Michael Julius Soper passed away on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at the age of 68 at Sedgewick County Health Center in Julesburg, CO.
Michael was born August 2, 1955, in Ogallala, NE, to Max and Phyllis Soper. He attended school in Big Springs, NE. Living in the Big Springs community his entire life, he married his high school sweetheart, Judy Jimenez, where they pursued their love for farming and ranching while raising their 3 daughters. Michael was not only Judy’s husband, business partner but also her best friend. While on the farm, the girls worked alongside Michael and Judy as a family. During his farming, Michael won the High 10 Sugar Beet award. He served on the Big Springs CO-OP elevator board and 4-H livestock board. Michael’s fondest memories were the years that he spent with his daughters on their market steers. Michael found so much joy in following his children and then his grandchildren to their sporting events, school activities, and the Deuel County Fair. After years of farming and ranching, his health began to deteriorate but he still tried to help where he could. Farming was Michael’s life, and he took much pride in raising his crops. His friends and family will miss his rough exterior but heart of gold, his orneriness, and his ability to always tell a story.
Michael is survived by his wife, Judy and three daughters, Jessica (Chet) Brooks - Alliance, NE, Jennifer (Zach Ziegler) Evans - Big Springs, NE and Joy (Michael) Cearns - Big Springs. He is survived by his father, Floyd “Max” Soper - Big Springs and 4 sisters, Mary Rochlitz - Big Springs, Melodie (Ken) Woodworth - Big Springs, Michelle (Mark) Armstrong - Big Springs and Mona (Christopher) Garcia - Cheyenne along with numerous nieces and nephews. He has 4 granddaughters, Aubrey DeNae, Makala Gene, McKinley Saige, and Trinity Jo and 5 grandsons Cooper Jacob, Conner James, Hudson Duane, Ryker Ray, and Max Michael.
Michael is preceded in death by his infant son, Michael Julius Soper, II; his mother, Phyllis Soper, and his grandmother, Margaret Soper.
Register book signing will be Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at Draucker Funeral Home Chapel in Ogallala, NE, from 9 am-6 pm with family greeting friends from 4-6 p.m.
Michael’s memorial service will be on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Draucker Funeral Home Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Big Springs Ambulance.
Online condolences may be sent by going to www.drauckerfh.com.
Services will be live-streamed at www.drauckerfh.com.
Draucker Funeral Home of Ogallala is in charge of arrangements.