Leland D. Maris, 84, went into the arms of the Lord Jesus June 24, 2024, at Kearney Regional Hospital. Leland was born on April 30, 1940, to Frank and Florence (Adamson) Maris on the Maris farm in Hitchcock County.

Leland lived his entire life on the Maris homestead, he attended grade school at Eden school district 54. He attended high school in Wauneta, at the end of his sophomore year he decided to leave high school and begin working at several different places including Larson’s Ford Garage and at Harchelroad Motors where he set up machinery. He also custom fertilized for quite a few different farmers. He also worked at JD Farm equipment in McCook.

On March 12, 1961, Leland married his sweetheart Sharon (Kerchal) at the Congregational Church in Hayes Center. Leland and Sharon were blessed with 3 beautiful children: Julie, Sheila, and Michael.

Julie married Dan Ashline and they blessed him with 3 grandchildren Nick, Ethan, and Eliese (fiancé Charlie Hall). Sheila married Skip Dargis blessing him with 2 grandsons Scott(wife Brooke) and Eric Dargis. Michael married Kim (Brown) blessing him with 2 granddaughters Brittnae and Breann (married Mike Patterson). Leland was given the great joy of great grandkids Alexys Jo and Logan Ryder Patterson, and Olive and Haddon Hall, they brought him so much entertainment and laughs, he loved to get lots of hugs and snuggles.

Leland loved being a dad, grandpa, and great grandpa. But most of all he loved being a husband to his wife of 63 years Sharon. They lived a marvelous life together on the farm, Sharon always helped with harvest and anything else Leland needed. They made the perfect team!

His faith was such a large part of his life - he was always at church, attending Eden Missionary Church, Hamlet Union Church and lastly at the Christian Union Church in Stratton. Leland loved the gift God gave him as a farmer. Every year after he planted a crop he would stand back and pray over his fields; he would say, “it’s in your hand now Lord”. He was still in his tractor working the ground as of last week, he loved his life, the farm, and his coffee buddies which he saw almost everyday at the local coffee hangout.

Leland is preceded in death by his parents Frank and Florence Maris, his brothers Dale and Marvin Maris, his sister Ilo (Maris) Mosiman. His grandson Ethan Leland Ashline, and his nephews Leon and Devon Maris.

Funeral services will be Saturday June 29, 2024, at the Christian Union Church, 501 Bailey Street, Stratton, NE officiated by Pastor Larry Unruh, at 10:00am (CT) with a graveside to follow at Riverside Cemetery in Wauneta, NE.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Sharon Maris for designation later.

Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.liewerfuneralhome.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719416728365.jpeg" alt="Leland Maris" />
 <figcaption>Leland Maris</figcaption>
 </figure>Leland D. Maris, 84, went into the arms of the Lord Jesus June 24, 2024, at Kearney Regional Hospital. Leland was born on April 30, 1940, to Frank and Florence (Adamson) Maris on the Maris farm in Hitchcock County.Leland lived his entire life on the Maris homestead, he attended grade school at Eden school district 54. He attended high school in Wauneta, at the end of his sophomore year he decided to leave high school and begin working at several different places including Larson’s Ford Garage and at Harchelroad Motors where he set up machinery. He also custom fertilized for quite a few different farmers. He also worked at JD Farm equipment in McCook.On March 12, 1961, Leland married his sweetheart Sharon (Kerchal) at the Congregational Church in Hayes Center. Leland and Sharon were blessed with 3 beautiful children: Julie, Sheila, and Michael.Julie married Dan Ashline and they blessed him with 3 grandchildren Nick, Ethan, and Eliese (fiancé Charlie Hall). Sheila married Skip Dargis blessing him with 2 grandsons Scott(wife Brooke) and Eric Dargis. Michael married Kim (Brown) blessing him with 2 granddaughters Brittnae and Breann (married Mike Patterson). Leland was given the great joy of great grandkids Alexys Jo and Logan Ryder Patterson, and Olive and Haddon Hall, they brought him so much entertainment and laughs, he loved to get lots of hugs and snuggles.Leland loved being a dad, grandpa, and great grandpa. But most of all he loved being a husband to his wife of 63 years Sharon. They lived a marvelous life together on the farm, Sharon always helped with harvest and anything else Leland needed. They made the perfect team!His faith was such a large part of his life - he was always at church, attending Eden Missionary Church, Hamlet Union Church and lastly at the Christian Union Church in Stratton. Leland loved the gift God gave him as a farmer. Every year after he planted a crop he would stand back and pray over his fields; he would say, “it’s in your hand now Lord”. He was still in his tractor working the ground as of last week, he loved his life, the farm, and his coffee buddies which he saw almost everyday at the local coffee hangout.Leland is preceded in death by his parents Frank and Florence Maris, his brothers Dale and Marvin Maris, his sister Ilo (Maris) Mosiman. His grandson Ethan Leland Ashline, and his nephews Leon and Devon Maris.Funeral services will be Saturday June 29, 2024, at the Christian Union Church, 501 Bailey Street, Stratton, NE officiated by Pastor Larry Unruh, at 10:00am (CT) with a graveside to follow at Riverside Cemetery in Wauneta, NE.Memorial Contributions may be made to Sharon Maris for designation later.Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.liewerfuneralhome.com

Leland Maris (1940-2024)

Kathryn Anne Callihan, 89, of Paxton, Nebraska, passed peacefully from this life on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. Kathryn was born January 31, 1935, in Lincoln County, Nebraska to parents Bernard Joseph and Anne Marie (Valish) Guynan. Kathryn received her high school diploma in the 1952 graduating class of St. Patrick's Academy in Sidney, NE.

In October of 1953, she was wed to her husband, Lowell Gene Holz in Paxton, NE. Kathryn and Lowell had five children, which brought her a very active lifestyle. She was always on the go with school programs, after-school activities, sports and more.

Kathryn was very active in the St. Patrick's Catholic Church of Paxton, NE, and a member of their Altar Society for decades. In 2023, she received her 50-year membership pin from the Paxton American Legion Auxiliary. She enjoyed reading, playing bridge and enjoying coffee (or a cold beer) while visiting with her many friends. Time with her family, whom she was so proud of, was one of Kathryn's greatest joys in life.

She will be remembered for her sense of humor, mischievous personality, sense of style and hard work ethic. Along with raising her five children, she held several jobs, including housekeeping for multiple homes, reading electric meters, calling Keno, driving a school bus route and was a salesclerk at Ogallala's JCPenney and Sears stores. Kathryn also worked for the Keith County Election Board for over 50 years.

In 1997, Lowell proceeded Kathryn in death. She was later remarried to Bob Callihan in 2000, who also passed away in 2023. Others to proceed her in death are her two sisters, Mary Alice Grow and Veronica Derry, and two grandsons, James Taylor Holz and Joseph Edward Holz.

Kathryn is survived by her five children and their families: daughter Connie (Gary) Frosh of Paxton, NE and her children, grandson Shane (Kacey Moreland) Berry of Omaha, N, granddaughter Katy (Vince) Hoover of Ogallala, NE and her children, great-granddaughter Aubri and her son, great-great-grandson Landon, and great-grandson Austin; granddaughter Christi (Andy) Koontz of Wichita, KS and their children, great-grandson Adler and great-granddaughter Averi; son Bernard (Pam Belus) Holz of Banner, WY and his children, granddaughter Morgan (Jeremy Butterfield-Bradford) Holz of Cheyenne, WY and their son, great-grandson Jaxon, and grandson Gus Holz of Seattle, WA; son Jim (Deb) Holz of Paxton, NE and their children, granddaughter Madison (Dave) Diener of Paxton, NE and their children, great- granddaughter Iris and great-grandson Maks, granddaughter Carli (Jackson) Eds of Overland Park, KS and granddaughter Emma Holz of Paxton, NE; daughter Jan (Court) Goodman of Omaha, NE and her children, granddaughter Alexis (Kayle) Davis, granddaughter Paige (Todd) Davis and grandson Adam (Georgia) Davis of Lincoln, NE; son Scott (Laney Veteto) Holz of Bartlesville, OK and his children, granddaughter Sarah Reece of Tulsa, OK and her children, great-grandson Sebastian and great- granddaughter Penelope, and granddaughter Savannah (Hagan Tome) Holz of Tulsa, OK. Kathryn is also survived by a host of other family, friends and loved ones.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be given to St. Patrick's Catholic Church of Paxton, NE or Paxton's American Legion Auxiliary. Condolences can be shared at prairiehillsfuneralhome.com, where the services will be streamed live.

Funeral Mass will be Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Paxton with Father Bryan Ernest as Celebrant. Interment will be in the Paxton Cemetery.

Visitation will be on Friday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Prairie Hills Funeral Home in Ogallala. Rosary and Wake Service will be at 6:00 p.m. on Friday at St. Patrick's Catholic Church.

Prairie Hills Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719416395413.jpeg" alt="Kathryn Callihan" />
 <figcaption>Kathryn Callihan</figcaption>
 </figure>Kathryn Anne Callihan, 89, of Paxton, Nebraska, passed peacefully from this life on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. Kathryn was born January 31, 1935, in Lincoln County, Nebraska to parents Bernard Joseph and Anne Marie (Valish) Guynan. Kathryn received her high school diploma in the 1952 graduating class of St. Patrick's Academy in Sidney, NE.In October of 1953, she was wed to her husband, Lowell Gene Holz in Paxton, NE. Kathryn and Lowell had five children, which brought her a very active lifestyle. She was always on the go with school programs, after-school activities, sports and more.Kathryn was very active in the St. Patrick's Catholic Church of Paxton, NE, and a member of their Altar Society for decades. In 2023, she received her 50-year membership pin from the Paxton American Legion Auxiliary. She enjoyed reading, playing bridge and enjoying coffee (or a cold beer) while visiting with her many friends. Time with her family, whom she was so proud of, was one of Kathryn's greatest joys in life.She will be remembered for her sense of humor, mischievous personality, sense of style and hard work ethic. Along with raising her five children, she held several jobs, including housekeeping for multiple homes, reading electric meters, calling Keno, driving a school bus route and was a salesclerk at Ogallala's JCPenney and Sears stores. Kathryn also worked for the Keith County Election Board for over 50 years.In 1997, Lowell proceeded Kathryn in death. She was later remarried to Bob Callihan in 2000, who also passed away in 2023. Others to proceed her in death are her two sisters, Mary Alice Grow and Veronica Derry, and two grandsons, James Taylor Holz and Joseph Edward Holz.Kathryn is survived by her five children and their families: daughter Connie (Gary) Frosh of Paxton, NE and her children, grandson Shane (Kacey Moreland) Berry of Omaha, N, granddaughter Katy (Vince) Hoover of Ogallala, NE and her children, great-granddaughter Aubri and her son, great-great-grandson Landon, and great-grandson Austin; granddaughter Christi (Andy) Koontz of Wichita, KS and their children, great-grandson Adler and great-granddaughter Averi; son Bernard (Pam Belus) Holz of Banner, WY and his children, granddaughter Morgan (Jeremy Butterfield-Bradford) Holz of Cheyenne, WY and their son, great-grandson Jaxon, and grandson Gus Holz of Seattle, WA; son Jim (Deb) Holz of Paxton, NE and their children, granddaughter Madison (Dave) Diener of Paxton, NE and their children, great- granddaughter Iris and great-grandson Maks, granddaughter Carli (Jackson) Eds of Overland Park, KS and granddaughter Emma Holz of Paxton, NE; daughter Jan (Court) Goodman of Omaha, NE and her children, granddaughter Alexis (Kayle) Davis, granddaughter Paige (Todd) Davis and grandson Adam (Georgia) Davis of Lincoln, NE; son Scott (Laney Veteto) Holz of Bartlesville, OK and his children, granddaughter Sarah Reece of Tulsa, OK and her children, great-grandson Sebastian and great- granddaughter Penelope, and granddaughter Savannah (Hagan Tome) Holz of Tulsa, OK. Kathryn is also survived by a host of other family, friends and loved ones.In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be given to St. Patrick's Catholic Church of Paxton, NE or Paxton's American Legion Auxiliary. Condolences can be shared at prairiehillsfuneralhome.com, where the services will be streamed live.Funeral Mass will be Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Paxton with Father Bryan Ernest as Celebrant. Interment will be in the Paxton Cemetery.Visitation will be on Friday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Prairie Hills Funeral Home in Ogallala. Rosary and Wake Service will be at 6:00 p.m. on Friday at St. Patrick's Catholic Church.Prairie Hills Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Kathryn Callihan (1935-2024)

JAMES COGHILL, 81, of Ogallala, NE, passed away Sunday, June 23, 2024, at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, NE.

Jim was born November 4, 1942, to Wilson Kesler and Pauline (Beaty) Coghill in McCook, NE. As a small child, his parents farmed near Marion, NE. He graduated from Beaver Valley High School in Lebanon, NE, in 1960, McCook College in 1962, and Fort Hayes State College in Hayes, KS, in 1965.

Jim married Erlene Cline at Parks Methodist Church on July 11, 1965. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1966 to 1968 at Camp Pendleton, CA, and Camp Lejeune, NC, in the military police department.

Jim and Erlene had two boys, Bradley James Coghill and Curt Coghill. He managed stores for F.W. Woolworths in Grand Island, North Platte, Bellevue, South Omaha, and Cheyenne, WY. Then, he managed TG&amp;Y Stores Co in Wichita, KS, and Papillion before the couple bought their own NAPA Auto Parts store in 1980 in Ogallala and built and managed West Side Storage in 1996 until their retirement in 2003. After retirement, Jim worked part-time for Farmer's Mutual Insurance as a crop adjuster. He had a special interest in antique cars, attending car shows, and traveling by motor home. In 2012, the couple purchased a home in Lake Havasu City, AZ.

Jim was preceded by his parents and a sister, Barbara.

Jim is survived by his wife, Erlene, of Ogallala; sons, Bradley (Jenny) Coghill of Whittier, CA, and Curt (Meggan) Coghill of Bennington; granddaughter, Hannah; and sister-in-law, Merril Jane (Marvin) McMichael of Lincoln.

A memorial has been established in Jim's memory. Condolences can be shared at prairiehillsfuneralhome.com, where the services will be streamed live.

Funeral services will be Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at the Prairie Hills Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Curtis Tschetter officiating. Interment with military honors will be at Fort McPherson National Cemetery in Maxwell at 2 pm CT. Car enthusiasts are encouraged to bring their cars in honor of Jim.

Visitation will be on Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Prairie Hills Funeral Home in Ogallala.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719340751841.jpeg" alt="James Coghill" />
 <figcaption>James Coghill</figcaption>
 </figure>JAMES COGHILL, 81, of Ogallala, NE, passed away Sunday, June 23, 2024, at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, NE.Jim was born November 4, 1942, to Wilson Kesler and Pauline (Beaty) Coghill in McCook, NE. As a small child, his parents farmed near Marion, NE. He graduated from Beaver Valley High School in Lebanon, NE, in 1960, McCook College in 1962, and Fort Hayes State College in Hayes, KS, in 1965.Jim married Erlene Cline at Parks Methodist Church on July 11, 1965. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1966 to 1968 at Camp Pendleton, CA, and Camp Lejeune, NC, in the military police department.Jim and Erlene had two boys, Bradley James Coghill and Curt Coghill. He managed stores for F.W. Woolworths in Grand Island, North Platte, Bellevue, South Omaha, and Cheyenne, WY. Then, he managed TG&amp;Y Stores Co in Wichita, KS, and Papillion before the couple bought their own NAPA Auto Parts store in 1980 in Ogallala and built and managed West Side Storage in 1996 until their retirement in 2003. After retirement, Jim worked part-time for Farmer's Mutual Insurance as a crop adjuster. He had a special interest in antique cars, attending car shows, and traveling by motor home. In 2012, the couple purchased a home in Lake Havasu City, AZ.Jim was preceded by his parents and a sister, Barbara.Jim is survived by his wife, Erlene, of Ogallala; sons, Bradley (Jenny) Coghill of Whittier, CA, and Curt (Meggan) Coghill of Bennington; granddaughter, Hannah; and sister-in-law, Merril Jane (Marvin) McMichael of Lincoln.A memorial has been established in Jim's memory. Condolences can be shared at prairiehillsfuneralhome.com, where the services will be streamed live.Funeral services will be Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at the Prairie Hills Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Curtis Tschetter officiating. Interment with military honors will be at Fort McPherson National Cemetery in Maxwell at 2 pm CT. Car enthusiasts are encouraged to bring their cars in honor of Jim.Visitation will be on Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Prairie Hills Funeral Home in Ogallala.Prairie Hills Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

James Coghill (1942-2024)

Norma Jean (Kramer) Cochran, 97, was born July 11, 1926, in Holyoke, CO, to Anna and Robert Kramer. She was the youngest of 13 children, ten boys, followed by three daughters. Jean departed this life on June 23, 2024, in Akron, CO, just shy of her 98th birthday. She was surrounded by her three loving daughters.

In 1943, Jean graduated from Holyoke High School at the age of 16. On June 2, 1943, in Ogden, Utah, Jean was united in marriage to Pat Rothenberger before he was shipped out to serve in WWII in the Army Air Force. The couple moved to Whittier, CA, when Pat returned from the war. In 1953, they moved to Grant, NE, purchased the Ford dealership, and started a crop spraying business. A son and three daughters were born to this union. Pat preceded Jean in death when he was killed in an airplane accident in 1961.

Jean worked as a teacher, bookkeeper, secretary, insurance agent, and realtor. She was involved in numerous church and community organizations.

In 1968, she had a brief marriage to Floyd Pankonin. Then, in 1980, she married Ron Cochran and lived in Grant until moving to North Platte, Nebraska, in 2013.

Following an accident at home in late 2015, she resided at the Washington County Nursing Home in Akron, CO, until the time of her death. She loved singing and frequently entertained the residents and staff with her songs.

She was preceded in death by her parents, 12 siblings, her husbands Pat and Ron, and son Larry.

Jean is survived by her daughters: Wanda Thompson (James) of Akron, CO; Vicki Pankonin (David) of Cottonwood, CA; and Beverly Gottula (Bill) of North Platte, NE. She was also blessed with seven grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and nine great-great-grandchildren.

She will be forever remembered for her courage, strength, selflessness, and humor. Jean gave much love and was greatly loved in return.

Memorials are suggested to the Washington County Nursing Home in Akron or the donor's choice. Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com, where the services will be streamed live.

Funeral services will be on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 11 a.m. at the Grant United Methodist Church, with Pastor Ceciliah Igweta-Keega officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time at the church on Saturday. Interment will be in the Grant Fairview Cemetery.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719334723849.jpeg" alt="Norma Jean Cochran" />
 <figcaption>Norma Jean Cochran</figcaption>
 </figure>Norma Jean (Kramer) Cochran, 97, was born July 11, 1926, in Holyoke, CO, to Anna and Robert Kramer. She was the youngest of 13 children, ten boys, followed by three daughters. Jean departed this life on June 23, 2024, in Akron, CO, just shy of her 98th birthday. She was surrounded by her three loving daughters.In 1943, Jean graduated from Holyoke High School at the age of 16. On June 2, 1943, in Ogden, Utah, Jean was united in marriage to Pat Rothenberger before he was shipped out to serve in WWII in the Army Air Force. The couple moved to Whittier, CA, when Pat returned from the war. In 1953, they moved to Grant, NE, purchased the Ford dealership, and started a crop spraying business. A son and three daughters were born to this union. Pat preceded Jean in death when he was killed in an airplane accident in 1961.Jean worked as a teacher, bookkeeper, secretary, insurance agent, and realtor. She was involved in numerous church and community organizations.In 1968, she had a brief marriage to Floyd Pankonin. Then, in 1980, she married Ron Cochran and lived in Grant until moving to North Platte, Nebraska, in 2013.Following an accident at home in late 2015, she resided at the Washington County Nursing Home in Akron, CO, until the time of her death. She loved singing and frequently entertained the residents and staff with her songs.She was preceded in death by her parents, 12 siblings, her husbands Pat and Ron, and son Larry.Jean is survived by her daughters: Wanda Thompson (James) of Akron, CO; Vicki Pankonin (David) of Cottonwood, CA; and Beverly Gottula (Bill) of North Platte, NE. She was also blessed with seven grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and nine great-great-grandchildren.She will be forever remembered for her courage, strength, selflessness, and humor. Jean gave much love and was greatly loved in return.Memorials are suggested to the Washington County Nursing Home in Akron or the donor's choice. Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com, where the services will be streamed live.Funeral services will be on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 11 a.m. at the Grant United Methodist Church, with Pastor Ceciliah Igweta-Keega officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time at the church on Saturday. Interment will be in the Grant Fairview Cemetery.Bullock-Long Funeral Home of Grant is in charge of arrangements.

Norma Jean Cochran (1926-2024)

Donnabeth Ferebee Ferrel was born June 25, 1924, to Ora and Ivy Ferebee in Nelson, Nebraska of Nuckolls County. As a young girl her family moved to a dry land farm located on the south divide of Champion Valley. She attended grades 1-8 at Champion then graduated high school in Imperial, NE in 1941.

While working as a waitress at the Sale Barn Café, she became acquainted with a handsome young cowboy by the name of Lowell Ferrel.

Lowell and Donnabeth were married on New Year’s Day 1941 at 0:01 o’clock and made their first home on the farm 4 1/2 miles south of Highway 6, south of Lamar, Nebraska. While living here and ranching with his dad, Lowell was called to serve his country in World War II.

Born in 1942 was daughter Vicky Lynn. Later, brothers Ora and JayDee joined the family.

In 1960, Lowell and Donnabeth moved from the farm/ranch, into the city of Imperial. Here was where Lowell built a horse training facility known as Ferrel’s Western Training. Shortly thereafter Donnabeth opened a western clothing store, known as “Ferrel’s Western T’s” (Training, Togs &amp; Turquoise)

Donnabeth’s favorite hobbies were animals, quilting, and traveling. Donnabeth could be referred to as a “Happy World Traveler!” She enjoyed traveling with Lowell, showing and judging horse shows. Traveling throughout the United States, she and Lowell were members of Rotary International and represented the City of Imperial as well as Chase County wherever they went.

Donnabeth along with daughter Vicky Lynn got the opportunity to travel to the Holy Land with the Methodist Church family, which was a very rewarding experience.

Survivors include: daughter Vicky Lynn (Jim) Brown of Lamar, NE, son Lowell Ora (Jenny) Ferrel or Sterling CO; grandchildren Troy Brown (friend) Rosa of Ogallala, NE, Toby Brown (Dannielle) of St. Joseph, MO their sons Atticus and Sullivan; Thomas Ferrel (Carol) children Gillian and Sean of Shawnee, KS; great grand-daughter Audry (Josiah) Gilliland and daughters Wren, Joliene, and Margot Jayne of Pleasant Hill, MO.

She is preceded in death by husband Lowell, her parents, brothers Don, Frank, and Bud, her son Jay Dee and great grandson Connor James Brown.

Visitation will be held Friday, June 21 2024, from 4:00-6:00PM at Liewer Funeral Home in Imperial, NE. A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 10:30AM at the Imperial Methodist Church with Reverend Brian Loy officiating, interment to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery.

Memorial contributions made to Imperial Senor Center, the Imperial Manor, or Imperial Methodist Church Bell Choir.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.liewerfuneralhome.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718919140797.jpeg" alt="Donnabeth Ferrel" />
 <figcaption>Donnabeth Ferrel</figcaption>
 </figure>Donnabeth Ferebee Ferrel was born June 25, 1924, to Ora and Ivy Ferebee in Nelson, Nebraska of Nuckolls County. As a young girl her family moved to a dry land farm located on the south divide of Champion Valley. She attended grades 1-8 at Champion then graduated high school in Imperial, NE in 1941.While working as a waitress at the Sale Barn Café, she became acquainted with a handsome young cowboy by the name of Lowell Ferrel.Lowell and Donnabeth were married on New Year’s Day 1941 at 0:01 o’clock and made their first home on the farm 4 1/2 miles south of Highway 6, south of Lamar, Nebraska. While living here and ranching with his dad, Lowell was called to serve his country in World War II.Born in 1942 was daughter Vicky Lynn. Later, brothers Ora and JayDee joined the family.In 1960, Lowell and Donnabeth moved from the farm/ranch, into the city of Imperial. Here was where Lowell built a horse training facility known as Ferrel’s Western Training. Shortly thereafter Donnabeth opened a western clothing store, known as “Ferrel’s Western T’s” (Training, Togs &amp; Turquoise)Donnabeth’s favorite hobbies were animals, quilting, and traveling. Donnabeth could be referred to as a “Happy World Traveler!” She enjoyed traveling with Lowell, showing and judging horse shows. Traveling throughout the United States, she and Lowell were members of Rotary International and represented the City of Imperial as well as Chase County wherever they went.Donnabeth along with daughter Vicky Lynn got the opportunity to travel to the Holy Land with the Methodist Church family, which was a very rewarding experience.Survivors include: daughter Vicky Lynn (Jim) Brown of Lamar, NE, son Lowell Ora (Jenny) Ferrel or Sterling CO; grandchildren Troy Brown (friend) Rosa of Ogallala, NE, Toby Brown (Dannielle) of St. Joseph, MO their sons Atticus and Sullivan; Thomas Ferrel (Carol) children Gillian and Sean of Shawnee, KS; great grand-daughter Audry (Josiah) Gilliland and daughters Wren, Joliene, and Margot Jayne of Pleasant Hill, MO.She is preceded in death by husband Lowell, her parents, brothers Don, Frank, and Bud, her son Jay Dee and great grandson Connor James Brown.Visitation will be held Friday, June 21 2024, from 4:00-6:00PM at Liewer Funeral Home in Imperial, NE. A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 10:30AM at the Imperial Methodist Church with Reverend Brian Loy officiating, interment to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery.Memorial contributions made to Imperial Senor Center, the Imperial Manor, or Imperial Methodist Church Bell Choir.Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.liewerfuneralhome.com

Donnabeth Ferrel (1924-2024)

Shirley Marie Rhiley, 71, of Ogallala, passed away on June 8, 2024, at Kearney Regional Medical Center.

Shirley (Reynolds) Rhiley was born on September 2, 1952, in Benkelman, NE to Ralph and Maxine Reynolds of Grant. She was the second of four children. The family moved to Grant during her elementary school years. Shirley graduated from Grant High School with the class of 1970. Following graduation, she went to college in Grand Island and studied Business Administration. After graduation in 1972, Shirley went to work for Ogallala Community Hospital in Ogallala where she worked for more than 30 years.

On August 11, 1979, Shirley married Robert Rhiley of Ogallala. They had 2 children: a boy and a girl. Shirley enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and traveling with her husband. She loved to shop, buying plenty of toys and clothes for her grandkids. She was proud of Nik and Megan and the accomplishments they made in their lives.

Shirley is survived by her husband Robert of Ogallala; children Nik (Sonya) Rhiley, Megan (Corey) Ledbetter; grandchildren Ty and Mya (Nik), Paislee, Addison, and Harper (Megan), all of Kearney, as well as her brother Duane Reynolds of Bethune, CO.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents Ralph (Maxine) Reynolds, and two brothers, Eldon and Jerry Reynolds.

Cremation was chosen and a Graveside Memorial Service will be held at 1:30 P.M. on Friday, July 12, 2024, at the Fairview Cemetery in Grant with Pastor Russ Gaar officiating. Online Condolences may be left at www.prairiehillsfuneralhome.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718982920328.jpeg" alt="Shirley Rhiley" />
 <figcaption>Shirley Rhiley</figcaption>
 </figure>Shirley Marie Rhiley, 71, of Ogallala, passed away on June 8, 2024, at Kearney Regional Medical Center.Shirley (Reynolds) Rhiley was born on September 2, 1952, in Benkelman, NE to Ralph and Maxine Reynolds of Grant. She was the second of four children. The family moved to Grant during her elementary school years. Shirley graduated from Grant High School with the class of 1970. Following graduation, she went to college in Grand Island and studied Business Administration. After graduation in 1972, Shirley went to work for Ogallala Community Hospital in Ogallala where she worked for more than 30 years.On August 11, 1979, Shirley married Robert Rhiley of Ogallala. They had 2 children: a boy and a girl. Shirley enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and traveling with her husband. She loved to shop, buying plenty of toys and clothes for her grandkids. She was proud of Nik and Megan and the accomplishments they made in their lives.Shirley is survived by her husband Robert of Ogallala; children Nik (Sonya) Rhiley, Megan (Corey) Ledbetter; grandchildren Ty and Mya (Nik), Paislee, Addison, and Harper (Megan), all of Kearney, as well as her brother Duane Reynolds of Bethune, CO.Shirley was preceded in death by her parents Ralph (Maxine) Reynolds, and two brothers, Eldon and Jerry Reynolds.Cremation was chosen and a Graveside Memorial Service will be held at 1:30 P.M. on Friday, July 12, 2024, at the Fairview Cemetery in Grant with Pastor Russ Gaar officiating. Online Condolences may be left at www.prairiehillsfuneralhome.com.

Shirley Rhiley (1952-2024)

Gene L. Johnston, 76, of North Platte, NE passed away peacefully on Monday, June 17, 2024 at his home surrounded by his wife and son. &nbsp;He was born on June 30, 1947 in North Platte, NE the son of Clyde F. and Mary Maxine (Oberg) Johnston. &nbsp;

Gene attended St. Patrick’s Catholic High School in North Platte. &nbsp;He was married to Angeles Hernandez in 1978 and together they had four children. &nbsp;Gene worked as an owner and project manager for twenty years with Oxbow Construction, LLC. &nbsp;His true love was being a cowboy, and he enjoyed participating in rodeo events. &nbsp;Gene will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and friend.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Angeles; sons, Rowdy and Jesse; daughter, Hope; and a sister, Rita Johnston.

He was predeceased by his parents; son, Lee; and sister, Della Snyder.

A private graveside service will be held at Floral Lawns Memorial Gardens.

Memorials may be made to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church.

Carpenter Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718810164102.jpeg" alt="Gene Johnston" />
 <figcaption>Gene Johnston</figcaption>
 </figure>Gene L. Johnston, 76, of North Platte, NE passed away peacefully on Monday, June 17, 2024 at his home surrounded by his wife and son. &nbsp;He was born on June 30, 1947 in North Platte, NE the son of Clyde F. and Mary Maxine (Oberg) Johnston. &nbsp;Gene attended St. Patrick’s Catholic High School in North Platte. &nbsp;He was married to Angeles Hernandez in 1978 and together they had four children. &nbsp;Gene worked as an owner and project manager for twenty years with Oxbow Construction, LLC. &nbsp;His true love was being a cowboy, and he enjoyed participating in rodeo events. &nbsp;Gene will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and friend.Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Angeles; sons, Rowdy and Jesse; daughter, Hope; and a sister, Rita Johnston.He was predeceased by his parents; son, Lee; and sister, Della Snyder.A private graveside service will be held at Floral Lawns Memorial Gardens.Memorials may be made to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church.Carpenter Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Gene L. Johnston (1947-2024)

Paul "John" Lee of Madrid, Nebraska, passed away on June 13, 2024, at the Chase County Hospital in Imperial Nebraska at 97 years of life well lived. John was born on November 14, 1926, in Perkins County, Nebraska, to Rue and Della (Costin) Lee, Jr. He was the 5th born of 6 children. John attended Madrid High School and graduated from The Nebraska School of Agriculture in Curtis in 1945.

John was a devoted husband to Erna Rae Erlewine, whom he married on November 21, 1951, in Madrid. Their union was blessed with four children: Teresa, Doug, Bryan, and Jay. John and Erna made their home south of Madrid where they farmed and raised livestock including cattle and hogs. John was a faithful Christian man who was a member of the Madrid United Methodist Church. It was his deep love for the land that he continued to farm and ranch in Perkins County for the remainder of this life.

John was never one to shy away from hard work. He also had a special charism for ensuring that everyone towed the line...his way. John was known for many things especially being extremely frugal and his one of a kind, bigger-than-life personality. He held the patent on shrewdness and dispensed quotable one-liners with great reliability almost anytime he wandered around in public. He was a man of many talents, but his ability to connect with people was exceptional. John outlived many of his family members and friends, however, his ability to connect with others made him countless friends spanning through the generations. Some of these strong friendships were with others up to 50 or more years younger. It is no doubt John's legend will live on.

John had a great love for family especially his wife, children, and his many grand and great-grandchildren. He was especially proud to see all his grandchildren graduate and get married. He loved kids of all ages and always seemed to develop a special bond with those who grew up around the farm even treating the hired men's kids like they were his own grandkids. John often went out of his way to give the kids a piece of candy, riding his lawn mower to where the kids would be waiting. John himself had a sweet tooth, especially when it came to ice cream, chocolate and desserts.

Much like the life of a Farmer, life is gamble, and John loved a good trip to the casino. He was always on the lookout for Aces, loved slot machine tournaments and the excitement of a craps table. If you were lucky enough to make a trip to Vegas with John, it most certainly is a fond memory.

John truly was a one-of-one. Always full of stories, some true and others exaggerated, but all of them enjoyable. A run-in with John always meant a smile, one that typically held on for a lot longer than just the conversation. He was good-hearted, endearing, hilarious, legendary, devious and sometimes a little "grouchy."

John Lee leaves behind a tremendous legacy. One that fills hearts of many generations of family and friends with laughter, joy, and countless memories. Rest easy, John, your work here is done. Don't worry... "we'll close the gate."

John is preceded in death by his parents, beloved wife, Erna Rae; son, Doug Lee; and grandson, Matthew Lee; brothers, Robert and Francis Lee; sisters, Katherine Coleman, Mary Nutt, and Dorothy Otten.

John is survived by his children, Teresa (Ricky) Nowak of Bennington, Bryan (Chris) Lee of North Platte, and Jay (Dana) Lee of Madrid; daughter-in-law Penny Lee of Grant; 14 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild along with many other relatives and friends.

Memorials are suggested to the Madrid Cemetery or the Perkins County Senior Center in memory of John. Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com

Services will be held on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at 10:30 am at the Grant United Methodist Church. Interment will be in the Madrid Cemetery.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, from 5 pm until 8 pm at the Bullock-Long Funeral Home in Grant.

Bullock-Long Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718659448853.jpeg" alt="John Lee" />
 <figcaption>John Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul "John" Lee of Madrid, Nebraska, passed away on June 13, 2024, at the Chase County Hospital in Imperial Nebraska at 97 years of life well lived. John was born on November 14, 1926, in Perkins County, Nebraska, to Rue and Della (Costin) Lee, Jr. He was the 5th born of 6 children. John attended Madrid High School and graduated from The Nebraska School of Agriculture in Curtis in 1945.John was a devoted husband to Erna Rae Erlewine, whom he married on November 21, 1951, in Madrid. Their union was blessed with four children: Teresa, Doug, Bryan, and Jay. John and Erna made their home south of Madrid where they farmed and raised livestock including cattle and hogs. John was a faithful Christian man who was a member of the Madrid United Methodist Church. It was his deep love for the land that he continued to farm and ranch in Perkins County for the remainder of this life.John was never one to shy away from hard work. He also had a special charism for ensuring that everyone towed the line...his way. John was known for many things especially being extremely frugal and his one of a kind, bigger-than-life personality. He held the patent on shrewdness and dispensed quotable one-liners with great reliability almost anytime he wandered around in public. He was a man of many talents, but his ability to connect with people was exceptional. John outlived many of his family members and friends, however, his ability to connect with others made him countless friends spanning through the generations. Some of these strong friendships were with others up to 50 or more years younger. It is no doubt John's legend will live on.John had a great love for family especially his wife, children, and his many grand and great-grandchildren. He was especially proud to see all his grandchildren graduate and get married. He loved kids of all ages and always seemed to develop a special bond with those who grew up around the farm even treating the hired men's kids like they were his own grandkids. John often went out of his way to give the kids a piece of candy, riding his lawn mower to where the kids would be waiting. John himself had a sweet tooth, especially when it came to ice cream, chocolate and desserts.Much like the life of a Farmer, life is gamble, and John loved a good trip to the casino. He was always on the lookout for Aces, loved slot machine tournaments and the excitement of a craps table. If you were lucky enough to make a trip to Vegas with John, it most certainly is a fond memory.John truly was a one-of-one. Always full of stories, some true and others exaggerated, but all of them enjoyable. A run-in with John always meant a smile, one that typically held on for a lot longer than just the conversation. He was good-hearted, endearing, hilarious, legendary, devious and sometimes a little "grouchy."John Lee leaves behind a tremendous legacy. One that fills hearts of many generations of family and friends with laughter, joy, and countless memories. Rest easy, John, your work here is done. Don't worry... "we'll close the gate."John is preceded in death by his parents, beloved wife, Erna Rae; son, Doug Lee; and grandson, Matthew Lee; brothers, Robert and Francis Lee; sisters, Katherine Coleman, Mary Nutt, and Dorothy Otten.John is survived by his children, Teresa (Ricky) Nowak of Bennington, Bryan (Chris) Lee of North Platte, and Jay (Dana) Lee of Madrid; daughter-in-law Penny Lee of Grant; 14 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild along with many other relatives and friends.Memorials are suggested to the Madrid Cemetery or the Perkins County Senior Center in memory of John. Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.comServices will be held on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at 10:30 am at the Grant United Methodist Church. Interment will be in the Madrid Cemetery.Visitation will be on Tuesday, from 5 pm until 8 pm at the Bullock-Long Funeral Home in Grant.Bullock-Long Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

John Lee (1926-2024)

&nbsp; Hi!&nbsp; This is Richard Brent Deckert.&nbsp; Something about having pancreatic cancer for over 5 years and going through over 84 chemo's gave me plenty of time to think about my obituary.

I'm joining my dad and mom, Howard and Anita Deckert, along with my sister, Pat Owen, in heaven.&nbsp; I'm leaving Nancy, my beautiful wife of over 40 years, my loving daughter, Krysti, my funny granddaughter, Ellanor, my brother, Tom and his wife Theresa, and brother-in-law, Ken, to venture on through this world until we meet again.

I was born September 15, 1954, in North Platte, NE, and headed up the stairway to heaven on June 14, 2024, at home surrounded by my family who I love.

Growing up we traveled a lot from North Platte to California to Sterling, CO, to Evergreen, CO, then settling down in Noblesville, IN, for 16 years.&nbsp; That's where I graduated from the great class of '72 and married my high school sweetheart, Deborah Hillard.&nbsp; I went to work at Riverview Hospital in the storeroom for 6 years before going to work with my dad at the GM plant, Delco Remy. 

After layoffs, we decided to move back to North Platte in 1980. I worked at Wheelers for a year before going to work at Western Supply.&nbsp; I eventually changed Western's name to Winnelson when I bought into thechain and I was the President for 17 years.

In 1982 I met my future forever bride, Nancy Allen.&nbsp; We married in '84. 

I semi-retired at the ripe old age of 54.&nbsp; I bought a Harley and lone wolfed it from coast-to-coast in 90 days.&nbsp; I still worked part-time at Winsupply (heating and plumbing warehouse), working with all the employees and customers to the end was so much fun.&nbsp; Looking back, God guided me through all the curves of my life.

Sports was a huge part of my life.&nbsp; I loved bowling, golfing, baseball/softball, running and pickleball.&nbsp; My best accomplishments were bowling 4-300's and running 3 marathons after the age of 60.&nbsp; The biggest part of my life was my family and friends.&nbsp; My hundreds of Praying Warriors went from coast-to-coast with me.&nbsp; They kept me going with their texts, messages and prayers.&nbsp; I cannot thank them enough. The Platte River Fitness Series and the Pickleball Association have made such an impact in my life.

Jesus has rescued me from my sin and has forgiven me fully.&nbsp; The Berean Church has been my inspiration.&nbsp; Thank you Father, Son and Holy Spirit for this blessed life.&nbsp; The End.

Celebration of Richard's life will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, June 20, at the Berean Church. Feel free to wear your favorite race/sports t-shirt.&nbsp;&nbsp; Burial will follow in the North Platte Cemetery.&nbsp; 

Visitation is 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday with family greeting from 4-6 p.m. at Odean Colonial Chapel at C &amp; Sycamore, which is in charge of arrangements.

&nbsp; Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the donor's choice.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718631085977.jpeg" alt="Richard Deckert" />
 <figcaption>Richard Deckert</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Hi!&nbsp; This is Richard Brent Deckert.&nbsp; Something about having pancreatic cancer for over 5 years and going through over 84 chemo's gave me plenty of time to think about my obituary.I'm joining my dad and mom, Howard and Anita Deckert, along with my sister, Pat Owen, in heaven.&nbsp; I'm leaving Nancy, my beautiful wife of over 40 years, my loving daughter, Krysti, my funny granddaughter, Ellanor, my brother, Tom and his wife Theresa, and brother-in-law, Ken, to venture on through this world until we meet again.I was born September 15, 1954, in North Platte, NE, and headed up the stairway to heaven on June 14, 2024, at home surrounded by my family who I love.Growing up we traveled a lot from North Platte to California to Sterling, CO, to Evergreen, CO, then settling down in Noblesville, IN, for 16 years.&nbsp; That's where I graduated from the great class of '72 and married my high school sweetheart, Deborah Hillard.&nbsp; I went to work at Riverview Hospital in the storeroom for 6 years before going to work with my dad at the GM plant, Delco Remy. After layoffs, we decided to move back to North Platte in 1980. I worked at Wheelers for a year before going to work at Western Supply.&nbsp; I eventually changed Western's name to Winnelson when I bought into thechain and I was the President for 17 years.In 1982 I met my future forever bride, Nancy Allen.&nbsp; We married in '84. I semi-retired at the ripe old age of 54.&nbsp; I bought a Harley and lone wolfed it from coast-to-coast in 90 days.&nbsp; I still worked part-time at Winsupply (heating and plumbing warehouse), working with all the employees and customers to the end was so much fun.&nbsp; Looking back, God guided me through all the curves of my life.Sports was a huge part of my life.&nbsp; I loved bowling, golfing, baseball/softball, running and pickleball.&nbsp; My best accomplishments were bowling 4-300's and running 3 marathons after the age of 60.&nbsp; The biggest part of my life was my family and friends.&nbsp; My hundreds of Praying Warriors went from coast-to-coast with me.&nbsp; They kept me going with their texts, messages and prayers.&nbsp; I cannot thank them enough. The Platte River Fitness Series and the Pickleball Association have made such an impact in my life.Jesus has rescued me from my sin and has forgiven me fully.&nbsp; The Berean Church has been my inspiration.&nbsp; Thank you Father, Son and Holy Spirit for this blessed life.&nbsp; The End.Celebration of Richard's life will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, June 20, at the Berean Church. Feel free to wear your favorite race/sports t-shirt.&nbsp;&nbsp; Burial will follow in the North Platte Cemetery.&nbsp; 

Visitation is 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday with family greeting from 4-6 p.m. at Odean Colonial Chapel at C &amp; Sycamore, which is in charge of arrangements.

&nbsp; Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the donor's choice.

Richard Brent Deckert (1954-2024)

Kirk Sprague was born the 5th child to John W. “Jack” and Marion Sprague on June 8, 1954, in Holyoke, CO. He attended school and graduated from Holyoke High School. He enjoyed playing sports until an injury ended that.

He was a popular student and senior class president his senior year. After graduating from Holyoke, he went on to attend CSU, later graduating with a degree in agriculture. He was born to be a farmer. He loved spending time on the tractor with his dad and could be found in the fields as soon as he was potty trained.&nbsp;

He loved running trucks, tractors, and any equipment his dad would let him run. He spent most of his life working in the ag fields. He did at one time become an over the road trucker where he enjoyed seeing everything from New York to the West coast. Kirk also owned a bar in Holyoke for a short period, called Ralph’s bar. Appropriately named after his best friend at the time, Ralph, a very large black dog of some kind.&nbsp;

Shortly after he met the love of his life, Janet Ives. They were married June 18th, 1984, in Hot Springs, Wyoming. They were not blessed to have any children but were blessed to spoil numerous nieces and nephews. In his later life, he and Janet owned and operated the 12th Street Café in Imperial. He and Janet were both excellent cooks. People from all around loved their cooking.&nbsp;

Kirk was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Jon, and sister, Shelley.&nbsp;

He is survived by his wife, Janet, two sisters, Andrea and Judy DeLoache, mother-in-law, Karen Flagg, and sister-in-law JoAnne Ives, and lots of friends and extended family.&nbsp;

A graveside inurnment will be held Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at Lakeview Cemetery in Champion, Nebraska.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Janet Sprague.&nbsp;

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.liewerfunerahlhome.com

Kirk Sprague was born the 5th child to John W. “Jack” and Marion Sprague on June 8, 1954, in Holyoke, CO. He attended school and graduated from Holyoke High School. He enjoyed playing sports until an injury ended that.He was a popular student and senior class president his senior year. After graduating from Holyoke, he went on to attend CSU, later graduating with a degree in agriculture. He was born to be a farmer. He loved spending time on the tractor with his dad and could be found in the fields as soon as he was potty trained.&nbsp;He loved running trucks, tractors, and any equipment his dad would let him run. He spent most of his life working in the ag fields. He did at one time become an over the road trucker where he enjoyed seeing everything from New York to the West coast. Kirk also owned a bar in Holyoke for a short period, called Ralph’s bar. Appropriately named after his best friend at the time, Ralph, a very large black dog of some kind.&nbsp;Shortly after he met the love of his life, Janet Ives. They were married June 18th, 1984, in Hot Springs, Wyoming. They were not blessed to have any children but were blessed to spoil numerous nieces and nephews. In his later life, he and Janet owned and operated the 12th Street Café in Imperial. He and Janet were both excellent cooks. People from all around loved their cooking.&nbsp;Kirk was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Jon, and sister, Shelley.&nbsp;He is survived by his wife, Janet, two sisters, Andrea and Judy DeLoache, mother-in-law, Karen Flagg, and sister-in-law JoAnne Ives, and lots of friends and extended family.&nbsp;A graveside inurnment will be held Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at Lakeview Cemetery in Champion, Nebraska.Memorial Contributions may be made to Janet Sprague.&nbsp;Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.liewerfunerahlhome.com

Kirk Sprague (1954-2024)

On Sunday June 9th, 2024, Rebecca Anne Peterson passed away peacefully into Gods arms, at Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, Colorado. Becky was born August 10, 1957, in Holyoke, Colorado to Donald and Shirley Vernon. She graduated from Holyoke High School in 1975 and worked at Melissa Memorial Hospital until 1982. Then, in the summer of 1982, she met her husband to be, Randal Peterson. They married October 1, 1982, and began a 42-year run of God's Blessings.

Becky and Randy begat 3 children: Randal Peterson Jr., Lena Peterson and Andrew Peterson. They moved to the old C-12 Ranch west of Wray, Colorado in 1984. In 1989 Becky and Randy moved to North Platte, Nebraska. Becky worked for Home Health Care for 4 years taking care of older people that were still living in their homes, then worked for Paulson Cement Company for 15 years.

Becky is preceded in death by mother Shirley (Vernon) Kroeger, Father Donald Vernon, stepfather Clarence Kroeger, brother Lenny Vernon.

She is survived by husband Randy, children Randy Jr. of North Platte, Lena (Dustin) Harris of Hershey, NE, Andrew Peterson of Aurora, CO; sisters Peggy Brown of Holyoke, CO, Sheri (Tommy) Bornhoft of Fleming, CO, Lona (Dave) Salyards of Haxton, CO; brothers Rodney (Sharon) Vernon of Holyoke of CO, and Jerry Kroeger of Holyoke, CO; grandchildren Brayden, Brianna, and Baileigh; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M. (MT) Thursday, June 20, at Liewer Funeral Home in Imperial. A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 A.M. (MT) at the Imperial Berean Church with Pastor Matt Maxwell officiating. Interment to follow at Crete Cemetery in Chase County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718380473576.jpeg" alt="Rebecca Peterson" />
 <figcaption>Rebecca Peterson</figcaption>
 </figure>On Sunday June 9th, 2024, Rebecca Anne Peterson passed away peacefully into Gods arms, at Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, Colorado. Becky was born August 10, 1957, in Holyoke, Colorado to Donald and Shirley Vernon. She graduated from Holyoke High School in 1975 and worked at Melissa Memorial Hospital until 1982. Then, in the summer of 1982, she met her husband to be, Randal Peterson. They married October 1, 1982, and began a 42-year run of God's Blessings.Becky and Randy begat 3 children: Randal Peterson Jr., Lena Peterson and Andrew Peterson. They moved to the old C-12 Ranch west of Wray, Colorado in 1984. In 1989 Becky and Randy moved to North Platte, Nebraska. Becky worked for Home Health Care for 4 years taking care of older people that were still living in their homes, then worked for Paulson Cement Company for 15 years.Becky is preceded in death by mother Shirley (Vernon) Kroeger, Father Donald Vernon, stepfather Clarence Kroeger, brother Lenny Vernon.She is survived by husband Randy, children Randy Jr. of North Platte, Lena (Dustin) Harris of Hershey, NE, Andrew Peterson of Aurora, CO; sisters Peggy Brown of Holyoke, CO, Sheri (Tommy) Bornhoft of Fleming, CO, Lona (Dave) Salyards of Haxton, CO; brothers Rodney (Sharon) Vernon of Holyoke of CO, and Jerry Kroeger of Holyoke, CO; grandchildren Brayden, Brianna, and Baileigh; along with numerous nieces and nephews.Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M. (MT) Thursday, June 20, at Liewer Funeral Home in Imperial. A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 A.M. (MT) at the Imperial Berean Church with Pastor Matt Maxwell officiating. Interment to follow at Crete Cemetery in Chase County.

Rebecca Peterson (1957-2024)

&nbsp; Kelvin Miles Kemp, age 44, of Lincoln, NE passed away Sunday, June 9, 2024. Kelvin was born on March 14, 1980 in North Platte, NE to Gary and Jean (Snyder) Kemp. &nbsp;He grew up on the family ranch 10 miles north of Curtis and attended Medicine Valley High School graduating with the class of 1999. He went on to attend UNL receiving his BS ’07 and Master of Professional Accountancy ’09. &nbsp;Kelvin and Marissa Young were married on June 1, 2013 in York, NE. Kelvin owned his own CPA practice. His philosophy was “Accountants should be accessible, affordable &amp; approachable to the small business person.” &nbsp;He became close friends with many of his clients. Kelvin was a member of the Christian Business Men’s Connection and NE Society for CPAs.

Kelvin enjoyed traveling, learning computer coding, watching PBS and listening to NPR. Kelvin and his wife enjoyed listening to live music and made friends with several local musicians. Kelvin enjoyed growing up on a ranch and driving a semi. &nbsp;He continued to renew his CDL Hazmat even when he was no longer hauling fuel. Kelvin especially enjoyed trips out to the ranch to see his family and being Mr. Fix-It.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Miles and Hollis (Blackstone) Snyder, E.L. “Tom” and Lucille (Fuller) Kemp; father, Gary Kemp; uncle, Jim Snyder; cousins, Brandon Blake and Jacquie (Snyder) Glaubitz and mother-in-law, Diane Young.

Kelvin is survived by his wife, Marissa of Lincoln; mother, Jean Kemp of Maywood; twin brother, Kort (Lisa) Kemp of Wallace; sisters, Kerri Kemp of Curtis, Kristy (Josh) King of Hershey; nephews and nieces, Taylor Kemp; Allyson Kemp; Avery and Presley King; Everett and Eva Young; uncles, Tom Kemp Jr, Monty (Elsie) Kemp, Rex (Jeanine) Kemp and Jerry (Carolyn) Snyder; aunt Joyce Snyder; father-in-law, Jerry Young; brother-in-law, Travis (Jeana) Young; sister-in-law, Chasity (Brent) Briese.

Memorials are suggested to the family to designate later for a memorial in Kelvin’s name. Visitation will be Friday, June 14, 4-7 pm with family present 4-6 pm at the Curtis Methodist Church, Curtis, NE. Funeral Services will be 2 pm, Saturday, June 15 at the Curtis Methodist Church with Pastor Scott Wiles.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718228634153.png" alt="Kelvin Kemp" />
 <figcaption>Kelvin Kemp</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Kelvin Miles Kemp, age 44, of Lincoln, NE passed away Sunday, June 9, 2024. Kelvin was born on March 14, 1980 in North Platte, NE to Gary and Jean (Snyder) Kemp. &nbsp;He grew up on the family ranch 10 miles north of Curtis and attended Medicine Valley High School graduating with the class of 1999. He went on to attend UNL receiving his BS ’07 and Master of Professional Accountancy ’09. &nbsp;Kelvin and Marissa Young were married on June 1, 2013 in York, NE. Kelvin owned his own CPA practice. His philosophy was “Accountants should be accessible, affordable &amp; approachable to the small business person.” &nbsp;He became close friends with many of his clients. Kelvin was a member of the Christian Business Men’s Connection and NE Society for CPAs.Kelvin enjoyed traveling, learning computer coding, watching PBS and listening to NPR. Kelvin and his wife enjoyed listening to live music and made friends with several local musicians. Kelvin enjoyed growing up on a ranch and driving a semi. &nbsp;He continued to renew his CDL Hazmat even when he was no longer hauling fuel. Kelvin especially enjoyed trips out to the ranch to see his family and being Mr. Fix-It.He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Miles and Hollis (Blackstone) Snyder, E.L. “Tom” and Lucille (Fuller) Kemp; father, Gary Kemp; uncle, Jim Snyder; cousins, Brandon Blake and Jacquie (Snyder) Glaubitz and mother-in-law, Diane Young.Kelvin is survived by his wife, Marissa of Lincoln; mother, Jean Kemp of Maywood; twin brother, Kort (Lisa) Kemp of Wallace; sisters, Kerri Kemp of Curtis, Kristy (Josh) King of Hershey; nephews and nieces, Taylor Kemp; Allyson Kemp; Avery and Presley King; Everett and Eva Young; uncles, Tom Kemp Jr, Monty (Elsie) Kemp, Rex (Jeanine) Kemp and Jerry (Carolyn) Snyder; aunt Joyce Snyder; father-in-law, Jerry Young; brother-in-law, Travis (Jeana) Young; sister-in-law, Chasity (Brent) Briese.Memorials are suggested to the family to designate later for a memorial in Kelvin’s name. Visitation will be Friday, June 14, 4-7 pm with family present 4-6 pm at the Curtis Methodist Church, Curtis, NE. Funeral Services will be 2 pm, Saturday, June 15 at the Curtis Methodist Church with Pastor Scott Wiles.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Kelvin Kemp (1980-2024)

Rose Barry, 92, longtime Grant resident, passed away on June 8, 2024, at the Independence House at Coddington of Lincoln, Nebraska.

Rose was born on February 24, 1932, in Grant, Nebraska, to Christian "Chris" Gengenbach Jr. and Anna Schurr. She was the eighth of nine children. She was baptized at Zion Lutheran Church on July 10, 1932 and confirmed on June 3, 1945. She attended country school District 76 then went to Perkins County High School, graduating in 1949. She taught at the Sawyer school for one year and was then married to Jack Barry Jr. on April 30, 1950, at the Grant Methodist parsonage.

Jack and Rose lived in Paxton for a little more than a year, returning to Grant, where Jack worked at the Barry Produce Store for a few years. Rose was a stay-at-home mom until 1956, and then she was employed for three years at Goodall Manufacturing in Ogallala. She had an at-home daycare for several years, where she cared for many children before working at the Grant Elementary School as a para, which she did for 24 years. Rose was retired for a few years before working part-time as a librarian at Grant Elementary School for several years.

Over the years, she was a member of the Grant Cemetery Board, the Texas Trail, Pinochle Club, and Lutheran Ladies Aid, and participated in bowling and golfing leagues with Jack. A devoted homemaker, Rose was dedicated to her husband and family. She enjoyed traveling around the country with Jack to visit their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and attend their many events. She also enjoyed reading, gardening, sewing, and cooking. Most recently, Rose had been making her home in Lincoln.

Rose was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Barry; siblings, Harold Gengenbach, Lillian Logsdon, Arlene Kurkowski, Dorothy Keuten, George Gengenbach, Daniel Gengenbach, and Eleanor Russell.

Survivors include her children, Barbara Barry (Tim Smith) of Danbury, Wisconsin, Patty (Mark) Jones of Lincoln, Mike (Jeannette) Barry of Wayne, Linda (Brian) Kirkpatrick of Plainfield, Illinois, Lana (Jeff) Knupp of Woodbury, Minnesota; 13 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; a sister, Anita Most of Ogallala; many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hastings Memorial Library in Grant or the Zion Lutheran Church in memory of Rose. Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com. Services will be streamed at ziongrant.org.

Services will be held on Friday, June 14, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church in Grant with Pastor Michael Heckmann officiating. Interment will follow at Grant Fairview Cemetery.

Visitation will be on Thursday, June 13, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Bullock-Long Funeral Home in Grant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718229086430.jpeg" alt="Rose Barry" />
 <figcaption>Rose Barry</figcaption>
 </figure>Rose Barry, 92, longtime Grant resident, passed away on June 8, 2024, at the Independence House at Coddington of Lincoln, Nebraska.Rose was born on February 24, 1932, in Grant, Nebraska, to Christian "Chris" Gengenbach Jr. and Anna Schurr. She was the eighth of nine children. She was baptized at Zion Lutheran Church on July 10, 1932 and confirmed on June 3, 1945. She attended country school District 76 then went to Perkins County High School, graduating in 1949. She taught at the Sawyer school for one year and was then married to Jack Barry Jr. on April 30, 1950, at the Grant Methodist parsonage.Jack and Rose lived in Paxton for a little more than a year, returning to Grant, where Jack worked at the Barry Produce Store for a few years. Rose was a stay-at-home mom until 1956, and then she was employed for three years at Goodall Manufacturing in Ogallala. She had an at-home daycare for several years, where she cared for many children before working at the Grant Elementary School as a para, which she did for 24 years. Rose was retired for a few years before working part-time as a librarian at Grant Elementary School for several years.Over the years, she was a member of the Grant Cemetery Board, the Texas Trail, Pinochle Club, and Lutheran Ladies Aid, and participated in bowling and golfing leagues with Jack. A devoted homemaker, Rose was dedicated to her husband and family. She enjoyed traveling around the country with Jack to visit their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and attend their many events. She also enjoyed reading, gardening, sewing, and cooking. Most recently, Rose had been making her home in Lincoln.Rose was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Barry; siblings, Harold Gengenbach, Lillian Logsdon, Arlene Kurkowski, Dorothy Keuten, George Gengenbach, Daniel Gengenbach, and Eleanor Russell.Survivors include her children, Barbara Barry (Tim Smith) of Danbury, Wisconsin, Patty (Mark) Jones of Lincoln, Mike (Jeannette) Barry of Wayne, Linda (Brian) Kirkpatrick of Plainfield, Illinois, Lana (Jeff) Knupp of Woodbury, Minnesota; 13 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; a sister, Anita Most of Ogallala; many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.Memorial contributions may be made to the Hastings Memorial Library in Grant or the Zion Lutheran Church in memory of Rose. Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com. Services will be streamed at ziongrant.org.Services will be held on Friday, June 14, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church in Grant with Pastor Michael Heckmann officiating. Interment will follow at Grant Fairview Cemetery.Visitation will be on Thursday, June 13, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Bullock-Long Funeral Home in Grant.

Rose Barry (1932-2024)

Randy Beisner, 60, of Paxton, Nebraska sadly left us on June 7, 2024. He was born to Berdell Beisner and Betty Ferguson in Ogallala, Nebraska on May 2, 1964. He attended Republican Valley High School in Indianola, Nebraska. A Nebraska native, Randy has lived in several areas of Nebraska as well as Loveland, Colorado, and Panama City Beach, Florida.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In his younger days, he enjoyed hot rods, motorcycles, off-roading, boating, and being outdoors. As he became a father, he enjoyed spending time with family, camping, and fishing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He has always loved drawing and listening to music, especially the 1960-1970s Billboard Hits and the companionship of animals. He is known for being a hard worker, a loyal friend, and being proud of his children.&nbsp;

He had a talent of being able to fix and build pretty much anything. He worked in several trades including heavy machinery, carpentry, welding, mechanical services, and construction, as well as owning a flooring and tiling business while living in Colorado.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

He recently settled back in Paxton with his brother Lonnie and helped build the Paxton School gym addition and worked at Becker Family Farms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He is preceded in death by his mother, Betty, grandparents, and several uncles, aunts, and cousins. &nbsp;He leaves behind his father and stepmother Berdell and Mary Lou Beisner; brothers Lonnie Beisner, Bobby Beisner, and Raymond Beisner; children Shannon Breakiron, Tiffany Beisner, and Alex Beisner; grandchildren Brittney Shafer, Heather Shafer, Sam Renshaw, and Beck Renshaw; first wife Daisy Richardson; Uncle Glen Beisner and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.&nbsp;

His memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 10:00 A.M. at Draucker Funeral Home Chapel in Ogallala and will be officiated by Rev. Mark Baldwin of The United Methodist Church of Paxton, NE.&nbsp;

At this time there is no plan for inurnment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A memorial has been established for the Paxton Fire Department in Paxton, NE.&nbsp;

Online condolences may be left by clicking the Share a Memory or the Tribute Wall Button by going to www.drauckerfh.com.&nbsp;

Services will be live-streamed at www.drauckerfh.com&nbsp;

Draucker Funeral Home of Ogallala has been entrusted with arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718143310779.jpeg" alt="Randy Beisner" />
 <figcaption>Randy Beisner</figcaption>
 </figure>Randy Beisner, 60, of Paxton, Nebraska sadly left us on June 7, 2024. He was born to Berdell Beisner and Betty Ferguson in Ogallala, Nebraska on May 2, 1964. He attended Republican Valley High School in Indianola, Nebraska. A Nebraska native, Randy has lived in several areas of Nebraska as well as Loveland, Colorado, and Panama City Beach, Florida.&nbsp;&nbsp;In his younger days, he enjoyed hot rods, motorcycles, off-roading, boating, and being outdoors. As he became a father, he enjoyed spending time with family, camping, and fishing.&nbsp;&nbsp;He has always loved drawing and listening to music, especially the 1960-1970s Billboard Hits and the companionship of animals. He is known for being a hard worker, a loyal friend, and being proud of his children.&nbsp;He had a talent of being able to fix and build pretty much anything. He worked in several trades including heavy machinery, carpentry, welding, mechanical services, and construction, as well as owning a flooring and tiling business while living in Colorado.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He recently settled back in Paxton with his brother Lonnie and helped build the Paxton School gym addition and worked at Becker Family Farms.&nbsp;&nbsp;He is preceded in death by his mother, Betty, grandparents, and several uncles, aunts, and cousins. &nbsp;He leaves behind his father and stepmother Berdell and Mary Lou Beisner; brothers Lonnie Beisner, Bobby Beisner, and Raymond Beisner; children Shannon Breakiron, Tiffany Beisner, and Alex Beisner; grandchildren Brittney Shafer, Heather Shafer, Sam Renshaw, and Beck Renshaw; first wife Daisy Richardson; Uncle Glen Beisner and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.&nbsp;His memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 10:00 A.M. at Draucker Funeral Home Chapel in Ogallala and will be officiated by Rev. Mark Baldwin of The United Methodist Church of Paxton, NE.&nbsp;At this time there is no plan for inurnment.&nbsp;&nbsp;A memorial has been established for the Paxton Fire Department in Paxton, NE.&nbsp;Online condolences may be left by clicking the Share a Memory or the Tribute Wall Button by going to www.drauckerfh.com.&nbsp;Services will be live-streamed at www.drauckerfh.com&nbsp;Draucker Funeral Home of Ogallala has been entrusted with arrangements.

Randall R. Beisner (1964-2024)

Ray Harmon Baldwin was born on July 30, 1934,&nbsp;in Imperial, Nebraska to Perry Harmon and Eva Lily (Surber) Baldwin. He attended several different&nbsp;schools during grades 1 through 8 and then completed 4 years at Chase County High School where he graduated in 1952. On August 16,&nbsp;1953,&nbsp;he married Doris Spady and ranched with his grandfather and father until he was drafted into the army in 1956. In 1958, he returned to Chase County to find that the ranch had been sold. He and Doris then moved to Sterling, Colorado where they built a new house and he worked at Phillips 66 and&nbsp;as&nbsp;an appliance dealer. During his 13 years in Sterling,&nbsp;they adopted three beautiful&nbsp;babies,&nbsp;and he&nbsp;participated&nbsp;in a&nbsp;country&nbsp;swing band. In 1972, the family moved to Arvada, Colorado where Ray worked for General Electric and retired&nbsp;after 23 years.&nbsp;In 1995, Ray and Doris moved to Hudson, Colorado where they built a new house&nbsp;with a large building with a woodshop where he spent many hours building many projects for Doris, grandchildren, other family members and friends.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fishing,&nbsp;camping&nbsp;and traveling in their motorhome was a passion that he and Doris shared. With the loss of his wife on May 19, 2014,&nbsp;life was&nbsp;very different&nbsp;for several years, but&nbsp;the good Lord gave him a second wife, Jennifer Nancy&nbsp;Sciumbato. They got married on January 29, 2018,&nbsp;in Hudson, Colorado.&nbsp;He truly&nbsp;felt he had a blessed life with no regrets. He had many, many&nbsp;wonderful memories and a host of friends, and&nbsp;to&nbsp;all he&nbsp;said,&nbsp;“we’ll see&nbsp;ya&nbsp;over there”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ray passed away on Friday, June 7, 2024,&nbsp;at his home in Hudson. Ray was 89 years old.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ray is survived by&nbsp;his wife Jennifer Sciumbato; children: Michael (Dawnene)&nbsp;Baldwin&nbsp;of Thornton,&nbsp;Douglas (Deena)&nbsp;Baldwin&nbsp;of Frederick&nbsp;and&nbsp;Denise (Noel)&nbsp;Huff&nbsp;of&nbsp;Arvada; grandchildren: Amber (Bobby) Reese of Loveland,&nbsp;David (Jennifer) Baldwin of Firestone, Nash (Taylor) Baldwin of Belgrade, MT, and Dori (Parker) Jacobs of Frederick; great-grandchildren: Chloe, Taylor,&nbsp;Jeffery, Morgan, Addilyn, Haliegh, Hazelee, Hudson, Decker, Lander and Alessi; sister,&nbsp;Jean Johnson&nbsp;and many nieces and nephews.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;graveside service&nbsp;will be held at 10:30 A.M.&nbsp;on Monday June 17, 2024,&nbsp;at Mount Hope Cemetery in Imperial,&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;with Rev. Brian Loy officiating. A&nbsp;memorial service and reception&nbsp;will be held at 11:00 A.M.&nbsp;on Monday July 1,&nbsp;2024&nbsp;at&nbsp;First Baptist Church in Hudson, Colorado.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718112682896.jpeg" alt="Ray Baldwin" />
 <figcaption>Ray Baldwin</figcaption>
 </figure>Ray Harmon Baldwin was born on July 30, 1934,&nbsp;in Imperial, Nebraska to Perry Harmon and Eva Lily (Surber) Baldwin. He attended several different&nbsp;schools during grades 1 through 8 and then completed 4 years at Chase County High School where he graduated in 1952. On August 16,&nbsp;1953,&nbsp;he married Doris Spady and ranched with his grandfather and father until he was drafted into the army in 1956. In 1958, he returned to Chase County to find that the ranch had been sold. He and Doris then moved to Sterling, Colorado where they built a new house and he worked at Phillips 66 and&nbsp;as&nbsp;an appliance dealer. During his 13 years in Sterling,&nbsp;they adopted three beautiful&nbsp;babies,&nbsp;and he&nbsp;participated&nbsp;in a&nbsp;country&nbsp;swing band. In 1972, the family moved to Arvada, Colorado where Ray worked for General Electric and retired&nbsp;after 23 years.&nbsp;In 1995, Ray and Doris moved to Hudson, Colorado where they built a new house&nbsp;with a large building with a woodshop where he spent many hours building many projects for Doris, grandchildren, other family members and friends.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fishing,&nbsp;camping&nbsp;and traveling in their motorhome was a passion that he and Doris shared. With the loss of his wife on May 19, 2014,&nbsp;life was&nbsp;very different&nbsp;for several years, but&nbsp;the good Lord gave him a second wife, Jennifer Nancy&nbsp;Sciumbato. They got married on January 29, 2018,&nbsp;in Hudson, Colorado.&nbsp;He truly&nbsp;felt he had a blessed life with no regrets. He had many, many&nbsp;wonderful memories and a host of friends, and&nbsp;to&nbsp;all he&nbsp;said,&nbsp;“we’ll see&nbsp;ya&nbsp;over there”.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ray passed away on Friday, June 7, 2024,&nbsp;at his home in Hudson. Ray was 89 years old.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ray is survived by&nbsp;his wife Jennifer Sciumbato; children: Michael (Dawnene)&nbsp;Baldwin&nbsp;of Thornton,&nbsp;Douglas (Deena)&nbsp;Baldwin&nbsp;of Frederick&nbsp;and&nbsp;Denise (Noel)&nbsp;Huff&nbsp;of&nbsp;Arvada; grandchildren: Amber (Bobby) Reese of Loveland,&nbsp;David (Jennifer) Baldwin of Firestone, Nash (Taylor) Baldwin of Belgrade, MT, and Dori (Parker) Jacobs of Frederick; great-grandchildren: Chloe, Taylor,&nbsp;Jeffery, Morgan, Addilyn, Haliegh, Hazelee, Hudson, Decker, Lander and Alessi; sister,&nbsp;Jean Johnson&nbsp;and many nieces and nephews.&nbsp;A&nbsp;graveside service&nbsp;will be held at 10:30 A.M.&nbsp;on Monday June 17, 2024,&nbsp;at Mount Hope Cemetery in Imperial,&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;with Rev. Brian Loy officiating. A&nbsp;memorial service and reception&nbsp;will be held at 11:00 A.M.&nbsp;on Monday July 1,&nbsp;2024&nbsp;at&nbsp;First Baptist Church in Hudson, Colorado.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ray H Baldwin (1934-2024)

Memorial Graveside Services will be held on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at 3:00 PM at Victoria Creek Cemetery North of Victoria Springs Park. Memorials are suggested to the Anselmo Fire Department or Victoria Creek Cemetery. &nbsp;A register book may be signed at Govier Brother Mortuary. Govier Brothers Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.govierbrothers.com/">www.govierbrothers.com</a>&nbsp;

Vernette (Glidden) McMillan, 81, of Milburn, NE, passed away on June 6, 2024, at Kearney Regional Hospital. Born August 26, 1942, in Dunning, Nebraska, she was the first child of Verne and Betty Glidden. Vernette grew up in a close-knit family where togetherness was a way of life, filled with holiday dinners and weekend hunting and fishing trips. As the oldest grandchild, she often took on the responsibility of looking after the younger ones during these family outings. She attended school in Dunning, graduating in 1960. During high school, she worked at the Highway Café, saving money to attend secretarial school in Omaha. After completing her training, Vernette worked in Omaha for two years before returning to the Sandhills. It was at a local dance where she met James J. McMillan, whom she married in June 1963. Together, they had two children: Thomas Joseph and Jolene Marie.&nbsp;

She devoted her life to raising her children and embracing the ranching lifestyle on the McMillan family ranch.&nbsp;Jim and Vernette occasionally enjoyed traveling including trips visiting family on the West Coast, tracing the Lewis and Clark Trail, attending bull sales to Montana, a few trips down to Texas, among others.

Vernette was an active member of the Anselmo VFW Ladies Auxiliary and later the Broken Bow VFW for 60 years, where she held officer positions, including Treasurer for many years.&nbsp;She was particularly dedicated to parade floats, making and delivering cookie plates to veterans, and selling poppies.

The neighborhood collectively agreed that Vernette was an excellent cook, once even being featured in the local Custer County Chief newspaper.&nbsp;Feeding extra guests was customary, given that visitors frequently scheduled their stops around mealtime.&nbsp;She prepared three meals a day for her family and hired hands too.&nbsp;

Vernette also had a passion for science fiction movies, Nebraska Volleyball, and turquoise and silver jewelry, adding to her vibrant personality.&nbsp;

Vernette derived immense joy from her grandchildren's activities, rarely missing a sporting event, music concert, or livestock show.&nbsp;She frequently attended her grandchildren's football, volleyball, and basketball games, wrestling tournaments, and track meets, as well as weekend softball tournaments, often with another grandchild in tow. She never missed the Dawson and Custer County Fairs, where she watched her grandchildren compete in 4-H and FFA projects.

Vernette's surviving family include her children, Thomas (Lisa) McMillan of Milburn and Jolene (Jerry) Wiggins of Gothenburg, her sister Leila (Butch) Schultz of Tok, AK, sister-in-law Helen Glidden of Taylor, NE, grandchildren Janae (Zachary) Thomas, Jacey (Matthew) Person, James Russell McMillan, BaiLee McMillan, Samuel McMillan, and great-grandson Dexter Thomas. She was preceded in death by her parents, her spouse James J. McMillan, and her brother Frank Glidden.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718032591052.jpeg" alt="Vernette McMillan" />
 <figcaption>Vernette McMillan</figcaption>
 </figure>Memorial Graveside Services will be held on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at 3:00 PM at Victoria Creek Cemetery North of Victoria Springs Park. Memorials are suggested to the Anselmo Fire Department or Victoria Creek Cemetery. &nbsp;A register book may be signed at Govier Brother Mortuary. Govier Brothers Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.govierbrothers.com/">www.govierbrothers.com</a>&nbsp;Vernette (Glidden) McMillan, 81, of Milburn, NE, passed away on June 6, 2024, at Kearney Regional Hospital. Born August 26, 1942, in Dunning, Nebraska, she was the first child of Verne and Betty Glidden. Vernette grew up in a close-knit family where togetherness was a way of life, filled with holiday dinners and weekend hunting and fishing trips. As the oldest grandchild, she often took on the responsibility of looking after the younger ones during these family outings. She attended school in Dunning, graduating in 1960. During high school, she worked at the Highway Café, saving money to attend secretarial school in Omaha. After completing her training, Vernette worked in Omaha for two years before returning to the Sandhills. It was at a local dance where she met James J. McMillan, whom she married in June 1963. Together, they had two children: Thomas Joseph and Jolene Marie.&nbsp;She devoted her life to raising her children and embracing the ranching lifestyle on the McMillan family ranch.&nbsp;Jim and Vernette occasionally enjoyed traveling including trips visiting family on the West Coast, tracing the Lewis and Clark Trail, attending bull sales to Montana, a few trips down to Texas, among others.Vernette was an active member of the Anselmo VFW Ladies Auxiliary and later the Broken Bow VFW for 60 years, where she held officer positions, including Treasurer for many years.&nbsp;She was particularly dedicated to parade floats, making and delivering cookie plates to veterans, and selling poppies.The neighborhood collectively agreed that Vernette was an excellent cook, once even being featured in the local Custer County Chief newspaper.&nbsp;Feeding extra guests was customary, given that visitors frequently scheduled their stops around mealtime.&nbsp;She prepared three meals a day for her family and hired hands too.&nbsp;Vernette also had a passion for science fiction movies, Nebraska Volleyball, and turquoise and silver jewelry, adding to her vibrant personality.&nbsp;Vernette derived immense joy from her grandchildren's activities, rarely missing a sporting event, music concert, or livestock show.&nbsp;She frequently attended her grandchildren's football, volleyball, and basketball games, wrestling tournaments, and track meets, as well as weekend softball tournaments, often with another grandchild in tow. She never missed the Dawson and Custer County Fairs, where she watched her grandchildren compete in 4-H and FFA projects.Vernette's surviving family include her children, Thomas (Lisa) McMillan of Milburn and Jolene (Jerry) Wiggins of Gothenburg, her sister Leila (Butch) Schultz of Tok, AK, sister-in-law Helen Glidden of Taylor, NE, grandchildren Janae (Zachary) Thomas, Jacey (Matthew) Person, James Russell McMillan, BaiLee McMillan, Samuel McMillan, and great-grandson Dexter Thomas. She was preceded in death by her parents, her spouse James J. McMillan, and her brother Frank Glidden.

Vernette McMillan (1942-2024)

&nbsp; &nbsp; Carla Bales was called to her heavenly home on Monday, June 3, 2024, in Wahoo, Nebraska. &nbsp;She was born July 17, 1935, to Charles and Selma (Bamesberger) Cruver. Carla was the third child of four girls and attended school in McCook. She married Raymond Doyle on Sept. 6, 1953, at the Peace Lutheran Church. Their marriage was blessed with four children that they raised in McCook. On June 14, 1980, she married Floyd Bales and gained five extra children.

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Carla sold Tupperware for many years, worked as a legal secretary for Hanson and Hanson, McCook Abstract and taught a few night classes at McCook Community College. She also volunteered delivering Meals on Wheels in McCook and in her later years enjoyed the Heritage Senior Center meals, fellowship and was always up for a game of Bridge. Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were so loved by her, and you could always count on her to be sitting at a ballgame, dance recital, wrestling match or at the lake and any other activity her loved ones would be participating in. Of course, she always had her bag of yarn or thread and would crochet during any event to add to her craft items she loved to sell. &nbsp;Carla spent the last seven years in Wahoo due to Alzheimer's but her quick wit and smile made her a beloved resident of those that cared for her. She was known as the “Ice Cream Lady” for her love of ice cream and the ability to create the largest ice cream cone. Her family will be forever grateful for the love and care Carla received at South Haven Nursing Home.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; Carla was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Selma Cruver; her sisters, Edith, Irene and Sandy; her husband, Floyd Bales, stepchildren, Randy Bales, Pamela Foight, and Robin Seabrook; and grandchildren, Chantel Doyle, Nicki Bales and Shanna Bales.

&nbsp; &nbsp; Carla’s life is celebrated by her children: Randy (Dee) Doyle of Lincoln, NE, Russ (Cathy) Doyle, of McCook, Roxann (Don) Owens, of Indianola and Rita Roberts of Monte Vista, CO; her stepchildren, Steve (Denise) Bales of McCook and Tom (Sheila) Bales of Nebraska City. She is also survived by 25 grandchildren, 58 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. &nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; Memorial services will be held at Peace Lutheran Church of McCook on Saturday June 29, 2024, at 11:00 AM with Pastor Bradley Rick officiating.&nbsp; A private family burial in Memorial Park Cemetery of McCook will take place prior to services.

&nbsp; &nbsp; The family requests that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made in her name to the Heritage Senior Center, 1312 W. 5th, McCook, NE 69001.&nbsp; Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com.&nbsp; Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718030920220.jpeg" alt="Carla Bales" />
 <figcaption>Carla Bales</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; &nbsp; Carla Bales was called to her heavenly home on Monday, June 3, 2024, in Wahoo, Nebraska. &nbsp;She was born July 17, 1935, to Charles and Selma (Bamesberger) Cruver. Carla was the third child of four girls and attended school in McCook. She married Raymond Doyle on Sept. 6, 1953, at the Peace Lutheran Church. Their marriage was blessed with four children that they raised in McCook. On June 14, 1980, she married Floyd Bales and gained five extra children.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Carla sold Tupperware for many years, worked as a legal secretary for Hanson and Hanson, McCook Abstract and taught a few night classes at McCook Community College. She also volunteered delivering Meals on Wheels in McCook and in her later years enjoyed the Heritage Senior Center meals, fellowship and was always up for a game of Bridge. Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were so loved by her, and you could always count on her to be sitting at a ballgame, dance recital, wrestling match or at the lake and any other activity her loved ones would be participating in. Of course, she always had her bag of yarn or thread and would crochet during any event to add to her craft items she loved to sell. &nbsp;Carla spent the last seven years in Wahoo due to Alzheimer's but her quick wit and smile made her a beloved resident of those that cared for her. She was known as the “Ice Cream Lady” for her love of ice cream and the ability to create the largest ice cream cone. Her family will be forever grateful for the love and care Carla received at South Haven Nursing Home.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Carla was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Selma Cruver; her sisters, Edith, Irene and Sandy; her husband, Floyd Bales, stepchildren, Randy Bales, Pamela Foight, and Robin Seabrook; and grandchildren, Chantel Doyle, Nicki Bales and Shanna Bales.&nbsp; &nbsp; Carla’s life is celebrated by her children: Randy (Dee) Doyle of Lincoln, NE, Russ (Cathy) Doyle, of McCook, Roxann (Don) Owens, of Indianola and Rita Roberts of Monte Vista, CO; her stepchildren, Steve (Denise) Bales of McCook and Tom (Sheila) Bales of Nebraska City. She is also survived by 25 grandchildren, 58 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Memorial services will be held at Peace Lutheran Church of McCook on Saturday June 29, 2024, at 11:00 AM with Pastor Bradley Rick officiating.&nbsp; A private family burial in Memorial Park Cemetery of McCook will take place prior to services.&nbsp; &nbsp; The family requests that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made in her name to the Heritage Senior Center, 1312 W. 5th, McCook, NE 69001.&nbsp; Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com.&nbsp; Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook.&nbsp;

Carla Marie Bales (1935-2024)

Gerald L. Meissner, 85, of Wellfleet, NE passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at his home. &nbsp;He was born on July 12, 1938 in Quick, NE the son of Leo and June Meissner.

He married Lynn in Lexington, NE on May 27, 1968. They were blessed with six loving children, six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Gerald served the U.S. Army from 1963-1965. &nbsp;He was stationed in Hawaii as an operator. &nbsp;Over his lifetime career, he had several jobs as a switchboard operator and truck driver. &nbsp;His true passion was his family farm in Wellfleet. &nbsp;He will be truly missed by his loved ones and friends.

Left to cherish his memory are his children: Kenlyn, Kevin, Lesley, Troy, Ginia, and Susie; grandchildren, Kendrick, Kendahl, Breanna, Austin, Matthew, Madison; 6 great grandchildren; numerous extended family - nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents, and wife of 54 years, Lynn.&nbsp;

A Celebration of Gerald’s Life will be held at Thanksgiving, which was the family’s most cherished holiday.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Carpenter Memorial Chapel. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718030287181.jpeg" alt="Gerald Meissner" />
 <figcaption>Gerald Meissner</figcaption>
 </figure>Gerald L. Meissner, 85, of Wellfleet, NE passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at his home. &nbsp;He was born on July 12, 1938 in Quick, NE the son of Leo and June Meissner.He married Lynn in Lexington, NE on May 27, 1968. They were blessed with six loving children, six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Gerald served the U.S. Army from 1963-1965. &nbsp;He was stationed in Hawaii as an operator. &nbsp;Over his lifetime career, he had several jobs as a switchboard operator and truck driver. &nbsp;His true passion was his family farm in Wellfleet. &nbsp;He will be truly missed by his loved ones and friends.Left to cherish his memory are his children: Kenlyn, Kevin, Lesley, Troy, Ginia, and Susie; grandchildren, Kendrick, Kendahl, Breanna, Austin, Matthew, Madison; 6 great grandchildren; numerous extended family - nieces, nephews and cousins.He was predeceased by his parents, and wife of 54 years, Lynn.&nbsp;A Celebration of Gerald’s Life will be held at Thanksgiving, which was the family’s most cherished holiday.Arrangements have been entrusted to Carpenter Memorial Chapel. &nbsp;

Gerald L. Meissner (1938-2024)

Bethel “Beth” Eilene Miller, 100, of Oshkosh passed away early Friday morning, May 31, 2024 at her home on Lost Creek Ranch north of Oshkosh surrounded by her loving family.

Cremation has taken place and there are no formal services planned. Private family service will be held at a later date.

Holechek-Bondegard Funeral Home and Cremations in Oshkosh is serving the Miller family.

Family and friends can leave condolences at www.bondegardfunerals.com.

Bethel was born on September 21, 1923 in Davenport, lowa to George &amp; Lora (Potter) Bostwick, where her father was attending medical school. After his graduation they returned to Nebraska. Bethel graduated from North Platte High School and attended Kearney State College. She then married Art B. Miller on February 14, 1943. To this union two sons were born: Ted &amp; Rick. Their marriage lasted almost seventy years until Art's passing on February 4, 2013.

As a young bride she and Art owned and operated a small dairy farm near Maxwell, Nebraska. Bethel helped milk at 4 a.m., cooked on a wood burning stove and had no indoor plumbing. Years later they purchased a motel in Sidney which Bethel managed. &nbsp;Ted &amp; Rick then went to school in Sidney. Art traveled from Maxwell on weekends to be with the family while his cousin took care of the farm in Maxwell. &nbsp;Due to a horse related accident that severely injured Art, they sought an easier life and bought a ranch north of Oshkosh in 1966. They ran a cattle operation and grew corn and alfalfa until Art passed away at age 89.

Bethel was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all. Bethel's passion was gardening. She so enjoyed flowers. Her yard was once featured in a garden magazine, and she won many ribbons at the Garden County Fair for her creative arrangements. She was a charter member of the Garden County Garden Club for over sixty years and hosted their annual Harvest Banquet at the ranch each year. She definitely had a gift of hospitality as she welcomed everyone to her home and provided meals for them no matter the time of day and provided beds if they needed to stay. Bethel was playful and mischievous. She often caught her family off guard by her antics, so they always knew to expect the unexpected when visiting the ranch. &nbsp;She cooked for all the brandings, even the Rocky Mountain Oysters! She was a really good cook! No one could match her cinnamon rolls. She also won ribbons at fair for her baking.

Bethel was actively involved in the community: member of Wesleyan Church teaching Sunday School, youth group activities with hayrides, ladies group and volunteering wherever needed. Bethel remained active until she fractured her hip in 2019. After recovering at Ted's home, she chose to stay at the ranch with her roly-poly walker and golf cart to get around planting her garden and flowers until May of this year. Bethel was a true pioneer woman as her life has been lived in the spirit of early Nebraskans. She was given the honorary title award by Governor Jim Pillen in 2023: ADMIRAL The Great Navy of the STATE OF NEBRASKA.

She is survived by sons Ted (Karen) of Oshkosh, Rick, of Tucumcari, New Mexico, ten grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, brothers, George (Marilyn) and Dick Bostwick and nieces, nephews and cousins.

In eternal life Bethel joins her husband, Art, parents, sisters Lois (Irvin) &amp; Jeannie (Jerry), granddaughter Laura, niece Diny &amp; nephew David.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717796081118.jpeg" alt="Beth Miller" />
 <figcaption>Beth Miller</figcaption>
 </figure>Bethel “Beth” Eilene Miller, 100, of Oshkosh passed away early Friday morning, May 31, 2024 at her home on Lost Creek Ranch north of Oshkosh surrounded by her loving family.Cremation has taken place and there are no formal services planned. Private family service will be held at a later date.Holechek-Bondegard Funeral Home and Cremations in Oshkosh is serving the Miller family.Family and friends can leave condolences at www.bondegardfunerals.com.Bethel was born on September 21, 1923 in Davenport, lowa to George &amp; Lora (Potter) Bostwick, where her father was attending medical school. After his graduation they returned to Nebraska. Bethel graduated from North Platte High School and attended Kearney State College. She then married Art B. Miller on February 14, 1943. To this union two sons were born: Ted &amp; Rick. Their marriage lasted almost seventy years until Art's passing on February 4, 2013.As a young bride she and Art owned and operated a small dairy farm near Maxwell, Nebraska. Bethel helped milk at 4 a.m., cooked on a wood burning stove and had no indoor plumbing. Years later they purchased a motel in Sidney which Bethel managed. &nbsp;Ted &amp; Rick then went to school in Sidney. Art traveled from Maxwell on weekends to be with the family while his cousin took care of the farm in Maxwell. &nbsp;Due to a horse related accident that severely injured Art, they sought an easier life and bought a ranch north of Oshkosh in 1966. They ran a cattle operation and grew corn and alfalfa until Art passed away at age 89.Bethel was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all. Bethel's passion was gardening. She so enjoyed flowers. Her yard was once featured in a garden magazine, and she won many ribbons at the Garden County Fair for her creative arrangements. She was a charter member of the Garden County Garden Club for over sixty years and hosted their annual Harvest Banquet at the ranch each year. She definitely had a gift of hospitality as she welcomed everyone to her home and provided meals for them no matter the time of day and provided beds if they needed to stay. Bethel was playful and mischievous. She often caught her family off guard by her antics, so they always knew to expect the unexpected when visiting the ranch. &nbsp;She cooked for all the brandings, even the Rocky Mountain Oysters! She was a really good cook! No one could match her cinnamon rolls. She also won ribbons at fair for her baking.Bethel was actively involved in the community: member of Wesleyan Church teaching Sunday School, youth group activities with hayrides, ladies group and volunteering wherever needed. Bethel remained active until she fractured her hip in 2019. After recovering at Ted's home, she chose to stay at the ranch with her roly-poly walker and golf cart to get around planting her garden and flowers until May of this year. Bethel was a true pioneer woman as her life has been lived in the spirit of early Nebraskans. She was given the honorary title award by Governor Jim Pillen in 2023: ADMIRAL The Great Navy of the STATE OF NEBRASKA.She is survived by sons Ted (Karen) of Oshkosh, Rick, of Tucumcari, New Mexico, ten grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, brothers, George (Marilyn) and Dick Bostwick and nieces, nephews and cousins.In eternal life Bethel joins her husband, Art, parents, sisters Lois (Irvin) &amp; Jeannie (Jerry), granddaughter Laura, niece Diny &amp; nephew David.

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