Matthew Jerome Snyder, age 48, of Los Osos, CA, died on June 27, 2008 at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, NE.     He was born on December 12, 1959 in McCook, NE to Robert and Patricia (Heiser) Snyder. He grew up in Arapahoe, NE and was baptized, received his first communion, and confirmed in the St. Germanus Catholic Church in Arapahoe, NE.  He attended school in Arapahoe and graduated from Arapahoe High School with the Class of 1978.  After graduation, he worked for several local farmers and area businesses.  He then went to work for the Burlington Northern Railroad.  In the mid 1980’s, he moved to Denver, CO to work for a structural engineering testing company.  Later, he moved to California and worked for a general contracting company in San Luis Obispo, CA. He is preceded in death by his father, Robert Snyder.  He is survived by his mother, Patricia Snyder of Arapahoe, NE and his brothers Bill and wife Jill Snyder and Stacy Snyder of Arapahoe, Mike and wife Shelley Snyder and Sarah and Brianna of Edison, NE, Doug and wife Chris Snyder and Adam and Grace of  Arapahoe, NE, Bob and Carla and Caleb and Hannah of Yutan, NE. Condolences and personal reflections may be left at www.wenburgfuneralhome.com.  Funeral Mass was held on Tuesday, July 1, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Germanus Catholic Church in Arapahoe, NE with Father Robert Barnhill officiating.  Pallbearers were his nieces and nephews.  A Rosary service was held prior to the funeral service.  Burial was at the Arapahoe Cemetery, Arapahoe, NE. Wenburg Funeral Home of Arapahoe was in charge of the arrangements

Velma Orena Farr, age 107, of Eustis, Nebraska died June 19, 2008 at the Elwood Care Center.     She was born June 29, 1900 in a sod house in Furnas County.  She was the oldest child of Ernest and Anna Ridpath Balcom.  She graduated from Holbrook High School in 1918.  In 2006, she attended her 88th class alumni which her granddaughter, Ronda, took her.  Velma taught school for six years.     On March 7, 1928, she married William “Bill” Farr in a double wedding ceremony before a judge with her sister, Ruby, in McCook, Nebraska.  The couple moved to Eustis, Nebraska in 1983.  Mr. Farr passed away in March of 1987.  She remained busy attending the Eustis Senior Center five days a week and cooked and baked for her family when they would gather at her home.  She even continued to serve Sunday dinners and homemade pie to her daughter and husband through Easter of 2006, at the age of 105.     Velma loved to cook and baked many pies, crocheted afghans, grew a large vegetable garden and did a lot of canning for her family.  During her earlier years, she and her husband loved to dance at local barn dances.     Her faith and membership at the United Methodist Church has sustained her through her longevity of life.  She was active in her church, helping where needed.  She moved to the Elwood Care Center Assisted Living at the age of 106, where she remained active.     She was also preceded in death by two sons, Floyd and Kenneth, three sisters, Ruby, Ruth and Mabel; three brothers, Howard, Raymond and Charles and a great-granddaughter, Natalie.     Survivors include her daughter, Marilyn (Robert) Schneider of Elwood, Nebraska; two granddaughters, Ronda (Brett) Whittaker of Eustis, Nebraska and Shelli Farr (fiancé, Aaron, Schneider) of Cozad, Nebraska and a daughter-in-law, Elaine Farr of Elwood, Nebraska.     Memorials are suggested to the church, Eustis Senior Center or Eustis Fire Department in her memory.  Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com.     Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Monday, June 23, 2008 at the United Methodist Church in Eustis, Nebraska with Rev. Tess Hufford officiating.  Burial was in the Holbrook Cemetery.     Berryman Funeral Home of Cozad, Nebraska was in charge of arrangements.

Jeremy Joel Simmons, son of Diane Simmons, was born February 27, 1980 at University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska and passed away May 9, 2008 at the University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 28 years, 2 months and 11 days.Jeremy grew up in Kansas and Nebraska and attended school in Norton, Kansas, Holbrook, Nebraska, Arapahoe, Nebraska and the Sumner-Eddyville-Miller schools before obtaining his GED from Metropolitan Community College.  While in school, Jeremy participated in football and wrestling.  During his adult years, Jeremy loved Crown Royal-Budlight racing, fast cars, women and, of course, his O.U. Sooners.Jeremy is survived by his mother, Diane Simmons, of Holbrook, Nebraska; sister  Amber Simmons and nephew Collin Lee Simmons of Edison, Nebraska; three children, Matthew Buchanan of Aurora, Nebraska, Isaiah Kottich of Seward, Nebraska and McKenzie Pfeiffer of Eustis, Nebraska and a host of other family and friends.He was preceded in death by his material grandmother Phyllis Simmons, his maternal great-grandparents, aunt Debbie Kinne and cousin Terry Simmons.             Funeral services were held Friday, May 16, 2008 at Elmwood Park Speedway in Norton, Kansas before being laid to rest in the Norton Cemetery in Norton, Kansas.  Jeremy took one final lap around the track with pallbearers Jason Davis “76”, and Bob Rutherford “9”, Chuck Eagleburger Jr., Wes Eagle burger, Roger Deal, and John Annon.  Honorary pallbearers were Jeff Wolf, Stan Butter, Chris Davis, Jr., Rex McClain, Collin Simmons, Drew, Dusty and Lucas Eagleburger.  Chris Davis Sr. and Josh Wonderfy led the way until corner number four when the cars parted and the hearst carrying Jeremy took the checkered flag for the final time.  Music selections were “The Rose” and “Wind Beneath My Wings” sng by LeAnn Shearer of Norton, Kansas.  Eulogy was read by John Crawford Sr. of Arapahoe, Nebraska.  During his final lap, the song “When Your Going Thru Hell” by Rodney Adkins played.

Dale Hiram Phillips was born August 7, 1913 in Gosper County, Nebraska to Roy Edward Phillips and Effie Mae (Foster) Phillips and died June 9, 2008 at C.A. Mues Good Samaritan Center in Arapahoe, Nebraska at the age of 94 years, 10 months and 2 days.He grew up on a farm north of Arapahoe in Gosper County and attended Fairview Rural School of Gosper County.On March 22, 1936 Dale was united in marriage to Wilda Mae Rhodes in Lexington, Nebraska. To this union two daughters were born,  Beverly Ann and Dixie Lee. The family lived north of Edison, Nebraska in the Turkey Creek area for several years where Dale engaged in farming. In 1963 Dale and Wilda moved north of Arapahoe where he continued to farm, board horses and worked for Lammel’s Plumbing and Heating of Arapahoe for 10 years. His wife, Wilda, passed away in January 1970.  In 1974 Dale moved to Lamar, Colorado, where he worked for the Sheriff’s Posse and boarded horses.  On August 30, 1974, he married Phyllis (Morgan) Oldham in Colorado. They later moved to Topeka, Kansas where Phyllis passed away May 6, 1993. In 2003, Dale returned to Arapahoe, living at Sunshine Village.Dale received Jesus Christ as his Savior and was baptized July 29, 1951.Dale was a friend to all. He liked to fish, hunt and bowl. He was an animal lover, especially horses.  He had fond memories of being able to go with Rev. Raymond House in the fall of 1970 to Anchorage, Alaska to go moose hunting.  Garage sales and auctions were also among the things he liked to do as well as going to the casino now and then in Kansas in hopes he would hit the “big one”.  Making bird houses and butterfly houses became his hobby the last few years of his life, giving them to friends and family with pride. Dale loved to visit with people, but the last few years it became difficult for him to hear even with the help of hearing aids.  Eating chocolate pie was at the top of his list of things he enjoyed.He is preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Wilda Mae Phillips, daughter Beverly Ann (Lovelace) Waline, second wife Phyllis Phillips, brother Cecil Phillips, two sisters-in-law Margie (White) Phillips and Norma (Schufeldt) Phillips and two sons-in-law Raymond P. Lovelace and Raymond Waline.Dale leaves to mourn his passing his daughter, Dixie Lee and her husband Thomas R. Rask, Edison, Nebraska, step-daughter, Teresa (Oldham) Dixon, Topeka, Kansas, step-son Michael Oldham and wife Mary of Kansas; eight grandchildren, Todd R. Rask of Lincoln, Nebraska, Brenda Daile Avery and her husband Michael of Blue Rapids, Kansas, Rhondi R. Lovelace of Lincoln, Nebraska, Dale P. Lovelace of Waverly, Nebraska, Cara Oldham Mader of Manhattan, Kansas, Philip Oldham, Mandy and Heather Oldham of Colorado,  River Dixon, and Jerry Dixon of Topeka, Kansas; seven great-grandchildren Joshua A. Rask of Lincoln, Nebraska, Cory Lee Avery of Lincoln,  Nebraska, Ryan T. Avery of Tecumseh, Chelsea Mae Avery of Blue Rapids, Kansas, Robert R. Lovelace  of  Lincoln, Nebraska,  Lucas D. Nalley and Dilun J. Nalley of Lincoln, Nebraska; one great-great-granddaughter, Zalie Marie White of Kearney, Nebraska; sister-in-law Harriet Morgan of Topeka, Kansas; brother-in-law Roger C. Rhodes and wife Rosemary of Lincoln, Nebraska, nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.                  Condolences and personal reflections may be left at www.wenburgfuneralhome.com. Funeral services were Saturday, June 14, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at Edison Christian Church, Edison, Nebraska with Pastor Kirk Einspahr, officiating.  Burial was at the Arapahoe Cemetery, Arapahoe, Nebraska.  Wenburg Funeral Home of Arapahoe, Nebraska was in charge of arrangements

.Margaret E. (Lewis) Welsch, 81, of Thornton, Colorado died Monday, June 16, 2008. Margaret was born outside Arapahoe, Nebraska on April 10, 1927, to Guy and Jessie (Story) Lewis.  She grew up in and around Arapahoe and was a 1945 graduate of Arapahoe High School.  She married Edmund Welsch of Oxford, Nebraska on September 17, 1950.   After living in Arapahoe for several years, she and Ed moved to Brighton and Thornton, Colorado, where she lived until her death. Mother of Mary Welsch of Thornton,Colorado, Kathryn Welsch of Lakewood, and Debra (James) Roberts of Anchorage, Alaska; grandmother of Scott (Aimee) Roberts of Colorado Springs, Colorado and Rebecca (Bart) Reyna of Anchorage, Alaska;  great-grandmother of Alex and Ian Roberts of Colorado Springs, Colorado;  sister of John (Wanda) Lewis of West Des Moines, Iowa. Preceded in death by her husband, Edmund Welsch; parents, Guy and Jessie (Story) Lewis; brothers Richard, Donald, Carl, Robert, and Lowell; sisters Greta Brubaker, Alice Lewis and Eleanor Shepherd; and grandson-in-law Jeffrey Bisson. Also survived by a large extended family and many dear friends. Funeral service and celebration of life, Sunday, June 22, 2:00 p.m., Olinger Highland Mortuary Chapel, I-25 and 104th Avenue, Thornton, CO.  Interment at Highland Cemetery, Thornton, Colorado. Contributions may be made to St. Anthony Health Foundation, 4231 W. 16th Avenue, Denver, CO  80204.

Martin “Marty” Huxoll, age 72, of Cambridge, Nebraska died at the Golden Care Center in Franklin, Nebraska on June 9, 2008.  He was born near Arapahoe, Nebraska on April 6, 1936, to Fred and Louise ((Koteman) Huxoll.  On September 10, 1955, Marty was married to Brenda King in Smithfield, Kansas.  Marty was a life long farmer.  Marty enjoyed hunting deer and elk.  He made several trips to Colorado to hunk elk.  He enjoyed sporting events, liked to ride horses and go on trail rides.  He was the secretary-treasurer of the Cambridge Rural Fire Board for many years. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Laurel Huxoll.  Marty is survived by his wife, Brenda, of Cambridge, Nebraska; four sons: Doug and wife Susi of Cambridge, Nebraska; Mike and wife Cheryl of Hendley, Nebraska; Mitch of North Platte, Nebraska; Kurtis and wife Susan of Cambridge, Nebraska; eight grandchildren:  Ryan; Ross; Hilary; Kaleb; Kaden; Logan; Brianna; Garrett; six sisters: Marge ten Bensel; Violet Hilker; June Tracy; Isabelle Pfeiffer all of Arapahoe, Nebraska; Betty Riepe and Twila Golter, both of Flagstaff, Arizona; four brothers: Norman; Jim; Chuck; and Wayne Huxoll all of Holbrook, Nebraska. Graveside services were held on Thursday, June 12, 2008 at 10:00 a.m., at the Fairview Cemetery in Cambridge, with Bill Weaver officiating.  Memorials may be left in Mart’s name to either the Cambridge Museum or the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Cambridge.  Lockenour-Jones Mortuary in charge of arrangements. (308) 697-3838, Cambridge, NE 69022

Dale Hiram Phillips was born August 7, 1913 in Gosper County, Nebraska to Roy Edward Phillips and Effie Mae (Foster) Phillips and died June 9, 2008 at C.A. Mues Good Samaritan Center in Arapahoe, Nebraska at the age of 94 years, 10 months and 2 days.He grew up on a farm north of Arapahoe in Gosper County and attended Fairview Rural School of Gosper County.On March 22, 1936 Dale was united in marriage to Wilda Mae Rhodes in Lexington, Nebraska. To this union two daughters were born,  Beverly Ann and Dixie Lee. The family lived north of Edison, Nebraska in the Turkey Creek area for several years where Dale engaged in farming. In 1963 Dale and Wilda moved north of Arapahoe where he continued to farm, board horses and worked for Lammel’s Plumbing and Heating of Arapahoe for 10 years. His wife, Wilda, passed away in January 1970.  In 1974 Dale moved to Lamar, Colorado, where he worked for the Sheriff’s Posse and boarded horses.  On August 30, 1974, he married Phyllis (Morgan) Oldham in Colorado. They later moved to Topeka, Kansas where Phyllis passed away May 6, 1993. In 2003, Dale returned to Arapahoe, living at Sunshine Village.Dale received Jesus Christ as his Savior and was baptized July 29, 1951.Dale was a friend to all. He liked to fish, hunt and bowl. He was an animal lover, especially horses.  He had fond memories of being able to go with Rev. Raymond House in the fall of 1970 to Anchorage, Alaska to go moose hunting.  Garage sales and auctions were also among the things he liked to do as well as going to the casino now and then in Kansas in hopes he would hit the “big one”.  Making bird houses and butterfly houses became his hobby the last few years of his life, giving them to friends and family with pride. Dale loved to visit with people, but the last few years it became difficult for him to hear even with the help of hearing aids.  Eating chocolate pie was at the top of his list of things he enjoyed.He is preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Wilda Mae Phillips, daughter Beverly Ann (Lovelace) Waline, second wife Phyllis Phillips, brother Cecil Phillips, two sisters-in-law Margie (White) Phillips and Norma (Schufeldt) Phillips and two sons-in-law Raymond P. Lovelace and Raymond Waline.Dale leaves to mourn his passing his daughter, Dixie Lee and her husband Thomas R. Rask, Edison, Nebraska, step-daughter, Teresa (Oldham) Dixon, Topeka, Kansas, step-son Michael Oldham and wife Mary of Kansas; eight grandchildren, Todd R. Rask of Lincoln, Nebraska, Brenda Daile Avery and her husband Michael of Blue Rapids, Kansas, Rhondi R. Lovelace of Lincoln, Nebraska, Dale P. Lovelace of Waverly, Nebraska, Cara Oldham Mader of Manhattan, Kansas, Philip Oldham, Mandy and Heather Oldham of Colorado,  River Dixon, and Jerry Dixon of Topeka, Kansas; seven great-grandchildren Joshua A. Rask of Lincoln, Nebraska, Cory Lee Avery of Lincoln,  Nebraska, Ryan T. Avery of Tecumseh, Chelsea Mae Avery of Blue Rapids, Kansas, Robert R. Lovelace  of  Lincoln, Nebraska,  Lucas D. Nalley and Dilun J. Nalley of Lincoln, Nebraska; one great-great-granddaughter, Zalie Marie White of Kearney, Nebraska; sister-in-law Harriet Morgan of Topeka, Kansas; brother-in-law Roger C. Rhodes and wife Rosemary of Lincoln, Nebraska, nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.Condolences and personal reflections may be left at www.wenburgfuneralhome.com. Funeral services were Saturday, June 14, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at Edison Christian Church, Edison, Nebraska with Pastor Kirk Einspahr, officiating.  Burial was at the Arapahoe Cemetery, Arapahoe, Nebraska.  Wenburg Funeral Home of Arapahoe, Nebraska was in charge of arrangements.

Helen Elizabeth Esslinger, age 81, of Arapahoe, Nebraska passed away Thursday, May 15, 2008 at the Cambridge Manor, Cambridge, Nebraska. She was born on August 18, 1926 near Broken Bow, Nebraska to Fred and Ollie (Palmer) Reed.     She attended rural school in Custer County, Nebraska and graduated from Broken Bow High School with the Class of 1945. She attended Kearney State Teachers College and would return to Custer County to teach at rural schools for 18 years. On September 10, 1965 she married Donald Boyd, they made their home north of Holbrook, Nebraska until Donald’s death in 1972. She would then move to Arapahoe, Nebraska and work at C.A. Mues Good Samaritan Center for 15 years. She married Raymond Esslinger on May 10, 1975. Raymond would pass away on February 9, 1996.  In May of 2008 she would move to the Cambridge Manor, Cambridge, Nebraska.     She became a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, in Arapahoe, Nebraska when she was baptized and confirmed on July 11, 1974. She enjoyed puzzles, handwork, paint by numbers, and reading.She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands Donald Boyd and Raymond Esslinger, brother Philip Reed, and sisters Edna Spritzer and Carol Reed.     She is survived by sister-in-law Dorothy Esslinger of Arapahoe, Nebraska and special friends: Irene Knappert, Terry Mather, and Ralph and Joanne Lammers, all of Arapahoe, Nebraska.  The Lord gives and the Lord takes away; blessed be the name of the Lord. We give thanks to God our Father through Jesus Christ, our Lord, for our sister, Helen.Funeral services were conducted from Trinity Lutheran Church in Arapahoe, Nebraska on Monday, May 19, 2008 withRev. David Otten, officiating.Organist was Marna Hermes,  with Ida Soncksen and Teresa Meyers singing. Teresa Leising was the accompanist.  Music was congregational hymns. Casketbearers were Larry Pfeiffer, Steve Henry, Dick Helms, Terry Mather, Terry Buskirk and Don Wendland. Interment was in the  Arapahoe Cemetery, Arapahoe, Nebraska.   Wenburg Funeral Home of Arapahoe, Nebraska was in charge of the arrangements.

Edna Louise Glanzer, age 94, of Arapahoe, Nebraska, died Wednesday, May 7, 2008 at the Good Samaritan Hospital, Kearney, Nebraska. She was born on September 8, 1913 southeast of Arapahoe, Nebraska to John G. and Ida C. (Helms) Riepe. She was baptized on September 28, 1913 and confirmed on May 23, 1926 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Arapahoe, Nebraska.She attended country school, seventh and eighth grade Christian Day School, and Arapahoe High School, graduating with the Class of 1930. She went on to Kearney State Teachers College in Kearney, Nebraska and received her teaching degree. She came back to the Arapahoe area and taught at a country school for five years. On May 27, 1936 she married Walter E. Glanzer at Trinity Lutheran Church, in Arapahoe, Nebraska. They lived for two years at Leonardville, Kansas before moving north of Holbrook, Nebraska. In 1970, they moved into Holbrook, Nebraska. In 1990, her husband Walter passed away. She would then move to Sunshine Village, in Arapahoe, Nebraska in 2004. She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church of Cambridge, Nebraska from 1958 until 2004, and then transfered to Trinity Lutheran Church, in Arapahoe, Nebraska. She was active with the Lutheran Quilting Guild, LWML, and the Mission Mall. She made many, many Lap Quilts. She was a member of the Holbrook Women’s Club and an active volunteer with the Red Cross.She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Walter, sisters Elsa Reese, Hilda Reese, and Bertha Glanzer.She is survived by sons: Jon and wife Dolores Glanzer of Holbrook, Nebraska; Jerry and wife Joan Glanzer of North Platte, Nebraska; Gene and wife Joetta Glanzer of Holbrook, Nebraska; daughter: Janet Glanzer of Oklahoma; grandchildren: 13; great-grandchildren: 22; great-great- grandchildren: 3 Condolences or personal reflections can be left at www.wenburgfuneralhome.com.            Funeral services were Saturday, May 10, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, in Arapahoe, Nebraska with Rev. David Otten, officiating. Burial was at the Arapahoe Cemetery, Arapahoe, Nebraska. Wenburg Funeral Home, of Arapahoe, Nebraska was in charge of arrangements.

John Earl Ford, 59, of Cambridge, NE passed away on April 18th, 2008 after a brief illness.  He was born on March 10th, 1949 in Topeka, KS to Jane and AH Ford, Jr.  He graduated from high school in Hammond, VA and graduated from East Texas State University in Commerce, Texas with a teaching degree.  John retired from the State of Texas in 2004.  He lived life to its fullest and always worked in a capacity where he could help and serve others.  He loved the outdoors, fishing, gardening and spending time on his family’s ranch.  John is survived by his fiancé- Carol Hanes of Cambridge, NE, mother-Jane Ford, of Leesville, LA, children- Joshua Ford of Waxahachie, TX, Kimberly Ford of Waxahachie, TX, Robbie Milam and his wife Melanie of Little Elm, TX, Kimberly McFadden and her husband Heath of Rowlett, TX and grandchildren-Lexi Ford, Cameron Ford, Zach Zbylut, Madison and Aidan McFadden, his brothers and sisters; Henry Ford of Detroit, TX, Jerry Ford of Bonham, TX, Charles Ford of Russellville, AR, Dennis Ford of Arp, TX, Dorcus Melia of Sugarland, TX, Rick Ford of Longview, TX, Bill Ford of Warrentown, VA, Peggy Alford of Leesville, AR, Donald Ford of Ardmore, TN, Ruth Etheridge of North Little Rock, AR, and Donna Jackson of Leesville, LA, their spouses, many nieces and nephews, cousins and other loving family members and friends.  John was an incredibly kind, loyal and generous family man that we cherished and will greatly miss.A service celebrating John’s life was held at Fry Gibb’s Funeral Home in Paris, Texas.  Memorials are requested to be sent to Tri Valley Medical Foundation, Cambridge, Nebraska

Hastings, Nebraska resident, Duane E. Freeman, 78, died Wednesday, April 30, 2008, at his home. Services are 11 a.m. Monday, May 5, 2008 at First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Hastings, Nebraska with Rev. Adam White officiating.  No viewing Duane was cremated.  Family visitation Sunday, May 4, 2008, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Livingston-Butler-Volland Funeral Home, 1225 N. Elm, in Hastings. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Duane Freeman Memorial Fund for the establishment of a scholarship and to benefit other charities. Condolences may be sent to www.lbvfh.com. Livingston-Butler-Volland Funeral Home & Cremation Center is in charge of arrangements. Duane was born October 16, 1929 in Hildreth, Nebraska to Rollin Freeman and Selma Christianson Freeman. He graduated from Hildreth High School in 1946 and attended Doane College for one year. In 1947 his family moved to Holbrook, Nebraska. Duane helped on the family farm and worked for the Nebraska Road Department and the REA before he returned to college in Kearney. In 1952, Duane and Beverly (Mues) Freeman were married. In 1953, he graduated from Kearney State College. Duane taught math in various Nebraska schools and coached basketball and track.  He also served as Superintendent in Lodgepole and West Point.   He continued his pursuit of lifelong learning and spent many summers attending summer school and eventually earned Masters and Specialist degrees.  The Freeman family moved to Hastings in 1969 where Duane served as assistant principal at Hastings Senior High School for 23 years and retired in 1992.  Duane was a member of First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and served in several leadership positions.  He was a past member of Lochland Country Club, Lions Club and various professional associations. He is survived by his wife, Bev; four children and their spouses: Sandra and Dave Berkland of Lincoln, Nebraska; Diane and Doug Phelps of Hastings, Nebraska; Trish and Matt Reimer of Lincoln, Nebraska; Gary and Susan Freeman of Omaha, Nebraska; six granddaughters: Katie and Josh Reynolds of Hastings, Nebraska; Jessica and Sean Ablott of Hastings, Nebraska; Ann Phelps of New Haven, Connecticutt; Betsy and Emmy Reimer of Lincoln, Nebraska; and Alyssa Freeman of Omaha, Nebraska; three great-grandchildren: Hannah and Rebekah Reynolds and Parker Ablott of Hastings, Nebraska; his sister Marlene and Jim Hancock of Scottsbluff, Nebraska; sister-in-law Dot Henry of Kearney, Nebraska and nieces, nephews and cousins.

Nettie M. Park, age 86, of Arapahoe, Nebraska, formerly of Beaver City and surrounding area, died Wednesday, April 30, 2008 at Cambridge Memorial Hospital at Cambridge, Nebraska.  She was born August 21, 1921 at Beaver City, Nebraska to Albert and Opal (Shellenbarger) Penrod.She grew up in Beaver City and attended Beaver City Schools.  She married Ben Park on June 16, 1937 at Phillipsburg, Kansas. They lived in several States namely Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado and Texas to find work.  Nettie ran the first cafe  in Edison, Nebraska  in 1968.  She had worked at Artistic Labels and Beckton-Dickinson at Holdrege for a time also.  She worked for Mid-Nebraska in Oxford, Nebraska for 4 1/2 years.  Nettie also ran cafes in Beaver City and Stamford, Nebraska.  In 1975 she built the Dew Drop In Cafe in Oxford, Nebraska. She retired from the cafe business in 1992 after an auto accident.  Her husband, Ben, died April 19, 1995.  She had spent the last two years at Sunshine Village in Arapahoe, Nebraska where she resided until her death.  Nettie joined the First Christian Church in Beaver City in 1940.She was preceded in death by parents, grandson Tony Park, husband Ben, two sons;  Charles and Puzz and son-in-law, Orville Stump. Survivors include;  two sons;  Robert  Park and wife Joann of Greeley, Colorado; Roger Park and wife LaVonne of Kearney, Nebraska; three daughters:  Barbara Stump of Oxford, Nebraska; Ruth and husband Frank Sayer of North Platte, Nebraska; Twila and husband Harold Kappers of Edison, Nebraska; two brothers:  Clair Penrod and wife June of Mesa, Arizona; Merlin Penrod of Oxford, Nebraska; grandchildren:  19;  great-grandchildren:  39;  great-great-grandchildren:  five.Condolences or personal reflections can be left at www. wenburgfuneralhome.comViewing and visitation were Thursday, May 1, at Wenburg Funeral Home at Arapahoe, Nebraska 1 p.m.  until 8 p.m. and then Friday at Wenburg Funeral Home at Beaver City, Nebraska from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. and prior to services at the church on Saturday, May 3rd.Funeral services were held Saturday, May 3, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. at First Christian Church at Beaver City, Nebraska with Pastors Phil Olsen and Keith Theobald, officiating.  Burial was at Mount Hope Cemetery at Beaver City, Nebraska.  Wenburg Funeral Home of Beaver City, Nebraska was in charge of arrangements.

Esther Helen Schutz Kaup, age 84 of Elwood, died April 19, 2008 at the Elwood Care Center.She was born August 5, 1923 in Frontier County to George C. and Emilie (Linke) Debban.  She was baptized and confirmed at Salem Lutheran Church south of Elwood.  She attended a one-room school in Frontier County and also Salem Lutheran Parochial School in Gosper County.  She graduated from Elwood High School in 1942 and taught in rural schools for four years.  She graduated from Central Nebraska Technical College She was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church and the American Legion Auxiliary Post #290 of Elwood.  She was past president and past treasurer of Post #290, past secretary of Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, the Southern Nebraska District.  She was Food Service Manager at the Elwood Care Center for 12 years.  She was also active in church as she taught Midweek School and Vacation Bible School.  She enjoyed traveling by air and bus trips to various parts of the United States.On May 12, 1946, she married Robert W. Schutz; to this union four children were born: Richard, Roland, Michael and Connie.  Mr. Schutz passed away September 2, 1972.On March 15, 1988, she married Lyle Armstrong, and he passed away March 16, 1989.On November 22, 1989, she married Eldon C. Kaup of Manhattan, Kansas and he passed away February 8, 2004.Survivors include her sons, Roland (Sue) Schutz of Benton, Arkansas, Michael R. (Starla) Schutz of Elwood; a daughter, Connie (Doug) Weissert of Elwood; 9 grandchildren; 5 great- granddaughters; a sister, Eltha Haussler of Fairbury; 2 brothers, Donald Debban of Elwood and Harold Debban of Kearney and many other relatives and friends.She was also preceded in death by her parents; her son, Richard, who died of bone cancer at the age of three and six brothers, Simon, Herman, Herb, Leonard and Gerald Debban and Berwin who died in infancy.A memorial has been established in her memory.  Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com.Services was held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Elwood with Pastor Jeff Ernstmeyer officiating.  Burial will be in the West Salem Cemetery southwest of Elwood. Visitation was from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Elwood.  Berryman Funeral Home of Cozad is in charge of arrangements.

Alicyn “Ali” Hosick, daughter of Trent and Elsie Hosick, baby sister of Braxton Walker and Wyatt Hosick of Cozad, was stillborn at the Cozad Community Hospital on April 18, 2008.  Ali was baptized by Pastor Terry Pool and given to our Holy Father.Along with her parents and brothers, Ali is survived by her grandparents, Randy & Pat Hosick of Cozad, Dan & Sharon Pfeiffer of Gothenburg, John Thayer, Sr. of Grand Island;  great-grandparents, Wayne & Arlene Hosick of Cozad, Bessie Wulf of Ohiowa, Lyle & Pat Johnson of North Platte, Oscar Pfeiffer and special friend, Pauline Christensen of Elwood;  aunts and uncles, Travis Hosick of Cozad, John Thayer, Jr. of Crete, Jim Thayer of North Platte, Johanna Thayer and special friend, Tim Kelley of North Platte, Lance Pfeiffer of Kearney, Lacey Pfeiffer and Levi Parker of Wisner; her cousin, Katlyn Parker of Wisner and many other extended family members and friends.Although we never heard Ali’s cry or saw her smile, she will remain in our hearts forever.Condolences can be sent to the Hosick family at 318 East 14th Street in Cozad.Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at the Cozad Cemetery with Pastor Terry Pool of the American Lutheran Church officiating.Berryman Funeral Home of Cozad is in charge of arrangements.

Maurice R. Kammerlohr, 91, of McCook, Nebraska, formerly of Lexington, died Friday, April 18, 2008, at McCook.He was born February 7, 1917, at Spring Ranch, Nebraska, near Hastings, to Frank and Hazel (Coba) Kammerlohr.  He moved with his family as a young boy to McCook, Nebraska, where he graduated from high school with the class of 1935.  Following graduation, Maurice worked for Pat’s Bootery.  In 1937, he moved to Lexington where he helped open Pat’s Bootery in Lexington.  It was during this time he met and married his sweetheart, Marjorie Haworth, on July 18, 1937, at Hill City, Kansas.  Three children were blessed to this union; Linda, Kent and Tom.He was called to serve his Country in April of 1944, where he served in the United States Army.  He served in the European African Middle Eastern Theater.  Maurice was wounded during his time in the Army and received the Purple Heart for valor.  He was discharged in January of 1946.  Upon his discharge he returned to Lexington where he worked for Ayers Clothing.  In 1947, he went in to business with Glen Gilbert and started Lexington Laundry & Dry Cleaning.  He spent 30 years in this business and upon retiring, sold the cleaners to Bob Sherman.Maurice and Marjorie enjoyed spending their summers at Johnson Lake and wintering in Green Valley, Arizona, moving permanently to Green Valley in 1988.  Upon Marjorie’s death in 1991, Maurice continued to reside in Green Valley, until moving back to McCook in 2000.He was a member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, a past member of the Lexington Chamber of Commerce, the Lexington City Council, past commander of the American Legion, and the Masonic and Shrine Clubs. Maurice enjoyed woodcarving, hunting, fishing, dancing and spending time in Canada fishing with his friends.  Survivors include two sons: Kent Kammerlohr of Carrollton, Texas, Tom (Sharon) Kammerlohr of Sterling, Colorado;  One daughter:  Linda Waterhouse of Johnson Lake, Nebraska;  His Special Friend:  Phyllis Marsh of McCook, Nebraska;  Nine grandchildren:  Kelley (Curt) Dachtler of Gothenburg, Nebraska; Tony (Jana) Waterhouse of Choctaw, Oklahoma; Tye (Cherie) Waterhouse of Minden, Nebraska; Todd (Jenny) Waterhouse of Kearney, Nebraska; Amy (Russell) Collins of Lewisville, Texas; Marjorie Kammerlohr of Gainsville, Florida; Emily Kammerlohr of Phoenix, Arizona; Betsy (Ron) Bogie of Pedroni, Colorado and Larry Kammerlohr or Denver, Colorado and thirteen great-grandchildren.Maurice was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Marjorie; and four brothers It was Maurice’s wishes his body be cremated A Memorial Service will be held Friday, April 25, 2008, at 2:00 p.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington, Nebraska with Reverend Michael Churchman officiating.  There will also be Military Honors by the Lexington American Legion.Memorials are kindly suggested to the Lexington Community Foundation or the Lexington American Legion Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements Maxine Mae Brown was born May 13, 1919 in O’Dell, Nebraska.  She was the daughter of Beulah Nancy Hudson & Erskine Colgrove.  On November 29, 1936 she married Willis Leroy Brown in Butte, Nebraska.  She re-joined Willis April 17, 2008 Survivors include:  Son’s James Brown & wife Marilee and Kim Brown & wife Jean;  grandson Patrick Brown & wife Rachel;  great-granddaughter Lauren. A Memorial Service was held on Wednesday April 23, 2008 at 2:30 PM at Risen Son Christian Village.

Fritz McCoy, age 71, of Arapahoe, Nebraska, passed away April 15, 2008. She was born October 4, 1936, on a farm south of Arapahoe, Nebraska, to Floyd and Mamie King Breinig. She was baptized into the Christian faith and was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Arapahoe, Nebraska. She graduated from Arapahoe High School with the Class of 1953. After graduation she attended business school in Denver, Colorado.  On April 15, 1956, she was united in marriage to Neal McCoy at the First Methodist Church in Arapahoe.  To this union four children were born: Jane, Michael, John and Julie. They made their home in Arapahoe for all of their married life except two early years in McCook, Nebraska.Prior to and during the early years of their marriage, Fritz worked for the Bureau of Reclamation at McCook for seven years. Later she attended the University of Nebraska at Kearney and graduated in 1970 with teaching credentials. Following graduation she taught at the high school in Oxford for seven years and much later became the first manager of the K-Store in Arapahoe.She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Charles Breinig, her twenty-one year old daughter Jane, and an infant son Michael.She is survived by Neal, her husband of 52 years, son John McCoy and wife Nancy of Kearney, Nebraska, and daughter Julie Ambielli of Califon, New Jersey; grandchildren Elliott, Jacob, Austin, Adam, Courtney, and Jane.  Also a much loved sister Lu Six and her husband Chuck and two wonderful brothers, Duane and Vic Breinig, as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Throughout our years on earth many people walk in and out of our lives; only a few leave footprints on our hearts that remain forever. Fritz McCoy is one of those. She had an unwavering faith founded in the hope of the Resurrection. Her love was demonstrated in her boundless generosity.  …So faith, hope, love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.  I Corinthians 13:13 Funeral services were conducted from Trinity Lutheran Church,  Arapahoe, Nebraska on April 19, 2008 with Rev. David Otten, officiating and J. Gordon Christensen, PH.D., organist.   Casket bearers were Steve Breinig, Scott Breinig, Joe Lomax, Curt Breinig, Pat Breinig, and Steve Henry.Honorary bearers were William Orthman, Justin Troudt, Randy Rieke,  Darrell Morris, Rex Moore,  Stan Moore, Dale Poore, Clinton Olmsted, Keith Schwarz and DeWayne Hanchera. Interment was at the Arapahoe Cemetery in Arapahoe, Nebraska.Memorial Suggestions by the family: Lutheran Hour, Trinity Organ--Continuing Education.Wenburg Funeral Home of Arapahoe, Nebraska was in charge of the arrangements.

Eggert “Eck” Olsen, age 88, of Beaver City, Nebraska formerly of Arapahoe and Hendley, Nebraska area died Sunday, April 20, 2008 at Phelps Memorial Hospital at Holdrege, Nebraska.  He was born October 26, 1919 at Minden, Nebraska to Eggert and Andrea (Erickson) Olsen.Eck was raised  in Minden, Nebraska where he attended school.  He served in the U.S. Army during World War II.  He was baptized and confirmed at Bethany Lutheran Church at a young age.  He married Patty Geraldine “Jerry” Cooper on October 31, 1954 at Hendley, Nebraska.  They lived in Hendley, Nebraska where he was a school bus driver and custodian for the Hendley School System.  In 1971 they moved to Hastings, Nebraska where he was a carpenter for Mary Lanning Hospital retiring in 1984.  They moved to Arapahoe, Nebraska in 1986.  His wife died December 27, 2002.  He moved to Greenleaf, Kansas in 2006 and then to Beaver City Manor in early 2008.  He was a member of American Legion Post #96 at Arapahoe, Nebraska.He was preceded in death by parents, sister Mildred Irene Olsen , wife Patty “Jerry” Olsen. Survivors include son;  Bruce Olsen and wife Sandy of Overgaard, Arizona, three grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.Condolences or personal reflections can be left at www.wenburgfuneralhome.com Viewing and visitation was held on Tuesday, April 22, 2008, 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. at Wenburg Funeral Home in Arapahoe, Nebraska and prior to services Wednesday at the church. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Arapahoe with Rev. Mike Flury, officiating.  Burial was in the Hendley Cemetery at Hendley, Nebraska with Military Honors by American Legion Post #96 of Arapahoe, Nebraska. Wenburg Funeral Home of Arapahoe, Nebraska was in charge of arrangements.

R. Lynn Oliva, age 60, of Arapahoe, Nebraska died Wednesday, April 9, 2008 as a result of a truck accident, one mile north of Arapahoe on Highway 283.  He was born January 19, 1948 at Stockton, Kansas, to William and Cleota (Carmichael) Oliva. Lynn grew up in Stockton, Kansas area and graduated with the class of 1966 from Stockton High School at Stockton, Kansas.  He served time in the National Guard following graduation.  He married Janet Holen at Bertrand, Nebraska on November 10, 1968.  He had lived in several communities, including, Bertrand,  Lexington, Overton and Elwood, Nebraska and several Kansas towns. He worked 14 years for Tyson Foods in Lexington.  His wife Janet died in 1984.  He married Sharon (Hunter) Gretzschel on June 1, 1985.  They moved to Arapahoe, Nebraska in 2003.  He currently worked for JWO Trucking of Arapahoe, Nebraska where he worked the past two years.  He was a member of NRA. Preceded in death by first wife: Janet in 1984, father, brother Kenneth, grandson Adrian and step-son Martin. Survivors include;  wife;  Sharon Oliva of Arapahoe, Nebraska; mother:  Cleota Oliva of Stockton, Kansas; son:  Kurt Oliva and wife Susan of North Platte, Nebraska; three daughters:  Kimberly and husband George Salpas of Grand Island, Nebraska, Kelly and husband Emigdio Cuevas of Grand Island, Nebraska, Kerry Kinkade and finance Troy Larson of Long Pine, Nebraska; step-son:  Chris Gretzschel of Gaylord, Kansas; step-daughter:  Marenda Gretzschel of Alma, Nebraska; brother:  Richard Oliva of Stockton, Kansas; sister:  Linda and husband Chuck Williams of Stockton, Kansas; 32 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Visitation was held Saturday, April 12 from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. and Sunday, April 13 from 1 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Wenburg Funeral Home in Arapahoe, Nebraska. Condolences or personal reflections can be left at www.wenburgfuneralhome.com Funeral services were held Monday, April 14, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Arapahoe with Rev. Michael Flury, officiating.  Graveside services were at 1 p.m.Monday at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery at Bertrand, Nebraska with Military Honors.  Wenburg Funeral Home of Arapahoe, Nebraska was in charge of arrangements.

William Junior Anderson was born on November 27, 1928, to William Leroy and Meryl Joy (Whistler) Anderson in rural Gosper County.  He was the youngest of seven children.  He departed this life on April 3, 2008, at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska. Bill, as he came to be called, attended grammar school at Homerville, and graduated from Elwood High School in 1946.He was involved in 4-H, where he showed hogs, dairy, and beef.  He was a 4-H Leader for several years – in 2002, he was awarded the Outstanding 4-H Alumni for Gosper County. Bill served in the National Guard and the Army – in the tank division.Bill and Martha were married on February 27, 1954.  To this union, three boys and three girls were born, commonly known as the “6 T’s” – Tony, Tim, Todd, Tammy, Tonna, and Trudy. Bill owned and operated a Roller Skating Rink, farmed, and raised livestock.  He raised certified wheat seed, and was awarded a plaque from the Nebraska Crop Improvement Association his for 30+ years of continuously growing certified wheat seed. He was a member of the Heart of Nebraska Hereford Association, the Southwest Nebraska Hereford Association, and the Nebraska Bull Test Association.  He served on the local school board, the Gosper County Weed Board, the Nebraska Bull Test, and Square Dance and Round Dance Clubs, where he and his wife were Round Dance instructors.  He was a member of St. Germanus Catholic Church in Arapahoe, Nebraska.Bill was preceded in death by his parents, brothers – Verne, Clarke, Lynne, and sisters – Vera Ziebell and Clara Rosfeld.  He is survived by his loving and dedicated wife Martha of Elwood, Nebraska; children - Tony and wife Keri of Alma, Nebraska, Tim and wife Pam of Kimball, Nebraska, Todd and wife Shalene of Elwood, Nebraska, Tammy and husband Harlan Grunden of Curtis, Nebraska, Tonna and husband Ron Drudik of Ord,  Nebraska, Trudy and husband Mike Nolles of Bassett, Nebraska; sister Garnet Sanders of Casper, Wyoming, sisters-in-law Nada Bell Anderson of Kearney,  Nebraska and Mary Graf of Arapahoe, Nebraska; 15 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren, and numerous nephews and nieces and friends.Condolences or personal reflections can be left at www.wenburgfuneralhome.comThe funeral was held on Monday, April 7, 2008, at St. Germanus Catholic Church in Arapahoe, Nebraska, with committal in the Arapahoe Cemetery, with Father Robert Barnhill officiating.  Wenburg Funeral Home of Arapahoe, Nebraska was in charge of arrangements.

Harvey Wallace Doub, 79, passed away Tuesday, March 18, 2008. Mr. Doub was born July 21, 1928, to the late Newton and Elvee Doub. He lived all his life in Forsyth County and was a member of Cross Road Baptist Church. Mr. Doub retired from R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. after 30 years of service. He liked to bird hunt in Nebraska and loved his dogs. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Jim and Roger; and two sisters, Mabel and Louise. Mr. Doub is survived by his wife, Wanda M. Doub of the home; stepson Richard “Ricky” Boles of Lexington; two grandchildren; and a sister, Arabia “Sis” Browder. Funeral services were conducted at 2 p.m. Friday, March 21, at Doub’ s United Methodist Church, with the Rev. George Goggin officiating

.Larry Dale (Bob) Mock, 69, of San Angelo, Texas passed away on Saturday, March 22, 2008, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.Larry was born on July 16, 1938, in Omaha, Nebraska.  He was adopted at an early age and raised by Henry and Mildred Mock of Arapahoe, Nebraska.  Larry joined the U.S. Army in 1956 and served as an instructor and interpreter in both German and Chinese languages for 22 years.  After retiring from the military in 1977, he enjoyed woodworking and boat building.  When not pursuing his hobbies, he spent much of his time enjoying his grandchildren, who were the love of his life.Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Mildred Mock. Survivors include his wife, Marianne, of 50 years ; daughter Jennifer Sims and husband James of San Angelo, Texas; sons Bill Mock and wife Yolanda of Bulverde, Texas, Edward and wife Christine of Bulverde, Texas,  and Michael Mock and wife Kelly of Austin, Texas; granddaughter Heather Gutierrez and husband Victor of San Angelo, Texas; grandson Tyler Mock of Bulverde, Texas; and granddaughter Haley Mock of Bulverde, Texas.  He is also survived by his sister, Mary Mock, of Vermillion, South Dakota; and his dear mother-in-law, Harriett Mues of San Angelo, Texas; as well as a host of friends and network of old Army “buddies”. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a favorite charity or to Hopsice of San Angelo, 36 E. Twohig Ave., San Angelo, TX 76903.

Neal Lynn Billesbach was born October 24, 1922 at the Republican Valley Hospital in Cambridge, Nebraska,  the son of Harvey Lynn Billesbach and Margaret Tull Billesbach.  He departed this life on March 21, 2008 at Perkins Pavillion in Hastings, Nebraska at the age of 85 years, 4 months and 26 days. He   was baptized in 1934 at the Christian Church in Edison, Nebraska and joined Trinity Lutheran Church in Arapahoe, Nebraska in 1950. Neal grew up in Edison and his first eight years lived above the depot where his father was a depot agent and his mother was the relief operator.  In 1930 Harve and Margaret bought a house where Neal lived until graduation from high school in 1940.  While in school Neal enjoyed playing the drums in band, and he lettered four years in basketball.  When six-man football was started in 1939, he was the quarterback for his last two years. After graduation he moved to California and painted houses in Hollywood Hills and later moved to Redondo Beach with friends.  He also worked as a cabin painter at Calship on Terminal Island during the war and earned his journeyman’s card. Neal later moved back to Edison and his brother, Max, got him a job as a bookkeeper in the First National  Bank of McCook where he also worked.  In August of 1947, Neal moved to Arapahoe and began his long career at Citizen’s State Bank working for his uncle Finch Emmett and his cousin Roland Emmett.  Neal retired as CEO on December 31, 1984 after 37 years. His parents had divorced in the early 1940s so in 1948 his mother moved to Arapahoe and they made their home together for two years. On September 17, 1950 he was united in marriage to June Ramona Missing at Trinity Lutheran Church in Arapahoe.  To this union were born three children, Craig Lee, Lori Lynn and Lisa Dawn. Neal was instrumental in forming Peace Lutheran Church which was a part of the American Lutheran Church.  He and June were charter members and Neal served on the church council for some years until the church closed in 1984.  They became members shortly thereafter at  St. John’s Lutheran Church in Eustis, Nebraska, until moving to Hastings in 1997.  At that time they transferred their membership to the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd. Neal was a charter member of the Arapahoe Lions Club, belonging for 44 years with 30 years of perfect attendance.  He was instrumental in beginning the Arapahoe Housing Authority (Sunshine Village) and served on the board for 17 years.  For eight years he was City Treasurer, belonged to the Chamber of Commerce for 37 years and was a President and Secretary-Treasurer.  He was also instrumental in founding the C.A. Mues Memorial Nursing Home and served on the Board of Directors for 13 years.  He also served as Secretary/Treasurer and took care of the redemption of all the bonds.   He helped found the Arapahoe Senior Center and was on that board for three years.  He served a term as President and Secretary/Treasurer of the Southwest Nebraska Bank Institute.  Neal also managed the Legion baseball team for two years and spent three years on the Ella Missing Community Building Committee. Having a nice yard and garden was a love of Neal’s.  He also loved to travel, was an avid Cornhusker fan and, in later years, bingo. He was preceded in death by his mother in 1969, father in 1981 and his brothers Rex in 1973 and Max in 1990.  He is survived by his wife, June, son Craig of Denton, Nebraska; daughter Lori and son-in-law Rich Long of Kearney, Nebraska; and daughter Lori and son-in-law Greg Hauser of Phoeniz, Arizona; eight grandchildren: Cari Tran and husband Vu of Lincoln, Nebraska,  Cassi Billesbach and finance Sean of Lincoln, Ryan Long, Adam Long and wife Melissa of Kearney, Nebraska, Aaron Long and fiance Robin of Dubuque, Iowa, Cory Stark of Lincoln, Nebraska, Lindsi Stark and Sam Hauser of Phoeniz, Arizona, four great-grandchildren, Kale Long, Chance and Alexis Long of Kearney, Nebraska, Gage Long of Dubuque, brother Dale Billesbach and wife Maryan of Grand Island, Nebraska and other relatives and a host of friends.

Armando Barela, age 46, of Cozad, Nebraska, died March 18, 2008 at Cozad. He was born January 11, 1962 at Cozad and graduated from Cozad High School. He was employed in several jobs before returning to school in North Platte,  Nebraska, pursuing a career in auto body repair.  He worked at the M & M Body Shop at Arapahoe until his health would no longer allow. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and painting pictures.  He loved spending time with his family, especially his daughter, Jade. Survivors include his daughter, Jade Barela of Lexington; his mother, Elvira Barela of Cozad; two brothers, Joe Barela of Silver City, New Mexico and Jesse Barela of Littleton, Colorado and a special family friend, Juan Sanchez. He was preceded in death by his grandparents; a sister, Elva; four uncles and two cousins. Memorials are suggested to the Cozad Community Hospital or Central Plains Home Health & Hospice in his memory.  Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com. A private graveside service and inurnment will be held at the Cozad Cemetery. Visitation for memorial book signatures will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday at the Berryman Funeral Home.

Alene I. Vonderfecht died at the Good Samaritan Care Center in Arapahoe on March 26, 2008 at the age of 92.   She was born in Madrid, Nebraska to January 2, 1916 to Henry and Gertrude (Rader) Dorow.  Alene grew up in Madrid and attended school graduating from Madrid High School in 1933.  She attended Kearney State Teachers College getting her teaching certificate.  She taught school in Madrid for one year. On February 1, 1926 she was united in marriage to Floyd H. Vonderfecht and he preceded her in death on April 25, 1972.  Alene was a Jehovah Witness and loved sharing the Bible with others.  She enjoyed doing handiwork, especially crocheting and knitting.  She had a large flower garden, vegetable garden and was an avid reader. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Floyd, a granddaughter: Amanda Elmore; two sisters: Maxine Callahan and Rosita Crider; two brothers: Charles and Gernon. Survivors include her three daughters: Mary Jean Mohrman of Tallahassee, FL; Janet and husband Tom Hoffman of Thornton, CO; Susan and husband Dean Elmore of Wichita, KS; son Don and wife Virginia Vonderfecht of Holbrook, NE. Funeral services were held at the Lockenour-Jones Mortuary in Cambridge on Saturday, March 29, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. with Daryl Wyatt conducting services.  Interment was in the Holbrook Cemetery at Holbrook, NE.  Memorial may be left in her name to the Holdrege Congregation of Jehovah Witness. Lockenour-Jones Mortuary, P.O. Box 247, Cambridge, NE,  was in charge of arrangements.

Jesse L. Carbaugh, age 88, of Cozad, Nebraska, formerly of Elwood, Nebraska passed away on Monday, March 31, 2008 at Tri-County Hospital in Lexington, Nebraska. He was born on January 8, 1920 in Gosper County, Nebraska to Johnnie and Daisy (Morgan) Carbaugh. He attended rural Gosper County schools before coming to Elwood High School and graduated with the class of 1939. He continued his education at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and later graduated from Lincoln School of Commerce. On May 26, 1945 he married Genevieve L. Prebyl at St. Paul Methodist Church, in Lincoln, Nebraska. They made their home in Lincoln, Nebraska until 1970. They would then move to Elwood, Nebraska and remained there until 2006, with recent residences in Lincoln, Nebraska and currently at Meadowlark Point, in Cozad, Nebraska. He began his banking career at National Bank of Commerce in Lincoln and then continued at First National Bank, of Elwood, Nebraska where he served as executive vice president from 1970 until his retirement in 1985. He was an avid member of Optimist Club and Elks Club, of Lincoln, Nebraska. In Elwood, he served as President of Elwood Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club member, honorary member of Elwood Family Career and Community Leaders of America. He helped with the development of the Elwood Care Center and Elwood Senior Center. He was also a member of the First United Methodist Church, of Elwood, Nebraska. He spent his leisure time with his bowling league, shooting billards, and playing a good game of pinnacle. But above all else, he was a very enthusiastic Husker Fan. He is preceded in death by his parents, four brothers James, Morgan, Edgar, and Melvin, and one sister Luella. He is survived by his wife: Genevieve L. Carbaugh of Cozad, Nebraska; son: Gary and wife Renee Carbaugh of Lincoln, Nebraska; daughters: Sharon and husband Robbie Oelkers of Elwood, Nebraska; grandchildren: Andy and wife Suzanne Carbaugh of Salt Lake City, Utah; Kelli and husband Greg Krzycki of Lincoln, Nebraska; Kasey and husband Ron Rushton of Elwood, Nebraska; Marine Sergeant Cody Callahan of Elwood, Nebraska; great-grandchildren: Ayden, Maren, Gracie, Riley, and Noah.   Condolences and personal reflections may be left at www.elwoodfuneralhome.com. Viewing & visitation will be Thursday, April 3, 2008 from 9 a.m. till 8 p.m. at Elwood Funeral Home, Elwood, Nebraska and prior to the service at the church. Funeral services will be Friday, April 4, 2008 at the First United Methodist Church, in Elwood, Nebraska with Pastor Connie Karr, officiating. Interment will be at the Elwood Cemetery, Elwood, Nebraska. Memorials are suggested to the First United Methodist Church of Elwood, Nebraska or the family. Elwood Funeral Home of Elwood, Nebraska is in charge of the arrangements.

Laura Marie Svoboda, age 80, of Elwood, Nebraska passed away on Monday, March 24, 2008 at Tri-County Hospital in Lexington, Nebraska. She was born on February 12, 1928 at Riverton, Nebraska to Everett T. & Mabel (Schmitz) Siel.She attended and graduated high school from Riverton High School in Riverton, Nebraska in 1945. She would then attend Kearney State College and graduate with a teaching degree in 1949 and receive her Masters in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. She married Martin J. Svoboda on June 1, 1950 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in York, Nebraska.  She would teach school for 42 years at Benedict, Nebraska, Alhambra District in Phoenix, Arizona, Tri-County School, in DeWitt, Nebraska, Burwell, Nebraska, & the last 20 years at Elwood, Nebraska. She would retire from teaching in 1998. She enjoyed teaching piano lessons for many years. She was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church, in Smithfield, Nebraska and was the organist there for 20 years.She is preceded in death by her parents, and a Grandson Stephen M. Lange.She is survived by her husband Martin J. Svoboda of Elwood, Nebraska;  Sons: Martin J. II & wife Judith Svoboda of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Thomas B. Svoboda of McCook, Nebraska, Michael A. & wife Cindy Svoboda of Missoula, Montana, Daniel J. & wife Cindy Svoboda of Holdrege, Nebraska, Ronald E. & wife LeeAnn Svoboda of Anahiem, California;  Sister: Katherine & husband Duane Lange of Ord, Nebraska;  Brother: Jack & wife Velma Siel of Franklin, Nebraska;Grandchildren: 20;  Great-Grandchildren: 10.Condolences and personal reflections may be left at www.elwoodfuneralhome.com.Viewing & visitation will be Friday, March 28 from 9 AM till 5 PM at Elwood Funeral Home, Elwood, Nebraska. Rosary will be recited on Friday, March 28 at 7 PM at St. John’s Catholic Church, in Smithfield, Nebraska. Funeral Mass will be Saturday, March 29, 2008 at 10 AM at St. John’s Catholic Church, in Smithfield, Nebraska with Father Thomas J. Lux, officiating. Interment will be March 29, at 2:30 p.m. at Riverton Cemetery, Riverton, Nebraska.Memorials are suggested to the Elwood School Foundation or the St. John’s Catholic Church. Elwood Funeral Home of Elwood, Nebraska are in charge of the arrangements.

Ted Schutz, age 80 of Elwood, died March 19, 2008 at the Gothenburg Memorial Hospital.He was born November 10, 1927 at Gosper County, NE to Richard and Josephine (Heny) Schutz.  He attended Salem Lutheran Parochial School. On May 2, 1948 he married Janet Umberger at the Methodist Church in Elwood.  The couple made their home southwest of Elwood where they farmed and raised livestock until moving to Elwood in 2000.      He was a lifetime member of the Salem Lutheran Church as well as Our Redeemer Lutheran Church at Elwood.  He was a past member of the Elwood Public School Board.He loved attending rodeos, traveling, and spending time with his grandchildren.  He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend.He was preceded in death by his father Richard Schutz;  two step-fathers, Frank and Emil Jorges;  three brothers, Robert, Paul and Kenneth;  and one sister, Nora June Lehmann.Survivors include his wife, Janet Schutz of Elwood;  four sons, Scot (Cindy) Schutz, Steve (Nancy) Schutz, Stanley (Rhonda) Schutz all of Elwood and Clay (Janet) Schutz of Grand Island; one daughter Jane (Bob) Hilton of Elwood;  thirteen grandchildren, Anthony (Cori) Schutz of Lincoln, Tiffany (Bodie) Weeder of Minden, Danielle Schutz of Lincoln, Grant Schutz and Stephen Schutz of Elwood, Lisa (Naeson) Halker of Gretna, Lori (Ryan) Shutts of Sidney, Jason Schutz of Elwood, Amy (Rob) Czaplewski of Grand Island, Eric (Jami) Hilton of Eagle, Perry Schutz, Levi Schutz and Maddie Schutz all of Grand Island;  nine great-grandchildren, Angelina and Berlyn Schutz, Payton and Hudson Weeder, Remington and Bellamy Halker, Aidan Shutts, Jenna Czaplewski and Nevayla Hilton;  one sister, Elmyra Wolf of Arapahoe;  sister-in-law, Esther Kaup of Elwood;  and many other relatives and friends.A memorial has been established in his memory.  Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com.Services were held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, March 22, 2008 at the Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Elwood with Pastor Jeff Ernstmeyer officiating.  Burial in the East Salem Cemetery southwest of Elwood.Berryman Funeral Home of Cozad is in charge of arrangements.

Inez Christine Seberg, 99,  of Lincoln, died Saturday, March 22, 2008.  She was born in Orleans, NE on February 26, 1909 to Carl T. and Katie (Kaldal) Davidson. Teacher/Homemaker. Attended the University of Nebraska. She was a 50+ year member of the First United Methodist Church, Elwood, Clio Club, Alexis Club, Methodist Women’s Society and bridge club. She was an artist, an avid gardener and was well known for her orchids and African violets.Family members include son, daughter-in-law: John G. & Bette Seberg, Lakewood, CO; daughters, sons-in-law: Joan Kay & Alton “Rick” Berquist, West Palm Beach, FL;  Jean M. & James Sheffield, Lincoln;  grandchildren, spouses: Jeffrey Seberg & fiancé Tina, Glenn & Karen Seberg, Julie & Eric Brown, Alton & Cyd Berquist, Derek & Jenny Berquist, Melissa & Bruce Schlee, Mike & Samantha Sheffield, Mark Sheffield, Mike Busbey; great grandchildren: Christina & Nicholas Busbey, Zachary, Michele & Ryan Seberg, Carter & Parker Sheffield.She was preceded in death by her husband, Glenn, a granddaughter, Sandra Busbey, and brothers, Ralph & Elmer Davidson.Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 29, 2008 at Roper and Sons Chapel, 4300 ‘O’ St.  Life Celebrant Debbie Way officiating. Committal Service: 3:00 p.m. at Minden Cemetery.Memorials to the family for future designation. Visitation one hour prior to service time, funeral home.Condolences or personal reflections may be sent online at www.roperandsons.com

Elda L. Anderson, 89, of Ord, died Thursday, March 20, 2008, at the Western Hall county Good Samaritan Center in Wood River.Services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at the Bethel Baptist church in Ord.  The Rev. Rob Pearson officiated.  Burial in the Ord Cemetery. Mrs. Anderson was born on October 29, 1918, in Graham County, Kansas, the daughter of Richard “Dick” and Merriam (Bray) Long.She was preceded in death by her husband, Ivan V. Anderson on November 20, 1992;  her parents;  one granddaughter, Jodi Anderson;  three brothers, David, Donald and Richard Long;  and four sisters, Alma Hopkins, Grace Acheson, Dolores Burgess and Maxine Patterson.She is survived by two sons and daughter-in-law, Alan and Sherri Anderson of Ord and Galen and Barbara Anderson of Wexford, PA;  three daughters and sons-in-law, Beverly and Robert Potty of Olathe, KS, Cheryl and Carlton Clark of Elwood and Zelda and Steve Shoemaker of Grand Island.  She is also survived by eleven grandchildren, Jerrod Anderson, Nathan Anderson, Darci Dietz, Craig Anderson, Trevor Potty, Dana Henton, Christopher Clark, Cary Clark, Chad Clark, Lindsey Shoemaker and Lauren Shoemaker;  and four great-grandchildren, Haley, Timothy, Eric and Steven Dietz. Elda was raised in Valley County, where she received her education and graduated from Ord High School in 1937.She was united in marriage to Ivan Victor Anderson on November 27, 1938, at her parent’s home in Ord.  The couple first lived in St. Libory and later moved to Eugene, OR.  In 1946, they moved to Ord where Elda worked as a nurse’s aide at the Valley County Hospital for 35 years before she retired.She was a member of the Bethel Baptist Church and faithfully attended the Christian Women’s Club/After 5 and the Friendship Bible Studies.  She was also a member and past Noble Grand of the Rebekah Lodge in Ord and was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Loup Trail Chapter of Burwell. She enjoyed crocheting, sewing, quilting, gardening, playing cards, baking for her family and friends and reading and studying the Bible. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.petersfuneralhome.net and signing the guestbook under obituaries.Memorials are suggested to the Bethel Baptist Church or the donor’s choice. Peters Funeral Home of St. Paul in charge of arrangements.

Keith Wade, age 86 of Ft. Collins, Colorado, former Elwood resident, died March 16, 2008 at Ft. Collins, Colorado.He was born September 26, 1921 at Elwood to Ray and Viola Lawhead Wade.  He graduated from Elwood High School in 1939.  He moved to California and became a certified welder and worked for McDonald Douglas Aviation Company during World War II.On June 23, 1942, he married Anna Mae Leggott at Las Vegas, Nevada.  They made their home in Culver City, California before moving to Elwood in 1946.  While in Elwood, they owned and operated Wade Dairy & Grocery.  In 1960, he entered into a partnership and purchased the Elwood Lumber Yard.  He also engaged in commercial and residential construction.  In the late 1960’s, he moved to Holyoke, Colorado where he remained in the construction business until an accident forced his retirement at the age of 80.  In later years, he resided at Ft. Collins, Colorado.Survivors include a son, Jeffery (Linda) Wade of Mason, Ohio; three daughters, Shirley Wade-Hayhurst of Denver, Colorado, Linda Humphrey of El Paso, Texas and Cynthia (Norman) Evans of Elwood, Nebraska; eight grandchildren; two great- granddaughters and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by a brother, Lynn and a nephew, Barry Wade. Memorials are suggested to the American Diabetes Association, the First Christian Church in Elwood or the donor’s choice in his memory.  Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 21, 2008 at the First Christian Church in Elwood with Steven Jergensen officiating.  Burial will be in the Elwood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday at the Berryman Funeral Home in Cozad.

     Memorial Services for Harold “Don” Larson will be conducted from the Fridhem Lutheran Church in Funk, Nebraska on Saturday, March 22, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend Bill Waterman, officiating.  Inurnment will be at a later date. Harold “Don” Larson, 84 years of age, of Funk, passed away on Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at the Phelps Memorial Health Center in Holdrege.  Don was born June 7, 1923 on a farm west of Holdrege in Phelps County, the eldest of four children of Harold Walter and Elsie Grace (Marion) Larson.  He received his education at District #6 and District #26 in Phelps County.  Don was active in 4-H, earning many purple and blue ribbons in county and state fairs.  Following his education, Don engaged in farming and the labor of the land continued to be his passion his entire life.  On August 17, 1951 he was united in marriage to Merna (Awe) Koch at the Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Holdrege and to this union four sons were born:  Danny, Douglas, Dale and David.  The family made their home on a farm north of Funk for several years before purchasing the original Victor Larson Homestead.   He enjoyed roller skating, tending to his horses, fishing and hunting.  Don especially enjoyed fishing and camping with the family and loved the time spent with extended family at the Larson Family annual holiday camping, which they called “Kid’s Day.” Don also enjoyed many friendship bonds formed through the years over a cup of coffee at the Coffee Cup Café in Funk.  Don and Merna were members of The Grange, and enjoyed many trips throughout all 50 states and all the Providences of Canada Don joined Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Holdrege in 1952, where he active on the building committee.  He then transferred his membership to Fridhem Lutheran Church in Funk, where he served on the church council.  Don leaves to mourn his passing his wife, Merna of Funk; three sons:  Danny Larson and his wife, Diana of Funk, Dale Larson and his wife, Nancy of Funk and David Larson and his wife, Kathy of Cushing, Nebraska; 12 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; one sister; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  He was preceded by his parents; one son, Douglas and two brothers:  Dean and Daro Larson.  He will be missed by his family and a host of friends. There will be no visitation, the family is honoring Don’s wish for cremation.   A memorial has been established in his memory. Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is in charge of the arrangements.     

Funeral Services for Jesse J. Anderson will be conducted from the Fridhem Lutheran Church in Funk, Nebraska on Monday, March 24, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. with Reverend Bill Waterman, officiating.  Interment will be in the Fridhem Lutheran Cemetery at Funk. Jesse Joe Anderson, 70 years of age, of Funk, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at Phelps Memorial Health Center in Holdrege, Nebraska.  Jesse was born August 30, 1937 at Holdrege, the eldest of two sons of Joseph E. and Helen G. (Jinings) Anderson.  He was baptized and confirmed at Fridhem Lutheran Church.  He received his primary education at District #53 Laural Hedge School and then attended Holdrege High School.  Following his education, Jesse went to work on the family farm and was also employed by Lundquist Brothers Implement as a mechanic.  On October 20, 1956 he was united in marriage to Iola E. Lonn at Funk and to this union four children were born:  Debra, Diane, Donna and Douglas.  Later in years, Jesse began his own repair shop in Funk and enjoyed the friendships formed through the years.  Jesse remained active in the business until his passing.  Jesse was a lifelong member of the Fridhem Lutheran Church in Funk.  He was a past member of the Funk Volunteer Fire Department, was an avid sports fan, enjoyed crossword puzzles and loved spending time with his grandchildren.  He’ll always be remembered for his unfailing faith and optimism in his Huskers and life in general.  He leaves to mourn his passing, his wife, Iola of Funk; his mother, Helen Anderson of Holdrege, Nebraska; three daughters:  Debra Wagner and her husband, Mike of Eagle, Nebraska, Diane Rager and her husband, Alan of Holdrege, Nebraska, and Donna Goldsberry and her husband, Tim of Lincoln, Nebraska; one son, Douglas Anderson and his wife, Carma of Funk, Nebraska; ten grandchildren:  Pat Wagner and his fiancé, Katie Burnside, Nicole Eddins and her husband, Justin, Stephanie Kolbo and her husband, Ryan, Todd Wagner, Christopher Rager, Makaela Wagner, Kristin Goldsberry and Shana, Tiffany and Jacob Anderson; two great-grandchildren:  Hailee Wagner and Sophia Kolbo; one brother, Leonard Anderson and his wife, Gwen of Funk; three sisters-in-law:  Daphna Stagemeyer and her husband, Paul of Arapahoe, Nebraska, Vivian McDorman and her husband, Charles of Funk, Nebraska, and Patty Baumann and her husband, Don of Denver, Colorado; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his father, one grandson, Jason Stroup, father and mother-in-law:  Roy and Almeda Lonn and brother-in-law, Spencer Lonn.  Jesse will lie in state at the Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege on Saturday, March 22, 2008 from 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. with the family greeting from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. A memorial has been established in his memory. Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is in charge of the arrangements.

Juanita L. Laverack, 80, died Thursday, March 13, 2008 at the Cambridge Memorial Hospital. She was born May 18, 1927 to Lou and Josephine (Dawson) Roepke. She attended and graduated from the Arapahoe High School with the Class of 1945. She was united in marriage to Vernon Laverack on October 28, 1948. They lived in Cambridge during their married life. She was preceded iin death by her husband, Vernon, her parents, three brothers Orville, Neal and Lyle; two sisters Lois Petska and Leota Penn. Survivors include sons Lyle of Rapid City, SD and Gary, daughter Vernita Saylor of Cambridge; two sisters Lorena Ems of Arapahoe and Waunda Meyerhoeffer of Hastings, one sister-in-law June Roepke of Kearney, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services were Tuesday, March 18 at First Congregational Church and burial was at Fairview Cemetery, Cambridge, NE.

Keith Wade, age 86, of Ft. Collins, Colorado, former Elwood resident, died March 16, 2008 at Ft. Collins, Colorado.He was born September 26, 1921 at Elwood to Ray and Viola Lawhead Wade.  He graduated from Elwood High School in 1939.  He moved to California and became a certified welder and during World War II, he was employed by  the Douglas Aviation Company known today as The Boeing Company.On June 23, 1942, he married Anna Mae Leggott at Las Vegas, Nevada.  They made their home in Culver City, California before moving to Elwood in 1946.  While in Elwood, they owned and operated Wade Dairy & Grocery.  In 1960, he entered into a partnership and purchased the Elwood Lumber Yard.  He also engaged in commercial and residential construction.  In the late 1960’s, he moved to Holyoke, Colorado where he remained in the construction business until an accident forced his retirement at the age of 80.  In later years, he resided at Ft. Collins, Colorado.Survivors include a son, Jeffery (Linda) Wade of Mason, Ohio; three daughters, Shirley Wade-Hayhurst of Denver, Colorado, Linda Humphrey of El Paso, Texas and Cynthia (Norman) Evans of Elwood; eight grandchildren; two great-granddaughters and many other relatives and friends.He was preceded in death by a brother, Lynn and a nephew, Barry Wade.Memorials are suggested to the American Diabetes Association, the First Christian Church in Elwood or the donor’s choice in his memory.  Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com.Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 21, 2008 at the First Christian Church in Elwood with Steven Jergensen officiating.  Burial will be in the Elwood Cemetery.Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday at the Berryman Funeral Home in Cozad.Berryman Funeral Home in Cozad in charge of arrangements.

Denzel D. Mills, 74, of Lexington, Nebraska, died Thursday, March 6, 2008, at Tri-County Hospital in Lexington. Denzel was born August 24, 1933, at Eustis, Nebraska, the only child of Walter and Verla (Johnson) Mills.  He lived in the Eustis and Cozad area until 1944, when the family purchased the farm east of Lexington where he lived until his marriage.  He attended rural schools and graduated from Lexington High School in 1951.  In 1955, he graduated from the college of Agriculture at the University of Nebraska and then served in the United States Army for two years. On December 1, 1967, Denzel married Janet Brummet in Lexington.  They were blessed with two sons; Mark and Ross.  He held various sales positions before purchasing and operating Ace Termite and Pest Control.  Denzel worked as a C.N.A. at Plum Creek Care Center for several years, and later drove the Lexington HandiBus where he enjoyed helping the people whom he transported. Denzel enjoyed gardening and loved cultivating flowers.  He never could seem to wait for the winter to be over so he could start working on his garden and flower beds.  This interest led him to volunteer as a board member of the Keep Lexington Beautiful campaign for a number of years, as well as taking care of the yard and flower beds at the Lexington Evanglical Free Church where he was a regular attender.  Denzel also volunteered as an ESL helper for the local community college. Survivors include his wife:  Janet Mills of Lexington, Nebraska;  Sons:  Mark (Ann) Mills of Pella, Iowa, Ross (Holli) Mills of Bellevue, Nebraska;  Five grandchildren:  Eric, Stephen, and Justin Mills of Bellevue, Nebraska and Emily and William Mills of Pella, Iowa;  Mother-in-law:  Vera Brummet of Lexington, Nebraska;  Sister-in-law and brother-in-law:  Geraldine and William Powell of Gordon, Nebraska;  Cousins and other family members. Denzel was preceded in death by his parents. Services were held Monday, March 10, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. at the Lexington Evangelical Free Church in Lexington, Nebraska with Pastor Duane Russell officiating.Memorials are kindly suggested to the Lexington Evangelical Free Church or another organization of  the Donor’s Choice. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements.

Ilda Irene Dodson, age 101, of McCook, Nebraska, formerly of Arapahoe, Nebraska, died Satuday, March 8, 2008, at the Hillcrest Nursing Home in McCook, Nebraska.  She was born February 16, 1907 south of Edison, Nebraska to Clyde and Lillian (Bishop) Fleharty. After attending grade school south of Edison, Nebraska, she wanted more education, so for four years she drove a horse and buggy eight miles morning and night to Edison High School and graduaed with top honors.  She would go on to Kearney College for a year and then became a rural school teacher.  After many years of rural school, she went back to Hastings College and received her degree.  She went on to teach at Deshler, Nebraska for several years.  Upon retirement, she worked at Williams Brothers Dept. Store in Arapahoe, Nebraska.  In January of 1950, she married Harry Dodson at her parents’ house south of Arapahoe, Nebraska.  They made their home on the Dodson Farm north of Arapahoe, Nebraska.  Harry passed away October 26, 1969.  Because of health problems, she would move to Hillcrest Nursing Home in McCook,  Nebraska in March of 2006. She became a member of the church at a very young age and was very faithful in attendance, also teaching Sunday School classes for many years.  She enjoyed gardening, crossword puzzles, chocolate pie and her daily walk to town.  She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Arapahoe, Nebraska. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Harry Dodson and sister Madge Hill. Survivors include her sisters: Esther Farrington of Little Silver, New Jersey and Gladys and husband Ray Aldrich of McCook, Nebraska. Condolences or personal reflections can be left at www.wenburgfuneralhome.com Funeral services were held on Wednesday, March 12, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Arapahoe, Nebraska with Rev. Michael Flury, officiating.  Interment will be at the Arapahoe Cemetery at Arapahoe, Nebraska.  Wenburg Funeral Home of Arapahoe, Nebraska is in charge of the arrangements.

Nora “June” Lehmann, age 73, of Eustis, Nebraska, died February 23, 2008 at her home in rural Eustis. She was born June 14, 1934 at rural Elwood, Nebraska, to Frank and Josephine (Heny) Jorges.  She attended the Salem parochial school. On August 12, 1956 she married Sherman Lehmann at the Salem Lutheran Church at Elwood, Nebraska.   The couple made their home in Arapahoe until moving to Eustis in 1961.  She drove a school bus for Eustis Public Schools for over 40 years. She was a member of the St. John’s Lutheran Church at Eustis, Mary Martha’s Circle, and the American Legion Auxiliary. She enjoyed swimming, gardening, baking, canning, and spending time with her grandchildren. Survivors include her husband, Sherman Lehmann of Eustis, Nebraska;  five sons, Kurt (Nelseena) Lehmann of McCook, Nebraska,  Kevin (Karen) Lehmann, Kim (Michelle) Lehmann, Kelly (Pam) Lehmann, and Kent Lehmann all of Eustis, Nebraska; brother, Ted (Janet) Schutz of Elwood, Nebraska; sister Elmyra Wolf of Arapahoe, Nebraska; seven grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; a stepfather, Emil, three brothers, Robert, Kenneth, and Paul. A memorial has been established in her memory.  Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com. Memorial services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 27, 2008 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Eustis, Nebraska, with Pastor Beverly Rautenberg- Panko officiating.  Inurnment will be at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery in Maxwell at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday prior to the service.  Visitation for memorial book signatures will be from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the St. John’s Lutheran Church at Eustis, Nebraska.

Born April 25, 1945, in Lexington, Nebraska, to Ernest and Evelyn (Leising) Maahs of Arapahoe, Nebraska.  Julie’s family moved to Caldwell in 1953.  She attended Marble Front Elemetnary and graduated from Caldwell High School in 1963.She received her A.A. from Concordia College in Portland, Oregon, her B.A. and M.A. from Concordia College in Seward, Nebraska, and her Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska.  Julie taught seventh to twelfth graders for seven years in the Milford, Nebraska, Public Schols.  During this time she was honored as Nebraska’s “Teacher of the Year” for 1976.  Next, she was honored as a “Young Woman of the Year” and began her career as a Professor for Concordia Seward.  During the following 30 years she served in higher education working as Vice President for Academics at Western Baptist College in Salem, Oregon; Chief Academic Officer for Christian University GlobalNET headquartered in Denver, Colorado; and most recently as the Director of Faculty for the Center for Adult and Professional Studies (CAPS) at Azusa Pacific University near Los Angeles, California.  Dr. Jantzi authored and coauthored books, articles, manuals and websites.  Additionally she served on a Christian University Accreditation Team and represented APU at various national conferences.While her accomplishments were numerous, those who knew her best remember her generous nature, welcome smile and constant encouragement.  She was passionate about her work with adult students, her family, her friends and her God, in whose work she labored joyfully until her death January 22, 2008.Julie is survived by her sons Jason (Tessa) and Jared, her grandsons Ryder and Ridge Jantz of Oregon, her mother Evelyn Maahs of Nampa, and her sisters Janice (Curtis) Hagen and Jean (Duane) Granberg, and her nephews and nieces Daniel, Jennifer and Janae Granberg of Colorado.A memorial service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 8, 2008 at Grace Lutheran  Church, 2700 S. Kimball, Caldwell.Memorials may be sent to the Julie Jantzi Encouragement Grant, CAPS, 701 E. Foothill Boulevard,  Azusa, CA 91702. Julia was a niece of Armin Leising of Arapahoe.

Lucile Anderson, age 89 of Gothenburg, formerly of Cozad and Eustis, died February 17, 2008 at the Hilltop Estates in Gothenburg.She was the first child born to Otto and Sophie (Yeutter) Bartruff in a farm house north of Eustis on December 1, 1918.  She was baptized and confirmed in the Eustis Methodist Church.  She attended rural school north of Eustis and graduated with the last class in the old Eustis High School building in 1936.  She taught rural school in Dawson County and took education courses at Kearney.  Following the death of her mother in 1941, she became a “second mother” to her younger siblings, a role she never relinquished.She married Lorenz Wahl on December 27, 1945 after he returned from World War II.  The couple pursued farm life on the Wahl homestead, which they bought from his parents.  Following Lorenz’s accidental death on February 15, 1972, she remained on the farm.  She took a job in Housekeeping at the Cozad Community Hospital, which she enjoyed and did very well.On March 16, 1974, she married Harland “Harley” Anderson, and they enjoyed country life, traveling and other benefits of retirement.  Harley died in 1978 and Lucile moved to Cozad in February of 1979.  In November 2005, she moved to Stone Hearth Estates in Gothenburg and in December 2006, she moved to Hilltop Estates.She was a faithful member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Eustis and later American Lutheran Church in Cozad.  She was active in the women’s organizations and Bible study.  She was also a member of the Cozad Community Hospital Auxiliary, Eustis American Legion Auxiliary, a Gothenburg quilters’ group, a craft club and played Marathon Bridge and also with other bridge clubs in Cozad.  She loved to sew, quilt, garden, read, visit with her neighbors, friends, and family, and spend time with her grandchildren.  Hard work and doing things “right” were very important to her, but sharing the process with others brought her joy.Survivors include her daugh-ters, Cathryn (Randall) Rupe of Eustis and Lois (Matthew) Stebbins of Honolulu, Hawaii; four grandchildren, Graham (Katie) Rupe of Omaha, Adriane Stebbins (Jeremiah Jackson) of Newport, Rhode Island, Eton Stebbins (and girlfriend, Vanya Dafklova) both students at UNL; and Wyatt Stebbins, who currently engages in missionary trip guiding for young people in Costa Rica and Ecuador;a great-grandson, George Rupe and his brother, who is due to be born in April; 2 brothers, Vern Bartruff and Robert (Evelyn) Bartruff all of Eustis; four sisters, Doris (Robert) Hotchkiss of Fergus Falls, Minnesota, Betty Rieker of Farnam, Marjory (Kenneth) Kugler of Johnson Lake and Diane (Danny) Easterday of Eustis; a sister-in-law, Karen Wahl of Elwood; a brot