March 2010 Obituaries
Tuesday, March 2, 2010 - 2:57 pm
Dorothy Hull
Dorothy M. Hull, 98, of David City, formerly of Grand Island, passed away Monday, March 1, 2010, in Lincoln.
Funeral Services are Wednesday, March 3, at 11 a.m. at Chermok Funeral Home in David City, with visitation one hour before the service. Burial will be at the David City Cemetery.
Dorothy was born Dec. 12, 1911, at Harrison to George and Etta (Pollman) Hascall. She attended school in Garrison through the eighth grade and graduated from David City High School in 1930. She was a sales clerk in Hills Bakery in David City.
She married Joe W. Hull on May 11, 1932, in York. Most of her married life was spent on the farm. They purchased a farm in the Bellwood area and later purchased an irrigated farm in Grand Island. She enjoyed livestock, farming and irrigating.
While in the Butler County area, she belonged to the Helping Hand Club and Extension Club. She kept up her interest in Extension Club, served as county president and as state vice president. She served on local school boards and was interested in the formation of the consolidation of 1 R (rural k-8) School and Northwest High School in Grand Island. She was active in the Northwest High School Booster Club. She belonged to the Nebraska School Improvement Association and was interested in government, working on many campaigns and serving on election boards. She only missed voting in one primary when she was on a trip to the Hawaiian Islands.
She visited all 50 states as well as Canada and Mexico. She loved to fly and was interested in airplanes.
She is survived by a sister-in-law, Thelma Hascall, many nieces, nephews and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brothers, Arlie, Earl and Lloyd; and sisters, Viva McCall and Hazel Wiegardt.
Memorials to David City Fire Department or David City Cemetery. Condolence may be sent to www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.
Kathryn Kirby
Kathryn Ann Kirby of Los Angeles, formerly of David City, died Monday, March 1, 2010, in Los Angeles.
Mass of Christian burial was held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, March 5, at Our Mother of Good Council Catholic Church in Los Angeles, with the Rev. James Mott celebrant. Graveside services will be held at noon on Saturday, March 13, at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in David City, with the Rev. Bernard Kimminau officiating.
Kathryn was born July 22, 1919, in David City to Edward and Henrietta (Knott) Kirby. She graduated from David City High School, moved to Chicago and later to Los Angeles where she and her sister Phyllis joined their family who had moved to California in the 1940s.
Kathryn worked as a deposition reporter in Los Angeles.
She is survived by one sister, Phyllis Kirby of Los Angeles; three nieces; Patricia (Richard) Neal, Kathleen Finazzo and Mary Susan (Glen) Smith, all of Los Angeles; three grand-nieces; three grand-nephews; seven great-grand-nieces; and six great-grand-nephews.
Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel of David City.
Gladys Burianek
OMAHA -- Gladys R. (Roh) Burianek, 101, of Omaha, formerly of Abie, died Monday, March 8, 2010.
Visitation begins at 5 p.m. Thursday, followed by a wake service at 6:30 p.m. at Heafey-Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road in Omaha. Funeral Service is at 11 a.m. Friday at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Abie. Interment is at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery at Abie.
Mrs. Burianek was born Dec 27, 1908, to Frank and Anna Roh.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Yarmel; parents, Frank and Anna Roh; sister, Rose Roh; and brothers, Joseph, Albin, Edward, Frank and Emil Roh.
Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, L.F. "Bud" and Arlene Burianek of Ralston; grandchildren, Lisa Burianek (John Cropley), Jeffrey Burianek (Jill Reel, M.D.), Laura (Mark) Gilliland, Becky (Bryan) Canaday, Bret Burianek (Melissa McFadden); eight great-grandchildren; brother, Dr. Roman C. (Martha) Roh; dear friend, Bernita Majerus; many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Peter Catholic Church of Omaha, Creighton Prep or a Charity of Choice.
Arrangements by Heafey-Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, Omaha.
Drew Fiala
Drew Paul Allen Fiala, 11, of David City died Friday, March 12, 2010, at his residence.
Funeral Mass is at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 17, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Burial will be at St. Mary's Cemetery. Additional viewing from Tuesday will be on Wednesday, one hour before services at the church.
Drew Paul Allen Fiala was born on March 17, 1998, at Columbus to Luke and Kandie (Gottschall) Fiala. He attended St. Mary's Grade School in David City and was currently a sixth grader at Aquinas Middle School in David City.
Drew enjoyed soccer and was looking forward to becoming a referee this year. He also enjoyed football, wrestling, golf, playing X-box and snowboarding. He played the trumpet in the middle school band and when he could get away, enjoyed fishing. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and Knights of the Altar.
He is survived by his parents; his sister, Brooke of David City; grandparents, Betty and Keith Carter of St. Edward, Paul and Marlene Gottschall of Shelby and Peg and Harry Fiala of David City; great-grandparents, Irene Gotschall of Columbus, Ernest and Lucille Fiala of David City and Gertrude Czapla of Spokane, Wash.; aunts and uncles, Jill and Dan Prochaska, Scott and MaryJan Fiala (Jill and Scott were Drew's godparents), Heath and Karen Fiala (Heath was to be Drew's confirmation sponsor), Dan and Sheri Fiala, Heather and Bud Engel, Patrick and Jamie Fiala, Johnathon Fiala, Brent Fiala, Rick Gottschall, Shane and Connie Gotschall, Kristen and Terry Topil and Heather Anderson,; many cousins and friends.
Memorials may be given to Aquinas Endowment Fund. On-line condolences may be sent to: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.
Roman Dietrich
SCHUYLER -- Roman Dietrich, 53, died Wednesday, March 10, 2010, at his home in Snyder.
A memorial service was Saturday, March 13, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in Schuyler.
Roman was born April 6, 1956, in Schuyler to Roman and Audrea (Hammond) Dietrich. He attended David City High School.
On March 3, 1984, he married Elizabeth Pawley in Fremont. They lived in Fremont, Linwood and now resided in Snyder. Roman had several jobs over the years and his favorite was his job at Smeal Manufacturing, where he worked until his health required his retirement.
Roman is survived by his wife, Beth, of Snyder; two daughters, Megan Dietrich of Omaha and Mackenzie Dietrich of Snyder; five sisters, Barb (Thom) Greenwood of Schuyler, Linda (Carrol) Jakub of Octavia, Shirley (John) Lozos of Schuyler, Kathy (John) Ehlers of Octavia and Bev Ladehoff of David City; one brother, Don (Berniece) Dietrich of Octavia; one sister-in-law, Gale (Gordon) Milne of Bellevue; brother-in-law, Ray (Lynn) Pawley of South Borrough, Mass.; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorials: Family Choice. Condolences to www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.
Lorraine Rezac
SEWARD -- Lorraine Marie Rezac, 61, of Seward died Thursday, March 11, 2010.
Mass of Christian burial was Monday, March 15, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with celebrant the Rev. Rafael Rodriguez. Burial was at Bee Catholic Cemetery.
Mrs. Rezac was born Dec. 21, 1948, to Leonard J. and Wilma (Pelan) Policky at Bee. Lorraine grew up in the rural Bee and Loma area. She was a 1967 graduate of East Butler High School in Brainard.
She was united in marriage to Elmer Rezac on Aug. 8, 1970, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Bee. Elmer passed away on Nov. 16, 1988. Lorraine worked part time at Husker Bar in Brainard and she also was a waitress in Dwight. Lorraine served as the primary babysitter through the years for nearly all of her nieces and nephews either in their homes or at her home by Bee.
Lorraine was a simple person who was content with going places locally, enjoying dances with her nephew's bands performing, attending fish fries, church festivals, summer parades and visiting with local friends. She was a member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church.
Survivors include brothers and sisters-in-law, Don and Kathy Policky of Seward, Les and Theresa Policky of Acworth, Ga., and Bob Policky of Pleasant Dale; sisters-in-law, Amy Policky of Dwight and Jan Policky of Pleasant Dale; sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Fred Vanis of Ulysses; and many nieces and nephews.
Lorraine is preceded in death by her husband, Elmer Rezac; her parents, Leonard and Wilma Policky; and brothers, Vic Policky, Ed Policky and Eldon Policky.
Memorials: Donor's Choice in care of the family. Condolences: www.zabkafuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.
L. Robert Kreizinger
COLUMBUS -- L. Robert (Bob) Kreizinger, 84, of Columbus died Saturday, March 13, 2010, at Golden Living Center in Columbus after a battle with lung cancer.
Mass of Christian burial is at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 17, at St. Isidore Catholic Church, 3921 20th Street in Columbus. Father Joseph Miksch will officiate. Visitation continues from Tuesday on Wednesday from 8-10:30 a.m. at McKown Funeral Home in Columbus. Interment is at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery at David City, with military honors by American Legion Hartman Post 84 Honor Guard.
L. Robert Kreizinger was born May 7, 1925, to Louis R. and Caroline (Meysenburg) Kreizinger at Bellwood. He graduated from David City High School in May 1943.
In November 1943, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served two years. He served in the Air Force Reserves in Lincoln for 28 years until retirement in 1972 at the rank of lieutenant colonel.
On June 7, 1945, he married Alice S. Janky at Gowen Air Force Chapel in Boise, Idaho. After active duty they farmed in Seward, Dodge and Butler counties for 10 years. He worked for Wells Lumber in David City and then for Northern Propane Gas Co. in Columbus and Buckeye Gas Co. in Tulsa, Okla., for a total of 20 years.
Upon retirement they moved back to Columbus in 1991.
He was a member of St. Isidore Catholic Church where he served as Eucharistic Minister, lector, song leader, and choir member. He was a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus and a 50-year member of the American Legion. Bob and his wife volunteered as Eucharistic Ministers and delivered Meals on Wheels for Columbus Community Hospital. They spent 15 years traveling the United States and Canada in their 5th wheel camper.
Bob enjoyed woodworking. He made many beautiful pieces of furniture and craft items for his children and his home. He enjoyed reading, playing cards and working on puzzles, several of which he framed.
He is survived by his wife, Alice; daughter, Dorothy (Gerald) Otoupal of Lincoln; son, Kenneth (Loreen) Kreizinger of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; daughters, Carol Cook and Betsy (Mike) Bonk of Columbus; seven grandchildren, Amy Otoupal Johnson, Krissy Otoupal Simonton, Kelly Cook, Nicole Bonk, Megan Bonk, Katie Kreizinger and Hunter Kreizinger; five great-grandchildren, Katlyn Simonton, Brooke Simonton, Blaine Simonton, Cole Johnson and Kelsey Johnson; his adopted brother, Dan (Zita) Hook of David City; nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceeded in death by his parents; brother Arthur Kreizinger; and sister Josephine Hille.
Memorials: St. Isidore Church building fund. Condolences: www.mckownfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home.
Arthur Schaefer
SEWARD -- Arthur Herman Schaefer, 89, of Seward, formerly of Garland, died Saturday, March 13, 2010, in Seward with his family by his side.
Mass of Christian burial was Tuesday, March 16, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with Father Rafael Rodriguez officiating. Interment was at Seward Cemetery.
Casketbearers were George Schaefer Jr., Leonard Buresh Jr., Chad Schaefer, Seth Schaefer, Jason Wagenknecht, Nick Schaefer, Scott Plautz, Zane Schaefer, Myron Schaefer, Andy Schaefer and Travis Wagenknecht.
Honorary casketbearers: Brenda Sebek, Peggie Masek, Darla Fleege, Brandi Turek, Krystal Schaefer, Casey Sova, Stacy Kopecky, Barb White, Laura Peters, Kelli Johnson, Courtney Cookus.
Arthur was born on Sept. 8, 1920, in Garland to William and Bertha (Wagenknecht) Schaefer. He went to Oak Grove School until the eighth grade.
Arthur was united in marriage to Margaret Zitek on Sept. 29, 1942, at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight. Together they raised nine children. Arthur farmed near Garland and worked for Burlington Northern Railroad for 30 years.
Arthur enjoyed baseball. He especially loved to watch all of his grandchildren's sports and activities. He also played the accordion and loved polka music.
He is survived by his wife, Margaret; four sons and four daughters, George and Phyllis Schaefer, Garland, Tom and Dana Schaefer, Garland, Art "Butch" and Jodi Schaefer, Seward, Rick and Melody Schaefer, Garland, Darlene and Leonard Buresh, Raymond, Elaine Plautz, Garland, Diane and Eugene "Cork" Wagenknecht, Garland, MaryAnne and Jack White, Beaver Crossing; 22 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren.
Art was preceded in death by his parents, William and Bertha Schaefer; son, Gerald "Jerry" Schaefer; son-in-law, Gary Plautz; grandsons, Michael Wagenknecht and Steve Plautz; great-grandchild, Cameron Brecka; and 13 siblings.
Memorials to family choice. Condolences: www.volzkefuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Volzke Funeral Home, Seward.
Carol Yound
EXETER -- Carol Elaine Johnson Yound, 73, of Exeter died late in the evening of March 5, 2010.
Private burial services with a public memorial service were held on Wednesday, March 10, at the United Church of Christ in Exeter, with Pastor Tim and Ginny Adams officiating. Diane Hanson accompanied the congregation in the singing of "How Great Thou Art," "Amazing Grace" and "Here I Am Lord."
Honorary pallbearers were grandchildren, Matt and fiancŽ Jocelyn Davis, Jeremy and Brandon Zoubek (Sandy), Lara Yound (Cindy), Anthony, Travis and Erica Yound (Greg), Jennifer and Nathan Yound (Scott), Ashley and Adam Oltman (Sara), great-granddaughter, Presley Jolene Zoubek (Matt).
Mrs. Yound was born to Harold Johnson and Mildred Barker Johnson on Jan. 14, 1937, on a farm near Greenleaf, Kan. She was one of two children in the family. Carol attended country school until they moved to Washington, Kan., where she attended and graduated from Washington High School in 1954.
On April 3, 1955, Carol married Norman Leo Yound, and to this union, six children were born. Carol was active in the church playing the organ, singing in the choir and teaching Sunday school.
In 1970, Carol and Norm moved to Exeter from Washington and opened Norm's IGA. She worked beside Norm until he retired, and then continued working for their son, Greg, until her retirement in 2002. They enjoyed their retirement years together traveling the United States by bus and car. Carol was an avid reader and a member of the library board for several years. She also enjoyed putting jigsaw puzzles together and loved music.
Due to declining health, Carol moved to the Exeter Care Center in July 2009.
She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Norm, of Exeter; children, Sandy and husband, Myron Zoubek, of Milligan, Cindy Yound of David City, Greg and
wife, Jackie, Yound of Exeter, Scott and wife, Jeanette, Yound of Lincoln, Sara and husband, Darrell Oltman, of Lincoln and Shari Yound of Roeland Park, Kan.; sister-in-law Karel Johnson; sister- and brother-in-law, Verda and Larry Lindsley; three nieces; and a nephew.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents; father- and mother-in-law, Emmett and Myrtle Yound of Washington, Kan.; brother, Delvin Johnson of Tonganoxie, Kan.,
sister- and brother-in-law, Eunice and Charles Griffiths of Washington, Kan.
Memorials to United Church of Christ or Exeter Public Library.
Arrangements by Farmer and Son Funeral Home, Exeter.
Joseph Plasek
FREMONT -- Joseph G. Plasek, 62, of Fremont died Friday, March 12, 2010, in Omaha.
The funeral Mass was Tuesday, March 16, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Fremont, with the Rev. Steve Stillmunks of Christ the King Catholic Church in Omaha officiating. Burial was at Appleton Catholic Cemetery near David City, with military graveside honors by American Legion Post 125 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5814 of David City.
He was born Jan. 17, 1948, in David City to Joseph and Emily Plasek. He grew up in David City and graduated from Aquinas High School in David City in 1967. He attended college in Milford.
He served in the United States Army from 1969 to 1977 and served in Vietnam and Germany. He moved to Fremont in 1977. He served in the Army National Guard from 1977 to 2008 and was deployed to Iraq once during that time. He was employed at Victor's Inc. in Fremont for 30 years as a mechanic.
He was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Fremont. He also was active at St. Bernard's Catholic Church in Omaha and with Amway. He was a farmer, soldier, mechanic and hard worker. He loved to cut wood, fixing and building things and was always ready to help others.
Survivors include three daughters, Khristina Plasek of Hickman, Noisha Plasek of Fremont and Jolene (Mrs. Craig) Massey of Front Royal, Va.; his mother, Emily Plasek of David City; three brothers, Jerry (and wife, Deb) Plasek of Lincoln and Steve (and wife, Julie) Plasek and Timothy Plasek, all of David City; three sisters, Kathleen (Mrs. Dean) Wesch of Schuyler and Margret Plasek and Cheryl Plasek, both of David City; life partner, Marcy Stefan of Omaha; three grandchildren, Cheyanne, Cade and Andrew; and his pets, Abbey and Romeo.
He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph F. Plasek.
Memorials may be made to St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Fremont and American Cancer Society. Condolences: www.mosermemorialchapels.com
Arrangements by Moser Memorial Chapel, Fremont.
Emma Kocian
SEWARD -- Emma C. Kocian, 97, of Dwight died Friday. Services were Tuesday at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight. Burial was at St. Luke's Catholic Cemetery at Loma. Memorials: Donor's choice in care of family. Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.
Harold Stoddard
STROMSBURG -- Harold Dean Stoddard, 84, of Stromsburg died Saturday, Feb. 20, 2010, at Annie Jeffrey Memorial County Health Center in Osceola.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, Feb. 24, at United Methodist Church in Rising City, with Pastor Glenn Hubbard officiating. Graveside services were held at the Stromsburg Cemetery with Military Rites by Stromsburg Legion Post 132.
Organist was Ramona Ellison. Musical selections were "Amazing Grace", "How Great Thou Art" and "In The Garden." Pallbearers were Dennis Nuttelman, Dave Thompson, Scott Lindburg, Scott Prigge, Rex Prigge and Jim Prochaska. Honorary pallbearers were Carrie Cramer, Beth Phillips, Gary Otto, Stephanie Thompson, Michelle Thompson, Wayne Beatty and John Prigge.
Harold was born Oct. 3, 1925, to Merle and Anna (Uphoff) Stoddard in Rising City. He attended Newland country school southwest of Surprise and graduated from Surprise High School in 1942.
He then entered the U.S. Navy where he served his country. Harold was present at the signing of the Articles of Surrender between the United States and Japan in September 1945 on the decks of the U.S.S. Missouri in Tokyo Bay. He returned to the Surprise area where he began farming and raising livestock.
On July 20, 1974, he was united in marriage to Marcia Klein at St. Vincent's Catholic Church in Osceola. Harold and Marcia farmed near Surprise until retiring to Stromsburg in the early 1990s. Harold and Marcia remained in their home until recently moving to Park Villa for the past four months.
Harold enjoyed farming and going to Council Bluffs, Iowa, with his wife. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Rising City, Scottish Rite of Free Masonry and the Shriners of Lincoln. He was also a member of the VFW, Stromsburg Legion Post 132, and United Methodist Church of Rising City.
Survivors include his wife, Marcia of Stromsburg; two brothers, Kenneth (Dorothy) Stoddard of Malta, Ill., and Merle Jr. (Mary) Stoddard of Florida; one sister-in-law, Maxine Stoddard of DeKalb, Ill.; and one brother-in-law, Orville Smith of Shelby; nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Merle and Anna; two brothers, Ivan and
Fred; and three sisters, Mae Davidson, Gladys Arenkill and Mary Ann Smith.
Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Stromsburg.
Daniel Samek
TOPEKA, Kan. - Daniel Marion Samek, 76, of Topeka, Kan., died Thursday, March 11, 2010, at the V.A. Hospital in Topeka after a short, unexpected illness.
Funeral services were held Monday, March 15, at Davidson Funeral Home in Topeka. Military honors and graveside services followed at Half-Day Cemetery at Elmont, Kan.
Mr. Samek was born Feb. 24, 1934, at Bruno, the son of Alois and Mary (Sabata) Samek. He was raised in Nebraska and had lived in Topeka since the early 1960s.
He served in the U.S. Navy and later the U.S. Army.
Dan owned and operated Dan's Mower Shop in North Topeka over 30 years.
He was a lifetime member of Post 400 of the American Legion.
Dan was married to Carol Stone in Norfolk, Va. Three children were born to this union, sons, Ron (Ruth) Samek of Fremont and Don (Cheryl) Samek of Lincoln, and daughter, Linda Lanik of Omaha. He married Emma Kennedy on Feb. 4, 1985, in Topeka. Emma survives at their home.
Other survivors include his sister, Mary Jane (Bill) Riha of Seward; stepchildren, Lee Kennedy, Shirley Cummings and Wesley (Grace) Kennedy, all of Topeka, Barbara (Bill) Mikijanis of Tonganoxie, Kan.; 16 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Valerian; and former wife, Carol.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Topeka Rescue Mission in care of Davidson Funeral Home, 1035 North Kansas Avenue, Topeka, KS 66608 or any charity.
Edward O'Brien
Edward L. O'Brien, 87, died Saturday, March 20, 2010.
Funeral Services are at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, March 24, at Chermok Funeral Home Chapel in David City. Visitation is one hour before the funeral.
Edward was born on April 28, 1922, in Loretto to Irvin J. and Frances (Reed) O'Brien.
He married Arlene Carnahan on July 9, 1941, in Barrington, Ill.
He served during World War II as a Tank Commander in France and Germany.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, reading, playing the accordion, dancing and telling stories and talking about the Sandhills.
Edward is survived by grandchildren, Gina (Chris) Limmer of Omaha and Pat (Amy) O'Brien of Omaha; daughter-in-law, Doris O'Brien of Omaha; sisters, Patti O'Brien of Tucson, Ariz., and Cheryl (Pete) Coronel of Yuma, Ariz.; great-grandchildren, Jordan and Trevor Limmer, Michael, Ty and Caleb O'Brien; brothers-in-law; sister-in-law; and nieces and nephews.
Edward was preceded in death by his parents; wife; son, Michael; brother, Jay; and stepmother, Gladys.
Memorials: Nebraska Games and Park Commission and Alzheimer's Association. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.
George Remmers
George Philip Remmers, 72, of Garrison died Sunday, March 21, 2010, at David Place in David City.
Funeral Services were at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 24, at Faith Lutheran Church in Rising City. Burial was at Faith East Cemetery.
George was born Jan. 30, 1938, in Garrison to George and Esther M. (Daro) Remmers. He graduated from David City High School in 1956 and served in the U.S. Army from January 1958 to January 1960.
George is survived by his brothers, Stephen (Judy) Remmers of York, John Remmers of David City and David (Alice) Remmers of Lincoln; sisters, Marianne (Karl) Ziethen of Garrison, Marjorie (Kenneth) Klingemann of Garrison, and Dianne (Stanley) Musil of Columbus; special friend, Teresa Garihan of Omaha; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Holly Remmers.
Memorials may be given "In Care of the Family." Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.
Geraldine Polacek
Geraldine Polacek, 66, of Bruno, died Sunday, March 21, 2010, at Merrick Manor in Fremont.
Mass of Christian Burial is at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 24, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Bruno, with Father Ron Homes, celebrant. Burial is at St. Anthony's Cemetery.
Geraldine was born Feb. 29, 1944, in North Bend to Edward T. and Agnes (Haba) Kucera. She graduated from David City High School in 1962.
On May 5, 1964, she married Gary Polacek at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Bruno. They farmed near Bruno and Geraldine worked at the Butler County Health Care Center for over 10 years.
She loved cooking, baking kolaches, dancing and teaching the children how to dance. She was a member of St. Anthony's Catholic Church and PCCW.
Geraldine is survived by her husband, Gary of Bruno; one daughter, Stephanie Polacek of Norfolk; one son, Jeremy (Sarah) Polacek of Norfolk; three sisters; Karen (Alden) Kment of Schuyler, Loretta (Ed) Patchen Jr. of Fremont and Jeanette (Tim) Blake of Schuyler; two sisters-in-law, Dott Polacek of Gulf Port, Miss., and Rita (Leonard) Chapek of Weston; nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Agnes Kucera; and a brother-in-law, Eldon Polacek.
Memorials: Family Wishes. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, David City.
Martha Horacek
LAWTON, Okla. -- Martha B. Horacek, 97, died Monday, March 15, 2010, in Lawton, Okla.
Memorial service was Tuesday at Concordia University, The Rock House, 200 Faculty Lane, in Seward. A private family interment will be at Bohemian National Cemetery at Brainard.
Martha was born May 30, 1912, in Rushville to Morris A. and Josie Merl (Clark) Horn. She grew up in Norfolk and was married to Lad A. (Jake) Horacek on Sept. 24, 1933, in Norfolk. He preceded her in death on Aug. 17, 1975.
Prior to her marriage, she had worked as a sales clerk before managing her home and family with great love and skills. She was a member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Omaha.
She is survived by her sons, Perry, Jerry and David; 16 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.
Several brothers, sisters and son, Charles, preceded her in death.
Memorials: Bohemian National Cemetery, 1630 30th Road, David City, NE 68632.
Arrangements by Becker Funeral Home Inc., 1502 Fort Sill Blvd. Lawton, OK 73507; (580)353-3030; email@beckerfuneral.com
Stanley Bartek
VALPARAISO -- Stanley W. Bartek, 94, of Lincoln, formerly of Valparaiso, died Sunday, March 21, 2010.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Friday, March 26, at Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso. Celebrant Monsignor Adrian Herbek will officiate. Visitation is noon to 5 p.m. Thursday at Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home, 424 Pine Street, Valparaiso, with a 6:30 p.m. rosary at the church. Burial will be at St. Joseph's Cemetery at Agnew.
Mr. Bartek was born Dec. 2, 1915, at Agnew to Charles and Frances (Novak) Bartek. He was a member of Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso and Catholic Workman.
Stanley was a retired farmer.
Survivors include sons and daughters, Gregory Bartek of Lincoln, Mary Lou Rerucha of Ralston, Georgiann Gerner of Crete, Rose Ann Oborny of Bellwood, Dennis Bartek of Valparaiso, Sylvester Bartek of Lincoln, Daniel Bartek of Valparaiso and Jean Clausen of Lincoln; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Rose; three daughters; a son; a grandson; a son-in-law; parents; and two sisters.
Memorials: Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church.
Condolences or personal reflections may be sent on line at www.wadlowrozanek.com
Arrangements by Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home.
Martha Demuth
SEWARD -- Martha Marie Demuth, 89, of Seward, died Friday, March 19, 2010, in York.
Mass of Christian Burial was Tuesday, March 23, at St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with Father Rand Langhorst officiating. Burial was at Seward Cemetery.
She was born to Frank and Rose (Trojan) Zitek on Sept. 11, 1920, at Ulysses. Martha was a 1937 graduate of Assumption High School in Dwight.
She was united in marriage to George W. Demuth on Nov. 25, 1941, in Dwight. They lived on a farm near Staplehurst until 1970 when they moved into Staplehurst. They remained in Staplehurst until moving to Seward in 1998.
She was a devoted farmwife and worked at Seward Memorial Hospital for 31 years as a nurses aide. Martha enjoyed gardening, baking and listening and dancing to Czech music.
Martha is preceded in death by her husband, George Demuth; son, Dr. David Demuth; parents, Frank and Rose (Trojan) Zitek; brothers, Edwin and Leo Zitek; brother-in-law, Art Schaefer.
Left to cherish her memories are her son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Barb Demuth of Seward; daughters and sons-in-law, Connie and Dave Wimmer of West Point, Paula and Don Volker of York and Pam and Lonn Hutcheson of Lewisville, Texas; daughter-in-law, Deb Demuth of York; 13 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; sister, Margaret Schaefer of Seward; sisters-in-law, Loretta Zitek of Lincoln and Nell DeMuth of Spokane, Wash.; many nieces and nephews.
Memorials: To family. Condolences: www.zabkafuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.
Bill Kuncl
PRAGUE -- William J. "Bill" Kuncl, 50, died Wednesday, March 17, 2010, at his home in Prague.
Funeral Mass was Saturday, March 20, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Prague, with Father Jamie Hottovy, clergy. Interment was at St. John Cemetery. Pallbearers were Glenn Chvatal, Bob Dauel, Greg Ourada, Larry Ourada, Gary Prochaska and Roger Drews.
Honorary pallbearers were Bob Furasek, Chris, T.J., Jesse, Darren and Nathan Kuncl.
Bill was born in Wahoo on Dec. 17, 1959, to Victor and Helen (Klein) Kuncl. He attended Prague Public School, graduating in 1978.
Bill married Lori Chadek on Oct. 4, 1980, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Prague. Bill lived in Prague his whole life and operated a tractor and truck tire repair business for many years. In recent years, he had been working for Bauer Built in North Bend.
Bill is survived by his daughters, Kendra Kuncl of Omaha and Kelsey Kuncl of Lincoln; mother, Helen Kuncl of Prague; sisters and brother-in-law, Joan and Ray Furasek of Weston and Ruth Kuncl of Prague; brothers and sister-in-law, Tom and Val Kuncl of Prague and Steve Kuncl of Malmo; many nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Victor Kuncl.
Memorials: In care of family.
Arrangements by Kucera Funeral Home, Prague.
Milo Kaspar
Milo Kaspar, 92, of Columbus, formerly of David City, died Sunday, March 21, 2010, in Wahoo.
Funeral Mass is at 10 a.m. Friday, March 26, at St. Francis Catholic Church at Center, with Father Kenneth Hoesing, celebrant. Visitation is 1-4 p.m. Thursday, March 25, at Chermok Funeral Home in David City.
Visitation will continue after 6 p.m. at St. Francis Church, followed by a 7:30 p.m. rosary. Burial will be at St. Francis Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Michael Grant, Tyler Grant, Matt Kaspar, Mark Kaspar, Neil Kaspar and Tom Kaspar. Acolyte: Doug Matulka; Lector: Jim Stara; Reader: Jim Daro.
Milo was born July 22, 1917, on a farm near Prague to Thomas and Emma (Curda) Kaspar. He attended grade school near Weston and graduated from Weston High School in 1935. In the early 1940s Milo worked for Bell Aircraft in Buffalo, N.Y., and also at Glen L. Martin in Omaha.
In January 1944 he joined the U.S. Army Air Corps ground crew and was discharged in June 1946 as a sergeant.
On April 5, 1945, Milo married Antonia Sisel in Loma. He started farming with Antonia in 1947 near Weston. Two children were born during this time, a daughter, Sharon, and son, Norman. In 1955, the family moved near David City, where they farmed until retiring in 1982. In 1990, they moved to Columbus.
Milo served on the District 23 County School Board, Center Township Board and St. Francis Church Board. In addition, he was a 50-year member of Rejda Post 273 American Legion in Brainard and member of the Knights of Columbus and St. Isidore Catholic Church in Columbus. He enjoyed bowling, dancing, working with wood and playing cards.
Milo is survived by a son, Norman (Cheryl) Kaspar of David City; daughter, Sharon Werner of Lincoln; grandchildren, Rebecca (Mike) Grant, Matt (Amber) Kaspar, Natalie (Jimmy) Bunch, Mark Kaspar and Neil Kaspar; great-grandchildren, Mekayla, Tyler, Caden Addison and Bailey Grant and Olivia and Adison Kaspar; brother-in-law, Ernie Sabatka; sister-in-law, Helen Sisel; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Milo was preceded in death by his parents; wife; grandson, Michael Benes; and brother, Max Kaspar.
Memorials: Parkinson Disease Foundation. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home.
Stanley Bartek
VALPARAISO -- Stanley W. Bartek, 94, of Lincoln, formerly of Valparaiso, died Sunday, March 21, 2010.
Mass of Christian Burial was Friday, March 26, at Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso, with Monsignor Adrian Herbek officiating. Burial was at St. Joseph's Cemetery at Agnew.
Mr. Bartek was born Dec. 2, 1915, at Agnew to Charles and Frances (Novak) Bartek. He was a member of Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso and Catholic Workman.
Stanley was a retired farmer.
Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Gregory and Lu Bartek of Lincoln, Dennis Bartek of Valparaiso, Sylvester and Patricia Bartek of Lincoln and Daniel Bartek of Valparaiso; daughters and sons-in-law, Mary Lou Rerucha of Ralston, Georgiann and Gary Gerner of Crete, Rose Ann Louis Oborny of Bellwood, Jean and Brian Clausen of Lincoln, Glenn Bouc and Arlen Warta; sister, Lillian Jirovsky; brother, Ivan Bartek; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Rose; daughters, Virginia Skipper, Diane Warta and Doris Bouc; son, Joseph; grandson, Glen Gerner; son-in-law, Joe Rerucha; and sisters, Sister Marie Bartek and Josephine Navracil.
Memorials: Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church.
Condolences: www.wadlowrozanek.com
Arrangements by Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home, Valparaiso.
Steve Riha
Steve M. Riha, 51, of David City, died Friday, March 26, 2010, at BryanLGH Medical Center East in Lincoln.
Funeral Mass is at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 31, in St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Father Bernard Kimminau officiating. Additional viewing from Tuesday will be Wednesday, one hour before services at the church. Burial will be at the church cemetery.
Steven M. Riha was born on March 18, 1959, at David City to Eugene and Regina (Vrbka) Riha. He graduated from Aquinas High School in David City in 1978.
He worked at the Schuyler Packing Plant for 10 years and he also farmed. Farming was his life's work. He farmed with his brother Dan most of his adult life. Steve's other hobbies included watching the stock market daily and knowing what prices grain, gold and silver were at each day. He also enjoyed being with family and socializing at Northside or Stop-Inn. He would occasionally enjoy a trip to the horse races when time permitted. He also spent time playing cards at the senior center in David City.
Steve is survived by his mother, Regina (Marvin) Skala of Crete; his siblings, Larry Riha of David City, Connie (Tim) Novicki of Columbus, Michael Riha and Daniel Riha, both of David City, and Randy (Roxene) Riha, Janie (Cliff) Ziemba and Dale Riha, all of Columbus; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Eugene, in 1994; and his grandparents, John and Agnes Vrbka and Anton and Matilda Riha.
The family has requested in lieu of flowers, memorials be given towards Mass Intentions or In Care of the Family. Condolences may be sent to www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.
Glenna Betzen
MCPHERSON, Kan. -- Glenna Merle Betzen, 88, of McPherson, Kan., died Wednesday, March 17, 2010, at Cedars House in McPherson.
A private family funeral service was held at Glidden-Ediger Chapel in McPherson, with Chaplain Scott Watford officiating. Private family graveside services were at Elmwood Cemetery at Woodward, Okla.
Glenna Merle was born in Woodward on Oct. 23, 1921, the daughter of Farris W. and Ethel (Lucas) Campbell. Glenna Merle attended a Woodward country school and graduated from Woodward High School. She attended business school.
She was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in McPherson, a former member of the Altar Society and Legion of Mary of St. Joseph Catholic Church in McPherson and a former member of St. Peter Catholic Church in Woodward.
Glenna Merle was a homemaker and a bookkeeper for C. R. Anthony's Clothier's and worked alongside Francis for many years. Glenna Merle was a former member of the Elk's Club of McPherson. She was the widow of Francis J. Betzen. They were married on Sept. 8, 1940, at Woodward and Francis died on Dec. 28, 1987.
Surviving members of her family include two daughters, Carol (John) Austin of McPherson and Cathy (Tom) McProud of Olathe, Kan.; a son, Kendall Betzen of David City; 10 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.
Glenna Merle was preceded in death by her parents; husband; a son, F. Keith Betzen; and a younger brother Bob Campbell.
Memorials: St. Joseph Catholic Church or American Diabetes Association in care of Glidden-Ediger Funeral Home, 222 W. Euclid Street, McPherson, KS 67460.
Emma Kocian
SEWARD -- Emma Christina Kocian, 97, of Dwight died Friday, March 12, 2010, in David City.
Mass of Christian Burial was Tuesday, March 16, at Assumption Catholic Church in
Dwight, with Celebrant Father Sean Timmerman. Burial was at St. Luke's Catholic Cemetery at Loma.
Emma was born Dec. 18, 1912, southwest of Loma, to Thomas J. and Emilie (Klima) Kocian. Emma attended rural school in Seward County and Butler County.
On May 21, 1934, Emma was united in marriage to Emil Alois Kocian at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Bee. Their marriage was blessed with two children, Geraldine and Donald. They farmed near Loma until 1964 when they moved to Dwight.
Emma was a member of Assumption Catholic Church, Altar Society and KD Workmen.
Emma is preceded in death by her husband, Emil Kocian; her parents, Thomas and Emilie Kocian; son-in-law, Don Rejda; sisters and brothers-in-law, Lillian and Anton Kocian and Marie and Louis Ruzicka; brothers and sisters-in-law, Louis and Lydia Kocian and Roman and Phyllis Kocian; two infant brothers, Stanley and Thomas Kocian; sister-in-law, May Kocian; and brother-in-law, Wilmer Virgil.
Emma is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Geraldine and Arnold Kouma of Lincoln; son and daughter-in-law, Donald and Geraldine Kocian of Dwight; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; sister, Blanche Virgil of Raymond; four step grandchildren; 20 step great-grandchildren; two step great-great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.
Memorials: Donor's choice in care of the family.
Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.
Darlene Jurgensmeier
VALPARAISO -- Darlene M. (Vondra) Jurgensmeier, 80, of David City, formerly of Agnew, died peacefully on Saturday, March 27, 2010.
Mass of Christian Burial is at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 31, at Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso, with Monsignor Adrian Herbek officiating. Burial is at St. Joseph's Cemetery at Agnew.
She was born on Sept. 29, 1929, to Ernest and Mildred (Rehovsky) Vondra at Bee. Darlene graduated from Valparaiso High School in 1947, then pursued a career in teaching. She taught at a county school near Raymond and also worked at Elgin Watch Co. in Lincoln. A short time later she met the love of her life, Jerry Jurgensmeier, and they were united in marriage on June 30, 1949. From that point on she devoted her entire life to caring for her family.
Darlene's devotion to God, her parents, husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was her greatest gift. By way of example, she instilled the importance of family and the bond that holds it together, for which her children are eternally grateful.
Darlene is preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; parents; and brother, Melvin Vondra.
She is survived by her children and spouses, Lois Joyce of Raymond, Lee and Vicki Jurgensmeier of Lakewood, Wash., Keith and Sherry Jurgensmeier of Gresham, Laurie and Bill Kreitman of David City and Terri and Lloyd Jakoubek of Raymond; 13 grandchildren and spouses; three great-grandchildren; sister and brother-in-law, Jeannie and Hal Waller; brother and sister-in-law, Norman and Doris Vondra; nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be directed to the family for future designation. Condolences: www.wadlowrozanek.com
Arrangements by Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home, Valparaiso.
Kenneth Moser
OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - Kenneth Moser of Overland Park, Kan., died Saturday, March 6, 2010.
The funeral was Tuesday, March 9, in Mission, Kan. Burial was March 10 at David City.
Kenneth was born Aug. 1, 1932, at Niobrara (Verdel) to Ralph Moser and Josephine McAffee.
Survivors include his wife, Rita (Dolezal) Moser; sons, Keith and wife, Lori, of Una, Idaho, and Roger of Olathe, Kan.; grandson, Logan Moser of Forrest Grove, Ore.; sisters, Delores (Bob) Morgan of Lincoln and Janet (Don) Christensen of Henderson, Nev.; brother, Karen (Dixie) Moser of Omaha; sister-in-law, Agnes (Bill) Kobza of Lincoln; and brothers-in-law, Al (Christine) Dolezal of Columbus and Anton (Betty) Dolezal of David City.
Jean Skripek
RANCHO SANTA FE, Calif. - Jean Elizabeth (Lowry) Skripek of Rancho Santa Fe, Calif., died peacefully at home on Tuesday, March 23, 2010.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 23, in the El Camino Memorial - Sorrento Valley Chapel, 5600 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego, CA.
Jean was born and spent her early childhood in New York City. As a young child, along with her twin sister, she spent many summers and attended school in Rising City. Returning to the East Coast, she graduated from Verona High School in Verona, N.J. Continuing her education, she graduated from Montclair State University and later received her law degree from Rutgers Law School.
She was admitted to the New Jersey Bar in 1984 and joined the law firm of Brach, Eichler, Rosenberg and Silver, et al in Roseland, N.J. In 1989, Jean moved to San Diego, where she was admitted to the California State Bar. She was associated with the law firm of Jennings, Engstrom and Hendrikson and then the firm of Duckor and Spradling. She later formed her own Family Law practice.
In 1963, Jean married Joseph P. Skripek, Esq., and they had two sons, Michael and Craig.
She is survived by her sons, Michael and wife, Kathy, and Craig and wife, Annabell; twin sister, Joan L. Apisa; mother, Marcella DiMele; five grandchildren; niece; nephew; cousin; and many friends and associates. Jean was the granddaughter of Olive (Ruth) Thomas of Rising City.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Scripps Green Hospital Cancer Center, 10666 North Torrey Pines Road, LaJolla, CA 92037.
