March 2009 Obituaries
Wednesday, March 18, 2009 - 10:13 pm
Robert Rathjen
CARSON CITY, Nev. - Robert "Bob" R. Rathjen, 72, of Carson City, Nev., formerly of Butler County, died Monday, March 16, 2009.
Mr. Rathjen was born Aug. 18, 1936, at Ulysses to Adolf and Marie (Jankey) Rathjen.
He was retired from the U.S. Army after 20 years and also a retired postman at the David City Post Office. He enjoyed fishing and hunting.
Survivors include sons and daughter-in-law, Scott Rathjen of San Antonio and Steve and Heather Rathjen of Phoenix; four grandchildren; brother; Dave Rathjen; and sisters and husband, Delores Novell, Cheri and Bob DeTurk and Darleen Soukup.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Lavern.
Joanna Ross
Joanna M. Ross, 82, of Lincoln, formerly of David City, died of congestive heart failure Tuesday, March 31, 2009, at Ambassador, Lincoln in Lincoln.
A memorial service will be held at Windcrest Assisted Living, 7208 Van Dorn Street in Lincoln at 10 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 19. A combined graveside service for her and her husband will be held at the David City Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. on Sept. 19.
Mrs. Ross was born in Kansas City, Mo., Aug. 11, 1928, to Jesse Harmon and Anna (Weixeldorfer). She received a diploma from Central High School in 1946 and an associate in commerce degree from Kansas City Junior College in 1948 and continued her education at Rockhurst College.
She worked for a short time at Firestone and then five years at Boling Office Supply in Kansas City as a bookkeeper. In 1953, she went to work for Kansas City Power and Light Co., where she worked in internal audit and was later a supervisor. While there, she met Dick Ross, a native of David City.
They married in Glendale, Calif., Oct. 10, 1959. In 1961, her daughter, Rebecca, was born, and she became a full-time mother and housewife. In 1972, the family moved to David City along with her mother, Anna Harmon.
In 1973, she became interested in genealogy while sorting through belongings in the Ross family home after the death of Ella Ross. In the 1970s, she was a very active member of the Butler County Historical Society and also spent much time doing research at the Nebraska State Historical Society in Lincoln.
When she moved to Lincoln in 1985, she became a volunteer there. In 1989, she was named Outstanding Volunteer of the Year for her work on the Nebraska State Newspaper Project. This included indexing the David City Tribune and training other volunteers to index Nebraska papers.
She was a member of Lincoln-Lancaster County Genealogical Society, Czechoslovak Genealogical Society International and German-Bohemian Heritage Society. Her hobbies included photography, antique collecting and raising African violets.
Survivors include her daughter, Rebecca Ross of Birdsboro, Pa.
She was preceded in death by her stepfather, John Keiper, in 1966; her mother in 1975; and her husband in 2006.
Memorials: Nebraska State Historical Society, P.O. Box 82554, Lincoln, NE 68501, and state for library/archives in memory of Joanna Ross.
Nadine Scheinost
NORFOLK - Nadine Scheinost, 85, of Norfolk, formerly of Shelby, died Thursday, March 12, 2009, at Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk.
Services were Monday at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Norfolk, with the Rev. Douglas Scheinost officiating. Burial was at Hillcrest Memorial Park Cemetery, with military rites by American Legion Post 16, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1644 and Nebraska National Guard Honor Team.
Mrs. Scheinost was born May 3, 1923, in David City to Frank and Isabel (Thelen) Lux. She grew up at Shelby, where she graduated from high school in 1940. She was a 1944 graduate of Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
During World War II, she served in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps in the Philippines and Japan, as a first lieutenant.
She married Charles Scheinost Sept. 1, 1947, at St. Mary's Cathedral in Lincoln. They lived in Norfolk 23 years, before moving to O'Neill for 20 years, and returned to Norfolk in May 1993.
During her nursing career, she worked at Veterans Hospital in Lincoln, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Norfolk and St. Anthony's Hospital in O'Neill.
She was president of the Altar Society in both Norfolk and O'Neill, volunteered for the American Red Cross for 43 years and was chairman of
the O'Neill Bloodmobile for nine years.
In parish work she was coordinator of the RENEW program for St. Patrick's Catholic Church in O'Neill and co-chair of the Bridge Marathon, a benefit for St. Anthony's Hospital, for 10 years. She was a 50-year member of Catholic Daughters of Americas St. Monica Chapter, a lifetime member of the O'Neill Legion Auxiliary, American Legion Post 16 and Norfolk VFW Post 7644.
She enjoyed playing bridge with her bridge club friends and attending daily Mass at St. Joe's Nursing Home.
Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, the Rev. Douglas of Verdigre-Niobrara, Barry and Sue of Waterloo and Stewart and Ting and Charles Jr. and Sarah, all of Norfolk; daughters and sons-in-law, Sharon and Bob Stubbe of Papillion, Karen Kay and Willard Goodell of Millard, Patrice of Norfolk and Debra and Mike Svoboda of Burwell; 16 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 2003; a granddaughter; and four brothers.
Memorials: Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Norfolk, or St. Vincent de Paul.
Arrangements by Howser-Fillmer Mortuary, Norfolk.
Lois Steger
CLARKS -- Lois L. Steger, 81, of Clarks died Monday, March 30, 2009, at St. Francis Medical Center in Grand Island.Services are Thursday, April 2, at 10 a.m. at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Clarks, with Father Richard Whiting officiating. Visitation is Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. with a 7 p.m. rosary at the church. Burial will be at St. Mary's Cemetery at David City at 2 p.m.
Ms. Steger was born June 4, 1927, to John J. and Clara M. (Langhorst) Steger at Clarks. She lived most of her life in Clarks and attended Clarks Public Schools, graduating in 1945. She taught school at District 7 for five years.
She then attended Nebraska Central College and took correspondent classes through the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. She worked for William Douglas & Co. for 15 years while going to school.
She then moved to Omaha and worked for J.C. Penney, where she was head manager of the lingerie department. She returned to Clarks in 1952 to teach at District 61 and to help care for her mother. She also helped her brothers
Raymond and Leonard on the farm. She continued to teach at District 61 for three years until taking the job as bookkeeper for Regan, Regan, & Hess for over 34 years.
She enjoyed the outdoors, cooking, baking, embroidery, doing crafts, dancing, reading and visiting with family and friends.
Survivors include five nieces and two nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents; four sisters; three brothers; one nephew; and one niece.
Memorials: St. Peter's Catholic Church. Condolences: www.wagnerfuneral.com
Arrangements by Wagner Funeral Home of Central City and Clarks.
Rita (Brannen) Lenning
GOLDFIELD, Iowa -- Rita L. Lenning, 56, of Goldfield, Iowa, formerly of David City, died Sunday, March 29, 2009, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minn.
A memorial service will be Saturday, April 4, at 11 a.m. at
First United Methodist Church in Fremont, 815 N. Broad Street. There will be no visitation or burial.
Mrs. Lenning was born June 20, 1952, in David City to Clair and Lucille Brannen. She grew up in David City and attended St. Mary's Grade School and graduated from Aquinas High School in 1970.
In 1972, she moved to Fremont, where she resided for 28 years. She worked at Pendelton and Diers Ford and also owned and managed a retail business, MJT Lettering and Balloons. She also worked at Fremont Answering Service for a short time and then became an insurance agent for National Farmers Union Insurance.
In 2000 she moved to Goldfield, where she married Chuck Lenning Sept. 13, 2002. While in Goldfield, she worked at the Well and Van Diest Supply in Webster City, Iowa.
Survivors include her husband; son and daughter-in-law, Jeremy and Tonya Hemmer; siblings, Joyce Stalians, Clarice Lake, Sandi Mahoney, Tony Brannen, Kay Kadavy, Mary Wehenkel, Pat Brannen and Renee Nickolite; stepchildren, Chad Lenning, Matt Lenning, Melissa Slapnicher and Mark Lenning; grandchildren, Mara and Chloe Hemmer; and stepgrandchildren, Carter, Grant, Elizabeth, Natalie, Malia, Micah and Dylan.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother-in-law, Tony Rerucha; and niece, Jordan Nickolite.
Dee Butcher
LINCOLN -- Dee Eugene Butcher, 85, of Grinnell, Iowa, formerly of David City, died Tuesday, March 24, 2009, at Grinnell Regional Medical Center in Iowa.Graveside services were Saturday, March 28, at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery in Lincoln.
Mr. Butcher was born Feb. 17, 1924, at Burchard to Pearl V. and Frank J. Butcher. He graduated from Milligan High School in 1942 and attended the University of Nebraska and Concordia College.
He served in the U.S. Naval Air Corp.
In 1947 he married Irene Hospodsky. They lived in Chicago and then in David City, where he owned the Butcher Furniture store. They moved to Lincoln in 1959, where he was employed by the Civil Defense and Nebraska State Railway Commission. In 1962, he accepted a position with General Telephone in Grinnell. He retired from GTE in 1985 after serving as Director of Personnel and Public Relations.
He was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans and American Legion. He enjoyed traveling,
hunting, playing cards and spending time with his family.
Survivors include his wife; daughters and sons-in-law, Kathryn King, Deborah and Paul Johnson and Jan and David
Pope; grandchildren, Dan, JaDee and Cole Johnson, Kelly King and Jamie and Jason Pope; and two great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jay W. Butcher; and brother, Paul C. Butcher.
Memorials: To family to be donated to charities of its choice.
Arrangements by Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home, Lincoln.
Dale Gill
HASTINGS -- Dale E. Gill, 89, of Hastings, formerly of Surprise, died Tuesday, March 24, 2009, at Perkins Pavilion, Good Samaritan Society, Hastings-Village.Services were Saturday, March 28, at Brand-Wilson Chapel in Hastings, with Jim Pettitt officiating. Burial was at Shelby Cemetery.
Mr. Gill was born, May 7, 1919, to Ed and Edith (Coleman) Gill on a farm near Surprise. He graduated from Cottonwood Country School and attended Surprise High School.
On July 14, 1939, he enlisted in the U.S. Army at Fort McArthur, San Pedro, Calif. In July 1941 he was transferred to Fort Richardson at Anchorage, Alaska, where he was stationed until he was sent back to the states for additional training. Alaska was a territory of the
United States then.
He married Dorla M. Fox July 13, 1943, in Los Angeles, and they had one son, Ralph, born in 1949. She died Jan. 4, 1968.
He was re-assigned to the 143rd Anti-Aircraft Gun Battalion after returning from duty in Alaska. In 1944 he was sent to Europe where the 143rd distinguished itself in the Battle of the Bugle. He was honorably discharged on Nov. 1, 1945, after serving nearly six and a half years.
He was a meat cutter and butcher in various Nebraska towns for nearly 10 years. In 1954 he joined Security Mutual Life Insurance Co. of Lincoln as a salesman and general agent. He retired from that company in 1982.
He married Theresa M. Rotter July 20, 1968, in Trenton. After retiring, they did some traveling, and he became an avid writer of his life's experiences.
He was a member of American Legion Post 11 and a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, both in Hastings. He was a former member of Hastings Association of Life Underwriters of which he served as president in 1969. He also served on the Adams County Senior Services Board several years.
Survivors include his wife; son, Ralph of Hastings; and a
granddaughter of Lincoln.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife; brothers, Bernard, Gerald and Donald; and sisters, Phyllis Fricke and Bonnie Ludden.
Memorials: Salvation Army or Hastings Museum. Condolences: www.brandwilson.com
Arrangements by Brand-Wilson Funeral Home, Hastings.
Agnes Masur
GEDDES, S.D. -- Agnes Louise Masur, 91, of Geddes, S.D., died Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2009, at Platte Health Center in Platte, S.D.Services were Monday, Feb. 2, at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Geddes. Officiating were Fathers Jesudas Thaliyan, C.M.I., Roger Geditz and Ken Hoesing. Internment was at St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery at Geddes.
Mrs. Masur was born April 8, 1917, in Platte, S.D., to Jacob and Margaret (Travis) Steffens. She attended country school and Platte High School and graduated from Geddes High School in 1936. She was an operator for Northwestern Bell
Telephone for many years.
On May 3, 1939, she married Ignatius Masur in Geddes. She was a member of St. Ann's Catholic Church and Altar Society.
She became a resident of the Platte Nursing Home on Sept. 11, 2008.
Survivors include children and spouses: Beverly and Lyle Walker of Eureka, Calif., Eileen and David Walker of
Carmichael, Calif., Carmen and Dennis DeGraff of Buena Vista, Va., David and Cleo of Clearlake, Calif., Thomas and Marcene and Colleen and Richard Slaba, all of Geddes, Tony of Coeur D Alene, Idaho, Cindy and Kenneth Jeager of
Harrold, S.D., Kathy and Joe Tegethoff of Platte, S.D., and Mark and Jeanne of David City; 33 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Mary Mushitz of Rapid City, S.D., and Gertrude Steffens of Geddes; and sister in-law, Marcene Steffens of Humansville, Mo.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; an infant son, Dennis; three granddaughters; three brothers; one sister; a sister-in-law; and a brother-in-law.
Darlene Wilch
SCHUYLER - Darlene Wilch, 82, of Schuyler died Wednesday, March 25, 2009, at Alegent Healthcare Center in Schuyler.
Services were Saturday, March 28, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Schuyler, with Vicar Bill Mattfeld officiating. Burial was at Schuyler Cemetery.
Mrs. Wilch was born Oct. 29, 1926, in Schuyler to Elmer and Lenora (Kroeger) Folken. She graduated from Schuyler High School.
On July 18, 1948, she married Glen H. Wilch at Trinity
Lutheran Church in Schuyler. They lived in Omaha for a year while he attended barber college and then returned to Schuyler. She worked at Arrow Inn Cafe, taught Weight Watchers, owned and operated the Schuyler Fitness Center and was active in the Ladies Aid of Trinity Lutheran Church.
Survivors include daughters and son-in-law, Karen Murphy and Deb and Phil Christensen of Schuyler; sons and daughters-in-law, Steve and Kristi Wilch and Dennis and Sherry Wilch of Schuyler and David and Kelly Wilch of Murietta, Calif.; 13 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; sister, Lerlaine Bohac of Papillion; and brother and wife, Don and Donna Folken of Schuyler.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 2004; granddaughter, Tara Christensen; sister, Geraldine Brocker; and brother, Melvin Folken.
Memorials: Trinity Lutheran Church. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, Schuyler.
Alice Roberts
LINCOLN - Alice Marie Roberts, 55, of Lincoln, formerly of David City, died Sunday, March 15, 2009, at Tabitha Health Care in Lincoln after a battle with cancer.
Services were Tuesday, March 17, at Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Lincoln.
She was born April 30, 1953, in Grand Island to Eulis and Alice Marie (Hill) Staggs.
Survivors include a daughter, Camrin White of Washington, D.C.; her mother of David City; sisters and brothers-in-law, Evalena and Vernie Fox of Valley Falls, Kan., Linda and Duane Cech of Schuyler; and Cindy Wolfe and Dan Harris of Columbus; brothers, Richard and David Staggs of David City; nieces; and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father; sister, Marilyn; niece, Lynn Marie Fox; nephew, Douglas Joseph Cech; and uncle, Everett Hill.
Memorials: Tabitha Hospice, 4720 Randolph Street, Lincoln, NE 68510.
Alice Olberding
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. - Alice Eileen Olberding, 84, of Flagstaff, Ariz., formerly of Shelby, died Friday, March 13, 2009, in Flagstaff.Services were Monday, March 16, at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Flagstaff, with Deacon Robert E. Olberding assisting. Burial and graveside services were held Saturday, March 28, at Sacred Heart Cemetery at Shelby, with Deacon Olberding presiding.
Mrs. Olberding was born March 19, 1924, at Shelby. She grew up on farms near Silver Creek, Osceola and Shelby. She was valedictorian of Osceola High School.
She married Gordon Sundberg, an Army Air Corps test pilot, in 1945. He was killed in 1947 in a plane crash on a routine flight.
In August 1950, she married Robert F. Olberding, whom she met at a Newman Club dance at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He was attending school on the VA bill after being in World War II, and she had returned to school. They had two children and lived in various places in Kansas and Nebraska with him working as a CPA and college professor. He died in 1981 at the age of 59 from cancer while teaching at Creighton University in Omaha.
She then spent the winters in Mesa, Ariz., and summers in Omaha. She enjoyed reading cookbooks, traveling, dancing, eating out and Theos, a widow and widowers group in Omaha she had organized.
She moved to Olivia White hospice house March 2, 2009.
Survivors include a son, Robert "Buck" E. Olberding of Flagstaff; daughter, D'Alice "De" Hilton of Grafton, New South Wales, Australia; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren.
Marlene Jacobsen
COLUMBUS -- Marlene Jacobson, 71, of Bellwood died Sunday, March 15, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
Services are Thursday, March 19, at 10:30 a.m. at Gass Haney Funeral Home in Columbus, with the Rev. Timothy White officiating. Interment will be at Roselawn Memorial Cemetery. Visitation is Wednesday from 5-8 p.m. and Thursday from 9:30-10:30 a.m., with a family prayer service at 10:15 a.m., all at the funeral home.
Mrs. Jacobson was born Dec. 13, 1937, in rural Platte County to Otto L. and Henrietta I. (Kroeger) Kaspar. She attended Richland and Bellwood grade schools and Kramer High School in Columbus.
She married Ed Buzynski and they had four children. They lived in Columbus and then California for a time.
In 1964, she married Jim Jacobson, and they had two sons. They lived in Bellevue, where she helped him run his business. In 1970, she moved back to Bellwood where she raised her six children. She worked at Becton-Dickinson in Columbus and the David City Bakery.
She enjoyed gardening, canning and working in her flower garden. She was a great cook, a wonderful mother and grandmother and she enjoyed babysitting her grandchildren, watching Husker football and listening to Elvis Presley.
Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Kathy and Laryl From of Clarkson and Lynn and Denny Armagost of Columbus/Bellwood; sons and daughters-in-law, Scott Buzynski of Bellwood, Mark and Tracy Buzynski of Columbus and Jim Jacobson Jr. and John and Jenny Jacobson, all of Bellwood; sister-in-law, Carrie Kasper of Bellwood; former husband Jim Jacobson Sr. of Omaha; grandchildren and spouses, BJ and Chrystal Christi, Shane and Jennifer From, Krystal From, Jessica and Zach Vodehnal, Chad Loseke, Danielle Loseke, Tyler Kroeger, Shannon Buzynski, Thomas Jacobson, Samantha Jacobson and Johnathan Jacobson; and great-grandchildren, Emma and Payden From, Lilli Hernbloom and Brody Vodehnal.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers, Rolland, Don and Jim Kaspar.
Memorials: To family's choice. Condolences: www.gasshaney.com
Arrangements by Gass Haney Funeral Home.
Alice Roberts
LINCOLN - Alice Marie Roberts, 55, of Lincoln, formerly of David City, died Sunday, March 15, 2009.
Services were Tuesday, March 17, at Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Lincoln.
She was born in Grand Island to Alice Marie and Eulis Staggs.
Survivors include a daughter, Camrin White of Washington, D.C.; her parents; sisters, Evalena Fox of Valley Falls, Kan., Linda Cech of Schuyler and Cindy Wolfe of Columbus; brothers, David and Richard Staggs of David City; nieces; and nephews.
Memorials: Tabitha Hospice.
John Hotovy
SEWARD - John B. Hotovy, 91, of Dwight died Thursday, March 12, 2009, in Seward.
Services were Monday, March 16, at Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight, with Fathers Sean Timmerman and Dennis Hotovy officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.
Mr. Hotovy was born Dec. 23, 1917, in rural Dwight to Cyril and Julia (Makes) Hotovy. He graduated in 1935 from Assumption High School in Dwight.
He married Sylvia A. Mares Aug. 10, 1942. He farmed north of Dwight.
He was a member of Assumption Catholic Church and Catholic Workman.
Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, David and Diana Hotovy of Dwight, Roger and Janelle Hotovy of Lincoln and Alan Hotovy of Dwight; daughter, Sharon Swoboda of Columbus; eight grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; brother, George Hotovy; sisters, Blanche Hotovy and Mary Novotny; and son-in-law, Duane Swoboda.
Memorials: Donor's choice in care of family. Condolences: www.zabkafuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.
Lillie Johns
STROMSBURG - Lillie Mae Johns, 88, of Stromsburg died Monday, March 9, 2009, at Midwest Covenant Home in Stromsburg.
Services were Friday, March 13, at Evangelical Free Church in Stromsburg, with Pastor Willis Pauls officiating. Burial was at Stromsburg Cemetery.
Mrs. Johns was born Aug. 28, 1920, to Ervin E. and Leonie M. (Misner) Hilligas in Hamilton County. She graduated from Hordville High School.
She married Vernon C. Johns March 3, 1947, in Phillipsburg, Kan. They lived in Wyoming and Lincoln, before moving to Stromsburg. She was a manager for the Res-Q-Shoppe in Stromsburg for 30 years.
She was a member of St. Vincent Catholic Church, VFW Auxiliary 131 and Eagles Club.
Survivors include children and spouses, Bonnie and Harvey Sieck of Stromsburg, John and Carol Johns of LaQuinta, Calif., Joe and Terrill Johns of York, Julie and Andy Young of Santa Rosa, Calif., Jennifer and Terry Bloom of Columbus and Jeff and Beth Johns of Dwight; 22 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and sisters, Ruth Nelson of Grand Island and June Robinson of Fullerton.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; an infant daughter; sister, Leala Hilligas; brothers, Glen and Lloyd; and brothers-in-law, Al Nelson and Ralph Robinson.
Memorials: Evangelical Free Church, Stromsburg.
Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Stromsburg.
Leona Schroeder
LINCOLN - Leona L. Schroeder, 87, of Lincoln, formerly of Bee, died Saturday, March 14, 2009.Services were Friday, March 20, at North American Martyrs Catholic Church in Lincoln, with Fathers Brian Connor and Sean Kilcawley officiating. Burial was at Lincoln Memorial Park.
Mrs. Schroeder was born July 30, 1921, at Bee to James and Anna Hraban.
She married Earl Schroeder. She was a homemaker, ran a childcare business out of her home and then retired after 15 years from Russell Stovers as a candy maker.
She was a former member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Cathedral of the Risen Christ in Lincoln and Altar Society. She was a member of North American Martyrs Catholic Church and Catholic Daughters, active in the Senior Center and enjoyed playing cards with different groups.
Survivors include a daughter, Nancy Blacksmith of Detroit, Mich.; sons and wives, Morris and Carlin Schroeder of Lincoln and Gary and Vanetta Schroeder of Malcolm; eight grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; brother and wife, Rudy and Maxine Hraban of Gering; sisters, Mildred Buckingham of Ashland and Maryann Morton of Lincoln; and sisters-in-law, Lillian Hraban of Lincoln and Marcy Hraban of Dwight.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and brothers, Frank, James and George Hraban.
Memorials: North American Martyrs Catholic Church. Condolences: info@bmlfh.com
Arrangements by Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home, Lincoln.
Jodie Howser
Jodie C. Howser, 62, of Rising City died Monday, March 2, 2009, in Columbus.A memorial service was Thursday, March 5, at United Methodist Church in Rising City, with Pastor Glenn Hubbard officiating.
Mrs. Howser was born May 5, 1946, to Frank and Laura Stanton in Darby, Pa.
She married Gary D. Howser Sr. Oct. 16, 1974, in Yankton, S.D. They were foster parents for more than 30 years, caring for dozens of children. She loved taking care of her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids and loved to cater and cook.
Survivors include her husband; daughters and sons-in-law, Dorene and Michael Spies and George Ann and Jeff Williams, all of Grand Island, Naomi and Mike Morales of Hot Springs, S.D., Fronia Miller of Lincoln, Emily Louizou-Howser of Kansas City, Mo., Honey Booth of Albion and Racheal Howser of Rising City; sons and daughters-in-law, John and Darlene Garecht of New Jersey, Gary D. Howser Jr. of Omaha, Fred and Katie Miller of Lincoln and Teylor
Howser of Rising City; grandchildren and spouse, Logan, Alissa, Jaedyn, Levi (Jessica), Dillon, Dalton, Jesse, Austin, Colton, Emerson, Cassie Jo, Stetson, Sage and Tyler; and great-grandsons, Hayden, Hunter and Holten.
She was preceded in death by her father; mother and step-father, Laura and George Hahn Sr.; and stepbrother, George Hahn Jr.
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.
Elaine Kliment
Elaine M. Kliment, 64, of Prague died Sunday, March 8, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.Services are at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 11, at Kracl Funeral Chapel in David City, with Speaker Jerry L. Kracl. Visitation continues from Tuesday between 9:30-10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Chapel. Burial is at Prague Presbyterian Cemetery. Lunch is at Abie's Place in Abie.
Mrs. Kliment was born Jan. 20, 1945, in North Bend to George and Josephine (Kucera) Fencl.
On Feb. 27, 1968, she married George Kliment at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Prague. They lived and farmed near Prague.
Survivors include her husband; son, Chris Kliment of Prague; brother-in-law and wife, Tony and Henrietta Kliment of Prague; nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Memorials: Family choice. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.
Jay Butcher
LINCOLN -- Jay William Butcher, 55, of Grinnell, Iowa, formerly of David City, died Tuesday, March 3, 2009, at Grinnell Regional Medical Center in Iowa.Graveside services were Friday, March 6, at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery in Lincoln.
Mr. Butcher was born Sept. 3, 1953, in David City to Dee and Irene Butcher.
He attended schools in David City and Lincoln and graduated from Grinnell High School in 1972.
He collected toy cars and videos of classic police television shows and enjoyed watching television and visiting with friends, police officers and firefighters.
Survivors include his parents of Grinnell; sisters and brothers-in-law, Kathy King of Lincoln and Debbie and Paul Johnson and Jan and Dave Pope, all of Grinnell; six nieces and nephews; a great-nephew and great-niece.
Memorials: To family to be donated to charities of its choice.
Arrangements by Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home, Lincoln.
Ronald Lovelace
JOURDANTON, Texas - Ronald Elton Lovelace, 78, of Jourdanton, Texas, formerly of Ulysses, died.Services were Wednesday, March 4, 2009, at United Methodist Church in Jourdanton, with Pastor James Schendel officiating. Burial was at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, with military honors by the Fort Sam Houston Military Honor Guard.
Mr. Lovelace was born Aug. 4, 1930, in Lincoln to Harol and Edith (Young) Lovelace. He graduated from Ulysses High School.
He joined the U.S. Air Force and served during the Korean and Vietnam wars.
He retired from the Air Force 23 years later. He has resided in Jourdanton for the last 20 years.
He is a life member of the NCOA, Veterans of Foreign Wars 4815, U.S. Air Force Sergeants Association and American Legion 0579. He was a member of United Methodist Church in Jourdanton. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Antony and Juanita Lovelace of San Antonio; grandchildren, Richard and Ronald Lovelace of Virginia Beach, Va., and Janet Touchstone of Charlotte, Texas; great-grandchildren, Trey and Jackie Hall and Cheyanne Touchstone of Charlotte and Ron and Tina Lovelace of Virginia Beach; sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Frank Alt of Shelby; nieces and nephews, Brenda and Tim Dolezal and Brian and Karen Gaughen, all of Schuyler, Steven and Divine Alt of Sasebo, Japan, Andy and Annette Alt and Christopher and Brenda Alt, all of Shelby, and Jamie and Kristi Alt of Urbandale, Iowa.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Melvin Lovelace; sister, Lois Gaughen; and niece, Judy Paulsen.
Arrangements by Vinyard - Trevino Funeral Home, Jourdanton.
John Sabata
BELLEVUE - John G. Sabata, 90, of Bellevue died Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009.Services were Tuesday, March 3, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Bellevue. Burial was at Bellevue Cemetery.
Survivors include his wife, Geraldine; sons and daughter-in-law, Steven and Marilyn of Rochester, Minn., and Kevin of Bellevue; grandson, Samuel; and brother and wife, Frank and Emily Sabata of Bruno.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Anna Sabata; brothers, Dan, Richard and Louis; and sisters, Agnes Roubal, Rose Jones, Gertrude Tichy and Dorothy Heskin.
Memorials: St. Mary Endowment Fund, Bellevue.
Arrangements by Heafey-Heafey-Hoffmann Dworak-Cutler, Bellevue.
Freddie Zitek
SEWARD - Freddie "Fritz" Zitek, 75, of Staplehurst died Friday, March 6, 2009.Services are at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 11, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Seward, with Father Rand Langhorst officiating. Visitation continues from Tuesday one hour before the Mass at the church on Wednesday. Burial is at Ulysses Catholic Cemetery, with military honors by Dwight American Legion Post 110.
Mr. Zitek was born Dec. 13, 1933, to Edward F. and Anna M. (Krska) Zitek. He was a 1951 graduate of Assumption High School in Dwight.
He married Lucille "Lucy" L. Hein May 21, 1960. He was retired from Goodyear Manufacturing in Lincoln.
He was a member of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church and former member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses. He was a member of Catholic Workman.
Survivors include his wife; children and spouses, Dale and Melanie Zitek of Dwight, Laurie and Ernie Kohout of Seward, Lynn and Roger Engelbart of Malcolm, Dean and Deb Zitek of Louisville, Lisa and Tom Tupper of Lincoln, Lenore and Dan Rezac of Omaha and DeWayne Zitek of Lincoln; 21 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and brothers and sister-in-law, Gene Zitek of Lincoln and Marvin and Mary Lee Zitek of Ulysses.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Dennis Zitek; and granddaughter, Hannah Zitek.
Memorials: Donor's choice in care of family.
Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.
Kristie Vyhlidal
NORTH BEND - Kristie A. Vyhlidal, 97, of Fremont, formerly of Linwood and North Bend, died Saturday, Feb. 14, 2009, at A.J. Merrick Manor in Fremont.Services were Thursday, Feb. 19, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church at Cedar Hill, with the Rev. Brian Kane officiating. Burial was at Cedar Hill Cemetery.
Mrs. Vyhlidal was born July 24, 1911, near Linwood to James and Mary (Cerny) Navrkal. She grew up on a farm near Linwood and attended District 54 School in Saunders County and St. John Catholic School at Prague.
She married John F. Vyhlidal April 24, 1934, at Cedar Hill. They farmed near Morse Bluff. In 1954, they moved to a farm west of North Bend. She worked for the former Roy's Produce in North Bend several years.
She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Altar Society and Catholic Workman Branch 55.
Survivors include sons and wives, Stanly and Arlene Vyhlidal of Fremont and John and JaeLynn Vyhlidal of Columbus; 25 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandson; and sister, Rose Pospisil of Fremont.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband on Nov. 17, 2002; daughter, Katherine Hynek; grandson, Kirk Vyhlidal; brothers, Frank, James, Anton, Albin, John and Adolph Navrkal; and sisters, Gustie Wesley, Mary Thompsen, Antoinette Buchholtz, Blanche Knight and Marcella Stejskal.
Memorials: Sacred Heart Catholic Church; St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Fremont; Camp Quality Heartland, a camp for kids with cancer. Condolences: www.mosermemorialchapels.com
Arrangements by Moser Memorial Chapel, North Bend.
Gordon Fredrickson
STROMSBURG - Gordon Wayne Fredrickson, 93, of Stromsburg died Monday, March 2, 2009, at Midwest Covenant Home in Stromsburg.
Services were Thursday, March 5, at Calvary Lutheran Church in Swede Home, with Pastor Donna Durrette officiating.
Mr. Fredrickson was born Aug. 7, 1915, at Osceola to Axel and Amelia (Anderson) Fredrickson. He graduated from High Prairie High School and attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for two years, when he returned home to help with farming.
He married Marilyn McKeag June 12, 1943, in Shelby. They lived on a farm near Osceola where they farmed and raised cattle, retiring in January 1975.
They moved to Stromsburg in 2000. In February 2009, he moved to Midwest Covenant Home.
He enjoyed golf, playing bridge, music, reading, Nebraska sports, traveling and visiting. He was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church and sang in the choir for over 50 years. He was also a member of Lions Club, Bridge Club, Soil Conservation Board, Stromsburg Elevator Board, Rural School Board and Polk County Foundation.
Survivors include his wife; children and spouses, Steve and Sandi Fredrickson of Osceola and Lynelle and Jack Huck of Lincoln; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; brother, Earl Fredrickson of Marshalltown, Iowa, and sister-in-law, Irene Fredrickson of Stromsburg.
He was preceded in death by an infant sister, Helen Fredrickson; sisters, Myra Johnson, Adelyn Cockrell and Dorothy Sutton; and brothers, Russel, Wallace and Wesley Fredrickson.
Memorials: Calvary Lutheran Church, Swede Home; Stromsburg Library.
Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Stromsburg.
Sylvia Eggli
STROMSBURG - Sylvia O. Eggli, 90, of Stromsburg died Sunday, March 1, 2009, at Midwest Covenant Home in Stromsburg.Services were Thursday, March 5, at United Methodist Church in Monroe, with Pastor Tamara Holtz officiating. Burial was at Valley View Cemetery at Genoa.
Mrs. Eggli was born Feb. 11, 1919, at Bradish to John and Oline (Week) Froistad. She graduated from Genoa High School in 1936. She then taught at Rural District 45 School in Platte County.
She married Conrad Eggli May 25, 1940. They farmed near Genoa until 1960 when they moved to Monroe. In 2006, they moved to Genoa. She was a homemaker and worked at Becton-Dickinson in Columbus for 25 years. She moved to Midwest Covenant Home in September 2008.
She enjoyed refurbishing old trunks and gave them to family. She also enjoyed reading, crocheting and her children and grandchildren. She was a member of the Monroe United Methodist Church.
Survivors include her children and spouses, Philip and Jacque Eggli of Stromsburg, Linda Osantowski of David City and Patricia and Denny Taylor of Columbus; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandson; sister, Jordis Eschilman of Omaha; and brother-in-law, Leonard Eggli of Columbus.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband on May 5, 2007; brother, Marvin Froistad; and sisters, Marie Bergren, Hazel Froistad and Astrid Eggli.
Arrangements by Dubas Funeral Home, Stromsburg.
John Mitchell
John Roy Mitchell, 87, of David City died Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2009, at his residence.Services were Monday, March 2, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in David City, with Monsignor Adrian Herbek officiating. Burial was at St. Francis (Center) Cemetery near David City.
Mr. Mitchell was born Jan. 13, 1922, in Pittsylvania County, Va., to Floyd Hurt and Mary Lou (Meador) Mitchell. He graduated from Callans High School in Callans, Va.
He was a Veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Army in the South Pacific.
On July 21, 1942, he married Margaret "Peggy" Ann Gilmore at St. Matthews Cathedral in Washington, D.C. After 44 years working for IBM, he retired to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach, Del. After a fire started by Hurricane Isabel destroyed his home in 2003, he moved to David City.
He was a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Elks and Loyal Order of the Moose, where he received the Pilgrim Degree and Legion of the Moose. He enjoyed spending time with his new friends in David City, especially at Northside, taking care of his wife and being with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survivors include his wife; daughter and son-in-law, Carolyn and Frank Brabec of David City; grandchildren, Daniel Frank Brabec of Ames, Iowa, and Pamela Margaret Scott of Columbus; great-grandsons, Noah Frank Scott and Maxwell Douglas Scott; and sisters, Mary Juanita Anderson of Charlottesville, Va., and Morton Lucinda Griffin of Culpeper, Va.
He was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Charles Warren; daughter, Barbara Jane Mitchell; and brothers, James Sanford Mitchell of Charlotte, N.C., and Robert Hurt Mitchell of Chathan, Va.
Memorials: Guardian Angel Fund at Aquinas/St. Mary's Catholic Schools in David City. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.
Edmond Semin
Edmond J. Semin, 94, of David City, formerly of Dwight, died Saturday, Feb. 28, 2009, at David Place in David City.Services are at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 4, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses, with Father Raymond Jansen officiating. Viewing continues from Tuesday from 9-10 a.m. on Wednesday at the church. Burial is at the parish cemetery.
Mr. Semin was born Aug. 3, 1914, to Mike and Hattie (Rerucha) Semin on the farm near Ulysses.
He married Lydia Sloup Aug. 24, 1937, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses. He was a lifelong resident and farmer of Butler County.
After he retired from farming, they moved to David City where they lived until her death in 2003. He moved to David Place shortly after her death.
He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. He enjoyed playing cards, dancing, traveling, Czech music and spending time with his family.
Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Alvin and Jan Semin of Ulysses; son-in-law, LeRoy Fiala of Seward; 10 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; and sister, Evelyn Cason of David City.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; daughter, MaryAnn Fiala; grandson-in-law, Dewayne Bohac; sister and brother-in-law, Eva and Ernest Cink; brother and sister-in-law, Ernest and Lucille Semin; and brother-in-law, Bob Cason.
Memorials: Donor's choice or in care of family. Condolences: www.chermokfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.
Harold Hartman
LINCOLN -- Harold E. Hartman, 83, of Lincoln died Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009.Services were Monday, March 2, at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home in Lincoln. Burial was at Ulysses Township Cemetery at Ulysses.
Mr. Hartman was born at Millerton Sept. 23, 1925, to Earl F. and Edith M. (Scantland) Hartman.
He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II aboard the USS Sibley.
He married Marge Marsden. He was a meat cutter at Hinky Dinky Grocery Stores and then changed careers to work for the United States Postal Service.
He was a member of St. Luke's United Methodist Church. He was a Past Commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 131, Grand Commander MOC, member of the DAV, American Legion and Masons.
Survivors include his wife; daughters and son-in-law, Alice Fournell and Ruth and Steve Schultz; five grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a daughter, Barbara Hartman; grandson, Mike Wininger; parents; and brothers, Albert, Raymond and Kenneth Hartman.
Memorials: To the family for future designation. Condolences: www.lincolnfh.com
Arrangements by Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home.
Lucille Pekarek
SEWARD - Lucille Agnes Pekarek, 82, of Dwight died Friday, Feb. 27, 2009, in Seward.Services were Monday, March 2, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses, with Father Raymond Jansen officiating. Burial was at Ulysses Catholic Cemetery.
Mrs. Pekarek was born July 20, 1926, near Staplehurst to Frank M. and Agnes S. (Vrbka) Divis. She attended country school near Staplehurst and was a 1944 graduate of Assumption High School in Dwight.
On Oct. 23, 1946, she married Raymond Joseph Pekarek at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ulysses. They farmed northwest of Staplehurst until 1991, when they moved near Dwight.
She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and Altar Society, American Legion Auxiliary Post 110 in Dwight, VFW Post 4755 Auxiliary in Seward and Catholic Workman. She enjoyed playing cards, making kolaches, dancing and polka music and was a baseball fan.
Survivors include children and spouses, Elaine Janak and friend Jim Bartek of Dwight, George and Rose Pekarek of Staplehurst, Sally and Jim Hodge of Holdrege, Tom Pekarek and friend Mary Casement of Utica, Donald and Deb Pekarek of Malcolm, Joe and Anita Pekarek of Holdrege and Kenny and Angie Pekarek of Seward; 18 grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; five step-great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Mary Pekarek of Dwight.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 2002; infant grandchildren, Jared Pekarek and Mary Janak; and brother-in-law, Lad Pekarek.
Arrangements by Zabka Funeral Home, Seward.
Ann Kudlacek
ELKHORN - Ann H. Kudlacek, 99, of Gretna, formerly of Dwight, died Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2009, at Five Star Care Facility in Gretna.She donated her body to research at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. A memorial Mass will be at 1 p.m. on Monday, March 16, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Elkhorn.
Mrs. Kudlacek was born Dec. 17, 1909, near Dwight. She was a longtime resident of Omaha and was a seamstress.
Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Eugene and Connie Kudlacek; daughters, Lorraine Wilson of Spirit Lake, Iowa, and Irene Whiting of Lanham, Md.; 14 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.
Memorials: Quality Living Inc. Resident Assistance Fund, 6404 North 70th Plaza, Omaha, NE 68104, Att. Jen Karolski.
Ruth Everding
Ruth E. Everding, 81, of David City died Thursday, March 19, 2009, at David Place in David City.Graveside services were Monday, March 23, at David City Cemetery, with the Rev. Mark Schutt officiating.
She was a librarian.
Survivors include a brother and many friends.
Memorials: In care of family.
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.
Paul Ott
COLUMBUS - Paul Ott, 73, of Ulysses died Friday, March 20, 2009, at his home.A celebration of life was held Monday, March 30, at McKown Funeral Home in Columbus.
Mr. Ott was born March 20, 1936, in Highland Township, Iowa, to Clarence and Ila Pearl (Smith) Ott.
After his schooling, he joined the U.S. Army, where he served in Okinawa and Japan. Following his discharge he returned to Nebraska.
He was married and settled into Columbus in 1960 where he lived and worked. He moved to Ulysses in 1981.
Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Tim and Darlene Ott of Columbus and Dean and Salina Ott of Austin, Texas; five grandchildren; sister and husband, Jackie and Don Graven of Jefferson, Iowa; brothers and wives, Donald and Janet Ott, Estel Ott and Gerald and Darlene Ott, all of Jefferson, Iowa; and special friend, Sandy Potter of Ulysses.
He is preceded in death by his parents; two infant daughters; and brother, Dean Ott.
Condolences: <http://www.mckownfuneralhome.com
Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home.
Ruth Varriano
PRAGUE - Ruth V. Varriano, 83, of Prague died Friday, March 20, 2009, in Fremont.Services were Tuesday, March 24, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Prague, with Father Jamie Hottovy officiating. Burial was at the parish cemetery.
Mrs. Varriano was born March 6, 1926, to Peter and Emma (Ficenec) Boganowski. She attended school in Prague and graduated from Prague High School. She had lived in the Prague area since the age of 4.
On Nov. 13, 1948, she married Joseph Varriano in Omaha. She worked at the onion plant in Wahoo from 1967-2000.
She a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Prague.
Survivors include daughters and son-in-law, Fran and Bob Vanek of Weston and Jolene Cerny of Sioux City, Iowa; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sister, Dorothy Deen of Lebanon, Mo., and sister-in-law, Mary Beggs of Burlington, Iowa.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in
1989; granddaughter, Ronnetta Jo Cerny; brother, Ray Beggs; and sister, Delores Harbin.
Memorials: St. John's Catholic Church and Prague Rescue Squad. Condolences: www.revbluejeans.com
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel.
Lydia Young
Lydia P. Young, 94, of David City died Thursday, March 19, 2009, at Butler County Health Care Center in David City.
Services were Tuesday, March 24, at St. Luke's United Methodist Church in David City, with the Rev. Mark Schutt officiating. Burial was at Westlawn Cemetery in Omaha.
Mrs. Young was born Oct. 27, 1914, in rural Saunders County to Edward and Anna (Ostry) Polacek.
She married Clyde Hess in 1936 and Claude Young in 1961. She retired from working at Northwestern Bell Telephone Co. in 1973 and then moved to David City
She was active in the David City Senior Center and Meals on Wheels for 10 years. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, feeding birds, crocheting, camping and traveling.
She was a member of St. Luke's United Methodist Church, where she was very active and also the UMC Women on the local, district and conference level. She was also involved in the Capitol, a monthly publication by Peace with Justice
Ministry.
Survivors include a brother, Jerry Polacek of David City; sister, Agnes Dohse of Omaha; nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husbands, Clyde in 1959 and Claude in 1979; and brothers, Ernest and Edward Polacek
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.
Eva Bailey
SCHUYLER -- Eva M. Bailey, 88, of Columbus died Thursday, March 19, 2009, at Morys Haven in Columbus..
Services were Monday, March 23, at Trinity Lutheran Church at Schuyler, with Vicar Bill Mattfield officiating. Burial was at Schuyler Cemetery.
Mrs. Bailey was born March 20, 1920, at Hordville to Adolph and Minnie (Harders) Kroger. She graduated from Schuyler High School in 1938.
On June 29, 1938, she married Thomas Bailey in Omaha. They lived in Schuyler and later moved to the family farm. She helped on the farm and also helped her son Gordon with bookkeeping. She also enjoyed helping raise her grandchildren.
She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Schuyler, where she was very active in the Ladies Aid.
Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Gordon and Carolyn Bailey of Surprise, Ariz.; daughters and sons-in-law, Janet and Paul Schlautman of West Point and Linda and Eldon Theilen of Schuyler; daughter-in-law, Diann Svatora of Schuyler; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and four stepgreat-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son, Dean Bailey; sister, Arlene Krivohlavek; and brothers, Marlin and Wilbur Kroger.
Memorials: Family's choice.
Arrangements by Kracl Funeral Chapel, Schuyler.
William Rerucha
LONGMONT, Colo. - William Rerucha, 96, of Longmont, Colo., formerly of Appleton, died at his home.Services were Friday, March 13, 2009, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Longmont.
Mr. Rerucha was born Oct. 1, 1912, on the family farm near Appleton to Joseph and Anna (Divis) Rerucha.
He married Florence Reinmiller Oct. 28, 1939. They lived in Nebraska until 1955, when they moved to Loveland, Colo. A year later, they moved to Boulder, Colo., and in 1987 to Longmont.
He was a lineman in Nebraska and later an electrician for the National Bureau of Standards and IBM in Boulder. He retired in 1977.
He was an active member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Longmont. He enjoyed traveling, gardening, photography, dancing and woodworking and was an avid fan of the Colorado Rockies Baseball Team.
Survivors include daughters and son-in-law, Deanne Rerucha of Longmont and Sharon and Wayne Delfosse of Port St. Lucie, Fla.; two grandsons; six great-grandchildren; and sisters, Sally Vanis of David City and Helen Nelson and Adeline Geis of Seward.
He was preceded in death by his wife; sisters, Martha Zima, Hattie Voboril and Albina Kozisek; brothers, Theodore, Ben, Fred and Louis; and an infant brother.
Helen Dobrusky
LINCOLN -- Helen Dobrusky, 100, of Lincoln, formerly of Dwight, died Tuesday, March 10, 2009.Services were Saturday, March 14, at Roper & Sons Chapel in Lincoln, with Father Tom MacLean officiating. Burial was at Bohemian National Cemetery at Brainard, with Father Matthew Eickhoff officiating.
Mrs. Dobrusky was born Oct. 2, 1908, near Bruno to Joseph and Mary (Nekuda) Bushek. She worked as a part-time switchboard telephone operator and nanny in Dwight. After marrying James S. Dobrusky June 18, 1928, they owned the Dwight Flour Mills and grocery store. They moved to Lincoln in 1954, and she was a cook for several Havelock cafes until she retired.
Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Helen and Donald Ptacek and Janette and Arnold Makovicka of Lincoln; grandchildren and spouses, David and Laurie Ptacek of Sterling, Daniel Ptacek of Lincoln, Theresa and David Ganow of State College, Pa., Lisa and Troy Hottovy of Waterloo, Debra Renfro, Sandra and Jeffrey Carstens, Alan and Janelle Makovicka and Brian and Lynda Makovicka, all of Lincoln;
Great-grandchildren, Rachel and Timothy Ptacek, Jeremy and Miranda Renfro, Nicholas and Cathy Ganow, Kyle and Shawn Ganow, Matthew, Mitchel, Noah and Joshua Makovicka, Ashton and Madison Makovicka, Ali, Connor, Tyler and Ethan Carstens and Hunter, Courtney, Peyton and Parker Hottovy; and great-great-grandchildren, Dylan and Kayli Renfro.
She was preceded in death by her husband; brother, Raymond Bushek; and sisters, Agnes Rejda, Libby Chermok, Georgia Korinek and Irene Luebbe.
Memorials: To family for future designation or donor's choice.
Arrangements by Chermok Funeral Home, David City.
Carl Nuebel
REDLANDS, Calif. - Carl Chester Nuebel, 87, of Redlands, Calif., formerly of Nebraska, died Thursday, Feb. 19, 2009, in Redlands.
Services were Wednesday, March 4, at Trinity Church in Redlands.
Mr. Nuebel was born in Nebraska to William J. and Anna "Dake" L. Nuebel.
He went to California in 1942 and met and married Margaret Krull in 1943.
They returned to Nebraska in 1951, where he attended Midland Lutheran College and then Central Seminary in Fremont. They served in ministry with the Lutheran Church in Nebraska and Kansas for 15 years. They returned to Fontana, Calif., in 1973, where he was a member of Carpenters Local 944.
Their lives reflected the loving God that they faithfully served. In his words, "I have lived an adventuresome and rewarding life with a very congenial and forgiving partner. A life nurtured by a strong faith. God always provided the necessities of life."
Survivors include children and spouses, Beth and Harro Lamprecht, Scott Nuebel, Todd Nuebel, Janet Urtiaga, Patty and Skip Mayles and Jay and Lynn Nuebel; 10 grandchildren; brother, Keith Nuebel of Springfield, Ore.; sister, Marie Rathje of Rising City; and cousin, Donna Plocica of Florida, who was raised with the family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife in April 2008; and sister, Wilma Warren.
Memorials: Trinity Foundation, 1551 Reservoir Road, Redlands, CA 92373 (A program for at risk youth.)
Leona Petrzilka
LINCOLN - Leona L. Petrzilka, 76, of Lincoln died Friday, March 6, 2009, at her home after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.Services were Monday, March 9, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Lincoln, with Monsignor David Hintz officiating. Burial was at St. Luke's Cemetery at Loma.
Mrs. Petrzilka was born Dec. 19, 1932, at Loma to Ralph and Christina Bartek.
She married Joseph Petrzilka.
She was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Altar Society, Legion of Mary, Pink Sisters Auxiliary and DAV.
Survivors include her husband; daughters, Sandi Dauel and friend Steve Schwartzkopf of Phoenix and Cindy Gomez and fiance Kim BanGroningen of Lincoln; sons and wives, Lonnie and Kim Petrzilka of Denton and Wayne and Brenda Petrzilka, Roger and Terri Petrzilka, Joey Petrzilka and Jim and Mindy Petrzilka, all of Lincoln; 13 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; sisters, Marge Gubser and Clara Karpisek, both of Lincoln, and Bernice Houska of Wahoo; and sisters-in-law, Etta Bartek of Lincoln and Mary Bartek of David City.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers; and a sister.
Memorials: St. Elizabeth's Hospice, Mass offerings or to family. Condolences: www.bmlfh.com
Arrangements by Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home, Lincoln.
Anton Komenda
VALPARAISO - Anton Louis Komenda, 92, of Valparaiso died Wednesday, March 18, 2009, at Wahoo SMC Long Term Center.
Services were Monday, March 23, at Sts. Mary & Joseph Catholic Church in Valparaiso.
Mr. Komenda served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was a member of American Legion Post 171.
Survivors include his wife, Rose; sons and wives, James and Marj Komenda of Seward and John Komenda and Anthony and Joanne Komenda, all of Valparaiso; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and sisters, Agnes Benes and Betty Benes, both of Wahoo, and Dorothy Novotny of Valparaiso.
He was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Leann Komenda; brothers, Adolph and Ted; and sisters, Julia Kliment, Helen Tejral and Mary Skokan.
Memorials: To family.
Arrangements by Wadlow Rozanek Funeral Home, Valparaiso.
George Sedlak
OMAHA - George John Sedlak, 94, of Omaha, formerly of Garland, died Friday, March 20, 2009, at Hospice House, The Josie Harper Residence in Omaha.
Services were Tuesday, March 24, at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church. Burial was at Calvary Cemetery.
Mr. Sedlak was born Jan. 29, 1915, on a farm near Garland to John and Julia Sedlak. He graduated from high school in Brainard.
He married Helen F. Houska. He worked with a Civilian Conservation Corps.
He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, participating in the battles of Guadalcanal, Northern Solomon and Luzon Islands with Company A, 1st Battalion, 35th Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.
He then worked for A. Borschman and Sons as a job supervisor until retirement in 1980.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years; children and spouses, Father Ken Sedlak of Chicago, Karen and Jeff Berthiaume of Omaha, Tom and Cheryl Sedlak of Meadville, Pa., Bob and Susan Sedlak of Omaha, Kathy and Dan Adam of North Little Rock, Ark.; special family friend Kathy Paul of Chicago; seven grandchildren; and a great-grandson.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers; and sisters.
Memorials: St. Stanislaus Catholic Church and Holy Name Catholic Church or St. Michael's Catholic Church, 1633 N. Cleveland St., Chicago, IL 60614.
Arrangements by Korisko Larkin Staskiewicz Funeral Home, Omaha.
