Joy S. Reed
Oct. 12, 1932 – Nov. 29, 2015

Graveside services for Joy S. Reed of Chadron, Nebraska will be held Friday, December 4, 2015 at 2:00 PM at Greenwood Cemetery with Reverend Paul Smith officiating.

Joy Shirley Reed, 83, of Chadron passed away Sunday, Nov. 29 at her
home.

Joy was born to Arthur and Mildred Elmitt in Hawarden, Iowa on Oct.
12, 1932. She was the oldest of three children, followed by a sister,
RoxyAnn and a brother, Gordon, who died as an infant. Her family moved
to Chadron in 1941 when her dad went to work for Chicago Northwestern
Railroad in the roundhouse. She graduated from Chadron High in 1952.
She married her high school sweetheart, Richard “Dick” Reed on
March 5, 1955 after he was discharged from the Army after serving in the
Korean War. Two daughters were born to this union, Cynthia “Cindy” Dawn
and Donna Sue. Her husband worked for the Nebraska Department of Roads
for nearly 40 years. He passed away on Oct. 1, 2003 after 48 years of
marriage.

In Joy’s younger days, she worked at a confectionery, floral shop
and babysat. She was very artistic at a young age and still enjoyed
drawing up to her final days.

She is left to mourn by her daughters: Donna and husband Michael
Toalson of Pearsall, Texas; Cindy Peters and special friend Richard Mann
of rural Chadron; grandson Josh Peters and his wife Sara and
great-grandson Jayden Reed of Thornton, Colo.; granddaughter Brandi and
husband Brandon McKee and great-grandson Branson of Denver, Colo.
She is also survived by brother-in-law Gerald Blonien of Hay
Springs, former son-in-law Steve Peters of Hay Springs and sister-in-law
Shirlee Schroeder (Larry) of Texas.

She was preceded in death by her brother, parents, husband and sister.

A memorial has been established. Donations may be sent to Chamberlain
Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE 69337.

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com.

Chamberlain Chapel of Chadron is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial services for Chuck Cogdill of Chadron, Nebraska will be held on Monday, December 7, 2015 at 10:00 AM at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Chadron, Nebraska with Father Tim Stoner officiating. Inurnment will be December 21, 2015 at 11:00 AM at Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, South Dakota. A rosary will be held on Sunday, December 6, 2015 at 7:00 PM at the church.

Mr. Cogdill passed away on December 1, 2015 at Rapid City Regional Hospital.

Chuck was born on October 7, 1939 in Dawes County, Nebraska.

He was 76.

A memorial has been established for the CSC Cogdill family Scholarship Fund. Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE 69337.

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com

Chamberlain Chapel of Chadron is in charge of arrangements.

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Lenore E. Keenan, 94, passed away on Thursday, December 3, 2015 at Good Samaritan Health Care Center in Alliance.

She was born at FT. Bliss Texas on June 6, 1921 to Jose B. and Maria (Yebra) Estrada while her father was stationed there in the U.S. Army.  Following her father’s discharge the family moved to Bridgeport, NE.  She was married there to George Keenan.  Her husband ran the Greenwood ranch raising cattle, wheat and other crops where she loved to cook for the ranch hands.  She belonged to the Mud Springs Club of Dalton, NE, publishing recipes in the book club.  While she never had children of her own, she volunteered at Head Start in Bridgeport and received many awards for her work including being presented by the Governor of Nebraska as “Grandmother of the Year.”  Everyone who was ever introduced to her in her life were her children.

She is survived by her brothers, Lee Estrada, David Estrada Tucson, AZ and Tom Estrada of Alliance, her sister-in-law, Millie Estrada of Hershey, PA, 5 nephews, 4 nieces and numerous grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her brother, Ben, her sister, Esther Smith and sister-in-law, Marie Estrada.

Funeral services will be Monday, December 7, 2015 at the Evangelical Free Church in Alliance with Pastor Art Smith officiating.  Burial will be in the Oregon Trail Cemetery at Bridgeport. Visitation will be Sunday from 1-5 p.m. at the Bates-Gould Funeral Home.

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

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Sister M. Helen Borszich passed away on Friday, December 4, 2015 at Marian Residence at the age of 80.

Sister Helen was born September 1, 1935 at Lakeview (Rosebud), SD to Anthony and Florence (Ferris) Borszich and was named, Arleen Elizabeth.

On February 14, 1952 she went to Marycrest Convent in Denver, CO to enter the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity.  She professed as Sister Mary Helen on August 15, 1952.  She professed her Perpetual Vows on August 15, 1957.

Sister Helen received her B.A. degree from Regis College in Denver, CO in 1965.  From 1954 to 1972 her teaching ministry took her to St. Francis in Mission, SD, St. Elizabeth in Denver, St. Mary’s in Scottsbluff and Holy Rosary in Mission, SD. Sister Helen also served as an administrator at St. Francis in Mission, SD as well as working in St. Charles Church in St. Francis, SD.  In 2004 she came to Alliance as an admimistrator for Marian Residence where she has resided since.

She is survived by her brother, Tom (Connie) Borszich of Valentine, NE, her sisters, Camilla (Roger) Maestas of Bloomfield, NM, Bernadette (John) Usera of Sturgis, SD, and sisters-in-law, Mary Borszich, Ruth Borszich and Jackie Borszich along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, Harlan, Bob, Everett and Jerry Borszich and her brother-in-law, Al Keller.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, December 9 at 10:30 a.m. at Marian Chapel with Father Matthew Keller and Father Roy Pasala officiating.  Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.  A wake service will be Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. at Marian Chapel.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Marian Residence.

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

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Funeral services for Nadine Marchant of Chadron, Nebraska will be held on Friday, December 11, 2015 at 10:00 AM at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church with Father Tim Stoner officiating. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Chadron, Nebraska. A vigil will be held on Thursday, December 10, 2015 at 7:00 PM at the church.

Nadine (Lindeken) Marchant left this world on December 5, 2015. Nadine was born in Crookston, Nebraska on June 9, 1928 to George A. and Suzanne C. (Overton) Lindeken. The family moved to the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota while Nadine was a small child and then after a few years moved to the Chadron area where attended school.

While attending high school, Nadine worked on the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad as a wiper (cab cleaner) during the summer months to help with purchasing school clothes.

Nadine married Bob Marchant, February 14, 1947 and moved to the table area south of Chadron where she spent many years as a homemaker and raising her children. Nadine opened a day care center in Chadron and spent 26 years in the business. Nadine also was a member of the State of Nebraska Foster Review Board for 11 years during her time in Chadron. Nadine retired in 2010 returning full time to the ranch south of Chadron until her departure.

Nadine was preceded in death by her husband, Bob, her parents and an infant son and son-in-law Bill Trelease.

Nadine is survived by her daughter Judy Trelease of Thayne, Wyoming; Sons, Roger Marchant of Bradenton, Florida and Steve (Charla) Marchant of Chadron, Nebraska; 7 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews and sister-in-law Betty Lindeken of Mitchell, Nebraska.

A memorial has been established for the American Cancer Society. Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE 69337.

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com

Chamberlain Chapel of Chadron is in charge of arrangements.

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William Clifton “Billy” Johnson, 82, passed away on Thursday, December 10, 2015 at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.

He was born on March 31, 1933 at Ogallala, NE to Nels and Myrtle (Dancer) Johnson. He grew up on various ranches in the Sandhills and Wyoming returning to attend high school in Ogallala.

On April 12, 1957 he was united in marriage to Deanna Lyn Hayward.

For 53 years he ranched in Sheridan County north of Lakeside.  Billy took great pride in being a Cowman and caring for his animals.  He retired from ranching in 2006 and moved to Alliance building a barn, planting roses and keeping busy.  Then he applied and was hired to drive for Railcrew Xpress driving railroad crews to the trains.  He enjoyed that for 3 years retiring again on November 14, 2011.  Many health problems over the years kept him from doing all he wanted to do as he enjoyed working hard for long hours and didn’t understand those that didn’t.  Some people thought he was a gruff man when he was actually a softy, petting the cats and holding them on his lap while he read hundreds of mystery books. He was a member of the American Hereford Association and the American Quarter Horse Association.

He is survived by his wife, Deanna, his daughter, Deborah Lois (B.J.) Hartley of Aurora, CO, his son, James Jay (Jodi) Johnson of Hemingford, 8 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Nels and two infant children that were stillborn, his granddaughter, Lisa Lyn Swisher, his sisters, Florence Smith, Frances Adams, Pauline Jasnoch and Lillian Vasa, and his brother, Ed Johnson.

Graveside services will be Thursday, December 17 at 1:00 p.m. at the Whitman Cemetery with Butch Abold officiating.  Visitation will be Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Bates-Gould Funeral Home.

Memorials may be given to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com

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Ada June Kidder Leishman, 88, passed away on December 20,2015 at Crowell Home in Blair, NE.

Ada was born in a sod house near Wells, NE in Cherry County June 17, 1927 to Milton Clinton Kidder and Pearl Lillian Kidder. She grew up attending a one room school in Cherry County. She later finished her secondary education graduating from Mullen High School at the age of 16. Ada’ started college at Chadron State College that fall. After one semester she started her career as a teacher in a one-room school. She taught 30 plus terms of school for children in various schools in Cherry, Garden, Sheridan, Grant, and Thomas Counties. After 25 plus years of continuing summer school and evening classes Ada graduated in 1974 with her teaching degree from CSC.

Ada was married on July 4, 1946 to Delmer Leishman from Ellsworth in Hot Springs, SD. She

enjoyed life as a mother, schoolteacher, rancher, and wife. Ada spent most of her ranching and married life on the Leishman Homestead south of Ellsworth, NE. She was a member of Eastern Star in Hyannis, NE.

Ada is survived by her sons and daughter-in-law, Leon and Marti Leishman of Blair, NE and Randall R. Leishman of Cheyenne, WY, her grandchildren, Brandi Wonacott and husband Andrew of Yakama, WA, William Leishman of Hemingford, NE, Cristy Romero and husband Riley of Spring Creek, Nevada, Clinton Leishman of Spring Creek, NV, Dr. Andrea Leishman-Barb and husband Thomas of Elkhorn, NE, Nicholas Leishman of Napa, CA, Erin LaPalomento and husband Mike of Omaha, NE,  Timothy Leishman of Pagosa Springs, CO and great-grandchildren, Andrew, James, William and BreAnna Wonacott, Halle, Elle, and Emma Romero, Phoebe and Pippa Barb.

She is preceded in death by the love of her life Delmer, parents Milton and Pearl Kidder, her youngest son, Dean Leishman,  and her sisters Helen, Naomi, and Joy.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, December 23 at 9:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Alliance with Pastor Tom Lucas officiating. Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday from 2-7 p.m. at the Bates-Gould Funeral Home.

Memorials to the Lakeside Methodist Church in Lakeside, NE.

Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com

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Keith Max Sorum, 93, passed away Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at Highland Park Care Center in Alliance.

He was born June 20, 1922, in Mitchell, Nebraska to Carl G. & Lulu V. (Fisher) Sorum. He attended Natrona County High School, Casper, WY and graduated from Glenrock High School in May, 1940.

After the U. S was attacked by the Japanese Navy in 1941, Keith wanted in the fight and enlisted in the Navy Air Corp where he was a flyer.  He later joined the U. S. Maritime Service where he became an Ensign, earned his FCC license and served as Radioman First Class on ships in the South Pacific Theatre.

He married Ellen Marie Powell on March 22, 1944 in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.

He worked at Standard Oil Company in Glenrock, WY as a young man, was in the service for 4 years, farmed in the Alliance area from 1946 to 1954 where he had the first overhead sprinkler system in Box Butte County, worked for Neuswangers for a time and Dannen Mills from 1955 to 1960. He joined Dwight Sloan at Northern Plains Land & Cattle Company in 1960 and purchased the business in 1969. He sold it to Farmers National Co. in 1993, but continued to work there until he retired in 2007 at age 85.

He was a licensed Real Estate Broker in Nebraska, Wyoming, South Dakota and Montana and a Certified Real Estate Appraiser in Nebraska.  He was a member of the American Society of Rural Appraisers; a member of the United Methodist Church, charter member of the Rural Fire Protection District; President

of the Potato Certification Assoc. of Nebraska; served on the Alliance School Board from 1967 to 1975 and Alliance Public School Foundation Board from 1987 to 2003. He was a lifetime member of the Elks, American Legion, Rotary, and 50+ year member of the Masonic Lodge. He served on the Board of the 5 C’s, the Panhandle Mental Health Board and the Boy’s Ranch Board.

He was an accomplished pianist. He enjoyed photography, growing tomatoes, camping and fishing. He especially loved spending time at his tree farm with his grandsons, Ed and Bob Hitchcock.

He is survived by his wife Marie Sorum of Alliance; his children, Sharon (Bruce) Hitchcock of Alliance, NE, Stephen (Cindy) Sorum of Lincoln, NE, and Carla (Charlie) Dingman of Bozeman, MT.; his grandchildren he called ‘The Magnificent Seven”, Christine (Chip) Stanczak of Carson, IA, Edward Hitchcock of Alliance, NE, Robert (Vanessa) Hitchcock of Lander, WY, Katie (Brandon) Sheahan of Denver, CO, Sarah (Greg) Petner of Denver, CO, Patrick (Lindsey) Dingman of Bozeman, MT and Michael (Mackenzie) Dingman of Oakland, CA; great grandchildren, Lily and Lincoln Hitchcock of Lander, WY, Ava, Harper, Asher and Ethan Sheahan of Denver, CO, Jack and Mia Petner of Denver, CO, Riley, Madilynne, and Taylor Dingman of Bozeman, MT and Graham Dingman of Oakland, CA.

He was preceded in death by his parents Carl and Lulu Sorum and in-laws, Lawrence and Ellen Powell.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 29 at 2:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church with Pastor Tom Lucas officiating.  Burial with military rites will be in the Alliance Cemetery.  Visitation will be at the funeral home on Monday, December 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Memorials may be given to the Alzheimer’s Association, Nebraska Chapter, 1500 South 70th Street, Suite 201, Lincoln, Nebraska, 68506, or the United Methodist Church.

Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.  Bates-Gould Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Memorial services for Jim Vahrenkamp of Chadron, Nebraska will be held on Monday, December 28, 2015 at 2:00 PM at the Chadron Berean Church with Pastor Charlie Busch officiating.

Mr. Vahrenkamp pased away on December 23, 2015 at the Chadron Community Hospital.

Jim was born on September 9, 1927 in Rural Sheridan County.

He was 88.

A memorial has been established for the Gideon Bible Group. Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE 69337.

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com

Chamberlain Chapel of Chadron is in charge of arrangements.

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Harold “Gene” Delsing, 67 of Hemingford, passed away December 24, 2015 at the Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland, CO.

Gene was born on August 25, 1948 in Alliance to Harold William and Beverly Lou (Swanson) Delsing.  From 1968 to 1970 he served in the U.S. Army including a 1 year tour of duty in Vietnam. He was a lifetime Hemingford resident and worked in many occupations during that time.  He worked in a feedlot, Electric Hose and Rubber Company, Farmer’s Coop, Service Master and d Cover-Jones Motor Company before retiring.

He was a member of St. Bridget Catholic Church, American Legion Post No. 9 and was a volunteer for the Handy Man Program.

He is survived by his sisters and brother, Donna (Bruce) Engel and Bob Delsing of Hemingford, Pat (Ron) Schmit of Phillips, NE and Linda (Dennis) Folkerts of Hemingford along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, his sister-in-law, Karen Delsing and his brother-in-law, Kevin Sorensen.

Memorial services will be Friday, January 8 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Bridget Catholic Church with Father Roy Pasala officiating.  Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance.  A wake service will beThursday, January 7 at 7:00 p.m. at the St. Bridget Church.

Memorials may be given to American Legion Post No. 9 in Hemingford.

Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com with Bates-Gould Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

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James Franklin Vahrenkamp, 88, of Chadron went home to the Lord December 23, 2015. He was born near White Clay Nebraska at home to Bessie and Herman Vahrenkamp September 9, 1927. He attended the Extension School through 10th grade. The family moved to Colorado where he graduated from Salida High School. While in high school he played football and met June Francis Bell. They married July 9, 1946 at his parent’s former home in Wellsville, CO.
The newlyweds lived north of Hay Springs in a log cabin where Jim worked for his brother-in-law, Elmer “Bud” Cilek. Sons Michael and Marc were born at that time. Jim moved the family to the ranch/farm south of Hay Springs in 1952 where they raised the boys and two daughters, Jamie and Jackie. They also raised registered Herefords, hogs, sheep, alfalfa, wheat and lots of corn.
Jim was a 60 year Master Mason and a 30 year 4-H leader. He actively volunteered on the Dawes County Extension Board, 4-H Council and Fair Board, treasurer of Hay Springs Methodist Church, and District 56 school board. He helped start the Hay Springs Rodeo Club and played polo.
In 1978 they moved to a ranch south of Valentine. Jim said those 14 years were the best as he could enjoy ranching and raising cattle. Since the ranch bordered Merritt Reservoir he renewed his love of fishing.
Jim and June moved to Chadron in 1992 to be close to all of the grandchildren. They enjoyed going to the grandkids’ school activities, sports events, rodeos, county fairs and later, the great grandkids baseball games. Jim also enjoyed coffee shop hour, playing pool and cards, hunting and expanding his fishing activities.
Survivors include wife June, son James Michael and Janet Vahrenkamp, Rapid City; son Jeffrey Marc and Judy Vahrenkamp, Hay Springs; daughter Jamie Maureen and Roger Goffena, Chadron; , daughter Jackie Marie and Derrick Keim, Anthony Kansas; sister Marge and Gerald Panwitz, New Braunfels Texas; 15 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Bill, and sisters Helen and Hermie.
A Celebration of Life will be 2:00 pm Monday December 28 at the Chadron Berean Church, 407 Shelton Street, with Pastor Charlie Busch officiating. Ashes will be returned to the hills at Marc’s ranch north of Hay Springs in June. Honorary pall bearers will be grandsons Jim, Jeff, Robert and Andy Vahrenkamp; Caleb and Cort Goffena, Nick and JD Keim, and all Jim’s friends.
Donations may be given to his memorial of choice, The Gideons International, and sent to Chamberlain Chapel, POB 970, Chadron, NE 69337.

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Funeral services for Lourine Jones, 95, of Crawford, Nebraska will be on Saturday, January 2, 2016 at the United Methodist Church in Crawford with Pastor Dusty Sprague officiating. Lourine passed away Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at the Ponderosa Villa Nursing Home in Crawford.

Lourine was born 14 miles south of Whitney on September 5, 1920. Lourine was the sixth of seven children born to Isabelle & William Leetch. She grew up and attended school in Crawford and graduated from the 8th grade in 1935. On October 17, 1939 she married Marion Theadore Jones, they had two children Carolyn (Lemmon) and Melvin Jones.

During her life she was a housekeeper and cook at the James Ranch, she worked in the grocery store in Whitney. She helped Marion run the filling station in Whitney. They then moved to Crawford and ran a creamery. They moved to the farm and she helped farm and run the dairy. They bought “Mac’s Marker” and renamed it “M & L Marker”, they retired from the grocery store to spend more time helping Melvin and Patty on the farm and Carolyn and Lon in their auction business.

Lourine was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great great grandmother and friend. She was greatly loved and will be dearly missed.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Marion, her mother Isabelle (Britton) Leetch, father William Leetch; brother James; sister Mary; brothers Leslie, Harold, John, Earl and Alvia and great grandson Keith Fresorger.

She is survived by daughter Carolyn (Lon) Lemmon; Son Melvin (Patty) Jones; grandkids, Mark (Ruth) Lemmon of Whitney, Rocky (Janet) Lemmon, Bruce (Regina) Lemmon, Anissa Jones, Stacie Jones and Crystal Jones all of Crawford; 12 great grandchildren and 13 great great grandchildren.

Memorials can be made to the Crawford Rescue Unit, the Ponderosa Villa Auxiliary or the United Methodist Church of Crawford. Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE 69337.

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com

Chamberlain Chapel of Crawford is in charge of arrangements.

Funeral services for Lourine Jones, 95, of Crawford, Nebraska will be on Saturday, January 2, 2016 at the United Methodist Church in Crawford with Pastor Dusty Sprague officiating. Lourine passed away Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at the Ponderosa Villa Nursing Home in Crawford.

Lourine was born 14 miles south of Whitney on September 5, 1920. Lourine was the sixth of seven children born to Isabelle & William Leetch. She grew up and attended school in Crawford and graduated from the 8th grade in 1935. On October 17, 1939 she married Marion Theadore Jones, they had two children Carolyn (Lemmon) and Melvin Jones.

During her life she was a housekeeper and cook at the James Ranch, she worked in the grocery store in Whitney. She helped Marion run the filling station in Whitney. They then moved to Crawford and ran a creamery. They moved to the farm and she helped farm and run the dairy. They bought “Mac’s Market” and renamed it “M & L Market”, they retired from the grocery store to spend more time helping Melvin and Patty on the farm and Carolyn and Lon in their auction business.

Lourine was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great great grandmother and friend. She was greatly loved and will be dearly missed.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Marion, her mother Isabelle (Britton) Leetch, father William Leetch; brother James; sister Mary; brothers Leslie, Harold, John, Earl and Alvia and great grandson Keith Fresorger.

She is survived by daughter Carolyn (Lon) Lemmon; Son Melvin (Patty) Jones; grandkids, Mark (Ruth) Lemmon of Whitney, Rocky (Janet) Lemmon, Bruce (Regina) Lemmon, Anissa Jones, Stacie Jones and Crystal Jones all of Crawford; 12 great grandchildren and 13 great great grandchildren.

Memorials can be made to the Crawford Rescue Unit, the Ponderosa Villa Auxiliary or the United Methodist Church of Crawford. Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE 69337.

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com

Chamberlain Chapel of Crawford is in charge of arrangements.

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Nancy Lou Knight died December 31, 2015 at the age of 77 in Houston, Texas, where she had lived since 2008.

Nancy was born December 25, 1938 in Alliance, Nebraska, the daughter of Charles C. & Velia M. Roth.  She grew up in Hemingford, Nebraska until 1964.

Nancy went to school in a 1 room school house 18 miles west of Hemingford Nebraska. She graduated from Alliance High School in 1956.

On August 11, 1957 she was united in marriage to Harry Clay Knight at the United Methodist Church in Hemingford Nebraska. They lived 2 miles west of Hemingford until 1964 before moving to Rapid City, South Dakota were they raised their family.

Nancy was a member of Eastern Star, Daughters of the Nile and White Elephant in Alliance, Nebraska. Nancy loved politics and campaigned for Berry Goldwater. She was the State Vice Chairman of the Republican Party in South Dakota.

Survivors include her son, Terry and daughter-in-law Susan Knight of Houston, Texas; her brother, Darrell Roth; and her sister Dixie Kiester.

Preceding her in death were her parents Chuck and Velia Roth; her husband, Harry Clay Knight and son Eddie Knight.

Nancy was a loving and devoted wife, mother, aunt and friend. Her eyes always twinkled. She was gracious who had a special gift from God and whomever she came in contact with left with a touch of genuine love, warmth and care inside themselves. She was loved by everyone. Nancy was a care giver and knew that it was important to be at the side of those who were in need of comfort and care. She loved animals, especially dogs and cats. She called them her fur kids and would treat them with unconditional love just like she did her own children. She enjoyed playing bridge with friends while laughing and engaging in the lives and interests of those around her.

Funeral services will be held Saturday January 9, 2016 at 2:00 p.m.  at the Hemingford United Methodist Church. Pastor Teri Lucas will officiate and burial will be in the Hemingford Cemetery. A reception will follow at the church. Visitation will be one hour prior to service time at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Memorial Fund through Hemingford Community Federal Credit Union, PO Box 991, Hemingford, Nebraska 69348. Condolences may be sent to PO Box 540846, Houston, Texas 77254

Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com with Bates-Gould Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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Funeral services for Erwin L. Keim, 96, of Chadron, Nebraska will be held on Friday, January 15, 2016 at 2:00 PM at Chamberlain Chapel in Chadron with Dr. Russ Seger officiating. Burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery in Chadron. Erwin passed away on January 8, 2016 at Rapid City Regional Hospital.

Erwin L. Keim was born in Bruning, Nebraska on September 21, 1919 to Franklin and Theresa Keim. Erwin traveled extensively before finally settling in Chadron where he lived for 60 years. Over the years Erwin held numerous jobs, farmed, raised livestock and was a supporting member of the community where is served as a volunteer sheriff posse… Erwin did things his way.

Erwin married Carol E. Stalling in 1940. He is survived by his wife, four children, Erwin Keim Jr. (Helen), Jimmy (Betty) Keim, Phyllis Moseley, and Karen Rich. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great great grandchildren as well as special friend of the family JoElla Kominek.

A memorial has been established. Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE 69337.

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com

Chamberlain Chapel of Chadron is in charge of arrangements.

Funeral services for Randolph “Randy” Reeves of Columbus, Nebraska will be held on Saturday, January 16, 2016 at 11:00 AM at Chamberlain Drabbels Mortuary in Hay Springs, Nebraska. Burial will be at Hay Springs City Cemetery in Hay Springs, Nebraska.

Mr. Reeves passed away on January 11, 2016 at his home in Columbus, Nebraska.

Randy was born on April 11, 1961 in Rushville, Nebraska

He was 54

A memorial has been established. Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Drabbels Mortuary, PO Box 443, Hay Springs, Nebraska 69347

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com

Chamberlain Drabbels Mortuary of Hay Springs, Nebraska is in charge of arrangements.

Claire Doxtator of Chadron, Nebraska passed away on January 10, 2016 in Chadron, Nebraska. Claire was born on December 29, 1941 in Fort Wayne, Iowa. She was 74

A memorial has been established. Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, Nebraska.

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com

Chamberlain Chapel of Chadron, Nebraska is in charge of arrangements.

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Dennis Dean Mercer, Sr., 65, of Alliance passed away on Saturday, January 9, 2016 at Regional Health Center in Rapid City, SD.

Dennis was born on July 16, 1950 in Cozad, NE to Walter Eugene and Dorraine Evelyn (Frederickson) Mercer.  He graduated from Morrill High School in 1969.  Following graduation he attended Denver Automotive School and came to Alliance in 1970.

On October 30, 1971 he married Marlys Mathews.

Dennis enjoyed fishing, camping and deer hunting.  He was a very active fireman for the Alliance Volunteer Fire Department until ill health forced his retirement.  He was a life member of the Eagles Club.

Dennis would have done anything for anyone even though he had been dubbed as a “grumpy old man.”  His grandchildren were his pride and joy.  He also had a special place in his heart for a special niece, Jeanette, that was like a daughter to him.

He is survived by his wife, Marlys, his son, Dennis Dean (Susan) Mercer, Jr. of Omaha, his daughter, Echo Lynn (Robert) Marti of Lincoln, NE, his 5 grandchildren, Izic and Emily McCoy, Dylan Mercer, Lily and Jaxson Marti.  He is also survived by his father, Walter E. Mercer of Douglas, WY, his brother, Keith (Donna) Mercer of Salt Lake City, UT, his sister, Diana (Sidney) Shelburne of Chattanooga, TN and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorraine and his brother, Brian.

Memorial services will be Saturday, January 16, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church with Pastor Tom Lucas officiating.  Inurnment will be in the Alliance Cemetery.

Memorials in lieu of flowers may be given to the Alliance Volunteer Fire Department.

Marilyn L. Tagart, 56, died Monday, January 11, 2016 at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.

She was born May 8, 1959 in Chadron, Nebraska to Ira and Frances (Logue) Felz.

She married Howard M. Tagart January 31, 1987 at Wayside, Nebraska.

Marilyn is survived by her husband, Howard Tagart of Alliance; her daughters, Jenny (Jason) Hager of Alliance and Jodi (Mike) Lewellen of Gering; her grandchildren, Tiara Lewellen, Jaxson Lewellen, J.J. Hager, Rhylan Lewellen, and Leo Hager.  She is also survived by her mother, Frances Felz of Clearmont, WY; brothers, Marvin (Robin) Felz of Clearmont, WY, Howard (Terye) Felz of Chadron, Bruce (Cathe) Felz of Three Forks, MT, and Hoss Felz of Chadron; and her sister, Rose Harris of Chadron.  She was preceded in death by her father.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Lyme Research Alliance, lymeresearchalliance.org; 2001 W. Main St., Suite 280, Stamford, CT, 06902; or the W.O.L.F. Sanctuary, wolfsanctuary.net; P.O. Box 1544, Laporte, CO, 80535.

Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.  Bates-Gould Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

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Edna (Behm) Panwitz, 102, died January 15, 2015 at Highland Park Care Center.

She was born August 17, 1913 to Henry & Anna Behm at their home east of Alliance. She grew up on a small farm with her 5 brothers and 1 sister. Edna only completed the 8th grade and then helped her family by working for neighbors cleaning and doing chores.

Edna met her husband Chris at a barn dance and they were married May of 1932. To this union they had three children, Gerald, Luella & Connie.

Edna was a very hard worker. She and Chris raised all kinds of livestock and poultry as well as farmed. She sold milk, eggs and chickens to local families and the creamery. She raised a beautiful garden and flowers. She was also a wonderful cook.

One of her and Chris’s favorite things to do after a hard day’s work was to go the neighborhood dances. We would all go to town as a family and sit on Box Butte Ave visiting with the neighbors and eating Rex hamburgers.

She enjoyed playing cards and was very talented making beautiful hand embroidery scarves and pillow cases. She also enjoyed the quilting group at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Until her death she enjoyed many activities that were offered at the Sandhills Assisted Living and Highland Park Care Center.

She has left many memories to her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her son, Gerald (Marge) Panwitz of New Braunfels, TX, her daughter, Connie (Jerry) Underwood of Alliance, NE,.  She is also survived by eleven grandchildren,  Mike (Bonnie) Dickenson of Casper, WY, Cynthia McBride, Max, Jack & David Dickenson,  Becki  (Gregg) Miller of Santa Barbara, CA,  Beth Panwitz of Muncie, IN,  Chris Panwitz of New Braunfels, TX, Dana Hall of Alliance, NE , Dawn (Nick) Salitros of DeHaag Netherlands, Jay (Mindy) Underwood of Colorado Springs, CO. Her pride and joy were her great- grandchildren, Whitney, Kellon, Christopher, Charlie and Nash, and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, five brothers and one sister she was preceded in death by her husband, Chris in 1984, her daughter, Luella in 2002, and a grandson, Bruce in 1960.

Funeral services will be held Thursday January 21 at 10:30 a.m.  at Immanuel Ev.  Lutheran Church with Reverend Martin T. Schnare and Reverend Richard C. Mueller officiating. Burial will at the Alliance Cemetery. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 1-7 p.m.  at Bates-Gould Funeral Home.

Memorials may be given to either Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church or IEL School, 1024 Box Butte, P.O.  Box 715, Alliance, NE 69301

Other memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, www.woundedworriorproject.org or the missionaries MEISSNER-BELIZE through Lutheran Church MO Synod, PO Box 66861, St. Louis MO 63166, www.lcms.org/Meissner  or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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