellorie, John Renner, Jake Wieseman, Alexis, Sophie, Kayden and Lizzy Renner; and great-great- grandchildren, Kloee and Ronan Bernardy.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Carolyn; sisters Bettie Keeler and Joyce Sievers; brothers Richard Keeler, Dale Keeler and Glen Keeler; sons-in-law Ellory Renner, and Dean Ellermeier.
His funeral was April 13 at Salem Lutheran Church of Fontanelle. Burial was at Woodland
Cemetery in North Bend.
Memorials are suggested to Salem Lutheran Church of Fontanelle.
Online condolences at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.
Published March 30, 2022

Patricia Nelson of Morse Bluff was born May 30, 1943. She grew up in Omaha and attended North High, graduating in 1961. On June 25, 1961, Pat married her high school sweetheart, Nicholas Nelson, at Pearl Memorial Methodist Church in Omaha. Later in life she helped run their business, Nelson Plumbing, for 26 years. Pat died March 22. She was a member of Saint Peter Lutheran Church of North Bend. Pat cherished time with her friends and family, as well as spending time outdoors fishing, gardening and at her cabin in Lynch. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Winifred Andrew, and husband of 58 years, Nicholas K. Nelson of Morse Bluff. Pat is survived by sister Dana (Tim) Austin of Minnesota, brother Rick (Monika) Andrew of Georgia; daughters Kathie Englert (Jimmy Williams), Vicki (Sam) Orsi, Connie (Dave) Rathbun, Jennifer Abels all of Omaha; and her beloved dog Jackson; 11 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. Services were held on March 26 at 11 am at Saint Peter’s Lutheran Church in North Bend, with a lunch that followed. Memorials to Open Door Mission or ALS Association. Published March 23, 2022

Peggy Sue Neidecker of Morse Bluff passed away March 16 at Nebraska Medicine in Omaha. She was born July 4, 1963, in Fort Smith, Arkansas to Elmer and Bertha (Thornburg) Sexton.
Peggy grew up at Fort Smith and graduated from Northside High School.  She married Steve Neidecker Dec. 27, 1988, at Eureka Springs, Arkansas.  They settled in Morse Bluff after traveling for many years across the central United States. Peggy worked in Columbus where she was an ISM at BD Medical. She loved everyone and never met a stranger. 
Peggy is survived by her husband Steve; daughters Jessica (Ian) Slama of Columbus, Lacy (Clay) Williams of Alma, Arkansas; son Jason (Katherine) Neidecker of Slydell, Louisiana; sister Sharon (Pete) Collyge of Cockeysville, Maryland; and five grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers Tommy, James Ray, and Howard Sexton.
Her funeral was Monday, March 21, at Moser Memorial Chapel in North Bend. Rev. Richard Crooks of first Baptist Church in Fremont officiated. Interment will be at Killian Cemetery west of Morse Bluff.
Online condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.
Published March 23, 2022

Laverna G. Whitt of Fremont passed away March 12 in Bennington. She was born Nov. 5, 1924, in North Bend to George and Sarah Barber. Laverna grew up in North Bend and then lived in Tulsa, Oklahoma, for a short time during WWII. She moved to Fremont in 1948. Laverna married Frederick Whitt on Nov. 5, 1948. Fred died December 20, 2020.
Laverna was active in the First Christian Church in Fremont and served as a deacon, elder, board member and president of the women’s groups. She had twice been president of Church Women United of Fremont.
Laverna was an avid quilter and artist and a wonderful seamstress. She was involved in her daughter’s activities including 4-H, Girl Scouts, PTA, band and school. Laverna was an avid Husker football and volleyball fan.
Laverna is survived by daughters Diana (Ted) Smalley of Edmond, Oklahoma, Edith Whitt of Bennington; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son Neal C. Whitt; brother Irvin Barber; and sister and brother-in-law Marie and Burt Worden.
Her funeral service was March 18 at Moser Memorial Chapel in Fremont with burial will be at Woodland Cemetery in North Bend. Memorials may be given to Fremont Methodist Hospice.
Online condolences may be left at: www.mosermemorialchapels.com.
Published March 23, 2022

Gertrude A. “Trudy” Cekal of Beatrice passed away Thursday, March 3 at the Beatrice Health and Rehab in Beatrice. Trudy was born July 15, 1931 to James and Gertrude A. (Banghart) Cherny in North Bend. She graduated from North Bend High School in 1949. Trudy continued her education and earned her BA at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. She married Glenn Cekal. They later divorced. She continued to live in Lincoln until moving to Beatrice in 2012. Trudy was preceded in death by her parents and sisters Ruth Cooper and Elizabeth Godwin. There are no services. Burial will take place at Woodland Cemetery in North Bend. Moser Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Published March 30, 2022

Ella Nunn Ford Watt Petersen of North Bend passed away Feb. 27.
Her funeral service will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, March 4, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in North Bend. The Rev. Lawson Short will officiate. Visitation will be Thursday, March 3 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Moser Memorial Chapel in North Bend. Burial will take place at Memorial Cemetery in Fremont.
Memorials may be directed to the North Bend Senior Center, North Bend Fire and Rescue, and Project Wish with the Fremont Health Foundation.
Online condolences may be left at www.mosermorialchapels.com.
Published March 2, 2022

Christiana R. Martens of Fremont, formerly of Frankfurt, Germany, passed away Feb. 22 at Nye Legacy in Fremont.
Christiana was born on June 4, 1933, to Max and Margareta (Seeger) Stuttrucker in Furth Bayern, Germany. She grew up in Germany and moved to the United States on May 1, 1956, and obtained her citizenship in Wyoming.
On May 13, 1956, Christiana married Marvin Martens in North Bend. Christiana and Marvin loved to travel and they lived various places throughout the U.S.
Christiana was preceded in death by her parents, son Robert and brother-in-law Gerald Martens.
She is survived by her husband Marvin, sister-in-law Sandra Martens of North Bend, nephews Darryn Martens of North Bend and Corby Martens of Nevada.
Graveside services were Feb. 28 at Memorial Cemetery in Fremont.
Online condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.
Published March 2, 2022

Surrounded by family at home, Dwight Schultz passed away in Cedar Park, Texas, on Feb. 11.
He was born to Ezra and Ellen (Hejde) Schultz on May 25, 1932, in Norfolk. The family moved to the Purple Cane locale shortly after his birth where Ezra farmed. Dwight attended school in the area and graduated from North Bend High School in 1950. Following high school, he enlisted in the Air Force, serving in a number of locations including Frobischer Bay in Nunavut, Canada. After discharge from the Air Force, Dwight farmed with his father until Ezra’s retirement in 1960. He and his parents were longtime members of St. Peter’s Lutheran church in North Bend.
In 1957, Dwight married Ruth Von Seggern. During the late ‘60s he left farming and the family moved to Bryan, Texas, where Dwight commenced insurance sales with Lutheran Brotherhood. Later, they returned to Nebraska where Dwight continued insurance sales and later undertook other sales occupations.
During the mid-1970s Dwight and Ruth divorced. Dwight later married Patricia Shockey. They commenced various business ventures, their final being the Old Scout in North Bend.
Dwight is survived by his daughter Sheryl Larson of Spencer, Iowa, son Jeffrey Schultz of Cedar Park, Texas, daughter-in-law Preyachat Schultz, granddaughter Audra Larson of Spencer, Iowa, and great-grandson Allen Larson of Kingsley, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents, both wives, and grandson Adam Larson.
A funeral will take place on March 19 at 11 a.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church in David City.
Memorials may be sent to Butler County Senior Services, 592 D. Street, David City NE 68632..
Published March 9, 2022

Dr. Sarah A. Emanuel-Heller of Rogers passed away Feb. 6 at her daughter’s home in Omaha.
Sarah was born Dec. 19, 1953, in West Point to Ralph and Mildred (Baumert) Emanuel.
Sarah grew up in North Bend and graduated from North Bend Central High School in 1972. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Wayne State College.
In 1975 Sarah married Zelan Heller in Lincoln. Sarah and Ze moved to Fremont, where she was the manager of the Fremont Parks Dept. greenhouse. In 1977, Sarah and Ze relocated to Wisner and opened All Seasons Flower, Gift, Lawn and Garden. They ran the business until 1982.
Sarah attended Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, for her doctorate, and had a chiropractic practice in both Schuyler and Rogers from 1986 to 2010.
Sarah was a member of the VFW Auxiliary Post 8223, the American Legion Auxiliary Post 340, a former CCD teacher at St. Charles Borromeo, and former member of the St. Charles choir.
Sarah is survived by her husband, Ze Heller of Rogers; daughter Katie (Benjamin) Mattson of Omaha; sons Michael Heller of San Antonio, Texas, Matthew (Becky) Heller of Blair, and Andrew Heller of Mankato, Minnesota; brothers David Emanuel of Fremont, Robert (Lee Ann) Emanuel of Salem, Oregon, Eric (Priya) Emanuel of Los Angeles, California, Matt (Bonny) Emanuel of West Point, and John (Jeanine) Emanuel of Schuyler; grandchildren Royce, Magnus, Hawken and Bjorn Mattson of Omaha, and Millie, Vivie, Rowan and Ruby Heller of Blair.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
A memorial Mass will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in North Bend. Memorial visitation will be on Friday, Feb. 11, from 5 to 7 p.m., with Rosary at 7 p.m. at St. Charles. Family interment will be at Woodland Cemetery in North Bend.
Memorials are suggested to the family for a future designation.
Online condolences at www.mosermemorialchapels.com.
Published Feb. 9, 2022

Richard F. Krupka of Schuyler passed away Jan. 30 at St. Joseph’s Villa in David City.
Mass of Christian Burial was Feb. 5, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Schuyler.  Rev. Gerry Gonderinger was celebrant.
Committal with military honors at Schuyler Cemetery.
Memorials can be made in care of the family for future designation.
Richard F. Krupka was born Sept. 13, 1941, at home in Dodge to Joseph. L. and Philomena (Gall) Krupka. He attended area schools and worked on the family farm.  In February 1963 he joined the United States Army where he served in Germany and was honorably discharged.  
On May 4, 1963, Richard married Viola Mathiason at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Dodge.  They lived in Howells, Fremont, on a farm north of Schuyler and in 1985, moved to Schuyler.  He worked at the packing plant in Schuyler as a supervisor for 28 years. Richard enjoyed driving truck and finished his working years doing just that. 
He and Vi raised their five children and enjoyed retirement in Schuyler. Time spent with family was his greatest joy. Richard was a member of Divine Mercy Parish-St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Schuyler.
Richard is survived by his wife Viola of Schuyler, daughter Theda (Kirk) Hansen of North Bend, their children Allison and Shane, Dean Krupka and his son Nathan of Schuyler, Tim (Brenda) Krupka and children Jeff Shuster, Jeremy and Samara Krupka and Jailyn Sulley, Paul (Kay) Krupka and their children Lorah Lynn (Chris) Baete, Christopher and Mylissa Krupka and grandchildren Katelynn, Kendra, Grayson and Kamree, Dale (Sandy) Krupka of Omaha and their children Anna and Tanner. He is also survived by his sister Mae
Rita Lund of West Point and eight brothers: Joseph (Toni) Krupka of Plattesburg, New York, Melvin (Maggie) Krupka of St. Helena, Calif., Ronald (Mary) Krupka of Rapid City, South Dakota, Duane Krupka of Pahoa, Hawaii, Raymond (Lynda) Krupka of Navera, Florida, Kenneth (Vicki) Krupka of Beemer, Eugene (Karen) Krupka of Fremont and Glenn Krupka of Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Marvin and his wife Helen Krupka and Larry Krupka,
sister Marlene and her husband Delvin Hegemann, brother-in-law Larry Lund and sister-in-law Gail Krupka.
Published Feb. 9, 2022

Matthew Keith Potadle was born to Paul and Allison Potadle Sept. 10, 1985, in Omaha. He passed away unexpectedly Jan. 2 at the Mayo Clinic Health System in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Matthew was raised in Lincoln. He received his education at Lincoln East High School, Florida State University, and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Matthew found great enjoyment in football. As a defensive player at Florida State and a defensive coach at Tekamah-Herman High School, he shared his passion for football with friends, family, and Tekamah youth. He spent countless hours watching football games with his father Paul, analyzing and dissecting game plans and plays.
Matthew also loved growing plants and getting his hands dirty planting, watering, and nurturing all things green. He was most recently pursuing a degree in horticulture at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He had found a new interest in learning about plant genetics and plant production.
Family was the center of Matthew’s life. He found great joy and pride in being a son, a grandson, a brother and an uncle. Matthew was preceded in death by his grandparents Keith Potadle and Merle and Margaret (Lodl) Jensen.
Matthew is survived by his parents Paul and Allison (Lodl) Potadle; sisters and brothers-in-law Brittani and Charles Hoesche of Lincoln and Sydney Potadle and Will Thomas of Albuquerque; his girlfriend Jamie Kruse and son Eli of Gretna, and nieces Olivia and Willa.
Funeral Services were held Jan. 7 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Tekamah with interment at Tekamah Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Tekamah-Herman Athletic Department c/o Tekamah-Herman Public Schools.
Pelan Funeral Services in Tekamah was in charge of the arrangements.
Published Jan. 12, 2022

A Memorial Service for Paula Joan Roehrkasse Knepper will be held on Monday, April 4, at 11 a.m. at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Holdrege. A visitation will be held April 3 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege. Family members will be there from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. A family internment will be at Woodlawn Cemetery in Grand Island. Paula Joan was born on Nov. 11, 1937, in Grand Island to Raymond and Pauline (Holtorf) Roehrkasse. She died Dec. 28, 2021, at her home in Holdrege. On Aug. 2, 1959 she married Ralph Eldon Knepper, who passed on Aug. 8, 2021. They lived in Hastings, moving to Holdrege in 1963. Paula taught vocal music at Oxford, Minden and Holdrege, had a private voice studio in her home and directed multiple church and community choirs. Paula is survived by two sisters, Claire Eason (Michael G.) Eason of North Bend, Kathryn Trebelhorn of McAlester, Oklahoma; and extended family. Memorials are suggested to the Phelps County Community Foundation and Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church. Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com. Published March 23, 2022

Our beloved daughter, sister, niece, cousin and friend, Hope Brittany Johnson, passed away unexpectedly in her sleep in Denver, Colorado, in late December 2021. Hope was born in North Bend to Nancy and Rodney Johnson on Sept. 27, 1985. She worked in the cosmetics industry in Denver, most recently for The Body Shop as a store manager. She loved helping others to see the beauty in themselves. Hope enjoyed spending time with her parents, brothers and sisters, and, especially, her nine nieces and nephews, whom she called her “littles.” She was an avid reader and Harry Potter fan. Hope adored her cat, Lilith, and had a deep compassion for animals from a young age with the family dog formally named “Hope’s Little Sir Jingles.” She loved visiting the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado, with her family, singing in the back seat to one of the numerous John Denver songs she knew by heart. Hope is survived by her parents, Rod and Nancy Johnson of North Bend, her siblings and their partners, her littles, her best friend Johnathan Nieto, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins. Her family will be celebrating Hope’s life this summer in a private family memorial at her favorite place, Bible Point at the YMCA of the Rockies. Memorials may be made to the Denver Dumb Friends League, an animal shelter in Colorado that rescues animals and offers pet adoption, veterinary services, and more or to the YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park,Colorado. “Death is not an ending, but a symbol of movement along the path upon which we are all traveling. As it may be painful to lose contact with the physical aspect of one we love, the Spirit can never be lost. We have been and always will be a part of each other.” – John Denver Published March 23, 2022