John E. Culver, 79, died May 16, 2024, at Linden Court in North Platte, Nebraska.
John was born on December 16, 1944, in Ogallala, Nebraska, to Keith and Margaret (Allen) Culver. He graduated from Elsie High School in 1963 and served in the U.S. Army during the early Vietnam era. After 18 months, he returned home to help on the family farm in Elsie. His grandfather came on a train from Missouri and homesteaded the farm place that John lived on for his entire life. The Culver family received the Aksarben Award in 1987 for 100 years of family farming. His dedication to farming continued until his health no longer allowed it. Even in retirement, his heart remained in farming.
On May 26, 1973 he married Jane Nelson in Potter, Nebraska. Together, they raised two children, Mike and Kristin.
John was a devoted family man who never missed his kids' games and events. He enjoyed sharing his opinions and stories. He was also an avid card player who enjoyed playing 5-point pitch at the convenience store, and he played various card games with his family and friends.
John was actively involved in his community. He served on the veteran service board for over 20 years and was a longtime Elsie fireman and department board member. He was a member of the American Legion for over 50 years. He liked bowling and was part of the Commercial State Bank bowling team. Additionally, he drove the school bus for many years where he met his wife Jane, who was a teacher.
He was a faithful member of the Church of Christ, first in Elsie until it closed, and then in Ogallala. His faith guided him in all aspects of his life.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers-in-law, Eldon Adams and Keith Gartrell; and nephew, Keith Adams.
Survivors include John's wife, Jane of Grant; children, Mike (Tracy) Culver of Waverly and Kristin Janousek (Jon) of Clarkson. He was a proud grandfather to Braxton and Lauren Culver; Haisley, Paige, and Cole Janousek. He is survived by his sisters, Genice (Mike) Berry of Ogallala and Janet Gartrell of Wallace, along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at 10 am at the Elsie Methodist Church in Elsie, with Pastor Bill Williams and Bobby Brueggeman officiating. Internment will follow in the Elsie Cemetery.
Visitation will be on Tuesday from 3 to 6 pm at the Bullock-Long Funeral Home in Grant.
Bullock-Long Funeral Home of Grant is in charge of arrangements.