Jean Ann Krajewski, 78, of Ogallala, passed away September 21, 2023, at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center in Aurora, CO.

Jean was born June 30, 1945, at Central City, Nebraska, to Russell F. &amp; Mae M. (Reeb) Lindgren. The family moved to Sidney before relocating to Ogallala when Jean was a Junior in high school.

Jean graduated from Ogallala High School in 1963 and then married Bernard James "Jim" Vasa Jr. in 1964. Their union was blessed with a son, Jamie; however, Jim died in a tragic farming accident five months before the birth of Jamie.

After the death of her husband, Jean spent a brief season of life on the East Coast, where she welcomed a daughter into the world, Carolyn, a name that means "strong" and "brave."

Jean would later return to Ogallala, where she worked at Hoke's Cafe. And on February 10, 1968, Jean married Jerry Krajewski, and their union was blessed with three children: Justin, Jody, and Jason. She spent many years working at Sixth Street Food Store and Good Air in Ogallala, where she made many, many lifelong friends.

Jean continued to work as the family grew and was highly active at St. Luke's Catholic Church, where she served on the Altar Society, held Bible studies, and was very engaged in Magnificat over the years. Jean had a keen sense of fashion and was ever classy in her dress. She also loved to travel and enjoyed trips to such places as Italy, Sweden, China, Canada, and Mexico, to name a few.

To speak of Jean meant also to witness to her great joy. She was a kindred spirit, reliably finding the laughter in situations. She could also be counted on for good sarcastic humor. Jean loved to have fun, and her attitude was light and had a way of illuminating the overcast moments.

Jean loved Jesus, and HE accompanied her through all the hills and valleys that life would bring, growing her faith along the way. She praised HIM in good times and hard times, and HE, of course, was ever faithful.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Bernard James "Jim" Vasa Jr.; granddaughter, Marcella Grace Cook; brother, Russell Forrest Lindgren; and brother-in-law, Otis Williamson.

Survivors include her husband, Jerry Krajewski of Ogallala; children, Bernard James "Jamie" (Sherry) Vasa III of Petersburg, TN, Carolyn (Lonnie Fourhman) Cook of Shrewsbury, PA, Justin (Jodie Mitchell) Krajewski of Spearfish, SD, Jody (Brian) Krajewski-Lay of San Diego, CA, Jason Krajewski of Lincoln; grandchildren, Alexandra (Richard) Leavitt of Hyrum, UT, Garrett (Matracia) Vasa of Dupree, SD, Madison Vasa of Providence UT, Phillip (Jess) Cook of York, PA, Cassidy Cook of Baltimore, MD, Lilly Cook of Centerville, Ohio, Graceann Cook of Shrewsbury PA, Caden Mitchell and Justine Mitchell of Spearfish, SD; Great grandchildren, Evangeline Vasa, Evelyn Cook, Brynley Cook, Madison Joy Cook; sister, Marilyn Williamson of Grand Island, NE; sisters-in-law, Sally Lindgren of Oregon City, OR, Bonnie (Ernie) Willey-Husmann of Chappell, NE; brother-in-law, Bill Vasa of Ogallala; grand puppies, Will and Kate; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in memory of Jean for later designation. Condolences may be shared at prairiehillsfuneralhome.com, where the Mass will be streamed live.

Funeral Mass will be on Thursday, September 28, 2023, at 10 AM at St. Luke's Catholic Church in Ogallala with Father Bryan Ernest as Celebrant. Inurnment will be in the Ogallala Cemetery.

Rosary and Wake Services will be on Wednesday at 7 PM at St. Luke's Catholic Church.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695660034895.jpeg" alt="Jean Krajewski" />
 <figcaption>Jean Krajewski</figcaption>
 </figure>Jean Ann Krajewski, 78, of Ogallala, passed away September 21, 2023, at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center in Aurora, CO.Jean was born June 30, 1945, at Central City, Nebraska, to Russell F. &amp; Mae M. (Reeb) Lindgren. The family moved to Sidney before relocating to Ogallala when Jean was a Junior in high school.Jean graduated from Ogallala High School in 1963 and then married Bernard James "Jim" Vasa Jr. in 1964. Their union was blessed with a son, Jamie; however, Jim died in a tragic farming accident five months before the birth of Jamie.After the death of her husband, Jean spent a brief season of life on the East Coast, where she welcomed a daughter into the world, Carolyn, a name that means "strong" and "brave."Jean would later return to Ogallala, where she worked at Hoke's Cafe. And on February 10, 1968, Jean married Jerry Krajewski, and their union was blessed with three children: Justin, Jody, and Jason. She spent many years working at Sixth Street Food Store and Good Air in Ogallala, where she made many, many lifelong friends.Jean continued to work as the family grew and was highly active at St. Luke's Catholic Church, where she served on the Altar Society, held Bible studies, and was very engaged in Magnificat over the years. Jean had a keen sense of fashion and was ever classy in her dress. She also loved to travel and enjoyed trips to such places as Italy, Sweden, China, Canada, and Mexico, to name a few.To speak of Jean meant also to witness to her great joy. She was a kindred spirit, reliably finding the laughter in situations. She could also be counted on for good sarcastic humor. Jean loved to have fun, and her attitude was light and had a way of illuminating the overcast moments.Jean loved Jesus, and HE accompanied her through all the hills and valleys that life would bring, growing her faith along the way. She praised HIM in good times and hard times, and HE, of course, was ever faithful.Jean was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Bernard James "Jim" Vasa Jr.; granddaughter, Marcella Grace Cook; brother, Russell Forrest Lindgren; and brother-in-law, Otis Williamson.Survivors include her husband, Jerry Krajewski of Ogallala; children, Bernard James "Jamie" (Sherry) Vasa III of Petersburg, TN, Carolyn (Lonnie Fourhman) Cook of Shrewsbury, PA, Justin (Jodie Mitchell) Krajewski of Spearfish, SD, Jody (Brian) Krajewski-Lay of San Diego, CA, Jason Krajewski of Lincoln; grandchildren, Alexandra (Richard) Leavitt of Hyrum, UT, Garrett (Matracia) Vasa of Dupree, SD, Madison Vasa of Providence UT, Phillip (Jess) Cook of York, PA, Cassidy Cook of Baltimore, MD, Lilly Cook of Centerville, Ohio, Graceann Cook of Shrewsbury PA, Caden Mitchell and Justine Mitchell of Spearfish, SD; Great grandchildren, Evangeline Vasa, Evelyn Cook, Brynley Cook, Madison Joy Cook; sister, Marilyn Williamson of Grand Island, NE; sisters-in-law, Sally Lindgren of Oregon City, OR, Bonnie (Ernie) Willey-Husmann of Chappell, NE; brother-in-law, Bill Vasa of Ogallala; grand puppies, Will and Kate; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in memory of Jean for later designation. Condolences may be shared at prairiehillsfuneralhome.com, where the Mass will be streamed live.Funeral Mass will be on Thursday, September 28, 2023, at 10 AM at St. Luke's Catholic Church in Ogallala with Father Bryan Ernest as Celebrant. Inurnment will be in the Ogallala Cemetery.Rosary and Wake Services will be on Wednesday at 7 PM at St. Luke's Catholic Church.Prairie Hills Funeral Home of Ogallala is in charge of arrangements.

Jean Krajewski (1945-2023)

On September 20, 2023, at the age of 43, Candy Jo (Jochum) Sailor passed away at her home in Maywood, Nebraska.&nbsp; 

Candy, the daughter of Paul and Dixie Jochum, was born in North Platte on June 22, 1980.&nbsp; She grew up in Sutherland where she graduated from Sutherland High School in 1998.

Candy married Rocky Sailor in 2004 and from this union two beautiful kids were born.&nbsp; She loved being a mother and was active in their lives, whether it was 4-H, FFA or various school activities.&nbsp; 

Candy spent most of her life caring for others.&nbsp; She worked in various nursing homes as a caregiver and was like a mother to many.&nbsp; She also followed in her dad's footsteps and became an emergency volunteer.&nbsp; Candy lived in Frontier County and was with the ambulance service for 10 years.&nbsp; She was also a dispatcher at the sheriff's office for 7 years.

Candy enjoyed being a cheerleader in high school and later liked going to concerts to hear her cousins music.&nbsp; She especially loved her family and spending time with them and most notably, loved taking family vacations.&nbsp; Candy is greatly missed and will be forever loved.

She is now in heaven with her dad, Paul; uncle Randy Jochum; and her grandparents, Bud and Arlene Jochum.

Candy leaves behind her children, Layton and Taren Sailor of Maywood, Nebraska and their father, Rocky; her mother, Dixie Jochum; and sister, Dawn (Daniel) Small of Sutherland, Nebraska; and nephews, Ashton Jochum and Quintin Arellano; grandparents, Donald and Daisy Miller of North Platte., Nebraska; uncles, Bill (Judy) Jochum of Lincoln, Nebraska, Howdy (Deb) Jochum of Sutherland, Nebraska, and Larry (Christy) Jochum of Lincoln, Nebraska; her aunts, Donna (Lyle) Urbanec of Raymond, Nebraska, Dianne Ponce of North Platte, Nebraska,&nbsp; and Kristi Jochum of Kearney, Nebraska; and many cousins and other family. 

Celebration of Candy's life will be held at 2 p.m. Central time on Friday, September 29, 2023 at Odean Colonial Chapel in North Platte, Nebraska with John Sexson officiating.&nbsp; 

Book signing is Thursday, September 28, 2023 with family greeting friends from 5-7 p.m. at Odean Colonial Chapel at C &amp; Sycamore in North Platte, which is handling arrangements.&nbsp; 

Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, memorials are for her kids future education.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695647613210.jpeg" alt="Candy Sailor" />
 <figcaption>Candy Sailor</figcaption>
 </figure>On September 20, 2023, at the age of 43, Candy Jo (Jochum) Sailor passed away at her home in Maywood, Nebraska.&nbsp; Candy, the daughter of Paul and Dixie Jochum, was born in North Platte on June 22, 1980.&nbsp; She grew up in Sutherland where she graduated from Sutherland High School in 1998.Candy married Rocky Sailor in 2004 and from this union two beautiful kids were born.&nbsp; She loved being a mother and was active in their lives, whether it was 4-H, FFA or various school activities.&nbsp; Candy spent most of her life caring for others.&nbsp; She worked in various nursing homes as a caregiver and was like a mother to many.&nbsp; She also followed in her dad's footsteps and became an emergency volunteer.&nbsp; Candy lived in Frontier County and was with the ambulance service for 10 years.&nbsp; She was also a dispatcher at the sheriff's office for 7 years.Candy enjoyed being a cheerleader in high school and later liked going to concerts to hear her cousins music.&nbsp; She especially loved her family and spending time with them and most notably, loved taking family vacations.&nbsp; Candy is greatly missed and will be forever loved.She is now in heaven with her dad, Paul; uncle Randy Jochum; and her grandparents, Bud and Arlene Jochum.Candy leaves behind her children, Layton and Taren Sailor of Maywood, Nebraska and their father, Rocky; her mother, Dixie Jochum; and sister, Dawn (Daniel) Small of Sutherland, Nebraska; and nephews, Ashton Jochum and Quintin Arellano; grandparents, Donald and Daisy Miller of North Platte., Nebraska; uncles, Bill (Judy) Jochum of Lincoln, Nebraska, Howdy (Deb) Jochum of Sutherland, Nebraska, and Larry (Christy) Jochum of Lincoln, Nebraska; her aunts, Donna (Lyle) Urbanec of Raymond, Nebraska, Dianne Ponce of North Platte, Nebraska,&nbsp; and Kristi Jochum of Kearney, Nebraska; and many cousins and other family. Celebration of Candy's life will be held at 2 p.m. Central time on Friday, September 29, 2023 at Odean Colonial Chapel in North Platte, Nebraska with John Sexson officiating.&nbsp; Book signing is Thursday, September 28, 2023 with family greeting friends from 5-7 p.m. at Odean Colonial Chapel at C &amp; Sycamore in North Platte, which is handling arrangements.&nbsp; Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, memorials are for her kids future education.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Candy Jo (Jochum) Sailor  (1980-2023)

Mildred Hoatson of rural Hershey, Nebraska peacefully passed away at age 95 on September 20, 2023 while recently staying at the Sutherland Care Center in Sutherland, Nebraska.

Mildred was born south of Hershey to Louie T. and Agnes (Frimel) Broeder on October 26, 1927.&nbsp; She attended one-room K-8 schools southeast of Hershey, often getting to school riding on horseback with her siblings, then boarded in North Platte, NE to attend high school.&nbsp; Mildred graduated from North Platte High School in 1945, then obtained her teaching certificate and taught K-8 at Lower Birdwood County School, northwest of Hershey, NE.

While teaching, Mildred met Fred Hoatson who was working with his father and brothers on the family farm on Birdwood Creek.&nbsp; The couple wed on May 17, 1947.&nbsp; They had two sons, Claude and Blaine, and continued working on the farm.&nbsp; The family hand-milked 6 to 8 dairy cows daily for many years and sold the cream to purchase most of the groceries.

Besides raising the boys, Mildred also helped supplement the family income by raising chickens and had a large garden every year, canning some of the produce.&nbsp; At each of the two houses where the family lived, Mildred had large strawberry patches which produced gallons and gallons of berries each day at peak production.&nbsp; When she got tired of picking, she'd invite others to come and 'pick their own.'&nbsp; Along with her garden produce, Mildred grew flowers that were prize winners at the Lincoln County Fair; she has the ribbons to show for this.

Mildred was active in the Hershey United Methodist Church and served two terms as president of the UMW, and was a member of the Lower Birdwood School Board for most of the years her sons attended that school.

Fred and Mildred enjoyed traveling and visiting family and friends around the U.S., as well as trips to Alaska, New England for fall foliage, Australia and New Zealand.&nbsp; After Fred's death in 2013, Mildred continued to live at home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mildred's hobbies included counted cross-stitch and crocheted needlework.&nbsp; She spent countless hours working on these to produced Christmas ornaments, pictures, and framed family names for newlyweds and other family members.

Along with her husband, Mildred was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Maxine (Glenn) Price and Iola Broeder; brother, Lyle Broeder; in-laws, William and Ruba Hoatson; brothers-in-law, Frank (Dorothy: Hoatson and Earl (Millie) Hoatson; and several nieces, nephews, and countless neighbors and friends.

Mildred is survived by her sons, Claude (Kelly) Hoatson and Blaine (Nancy) Hoatson of rural Hershey, NE; grandchildren, Riley Hoatson of Hershey, NE, Adam Hoatson (Stephanie Simpson) of Sutherland, NE, Madison Hoatson of North Platte, NE, and Colin Hoatson of Denver, CO; sister-in-law, Janet Broeder of Hershey, NE; many nieces, nephews, and other family as well as her friends and neighbors.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Central time on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at the Hershey United Methodist Church with Pastor Mark Baldwin officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in the North Platte Cemetery.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Visitation is Monday, September 25, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central time and with family greeting from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Central time at Odean Colonial Chapel at C &amp; Sycamore in North Platte, which is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are to the church, Sutherland Public School Foundation, Hershey Public School Foundation, or the Hershey or Sutherland Fire Departments.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695416139281.jpeg" alt="Mildred Hoatson" />
 <figcaption>Mildred Hoatson</figcaption>
 </figure>Mildred Hoatson of rural Hershey, Nebraska peacefully passed away at age 95 on September 20, 2023 while recently staying at the Sutherland Care Center in Sutherland, Nebraska.Mildred was born south of Hershey to Louie T. and Agnes (Frimel) Broeder on October 26, 1927.&nbsp; She attended one-room K-8 schools southeast of Hershey, often getting to school riding on horseback with her siblings, then boarded in North Platte, NE to attend high school.&nbsp; Mildred graduated from North Platte High School in 1945, then obtained her teaching certificate and taught K-8 at Lower Birdwood County School, northwest of Hershey, NE.While teaching, Mildred met Fred Hoatson who was working with his father and brothers on the family farm on Birdwood Creek.&nbsp; The couple wed on May 17, 1947.&nbsp; They had two sons, Claude and Blaine, and continued working on the farm.&nbsp; The family hand-milked 6 to 8 dairy cows daily for many years and sold the cream to purchase most of the groceries.Besides raising the boys, Mildred also helped supplement the family income by raising chickens and had a large garden every year, canning some of the produce.&nbsp; At each of the two houses where the family lived, Mildred had large strawberry patches which produced gallons and gallons of berries each day at peak production.&nbsp; When she got tired of picking, she'd invite others to come and 'pick their own.'&nbsp; Along with her garden produce, Mildred grew flowers that were prize winners at the Lincoln County Fair; she has the ribbons to show for this.Mildred was active in the Hershey United Methodist Church and served two terms as president of the UMW, and was a member of the Lower Birdwood School Board for most of the years her sons attended that school.Fred and Mildred enjoyed traveling and visiting family and friends around the U.S., as well as trips to Alaska, New England for fall foliage, Australia and New Zealand.&nbsp; After Fred's death in 2013, Mildred continued to live at home.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mildred's hobbies included counted cross-stitch and crocheted needlework.&nbsp; She spent countless hours working on these to produced Christmas ornaments, pictures, and framed family names for newlyweds and other family members.Along with her husband, Mildred was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Maxine (Glenn) Price and Iola Broeder; brother, Lyle Broeder; in-laws, William and Ruba Hoatson; brothers-in-law, Frank (Dorothy: Hoatson and Earl (Millie) Hoatson; and several nieces, nephews, and countless neighbors and friends.Mildred is survived by her sons, Claude (Kelly) Hoatson and Blaine (Nancy) Hoatson of rural Hershey, NE; grandchildren, Riley Hoatson of Hershey, NE, Adam Hoatson (Stephanie Simpson) of Sutherland, NE, Madison Hoatson of North Platte, NE, and Colin Hoatson of Denver, CO; sister-in-law, Janet Broeder of Hershey, NE; many nieces, nephews, and other family as well as her friends and neighbors.Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Central time on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at the Hershey United Methodist Church with Pastor Mark Baldwin officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in the North Platte Cemetery.&nbsp;&nbsp;Visitation is Monday, September 25, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central time and with family greeting from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Central time at Odean Colonial Chapel at C &amp; Sycamore in North Platte, which is in charge of arrangements.In lieu of flowers, memorials are to the church, Sutherland Public School Foundation, Hershey Public School Foundation, or the Hershey or Sutherland Fire Departments.&nbsp;&nbsp;Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com.

Mildred Hoatson  (1927-2023)

Funeral Service for Martina LaDeaux, age 74, of Rosebud, South Dakota, will be held on Monday, September 25, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. Central Time at the Sinte Gleska University Multipurpose Building in Antelope, South Dakota.&nbsp; Wake services will be held on September 23rd &amp; 24th at 7:00 p.m. Central Time at the Multipurpose Building.&nbsp; Caravan from the casino to the Multipurpose Building will be at 4:00 p.m. Central Time on Saturday, September 23, 2023.&nbsp; Interment will be at a later date.

Mrs. LaDeaux passed away on September 16, 2023 at the Rosebud Hospital.

Survivors include her husband, Ken; and her children, Burt Kills in Water, Robert Beauchman, Tobianne Beauchman, Mary Beauchman, and Lisa Begay.

Sandoz Chapel of the Pines in Valentine, Nebraska has been entrusted with the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695400847296.jpeg" alt="Martina LaDeaux" />
 <figcaption>Martina LaDeaux</figcaption>
 </figure>Funeral Service for Martina LaDeaux, age 74, of Rosebud, South Dakota, will be held on Monday, September 25, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. Central Time at the Sinte Gleska University Multipurpose Building in Antelope, South Dakota.&nbsp; Wake services will be held on September 23rd &amp; 24th at 7:00 p.m. Central Time at the Multipurpose Building.&nbsp; Caravan from the casino to the Multipurpose Building will be at 4:00 p.m. Central Time on Saturday, September 23, 2023.&nbsp; Interment will be at a later date.Mrs. LaDeaux passed away on September 16, 2023 at the Rosebud Hospital.Survivors include her husband, Ken; and her children, Burt Kills in Water, Robert Beauchman, Tobianne Beauchman, Mary Beauchman, and Lisa Begay.Sandoz Chapel of the Pines in Valentine, Nebraska has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Martina LaDeaux  (1948-2023)

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Betty Fern Clark was born on July 31, 1924 at Cody, Nebraska.&nbsp; She was the 8th of 10 children born to Charles and Gertrude (Savage) Clark.&nbsp; Mrs. Shields passed away on September 16, 2023 in Gordon, Nebraska. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Betty was baptized at Hunts Chapel Methodist Church in Cody, NE.&nbsp; She joined this church in her early teens.&nbsp; Betty attended Cody Public School and graduated in May 1943.&nbsp; She taught Sunday School, was a member of the United Methodist Women, and an active member of the Town &amp; Country Community Club. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Since her dad worked for the railroad as a night watchman, he had free passes for his family to travel.&nbsp; They took advantage of this by visiting an uncle in Rushville, and her dad's side of the family in Indiana. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Betty met Harvey Shields at an American Legion WWII scrap drive in Cody.&nbsp; They were married on May 7, 1944.&nbsp; Harvey and Betty worked on several ranches around the county, moving into Cody in 1968. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Betty was the assistant cook at the school and retired after 20 years of preparing school meals.&nbsp; She was known for her chocolate marshmallow bars.&nbsp; These drew young and old for a Halloween treat. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Harvey and Betty did not have children of their own, but had plenty of nieces and nephews to spoil.&nbsp; Harvey passed away on August 8, 2003.&nbsp; Betty continued to take an interest in not only her many nieces and nephews, but other children as well. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;It is known only to Betty as to how many good deeds she did, including giving many people starts to her plants, food sharing her garden produce, etc. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;As the years wore on, her health began to fail.&nbsp; She fractured her hip and entered the Country Side Care in Gordon, NE.&nbsp; Even with her body failing, her mind remained very sharp.&nbsp; Betty always wanted to know the Cody news, as well as keeping up on her family and friends. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Betty, at the age of 99, went peacefully to her heavenly home to join her husband, Harvey, and all of her siblings: Marguerite (Max) Wobig, Hazel (Bud) Morton, Ruby (Arnold) Wobig, Opal (Jack) Bennett, Juel (Sam) Whitsett, Charles R. (Joan) Clark, Lucille (John) Faubion, Louis (Minter) Orcutt, and Mitchel (Rowena) Clark. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Betty was truly a woman with a "Golden Heart," and will be missed by all who knew her. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The Funeral Service for Betty Shields, age 99, of Cody, Nebraska will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. Mountain Time at Hunts Chapel in Cody, Nebraska.&nbsp; The burial will follow at the Prairie Lawn Cemetery in Cody.&nbsp; Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral service at the church in Cody.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695400099952.jpeg" alt="Betty Shields" />
 <figcaption>Betty Shields</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Betty Fern Clark was born on July 31, 1924 at Cody, Nebraska.&nbsp; She was the 8th of 10 children born to Charles and Gertrude (Savage) Clark.&nbsp; Mrs. Shields passed away on September 16, 2023 in Gordon, Nebraska. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Betty was baptized at Hunts Chapel Methodist Church in Cody, NE.&nbsp; She joined this church in her early teens.&nbsp; Betty attended Cody Public School and graduated in May 1943.&nbsp; She taught Sunday School, was a member of the United Methodist Women, and an active member of the Town &amp; Country Community Club. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Since her dad worked for the railroad as a night watchman, he had free passes for his family to travel.&nbsp; They took advantage of this by visiting an uncle in Rushville, and her dad's side of the family in Indiana. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Betty met Harvey Shields at an American Legion WWII scrap drive in Cody.&nbsp; They were married on May 7, 1944.&nbsp; Harvey and Betty worked on several ranches around the county, moving into Cody in 1968. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Betty was the assistant cook at the school and retired after 20 years of preparing school meals.&nbsp; She was known for her chocolate marshmallow bars.&nbsp; These drew young and old for a Halloween treat. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Harvey and Betty did not have children of their own, but had plenty of nieces and nephews to spoil.&nbsp; Harvey passed away on August 8, 2003.&nbsp; Betty continued to take an interest in not only her many nieces and nephews, but other children as well. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;It is known only to Betty as to how many good deeds she did, including giving many people starts to her plants, food sharing her garden produce, etc. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;As the years wore on, her health began to fail.&nbsp; She fractured her hip and entered the Country Side Care in Gordon, NE.&nbsp; Even with her body failing, her mind remained very sharp.&nbsp; Betty always wanted to know the Cody news, as well as keeping up on her family and friends. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Betty, at the age of 99, went peacefully to her heavenly home to join her husband, Harvey, and all of her siblings: Marguerite (Max) Wobig, Hazel (Bud) Morton, Ruby (Arnold) Wobig, Opal (Jack) Bennett, Juel (Sam) Whitsett, Charles R. (Joan) Clark, Lucille (John) Faubion, Louis (Minter) Orcutt, and Mitchel (Rowena) Clark. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Betty was truly a woman with a "Golden Heart," and will be missed by all who knew her. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The Funeral Service for Betty Shields, age 99, of Cody, Nebraska will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. Mountain Time at Hunts Chapel in Cody, Nebraska.&nbsp; The burial will follow at the Prairie Lawn Cemetery in Cody.&nbsp; Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral service at the church in Cody.

Betty Fern Shields  (1924-2023)

Louise Keenan, of Palisade, Nebraska passed away at her home in Palisade early in the morning on September 16, 2023.&nbsp; She was 89 years of age.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. CST on Saturday morning, September 23, 2023 at Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook, Nebraska with Pastor Alisa Parde officiating.&nbsp; Committal services will follow at 1:00 p.m. CST in the Palisade Cemetery, Palisade, Nebraska.

Memorials can be left to the family of Louis Keenan for future designation.&nbsp; Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com.&nbsp; Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook, Nebraska.

Louise Keenan, of Palisade, Nebraska passed away at her home in Palisade early in the morning on September 16, 2023.&nbsp; She was 89 years of age.Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. CST on Saturday morning, September 23, 2023 at Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook, Nebraska with Pastor Alisa Parde officiating.&nbsp; Committal services will follow at 1:00 p.m. CST in the Palisade Cemetery, Palisade, Nebraska.Memorials can be left to the family of Louis Keenan for future designation.&nbsp; Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com.&nbsp; Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook, Nebraska.

Louise Keenan  (1934-2023)

&nbsp; Ralph Eugene Langhofer was born to David Langhofer, Jr. and Minnie (Abel) on June 15, 1936, in Bayard, NE. Ralph grew up in Bayard and graduated from Bayard High School in 1954. He later earned a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from Chadron State College while serving as an E2 in the Air National Guard. Ralph began his career at Pure Grow Chemical. Shortly thereafter, he married Linda Townsend and expanded their family by having two daughters, Heather and Wendi.

In 1973, Ralph was recruited and moved his family to Imperial, NE where he joined the team at Brown Chemical, Co. After a few years, he transitioned to Chase County Grain to advance his career where he was soon promoted to General Manager. In 1977, he married Lois Ann Likens until she passed in 1991. Ralph began his retirement years in 1997.Ralph excelled professionally, achieving recognition for his management abilities. He also found success in personal interests, from football and shooting to bowling and golf. This can be seen through the numerous trophies and score cards found tucked away.

Ralph enjoyed all aspects of golf, playing, watching, and organizing a fantasy golf league. He spent many hours in his “pro shop” (in his basement), providing custom clubs and professionally fitting them for family, friends and clients. His analytical mind and attention to detail helped him bring new technology to the area.

Ralph’s amazing qualities are what attracted Patricia (Pat) to him. They enjoyed each other’s company. Over the years, one would know how to find them as they were either out to eat on date night or spending time together on the course.

Ralph is survived by his life partner, Patricia (Pat) O’Brien; daughters, Heather Langhofer-Classen of Phoenix, AZ and Wendi Nordhausen (Nate) of Wauneta, NE; stepdaughters, Valerie Brush and Yolanda Ambrosek; sister-in-law, Paulyne Langhofer; his grandchildren, Aaron Classen (Cindy) of Phoenix, AZ, Zackary Classen of Lincoln, NE, Brooklyn Brott (Tristan) of Ogallala, NE, Hannah Curl (Luke) and Brody Nordhausen, all of Wauneta, NE; Great grandchildren, Jaxon Classen, baby Classen, Emerson Brott and Haven Curl; step grandchildren, Clint Johnson, Ryan Johnson, Curtis Johnson, Joseph Ambrosek, and Gerald Ambrosek; nephew, Denis Langhofer; and niece, Renee Burke.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents; his wives, Linda and Lois Ann; stepdaughter, Lynette Johnson; and brother, Robert Langhofer.

A Memorial Service will be held 11:00 A.M. MT Monday, September 25 at Imperial Berean Church with Pastor Matt Maxwell officiating. In Lieu of Flowers, memorials in Ralph’s memory have been suggested to the Chase County Hospital Foundation and Enders Lake Golf Course.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695246063043.jpeg" alt="Ralph Langhofer" />
 <figcaption>Ralph Langhofer</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Ralph Eugene Langhofer was born to David Langhofer, Jr. and Minnie (Abel) on June 15, 1936, in Bayard, NE. Ralph grew up in Bayard and graduated from Bayard High School in 1954. He later earned a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from Chadron State College while serving as an E2 in the Air National Guard. Ralph began his career at Pure Grow Chemical. Shortly thereafter, he married Linda Townsend and expanded their family by having two daughters, Heather and Wendi.In 1973, Ralph was recruited and moved his family to Imperial, NE where he joined the team at Brown Chemical, Co. After a few years, he transitioned to Chase County Grain to advance his career where he was soon promoted to General Manager. In 1977, he married Lois Ann Likens until she passed in 1991. Ralph began his retirement years in 1997.Ralph excelled professionally, achieving recognition for his management abilities. He also found success in personal interests, from football and shooting to bowling and golf. This can be seen through the numerous trophies and score cards found tucked away.Ralph enjoyed all aspects of golf, playing, watching, and organizing a fantasy golf league. He spent many hours in his “pro shop” (in his basement), providing custom clubs and professionally fitting them for family, friends and clients. His analytical mind and attention to detail helped him bring new technology to the area.Ralph’s amazing qualities are what attracted Patricia (Pat) to him. They enjoyed each other’s company. Over the years, one would know how to find them as they were either out to eat on date night or spending time together on the course.Ralph is survived by his life partner, Patricia (Pat) O’Brien; daughters, Heather Langhofer-Classen of Phoenix, AZ and Wendi Nordhausen (Nate) of Wauneta, NE; stepdaughters, Valerie Brush and Yolanda Ambrosek; sister-in-law, Paulyne Langhofer; his grandchildren, Aaron Classen (Cindy) of Phoenix, AZ, Zackary Classen of Lincoln, NE, Brooklyn Brott (Tristan) of Ogallala, NE, Hannah Curl (Luke) and Brody Nordhausen, all of Wauneta, NE; Great grandchildren, Jaxon Classen, baby Classen, Emerson Brott and Haven Curl; step grandchildren, Clint Johnson, Ryan Johnson, Curtis Johnson, Joseph Ambrosek, and Gerald Ambrosek; nephew, Denis Langhofer; and niece, Renee Burke.Ralph was preceded in death by his parents; his wives, Linda and Lois Ann; stepdaughter, Lynette Johnson; and brother, Robert Langhofer.A Memorial Service will be held 11:00 A.M. MT Monday, September 25 at Imperial Berean Church with Pastor Matt Maxwell officiating. In Lieu of Flowers, memorials in Ralph’s memory have been suggested to the Chase County Hospital Foundation and Enders Lake Golf Course.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ralph Eugene Langhofer (1936-2023)

&nbsp; Lynn Gordon Haarberg was born July 10, 1941, in Imperial, Nebraska to Henry and Esther (Buss) Haarberg. Lynn grew up in the Wauneta area and attended Redeemer Lutheran Church and was baptized on July 27, 1941 and later confirmed into the faith on April 3, 1955.

Lynn graduated from Wauneta High School in 1959 and worked briefly for Frontier Airlines in Lincoln, NE. This lasted a short period of time until Lynn was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served his country from 1964-1965 during the Viet Nam Conflict.

Upon his return from service, Lynn met and married the love of his life, Darlene Baldonado on November 26, 1967 a love which lasted until 2016 when Darlene passed away. The couple farmed and ranched Charolais Cattle on the North Divide until retiring in 2004 when Lynn and Darlene decided to move into Wauneta.

Lynn is survived by his daughter, Theresa Haarberg of Lincoln, NE; his brother, Kent Haarberg and wife Elaine of Kearney, NE; sister-in-law, Sharon Haarberg of Wauneta, NE.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene Haarberg; his parents; and brother, Lavon Haarberg.

Public Visitation for Lynn will be held from 5:00 p.m. MT - 7:00 p.m. MT on Tuesday, September 19 at Liewer Funeral Home of Wauneta. A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. MT, Wednesday, September 20, at Redeemer Lutheran Church of Wauneta with Pastor Keith Wellman officiating. Memorial Contributions may be made to Cancer Partners of Nebraska in care of Theresa Haarberg. Interment to follow at Riverside Cemetery, Wauneta, NE. Online condolences may be sent to the family at <a href="http://www.liewerfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank">www.liewerfuneralhome.com</a> Liewer Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; Lynn Gordon Haarberg was born July 10, 1941, in Imperial, Nebraska to Henry and Esther (Buss) Haarberg. Lynn grew up in the Wauneta area and attended Redeemer Lutheran Church and was baptized on July 27, 1941 and later confirmed into the faith on April 3, 1955.Lynn graduated from Wauneta High School in 1959 and worked briefly for Frontier Airlines in Lincoln, NE. This lasted a short period of time until Lynn was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served his country from 1964-1965 during the Viet Nam Conflict.Upon his return from service, Lynn met and married the love of his life, Darlene Baldonado on November 26, 1967 a love which lasted until 2016 when Darlene passed away. The couple farmed and ranched Charolais Cattle on the North Divide until retiring in 2004 when Lynn and Darlene decided to move into Wauneta.Lynn is survived by his daughter, Theresa Haarberg of Lincoln, NE; his brother, Kent Haarberg and wife Elaine of Kearney, NE; sister-in-law, Sharon Haarberg of Wauneta, NE.He was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene Haarberg; his parents; and brother, Lavon Haarberg.Public Visitation for Lynn will be held from 5:00 p.m. MT - 7:00 p.m. MT on Tuesday, September 19 at Liewer Funeral Home of Wauneta. A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. MT, Wednesday, September 20, at Redeemer Lutheran Church of Wauneta with Pastor Keith Wellman officiating. Memorial Contributions may be made to Cancer Partners of Nebraska in care of Theresa Haarberg. Interment to follow at Riverside Cemetery, Wauneta, NE. Online condolences may be sent to the family at <a href="http://www.liewerfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank">www.liewerfuneralhome.com</a> Liewer Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lynn Gordon Haarberg (1941-2023)

Mildred “Midge” Eilene Hansen, age 74 of Ogallala, NE, passed away Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at Perkins County Hospital in Grant, NE.

Midge was born to Curtis and Mildred (Delatour) Huckfeldt, June 14, 1949 in Lewellen, NE.&nbsp; She attended school in Lewellen and graduated from Lewellen High School in 1967. Midge went on to attend Nursing School in Denver, CO. She then returned to Ogallala, NE, where she worked for Indian Hills Manor and Chapel Nursing Home and then Perkins County Nursing Home until her retirement in 2015 from healthcare.

She enjoyed having holidays with her Grandchildren and loved attending their school activities. She also found joy in making blankets for the hospital and her friends.

She is survived by her Sons, John (Gretchen) Nowak of North Platte, NE, and Scott (Megan) Nowak of Keystone; Grandchildren, Bentley and Landen Nowak of North Platte, NE, and Kolby and Presley Nowak of Keystone, NE; Two brothers. Steve Huckfeldt of Morell, NE, and Melvin East of Seward, NE; and two sisters, Monia Biehn of Boulder, CO, and LaVaughn (Melvin) Shipman of Yankton, SD.

Visitation will be Thursday, September 21st, 2023, from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. in Draucker Funeral Home Chapel.

Funeral Services will be Thursday, September 21st, 2023, at 2:00 P.M. in Draucker Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Albert Bader of St. John’s Lutheran Church of Ogallala, NE.

The interment will be in Ash Hollow Cemetery in Lewellen, NE.

Online condolences may be left at www.drauckerfh.com www.drauckerfh.com.

Draucker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695046022661.jpeg" alt="Mildred Hansen" />
 <figcaption>Mildred Hansen</figcaption>
 </figure>Mildred “Midge” Eilene Hansen, age 74 of Ogallala, NE, passed away Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at Perkins County Hospital in Grant, NE.Midge was born to Curtis and Mildred (Delatour) Huckfeldt, June 14, 1949 in Lewellen, NE.&nbsp; She attended school in Lewellen and graduated from Lewellen High School in 1967. Midge went on to attend Nursing School in Denver, CO. She then returned to Ogallala, NE, where she worked for Indian Hills Manor and Chapel Nursing Home and then Perkins County Nursing Home until her retirement in 2015 from healthcare.She enjoyed having holidays with her Grandchildren and loved attending their school activities. She also found joy in making blankets for the hospital and her friends.She is survived by her Sons, John (Gretchen) Nowak of North Platte, NE, and Scott (Megan) Nowak of Keystone; Grandchildren, Bentley and Landen Nowak of North Platte, NE, and Kolby and Presley Nowak of Keystone, NE; Two brothers. Steve Huckfeldt of Morell, NE, and Melvin East of Seward, NE; and two sisters, Monia Biehn of Boulder, CO, and LaVaughn (Melvin) Shipman of Yankton, SD.She is preceded in death by her parents.Visitation will be Thursday, September 21st, 2023, from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. in Draucker Funeral Home Chapel.Funeral Services will be Thursday, September 21st, 2023, at 2:00 P.M. in Draucker Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Albert Bader of St. John’s Lutheran Church of Ogallala, NE.The interment will be in Ash Hollow Cemetery in Lewellen, NE.Online condolences may be left at www.drauckerfh.com www.drauckerfh.com.Draucker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

Mildred "Midge" E. Hansen (1949-2023)

Ronald Pluard, Sr., of North Platte, passed away at the Ogallala Hospital on September 12, 2023, at age 74.

Ron was born to Fred and Evelyn Pluard on August 21, 1949, in Eureka, CA. &nbsp;He grew up in northern California then enlisted into the U.S. Army following high school. &nbsp;Ron served as a demolition specialist and combat engineer who disarmed bombs in Vietnam. &nbsp;

In 1971, he returned to California after his honorable discharge and got married. &nbsp;Ron married Mardella Cooley and became a father of four. &nbsp;He was a great dad who loved taking his kids places and just being with them.

Ron worked as a welder, an auto mechanic, and was good with electricity; he was basically a jack-of-all trades. &nbsp;He also enjoyed being a scout leader but his favorite thing was being a dad. &nbsp;Ron's priorities in life were: #1 Family, #2 Believed in God, #3 Fishing.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sons, Ron Jr. and Clayton Pluard; his friend, Tracy "Porky" Smithers; and Mardella.

Survivors include Ron's children, Robert Pluard of North Platte and Brandy Pluard of California; stepson, Bryan Eichhorn of Ohio; son-in-law, Billy Glassburn (Wendy) of Ogallala; his siblings, Carol Perry (Wayne) of Massachusetts and Fred Pluard (Joyce) and Rosie Henson (Sam) of California; 9 grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and other family.

Services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 21, at Odean Colonial Chapel with Pastor Kenneth Dyches officiating. &nbsp;Burial with military honors will follow in Fort McPherson National Cemetery. &nbsp;Visitation is the day of the service at Odean Colonial Chapel at C &amp; Sycamore, which is in charge of arrangements. &nbsp;Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694642117214.jpeg" alt="Ron Pluard, Sr" />
 <figcaption>Ron Pluard, Sr</figcaption>
 </figure>Ronald Pluard, Sr., of North Platte, passed away at the Ogallala Hospital on September 12, 2023, at age 74.Ron was born to Fred and Evelyn Pluard on August 21, 1949, in Eureka, CA. &nbsp;He grew up in northern California then enlisted into the U.S. Army following high school. &nbsp;Ron served as a demolition specialist and combat engineer who disarmed bombs in Vietnam. &nbsp;In 1971, he returned to California after his honorable discharge and got married. &nbsp;Ron married Mardella Cooley and became a father of four. &nbsp;He was a great dad who loved taking his kids places and just being with them.Ron worked as a welder, an auto mechanic, and was good with electricity; he was basically a jack-of-all trades. &nbsp;He also enjoyed being a scout leader but his favorite thing was being a dad. &nbsp;Ron's priorities in life were: #1 Family, #2 Believed in God, #3 Fishing.He was preceded in death by his parents; sons, Ron Jr. and Clayton Pluard; his friend, Tracy "Porky" Smithers; and Mardella.Survivors include Ron's children, Robert Pluard of North Platte and Brandy Pluard of California; stepson, Bryan Eichhorn of Ohio; son-in-law, Billy Glassburn (Wendy) of Ogallala; his siblings, Carol Perry (Wayne) of Massachusetts and Fred Pluard (Joyce) and Rosie Henson (Sam) of California; 9 grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and other family.Services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 21, at Odean Colonial Chapel with Pastor Kenneth Dyches officiating. &nbsp;Burial with military honors will follow in Fort McPherson National Cemetery. &nbsp;Visitation is the day of the service at Odean Colonial Chapel at C &amp; Sycamore, which is in charge of arrangements. &nbsp;Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com.&nbsp;

Ron Pluard, Sr. (1949-2023)

&nbsp; Phyllis Lucille (Mead) Stinnette was born to Russell and Anna (Hall) Mead on June 12, 1922 in a two-room house SW of Champion, NE. She passed away on September 8, 2023 at Community Hospital in McCook at the age of 101.

She was the second of six children of Russell and Anna Hall Mead. She attended kindergarten through 10th grade at the Champion grade and high school. She and her two brothers and one sister rode horses the 3¼ miles to school when she was in the 6th grade, the only year in which she did not miss a day of school. In 1938 she, along with her Mother and two sisters and one brother, moved to Imperial so she could attend the rest of her high school. In 1939, her Dad and younger brother moved to Imperial. Phyllis graduated with high honors and, after working in a café for a short while, taught school for 5 years in Chase and Dundy Counties.

In 1936 she joined the Presbyterian Church in Champion and then joined the Evangelical Church in Imperial (which later united with the Methodist Church). She was pianist at the Evangelical Church for several years and also taught Sunday School.

On July 20, 1947 she was united in marriage to Francis Stinnette of rural Wauneta (they eloped and were married by a minister in McCook!). They made their home for a short time in Imperial and then moved to a farm east of Imperial. They were blessed with three children: Bing, Kelly, and Becky.

In June of 1958 the family moved to a farm three miles north of where they were and did some custom farming along with their own. Phyllis raised chickens and dressed and sold many, as well as selling eggs directly to Denver. Phyllis took to farrowing out 29 sows and selling the pigs either locally or at McCook (she loved pigs, and one of the proudest moments of her life was when the auctioneer announced that her pigs sold for the most money of any others that day). She enjoyed sewing and made many decorated western shirts for her husband and 2 sons, as well as clothing for herself and the entire family. Her hobbies included ceramics, counted cross stitch, crocheting and knitting many items, some of which she gave to friends. She was also a 4-H Leader for several years.

Due to hard times, Phyllis and Francis had to sell their farm equipment and other personal items in 1970. They moved to Indianola where Francis worked for MIC and Phyllis continued selling pigs and raised a big garden. Her yard was her pride &amp; joy. She also did: Property Reevaluation in Indianola for the County Assessor’s office; worked at a clothing store for several years, and at Stritt Hardware store until it closed in 1987.

Phyllis became a member of the Nebraska Genealogical Society in 1999 and did extensive research on the Mead and Stinnette families. She also cataloged several rural cemeteries in surrounding areas.

She and Francis moved to an acreage west of Indianola in 1978, where she continued to live with Kelly after her husband passed away in 1993. Phyllis always put family ahead of herself. In 1974 she took up quilting, and made 61 quilts along with several wall hangings. Her stitches were always perfect, and she received many purple and blue ribbons at the fair. Phyllis quilted with the Methodist Church ladies in McCook for several years, with all proceeds going to the church. She loved the Nebraska Cornhuskers football team beginning in 1960 (or earlier), and would listen to them on the transistor radio while building fence or other jobs on the farm. Phyllis was a Huskers fan to the end, and rarely missed watching or listening to a game.

She moved to El Dorado Manor in Trenton in 2009 due to Parkinson’s Disease, and lived there until her death.

Preceding her in death were her parents (Russell &amp; Anna Mead), husband Francis in 1993, an infant brother, as well as three brothers and a sister.

She is survived by her sons, Bing (Carlene), Kelly; daughter, Becky; her sister Carol &amp; (Frank) Medsker of Hastings, many nieces and nephews; and a host of friends.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. (MT) Monday, September 18, 2023 at Imperial Methodist Church with Rev. Brian Loy officiating. Visitation to be held one hour prior. Interment to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery, Imperial.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Methodist Church of Imperial or the American Heart Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694640425702.jpeg" alt="Phyllis Stinnette" />
 <figcaption>Phyllis Stinnette</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Phyllis Lucille (Mead) Stinnette was born to Russell and Anna (Hall) Mead on June 12, 1922 in a two-room house SW of Champion, NE. She passed away on September 8, 2023 at Community Hospital in McCook at the age of 101.She was the second of six children of Russell and Anna Hall Mead. She attended kindergarten through 10th grade at the Champion grade and high school. She and her two brothers and one sister rode horses the 3¼ miles to school when she was in the 6th grade, the only year in which she did not miss a day of school. In 1938 she, along with her Mother and two sisters and one brother, moved to Imperial so she could attend the rest of her high school. In 1939, her Dad and younger brother moved to Imperial. Phyllis graduated with high honors and, after working in a café for a short while, taught school for 5 years in Chase and Dundy Counties.In 1936 she joined the Presbyterian Church in Champion and then joined the Evangelical Church in Imperial (which later united with the Methodist Church). She was pianist at the Evangelical Church for several years and also taught Sunday School.On July 20, 1947 she was united in marriage to Francis Stinnette of rural Wauneta (they eloped and were married by a minister in McCook!). They made their home for a short time in Imperial and then moved to a farm east of Imperial. They were blessed with three children: Bing, Kelly, and Becky.In June of 1958 the family moved to a farm three miles north of where they were and did some custom farming along with their own. Phyllis raised chickens and dressed and sold many, as well as selling eggs directly to Denver. Phyllis took to farrowing out 29 sows and selling the pigs either locally or at McCook (she loved pigs, and one of the proudest moments of her life was when the auctioneer announced that her pigs sold for the most money of any others that day). She enjoyed sewing and made many decorated western shirts for her husband and 2 sons, as well as clothing for herself and the entire family. Her hobbies included ceramics, counted cross stitch, crocheting and knitting many items, some of which she gave to friends. She was also a 4-H Leader for several years.Due to hard times, Phyllis and Francis had to sell their farm equipment and other personal items in 1970. They moved to Indianola where Francis worked for MIC and Phyllis continued selling pigs and raised a big garden. Her yard was her pride &amp; joy. She also did: Property Reevaluation in Indianola for the County Assessor’s office; worked at a clothing store for several years, and at Stritt Hardware store until it closed in 1987.Phyllis became a member of the Nebraska Genealogical Society in 1999 and did extensive research on the Mead and Stinnette families. She also cataloged several rural cemeteries in surrounding areas.She and Francis moved to an acreage west of Indianola in 1978, where she continued to live with Kelly after her husband passed away in 1993. Phyllis always put family ahead of herself. In 1974 she took up quilting, and made 61 quilts along with several wall hangings. Her stitches were always perfect, and she received many purple and blue ribbons at the fair. Phyllis quilted with the Methodist Church ladies in McCook for several years, with all proceeds going to the church. She loved the Nebraska Cornhuskers football team beginning in 1960 (or earlier), and would listen to them on the transistor radio while building fence or other jobs on the farm. Phyllis was a Huskers fan to the end, and rarely missed watching or listening to a game.She moved to El Dorado Manor in Trenton in 2009 due to Parkinson’s Disease, and lived there until her death.Preceding her in death were her parents (Russell &amp; Anna Mead), husband Francis in 1993, an infant brother, as well as three brothers and a sister.She is survived by her sons, Bing (Carlene), Kelly; daughter, Becky; her sister Carol &amp; (Frank) Medsker of Hastings, many nieces and nephews; and a host of friends.A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. (MT) Monday, September 18, 2023 at Imperial Methodist Church with Rev. Brian Loy officiating. Visitation to be held one hour prior. Interment to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery, Imperial.Memorial contributions may be made to the Methodist Church of Imperial or the American Heart Association.

Phyllis Stinnette (1922-2023)

Thomas William Walker passed away peacefully Saturday, September 9, 2023 in Bayard, Nebraska.

Tom was born April 2, 1953 in Chadron, Nebraska.

Tom is survived by three children, four sisters, six grandchildren, five great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and more friends than anyone could count.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents Wendell and Mae Walker.

A Celebration of Tom's life will be held at his residence in Bayard, Nebraska at a later date.&nbsp; Fond memories and condolences may be left at www.dugankramer.com for the Walker Family.&nbsp; Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694633753623.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas William Walker passed away peacefully Saturday, September 9, 2023 in Bayard, Nebraska.Tom was born April 2, 1953 in Chadron, Nebraska.Tom is survived by three children, four sisters, six grandchildren, five great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and more friends than anyone could count.Tom was preceded in death by his parents Wendell and Mae Walker.A Celebration of Tom's life will be held at his residence in Bayard, Nebraska at a later date.&nbsp; Fond memories and condolences may be left at www.dugankramer.com for the Walker Family.&nbsp; Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Thomas William Walker (1953 - 2023)

Carol Ann Brown, 62, of Grant, Nebraska, passed away on Friday, September 8, 2023, at her home in Grant, surrounded by her loving family.

Carol was born on April 7, 1961, in Sutherland, Nebraska, to the late Cleith and Evelyn (Swanson) Sines. She graduated from Imperial High School with the Class of 1979.

Shortly after high school, she married her first husband, Terry Wagner, with whom she had three children: Crystal, Alan, and Teresa. The family initially resided in Imperial.

After the conclusion of her first marriage, Carol married Andrew "Andy" Brown on September 11, 1994, in Imperial. Carol and Andy welcomed three children: Heath, Sheena, and Kayla. The family lived in Imperial for several years before ultimately moving to Grant.

For more than three decades, Carol worked in nursing care, beginning her career as a nurse aide at Imperial Manor Nursing Home. She later transitioned to Golden Ours Convalescent Home, where she dedicated 22 years of service. Carol took great joy in crocheting, gardening, and, most importantly, spending quality time with her grandchildren. Her interests also included a unique collection of Holstein cows, a passion for professional wrestling, and a deep love for her cherished puppies.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Andrew Brown, in 2022; her son, Alan Wagner; her parents, Cleith and Evelyn Sines; brother, Larry Sines; two nephews; and numerous aunts and uncles.

Survivors include her children, Heath (Renee) Brown of McCook, Teresa (Tim) Ledford of Grant, Sheena (Daniel) Smith of Grant, Crystal Wagner of Imperial, and Kayla (Tom) Prosser of Grant; 16 grandchildren; her siblings, Gary Sines of Arizona, Jack Sines of Imperial, and John (Annette) Sines of North Platte; as well as her sister-in-law, Rose Sines of McCook.

A memorial has been established in Carol's memory for later designation.

Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com. Services will be streamed live at ziongrant.org.

Services will be on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at 2 p.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church in Grant, with Pastor Michael Heckmann officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date.

Bullock-Long Funeral Home of Grant is in charge of arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694447768564.jpeg" alt="Carol Brown" />
 <figcaption>Carol Brown</figcaption>
 </figure>Carol Ann Brown, 62, of Grant, Nebraska, passed away on Friday, September 8, 2023, at her home in Grant, surrounded by her loving family.Carol was born on April 7, 1961, in Sutherland, Nebraska, to the late Cleith and Evelyn (Swanson) Sines. She graduated from Imperial High School with the Class of 1979.Shortly after high school, she married her first husband, Terry Wagner, with whom she had three children: Crystal, Alan, and Teresa. The family initially resided in Imperial.After the conclusion of her first marriage, Carol married Andrew "Andy" Brown on September 11, 1994, in Imperial. Carol and Andy welcomed three children: Heath, Sheena, and Kayla. The family lived in Imperial for several years before ultimately moving to Grant.For more than three decades, Carol worked in nursing care, beginning her career as a nurse aide at Imperial Manor Nursing Home. She later transitioned to Golden Ours Convalescent Home, where she dedicated 22 years of service. Carol took great joy in crocheting, gardening, and, most importantly, spending quality time with her grandchildren. Her interests also included a unique collection of Holstein cows, a passion for professional wrestling, and a deep love for her cherished puppies.Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Andrew Brown, in 2022; her son, Alan Wagner; her parents, Cleith and Evelyn Sines; brother, Larry Sines; two nephews; and numerous aunts and uncles.Survivors include her children, Heath (Renee) Brown of McCook, Teresa (Tim) Ledford of Grant, Sheena (Daniel) Smith of Grant, Crystal Wagner of Imperial, and Kayla (Tom) Prosser of Grant; 16 grandchildren; her siblings, Gary Sines of Arizona, Jack Sines of Imperial, and John (Annette) Sines of North Platte; as well as her sister-in-law, Rose Sines of McCook.A memorial has been established in Carol's memory for later designation.Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com. Services will be streamed live at ziongrant.org.Services will be on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at 2 p.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church in Grant, with Pastor Michael Heckmann officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date.Bullock-Long Funeral Home of Grant is in charge of arrangements.

Carol Brown (1961-2023)

&nbsp; Patricia A. Thompson of Imperial, NE passed away on Tuesday September 6, 2023 at the Imperial Manor at the age of 88 surrounded by family.&nbsp; Pat, as she was known, was born on July 19, 1935 in Imperial to Delma Leota (Brown) and Raymond Adam Jaeger. She attended Imperial Public Schools from elementary through 12th grade. After graduation, she married Jack Knotwell on her 18th birthday and moved to McCook, NE. To this union were born 2 girls: Gayla Kay and Cindy Rae. After a divorce in 1959, Pat and the 2 girls moved back to Imperial where she worked as a waitress at Babb’s café.

Pat married Jim Thompson on April 2, 1961 at the Methodist Church in Imperial. The following year they had a daughter, Linda Faye. The couple lived in the lone star community before purchasing the farm in the Blanche community.

Pat enjoyed sewing , knitting, gardening, crafts, extension club and card club. She drove the “bus” for country school children which so happened to be her big green impala. After Jim’s death in 1993, Pat purchased the John Splitt home in Imperial in 1995 where she has resided until present. She loved to go camping and gambling with her special friend, Fuzz Harris.

Pat is survived by her daughters, Gayla Mayden, Cindy Hudson &amp; Linda Kearns; Sisters, Delores Befort, Joyce Roesener, Marla (Darty) Schilke; sister-in-laws, Janette (Richard) Carmich, Jan Jaeger, Katie Thompson &amp; Bonnie Thompson; Grandsons, Schad (Jami) Mayden, Cody (Sara) Hudson, Dusty (Jennifer) Hudson and Jessie Demicell; granddaughters, Misty (Deni) Flesch, Chelsa Hudson and Kassy Herbert; Great grandchildren, Taylor (Cheyenne) Mayden, Brendan Mayden, Caysie and Saige Hudson, Lillian Brynn and Dane Hudson and Tristian Herbert; great-great grandson, Jaxon Harvey; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Pat was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Gordon (Bell) Jaeger, sister, Sharon Jaeger, husbands Jack Knotwell and Jim Thompson; in-laws, Richard &amp; Glenn Jr. Thompson, Janice Widger, Rodger Mayden, Robert Hudson, Oliver Befort and Jim Demicell; Son-in-Laws Rodger Mayden, Robert Hudson and Jim Demicell, nieces Jana Prebbeno and Cindy Roesener; nephews, Russell Schilke, Bill Carmen, Kirk Collins and Kent Thompson.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. (MT) Monday, September 11, 2023 at Methodist Church in Imperial with Randy Hayes Officiating. Interment was held at Mount Hope Cemetery, Imperial. Memorial contributions may be considered to the Thompson family for a future designation. Online condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.liewerfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank">www.liewerfuneralhome.com</a>&nbsp; Liewer Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694186259259.jpeg" alt="Pat Thompson" />
 <figcaption>Pat Thompson</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Patricia A. Thompson of Imperial, NE passed away on Tuesday September 6, 2023 at the Imperial Manor at the age of 88 surrounded by family.&nbsp; Pat, as she was known, was born on July 19, 1935 in Imperial to Delma Leota (Brown) and Raymond Adam Jaeger. She attended Imperial Public Schools from elementary through 12th grade. After graduation, she married Jack Knotwell on her 18th birthday and moved to McCook, NE. To this union were born 2 girls: Gayla Kay and Cindy Rae. After a divorce in 1959, Pat and the 2 girls moved back to Imperial where she worked as a waitress at Babb’s café.Pat married Jim Thompson on April 2, 1961 at the Methodist Church in Imperial. The following year they had a daughter, Linda Faye. The couple lived in the lone star community before purchasing the farm in the Blanche community.Pat enjoyed sewing , knitting, gardening, crafts, extension club and card club. She drove the “bus” for country school children which so happened to be her big green impala. After Jim’s death in 1993, Pat purchased the John Splitt home in Imperial in 1995 where she has resided until present. She loved to go camping and gambling with her special friend, Fuzz Harris.Pat is survived by her daughters, Gayla Mayden, Cindy Hudson &amp; Linda Kearns; Sisters, Delores Befort, Joyce Roesener, Marla (Darty) Schilke; sister-in-laws, Janette (Richard) Carmich, Jan Jaeger, Katie Thompson &amp; Bonnie Thompson; Grandsons, Schad (Jami) Mayden, Cody (Sara) Hudson, Dusty (Jennifer) Hudson and Jessie Demicell; granddaughters, Misty (Deni) Flesch, Chelsa Hudson and Kassy Herbert; Great grandchildren, Taylor (Cheyenne) Mayden, Brendan Mayden, Caysie and Saige Hudson, Lillian Brynn and Dane Hudson and Tristian Herbert; great-great grandson, Jaxon Harvey; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Pat was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Gordon (Bell) Jaeger, sister, Sharon Jaeger, husbands Jack Knotwell and Jim Thompson; in-laws, Richard &amp; Glenn Jr. Thompson, Janice Widger, Rodger Mayden, Robert Hudson, Oliver Befort and Jim Demicell; Son-in-Laws Rodger Mayden, Robert Hudson and Jim Demicell, nieces Jana Prebbeno and Cindy Roesener; nephews, Russell Schilke, Bill Carmen, Kirk Collins and Kent Thompson.Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. (MT) Monday, September 11, 2023 at Methodist Church in Imperial with Randy Hayes Officiating. Interment was held at Mount Hope Cemetery, Imperial. Memorial contributions may be considered to the Thompson family for a future designation. Online condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.liewerfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank">www.liewerfuneralhome.com</a>&nbsp; Liewer Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Patricia Annette Thompson (1935-2023)

Sillas James “Jim” Sillasen, age 93, of Ogallala, NE. formerly of Keystone; died Wednesday, September 6th, 2023 at Wel-life Health Care in Ogallala, NE.

Jim was born on July 15, 1930, to Andrew and Mabel (Krab) Sillasen in Sutherland, NE.&nbsp; He was raised on the family ranch east of Keystone, where he continued to live throughout his life.&nbsp; Jim recalled that as a young child, his first job was to feed the cats and the chickens and bring in wood for the cook stove.&nbsp; He was the third generation of the family to manage the ranch and all the employees who were hired to feed cattle and put-up hay.

He met his future wife, Verna McGreer, at a dance in Paxton.&nbsp; They married in Big Springs, NE on June 10, 1951.&nbsp; Jim and Verna had three children: Kathleen (Creighton) Miller, Joanell (Ron) Klug, and Lee (Brenda) Sillasen.&nbsp; They raised their family on the ranch and took in more than one youth who needed a home. Jerry Craghead and Cal Peters were two such young men, who initially came to work on the ranch and then became part of the family.&nbsp;

Jim was always busy on the ranch, from checking the cows in the hills to supervising the work in the hayfield.&nbsp; If one of the kids had too much fun on Friday night, he was sure to have a good job waiting for them on Saturday morning.&nbsp; The kids laughingly recall having to move cattle or clean out a tank, among other things, on many a Saturday morning.&nbsp; Jim was always able to find one of the grandkids a job to help them, as he said, build character.&nbsp; He never knew a stranger and was often found visiting with a friend he had just met.&nbsp; Jim could always be counted on to be at the sale barn in Ogallala.&nbsp; He was there every week to catch up on the latest news at the round table.&nbsp;

In his later years, Jim could often be found on the golf course, playing with his buddy, Cal, and his son-in-law, Creighton.&nbsp; He was well known to be the only golfer with golf spikes on his cowboy boots.&nbsp; He loved horses and rode his whole life until he switched to his trusty Honda Rancher. As a child, he rode his horse four miles, uphill both ways, in the snow, to go to school and return home.

In 2016, Jim and Verna moved to assisted living in Columbus, NE to be near their daughter, Joanell, and her family.&nbsp; It was the first time he had lived anywhere but the ranch.&nbsp; In 2017, they returned to Ogallala and moved to Wel-Life Assisted Living.&nbsp; At Wel-Life, he enjoyed keeping the staff on their toes.&nbsp; One incident involved Jim utilizing his golf club to launch a frozen cherry tomato.&nbsp; The tomato soared down the hall into Charlotte’s office and splatted on her desk. Jim had the privilege of cleaning up the mess.

Jim is survived by his children; Kathleen (Creighton) Miller, Joanell (Ron) Klug, and Lee (Brenda) Sillasen; his grandchildren: Andrew (Lynnette) Klug, Angela (Derek) Maursted, Karleen (Chad) Muhle, Darcey (Karl) Saxton, Stacy (Gordon) Decker, Jason (Elizabeth) Sillasen and Erin (Lucas) Sillasen-Banks; thirteen great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, many friends - including all the folks who cared for him at Wel-Life.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, a sister Donna (Herb) Ledbetter, his parents-in-law, Coyle and Clara McGreer, and two brothers-in-law, Wilber (Pat) McGreer and Harold, “Mick” (Virginia) McGreer.&nbsp;

Visitation will be Tuesday, September 12, 2023, from 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. with family greeting friends from 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. at Draucker Funeral Home Chapel in Ogallala, Ne.

Services will be held Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at 2:00 P.M. at Draucker Funeral Home Chapel, officiating will be Ron Jay.

Inurnment will be in the Ogallala Cemetery, Ogallala, Ne.

A memorial has been established for the Paxton Volunteer Fire Department.

The service will be live-streamed at www.drauckerfh.com.

&nbsp;Condolences may be left online at www.drauckerfh.com.

&nbsp;Draucker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694119816349.jpeg" alt="Jim Sillasen" />
 <figcaption>Jim Sillasen</figcaption>
 </figure>Sillas James “Jim” Sillasen, age 93, of Ogallala, NE. formerly of Keystone; died Wednesday, September 6th, 2023 at Wel-life Health Care in Ogallala, NE.Jim was born on July 15, 1930, to Andrew and Mabel (Krab) Sillasen in Sutherland, NE.&nbsp; He was raised on the family ranch east of Keystone, where he continued to live throughout his life.&nbsp; Jim recalled that as a young child, his first job was to feed the cats and the chickens and bring in wood for the cook stove.&nbsp; He was the third generation of the family to manage the ranch and all the employees who were hired to feed cattle and put-up hay.He met his future wife, Verna McGreer, at a dance in Paxton.&nbsp; They married in Big Springs, NE on June 10, 1951.&nbsp; Jim and Verna had three children: Kathleen (Creighton) Miller, Joanell (Ron) Klug, and Lee (Brenda) Sillasen.&nbsp; They raised their family on the ranch and took in more than one youth who needed a home. Jerry Craghead and Cal Peters were two such young men, who initially came to work on the ranch and then became part of the family.&nbsp;Jim was always busy on the ranch, from checking the cows in the hills to supervising the work in the hayfield.&nbsp; If one of the kids had too much fun on Friday night, he was sure to have a good job waiting for them on Saturday morning.&nbsp; The kids laughingly recall having to move cattle or clean out a tank, among other things, on many a Saturday morning.&nbsp; Jim was always able to find one of the grandkids a job to help them, as he said, build character.&nbsp; He never knew a stranger and was often found visiting with a friend he had just met.&nbsp; Jim could always be counted on to be at the sale barn in Ogallala.&nbsp; He was there every week to catch up on the latest news at the round table.&nbsp;In his later years, Jim could often be found on the golf course, playing with his buddy, Cal, and his son-in-law, Creighton.&nbsp; He was well known to be the only golfer with golf spikes on his cowboy boots.&nbsp; He loved horses and rode his whole life until he switched to his trusty Honda Rancher. As a child, he rode his horse four miles, uphill both ways, in the snow, to go to school and return home.In 2016, Jim and Verna moved to assisted living in Columbus, NE to be near their daughter, Joanell, and her family.&nbsp; It was the first time he had lived anywhere but the ranch.&nbsp; In 2017, they returned to Ogallala and moved to Wel-Life Assisted Living.&nbsp; At Wel-Life, he enjoyed keeping the staff on their toes.&nbsp; One incident involved Jim utilizing his golf club to launch a frozen cherry tomato.&nbsp; The tomato soared down the hall into Charlotte’s office and splatted on her desk. Jim had the privilege of cleaning up the mess.Jim is survived by his children; Kathleen (Creighton) Miller, Joanell (Ron) Klug, and Lee (Brenda) Sillasen; his grandchildren: Andrew (Lynnette) Klug, Angela (Derek) Maursted, Karleen (Chad) Muhle, Darcey (Karl) Saxton, Stacy (Gordon) Decker, Jason (Elizabeth) Sillasen and Erin (Lucas) Sillasen-Banks; thirteen great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, many friends - including all the folks who cared for him at Wel-Life.Jim was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, a sister Donna (Herb) Ledbetter, his parents-in-law, Coyle and Clara McGreer, and two brothers-in-law, Wilber (Pat) McGreer and Harold, “Mick” (Virginia) McGreer.&nbsp;Visitation will be Tuesday, September 12, 2023, from 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. with family greeting friends from 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. at Draucker Funeral Home Chapel in Ogallala, Ne.Services will be held Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at 2:00 P.M. at Draucker Funeral Home Chapel, officiating will be Ron Jay.Inurnment will be in the Ogallala Cemetery, Ogallala, Ne.A memorial has been established for the Paxton Volunteer Fire Department.The service will be live-streamed at www.drauckerfh.com.&nbsp;Condolences may be left online at www.drauckerfh.com.&nbsp;Draucker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

Sillas James "Jim" Sillasen (1930-2023)

Donald A. Hines was born December 10, 1931, at Tuthill, SD to Gerald and Anna (Cunningham) Hines. He passed away September 2, 2023, at the Brown County Hospital in Ainsworth, NE.

Don married Shirleigh Shebal on January 3, 1951. To this union two children were born: Cindy and Gary.

Most of their life was spent in Bennett County where they ranched, farmed and did custom haying. Due to health concerns their later years were spent in Ainsworth. Life in both places was blessed with family, wonderful neighbors, and friends.

Don enjoyed his family, the ranch and his cattle. He loved hunting and became an avid collector of Winchesters, saddles and spurs.

He leaves to mourn his passing, his wife Shirleigh of Ainsworth; daughter Cindy Buckles of Ainsworth; son Gary (Andrea) Hines of Martin, SD; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; brother Kenny (Beverly) Hines of Tuthill; sister Janet (Harlan) Reckling of Nixa, MO; special family Kevin (Robin) Schuetz of Long Pine, NE, along with nieces, nephews and other family members.

Memorial Graveside Services were held on Thursday, September 7, 2023 at Martin Community Cemetery in Martin, SC with Pastor Martin Leeper officiating the service.&nbsp; Casket bearers were Mark VonHeeder, Tony Buckles, Kevin Heath, Grand Moreland, Christopher Juhnke, and Dave Hudson.&nbsp; 

Memorials are suggested to the family for future designation.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hochfuneralhome.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694106019188.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Donald A. Hines was born December 10, 1931, at Tuthill, SD to Gerald and Anna (Cunningham) Hines. He passed away September 2, 2023, at the Brown County Hospital in Ainsworth, NE.Don married Shirleigh Shebal on January 3, 1951. To this union two children were born: Cindy and Gary.Most of their life was spent in Bennett County where they ranched, farmed and did custom haying. Due to health concerns their later years were spent in Ainsworth. Life in both places was blessed with family, wonderful neighbors, and friends.Don enjoyed his family, the ranch and his cattle. He loved hunting and became an avid collector of Winchesters, saddles and spurs.He leaves to mourn his passing, his wife Shirleigh of Ainsworth; daughter Cindy Buckles of Ainsworth; son Gary (Andrea) Hines of Martin, SD; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; brother Kenny (Beverly) Hines of Tuthill; sister Janet (Harlan) Reckling of Nixa, MO; special family Kevin (Robin) Schuetz of Long Pine, NE, along with nieces, nephews and other family members.Memorial Graveside Services were held on Thursday, September 7, 2023 at Martin Community Cemetery in Martin, SC with Pastor Martin Leeper officiating the service.&nbsp; Casket bearers were Mark VonHeeder, Tony Buckles, Kevin Heath, Grand Moreland, Christopher Juhnke, and Dave Hudson.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the family for future designation.Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hochfuneralhome.com.

Donald A. Hines (1931 - 2023)

Wauneta Jean Allen Keller was born January 13, 1930, to Clarence and Martha (Farris) Allen at the Ulrich place in Brown County. She was one of eleven children.&nbsp; Wauneta graduated from Ainsworth High School in 1950. She married Phil Keller on February 10, 1950, at Springview, NE. To this union six children were born: Jim, Bob, Bonnie, Valeta, Rosiland, and Rhonda.

Phil and Wauneta owned and operated Keller Electric in Ainsworth, NE. Wauneta was the administrative assistant for the company for many years and was proud of the business’ success. She enjoyed doing arts and crafts and encouraged her grandkids to participate as well. She loved playing different games with the grandkids and on occasion might have accused one or two of them of cheating to win. Wauneta enjoyed being a Girl Scout leader and also participated in bowling leagues. It brought her great joy to travel to several state tournaments, bringing home hardware to show off her skills.&nbsp; Music was a big part of Wauneta’s life. She played music with her family and provided entertainment for the community as well. She played on the Long Pine Railroad Half Hour show and also traveled to Norfolk and played on the radio at Tom’s music house with her daughters. She played in bands with her brothers and daughters and traveled all over singing for others. Wauneta was involved in the initial stages of bringing the Country Music Festival to Ainsworth. She was hands on with the planning, organizing, and also as a participant. &nbsp;A favorite pastime of Wauneta was being outside enjoying birds and planting flowers. She loved making banana bread and Rice Krispy bars when the grandkids would come to visit. Her favorite was her “lap partner” Daisy Mae. Daisy brought such joy to her life and never left her side in the end.

Wauneta was preceded in death by her son Jim Keller of North Platte, NE and ten siblings: Isabelle Jacobitz, Marvin (Jack) Allen, James Allen, Evelyn Hill, Dorothy Jones, Wayne Allen, Darlene Oakes, Gene Allen, Lester Allen, and Elmer Allen. And son-in-law Marc Bellin.

Those left to cherish her memory are: Son, Robert (Stacia) Keller of Longmont, CO. Daughters: Bonnie Bellin of Johnstown, CO; Valeta Hallsted of Gilchrest, CO, Rosiland (Ros) (Bruce) Beebout of Kearney, NE; and Rhonda Keller (Russ) of Hershey, NE. Daughter in law Barbara Keller and special family friend Felix Soto as well as Daisy Mae and 10 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren, and 8 great, great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

An outside memorial service will be held on Friday, September 15, 2023, at 2:00 pm at the home of her daughter, Rhonda Keller, in Hershey, NE. Following the service, the celebration of Wauneta’s life will continue with many of the things that she enjoyed including food, fellowship, music, karaoke, yard games, etc. Memorials may be made to the family in her name for further designation.

Adams &amp; Swanson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694011484148.png" alt="Wauneta Keller" />
 <figcaption>Wauneta Keller</figcaption>
 </figure>Wauneta Jean Allen Keller was born January 13, 1930, to Clarence and Martha (Farris) Allen at the Ulrich place in Brown County. She was one of eleven children.&nbsp; Wauneta graduated from Ainsworth High School in 1950. She married Phil Keller on February 10, 1950, at Springview, NE. To this union six children were born: Jim, Bob, Bonnie, Valeta, Rosiland, and Rhonda.Phil and Wauneta owned and operated Keller Electric in Ainsworth, NE. Wauneta was the administrative assistant for the company for many years and was proud of the business’ success. She enjoyed doing arts and crafts and encouraged her grandkids to participate as well. She loved playing different games with the grandkids and on occasion might have accused one or two of them of cheating to win. Wauneta enjoyed being a Girl Scout leader and also participated in bowling leagues. It brought her great joy to travel to several state tournaments, bringing home hardware to show off her skills.&nbsp; Music was a big part of Wauneta’s life. She played music with her family and provided entertainment for the community as well. She played on the Long Pine Railroad Half Hour show and also traveled to Norfolk and played on the radio at Tom’s music house with her daughters. She played in bands with her brothers and daughters and traveled all over singing for others. Wauneta was involved in the initial stages of bringing the Country Music Festival to Ainsworth. She was hands on with the planning, organizing, and also as a participant. &nbsp;A favorite pastime of Wauneta was being outside enjoying birds and planting flowers. She loved making banana bread and Rice Krispy bars when the grandkids would come to visit. Her favorite was her “lap partner” Daisy Mae. Daisy brought such joy to her life and never left her side in the end.Wauneta was preceded in death by her son Jim Keller of North Platte, NE and ten siblings: Isabelle Jacobitz, Marvin (Jack) Allen, James Allen, Evelyn Hill, Dorothy Jones, Wayne Allen, Darlene Oakes, Gene Allen, Lester Allen, and Elmer Allen. And son-in-law Marc Bellin.Those left to cherish her memory are: Son, Robert (Stacia) Keller of Longmont, CO. Daughters: Bonnie Bellin of Johnstown, CO; Valeta Hallsted of Gilchrest, CO, Rosiland (Ros) (Bruce) Beebout of Kearney, NE; and Rhonda Keller (Russ) of Hershey, NE. Daughter in law Barbara Keller and special family friend Felix Soto as well as Daisy Mae and 10 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren, and 8 great, great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.An outside memorial service will be held on Friday, September 15, 2023, at 2:00 pm at the home of her daughter, Rhonda Keller, in Hershey, NE. Following the service, the celebration of Wauneta’s life will continue with many of the things that she enjoyed including food, fellowship, music, karaoke, yard games, etc. Memorials may be made to the family in her name for further designation.Adams &amp; Swanson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Wauneta J Keller (1930-2023)

&nbsp; &nbsp; Helena Theresa (Simon) Janousek passed away on September 4, 2023, at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Nebraska, surrounded by her family.

&nbsp; &nbsp; Helena was born May 30, 1974, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Kay and Jaynee (Shadley) Simon. &nbsp;Her early childhood was spent in St. Charles, Missouri. &nbsp;At the age of 10, she moved to Trenton, Nebraska.

&nbsp; &nbsp; January of 1993, she and Troy Horinek had a son, Devin Michael. Helena would later meet the love of her life, Leslie Janousek. &nbsp;They married on April 17, 1999. &nbsp;Their son, Zachary Phillip was born February 2000.

&nbsp; &nbsp; Helena enjoyed watching her boys participate in their various sporting events, but she also supported local athletes of all ages and sports. &nbsp;Whenever she was able, she attended her nieces’ and nephew’s activities with a favorite being her annual dance recital trip. &nbsp;She enjoyed many types of crafting but in recent years she took up crocheting and could often be found working on a blanket for one of her friends or family. &nbsp;Other favorite activities included: &nbsp;gardening, reality tv, racing (local and NASCAR), eating at the Olive Garden, caring for her fur babies and gambling (she was always up for a trip to the casino usually with her Mom). &nbsp;She looked forward to any opportunity to spend time with family but especially loved bike rides with her husband. &nbsp;Her greatest joy was her boys. &nbsp;Whether it was following Zach’s Navy career or seeing Devin start his own business, she was extremely proud of them.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; Helena was preceded in death by grandmothers, Donna and Phyllis; grandfathers, Glen and Eldon; mother-in-law Annalea; and uncles Doug and Marcy.

&nbsp; &nbsp; Survivors include husband, Les; sons, Devin &amp; Zach; acquired son, Colton; grandfather, Ollie; parents, Jaynee and Jerry and Kay and Sarah; father-in-law, Phillip; sister, Angel (Rodney); brother-in-law, Lance (Kristi); nieces and nephew: Chloe (Vic), Hanna (Jovi), Martina and Tyson; &nbsp;aunts and uncles: David (Lisa), Traci (Mike), Stewart (Pam), Sherie, Donna (Richard), Laurie (Danny); and the Janousek aunts &amp; uncles by marriage; cousins and many dear friends.

&nbsp; &nbsp; Cremation was chosen and a rosary will be recited at 4PM on Sunday afternoon, September 10, 2023 at St. James Catholic Church in Trenton, Nebraska. &nbsp;Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10AM on Monday morning, September 11, 2023 at St. James Catholic Church in Trenton with Father Gary Brethour celebrating. &nbsp;Inurnment will follow services in St. James Cemetery in Trenton.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family, Dundy County Hospital or McCook Community Hospital Home Healthcare &amp; Hospice. Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com. &nbsp;Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694012152212.jpeg" alt="Helena Janousek" />
 <figcaption>Helena Janousek</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; &nbsp; Helena Theresa (Simon) Janousek passed away on September 4, 2023, at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Nebraska, surrounded by her family.&nbsp; &nbsp; Helena was born May 30, 1974, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Kay and Jaynee (Shadley) Simon. &nbsp;Her early childhood was spent in St. Charles, Missouri. &nbsp;At the age of 10, she moved to Trenton, Nebraska.&nbsp; &nbsp; January of 1993, she and Troy Horinek had a son, Devin Michael. Helena would later meet the love of her life, Leslie Janousek. &nbsp;They married on April 17, 1999. &nbsp;Their son, Zachary Phillip was born February 2000.&nbsp; &nbsp; Helena enjoyed watching her boys participate in their various sporting events, but she also supported local athletes of all ages and sports. &nbsp;Whenever she was able, she attended her nieces’ and nephew’s activities with a favorite being her annual dance recital trip. &nbsp;She enjoyed many types of crafting but in recent years she took up crocheting and could often be found working on a blanket for one of her friends or family. &nbsp;Other favorite activities included: &nbsp;gardening, reality tv, racing (local and NASCAR), eating at the Olive Garden, caring for her fur babies and gambling (she was always up for a trip to the casino usually with her Mom). &nbsp;She looked forward to any opportunity to spend time with family but especially loved bike rides with her husband. &nbsp;Her greatest joy was her boys. &nbsp;Whether it was following Zach’s Navy career or seeing Devin start his own business, she was extremely proud of them.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Helena was preceded in death by grandmothers, Donna and Phyllis; grandfathers, Glen and Eldon; mother-in-law Annalea; and uncles Doug and Marcy.&nbsp; &nbsp; Survivors include husband, Les; sons, Devin &amp; Zach; acquired son, Colton; grandfather, Ollie; parents, Jaynee and Jerry and Kay and Sarah; father-in-law, Phillip; sister, Angel (Rodney); brother-in-law, Lance (Kristi); nieces and nephew: Chloe (Vic), Hanna (Jovi), Martina and Tyson; &nbsp;aunts and uncles: David (Lisa), Traci (Mike), Stewart (Pam), Sherie, Donna (Richard), Laurie (Danny); and the Janousek aunts &amp; uncles by marriage; cousins and many dear friends.&nbsp; &nbsp; Cremation was chosen and a rosary will be recited at 4PM on Sunday afternoon, September 10, 2023 at St. James Catholic Church in Trenton, Nebraska. &nbsp;Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10AM on Monday morning, September 11, 2023 at St. James Catholic Church in Trenton with Father Gary Brethour celebrating. &nbsp;Inurnment will follow services in St. James Cemetery in Trenton.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family, Dundy County Hospital or McCook Community Hospital Home Healthcare &amp; Hospice. Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com. &nbsp;Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook.

Helena Janousek (1974-2023)

&nbsp; Debbie Lynn Patten was born on July 1, 1963 in Springfield, Massachusetts to Thedore and Linda Patten. Debbie worked for several years in the Human Resources department for Walmart/Sams Club until most recently serving as an administrative assistant for Dundy County Hospital. Debbie enjoyed being a resident of Benkelman and was most recently planning to marry her life partner, Richard Boon. 

Debbie was involved in the local pool league, she loved spending time with her grandchildren, hosting family and friends, cooking and going on trail rides with Richard in their side-by-side ATV. 

Debbie passed away Thursday morning, August 31, 2023, at the Dundy County Hospital, Benkelman, NE. she was 60 years of age. 

Life Partner: Richard Boone of Benkelman, NE Children: Kelly Ottersberg, Jesse Clark and Cody Boon Siblings: Donna and Eddy Story, Christine and Jimmie Burgtorf. 4 Grandchildren, Brett Ottersberg, Peyton Ottersberg, Amelia Clark and David Clark.

Memorial Services will be held Friday afternoon, September 8, 2023. 3:00 P.M. (MT) at the Benkelman Memorial Chapel, Benkelman, NE, with Rev. Jim Gleason officiating.

In Lieu of flowers, a memorial in Debbie’s memory, has been suggested to the Connected Forever Organization. 61691 733 Road, Tecumseh, NE 68450

Online condolences may be left at liewerfuneralhome.com

BENKELMAN MEMORIAL CHAPEL ENTRUSTED WITH ARRANGEMENTS&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693929631766.jpeg" alt="Debbie Patten" />
 <figcaption>Debbie Patten</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Debbie Lynn Patten was born on July 1, 1963 in Springfield, Massachusetts to Thedore and Linda Patten. Debbie worked for several years in the Human Resources department for Walmart/Sams Club until most recently serving as an administrative assistant for Dundy County Hospital. Debbie enjoyed being a resident of Benkelman and was most recently planning to marry her life partner, Richard Boon. Debbie was involved in the local pool league, she loved spending time with her grandchildren, hosting family and friends, cooking and going on trail rides with Richard in their side-by-side ATV. Debbie passed away Thursday morning, August 31, 2023, at the Dundy County Hospital, Benkelman, NE. she was 60 years of age. Survivors Include:Life Partner: Richard Boone of Benkelman, NE Children: Kelly Ottersberg, Jesse Clark and Cody Boon Siblings: Donna and Eddy Story, Christine and Jimmie Burgtorf. 4 Grandchildren, Brett Ottersberg, Peyton Ottersberg, Amelia Clark and David Clark.Memorial Services will be held Friday afternoon, September 8, 2023. 3:00 P.M. (MT) at the Benkelman Memorial Chapel, Benkelman, NE, with Rev. Jim Gleason officiating.In Lieu of flowers, a memorial in Debbie’s memory, has been suggested to the Connected Forever Organization. 61691 733 Road, Tecumseh, NE 68450Online condolences may be left at liewerfuneralhome.comBENKELMAN MEMORIAL CHAPEL ENTRUSTED WITH ARRANGEMENTS&nbsp;&nbsp;

Debbie L Patten (1963-2023)

Ivan G. Regier, 83, of Grant, Nebraska, passed away on Thursday, August 31, 2023, in North Platte, Nebraska.

Born on September 6, 1939, in Lewellen, Nebraska, Ivan was the son of the late P.A. and Marie (Hubert) Regier. He graduated from Freeman Academy in Freeman, South Dakota, with the Class of 1957 and went on to graduate from Bethel College in North Newton, Kansas (Class of 1962), where he studied business and philosophy.

In the autumn of 1961, Ivan married Ann Preheim, whom he had fortuitously met on a trip to visit his sister in South Dakota and later dated at Bethel College. Shortly after their marriage, the couple moved to Japan to serve as house parents for missionary children with the Board of Missions for the General Conference Mennonite Church. Following two years abroad, they returned to the United States and settled on the Regier family farm north of Madrid, Nebraska where they would reside for much of their married lives before constructing a home near Westview in Grant, Nebraska.

Throughout his life, while Ivan was a farmer, he was most notably the proprietor of Regier Land Improvement, providing earth-moving services for clients across western Nebraska and eastern Colorado. Respected for his innovative work with heavy equipment, Ivan was known as a lifelong learner and an early adopter of new technology and practices in his field. He was passionate about hearing and sharing stories and enjoyed being known as "The Man with the Upside-down Face" and an "undercover Santa" due to his prodigious white beard. A lover of all things musical, Ivan also enjoyed participating in choirs and singing groups over the years, particularly barbershop.

Ivan was preceded in death by his parents, P.A. and Marie Regier, and his brothers, Karl, Herman, and Pete Jr., and sister, Marian. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Ann, of Grant; his sons, Mark (Marlene) Regier of Elkhart, Indiana, and Michael Regier of Aurora, Colorado; one grandson, Mateo Regier; and sister, Ruth Preheim of Freeman, South Dakota.

Memorials are suggested to Bethel College at North Newton, KS, and Grant United Methodist Church. Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com.

A celebration of Ivan's life and 60 years of moving dirt and building community will be held on October 14, 2023, at the Perkins County Fairgrounds in Grant from 4-7 p.m. Private family inurnment will take place in the Madrid Cemetery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694011997598.jpeg" alt="Ivan Regier" />
 <figcaption>Ivan Regier</figcaption>
 </figure>Ivan G. Regier, 83, of Grant, Nebraska, passed away on Thursday, August 31, 2023, in North Platte, Nebraska.Born on September 6, 1939, in Lewellen, Nebraska, Ivan was the son of the late P.A. and Marie (Hubert) Regier. He graduated from Freeman Academy in Freeman, South Dakota, with the Class of 1957 and went on to graduate from Bethel College in North Newton, Kansas (Class of 1962), where he studied business and philosophy.In the autumn of 1961, Ivan married Ann Preheim, whom he had fortuitously met on a trip to visit his sister in South Dakota and later dated at Bethel College. Shortly after their marriage, the couple moved to Japan to serve as house parents for missionary children with the Board of Missions for the General Conference Mennonite Church. Following two years abroad, they returned to the United States and settled on the Regier family farm north of Madrid, Nebraska where they would reside for much of their married lives before constructing a home near Westview in Grant, Nebraska.Throughout his life, while Ivan was a farmer, he was most notably the proprietor of Regier Land Improvement, providing earth-moving services for clients across western Nebraska and eastern Colorado. Respected for his innovative work with heavy equipment, Ivan was known as a lifelong learner and an early adopter of new technology and practices in his field. He was passionate about hearing and sharing stories and enjoyed being known as "The Man with the Upside-down Face" and an "undercover Santa" due to his prodigious white beard. A lover of all things musical, Ivan also enjoyed participating in choirs and singing groups over the years, particularly barbershop.Ivan was preceded in death by his parents, P.A. and Marie Regier, and his brothers, Karl, Herman, and Pete Jr., and sister, Marian. He is survived by his loving wife, Ann, of Grant; his sons, Mark (Marlene) Regier of Elkhart, Indiana, and Michael Regier of Aurora, Colorado; one grandson, Mateo Regier; and sister, Ruth Preheim of Freeman, South Dakota.Memorials are suggested to Bethel College at North Newton, KS, and Grant United Methodist Church. Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com.A celebration of Ivan's life and 60 years of moving dirt and building community will be held on October 14, 2023, at the Perkins County Fairgrounds in Grant from 4-7 p.m. Private family inurnment will take place in the Madrid Cemetery.

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