Lucille Amateis, 93, of Bridgeport, passed away Tuesday, Feb 12, 2019 at Morrill County Community Hospital in Bridgeport. Her funeral service will be held at 10am on Friday, Feb 15 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Bridgeport with Reverend Allen Strawn officiating. Interment will follow at Oregon Trail Memorial Cemetery in Bridgeport. Visitation will be one hour prior to service time at the church. The family will be receiving friends and guests on Thursday, Feb 14 at Lucille’s home from 5-7pm. The family respectfully request that memorials in Lucille’s honor be made in care of the family to be designated at a later time. Online condolences may be made by viewing Lucille’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Funeral Home in Bridgeport is entrusted with arrangements.

Lucille was born on Aug 23, 1925 in Bayard, NE to Alex and Katherine (Weitzel) Stricker. She was the seventh of eight children. She attended school at Bayard Public School and graduated in 1943. After graduation, she held numerous jobs including the Bayard 5&10, where she met Albert Amateis. They were married March 11, 1950. To this union three children were born; Michael Albert, and twins Johnny Alan and Jennifer Alyne. Lucille loved her family and did whatever was needed to contribute to their well-being including milking cows to sell cream, raising chickens to sell eggs, feeding calves and pigs and stacking small square bales of hay. Her stacks were the straightest around.

In 1982, Lucille and Albert moved into Bridgeport where she cared for the Bridgeport City Parks. They never missed a baseball game, birthday party, or school event for their grandchildren. Her hobbies were her yard and flowers, crocheting and puff painting sweatshirts and attending craft fairs. She loved to cook. Some family favorites were frogs (ravioli) and butter ball soup. She always had an Oreo cookie jar full of Oreos for the family to snack from. She will be lovingly missed by her family and friends.

She is survived by her children Michael Amateis and significant other Maria Roberts, John (Connie) Amateis, and Jennifer Amateis; grandchildren Chris (Heather) Amateis, Corey (Megan) Amateis, Melissa Amateis, Stephany (Joel) Haussman, John C. Amateis, Kristin (Adam) Bahl, Brandon (Chelsea) Amateis, Joshua (Ryan) Cox, Sara (Joshua) Bartella, Jill (Rusty) Jenkins, Ryan (Martha) Cox, Randy (Emily) Cox, and Tessa (Barrett) Palombo; 26 great-grandchildren; brother Leo (Wilma) Stricker; sister-in-law Rosie Stricker; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

Her husband Albert Amateis, parents Alex and Katherine (Weitzel) Stricker; brothers Dave (Dorothy) Stricker, Walter Stricker, Alex (Esther) Stricker; and sisters Esther (Jim) Fricke, Lydia (Fred) Bolzer, Elsie (Leo) Liakos all preceded her in death.

To send flowers to the family of Lucille Amateis (Stricker), please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

Barbara Jane (Hood) Henderson passed away February 14, 2019 at Highland Park Care Center in Alliance, NE at the age of 87. Bates-Gould Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Services will be Tuesday, February 19, 2019, 2 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Alliance. Following the services friends are invited to join the family for dessert at the West Side Event Center.  Visitation will be Monday from 1-7 p.m. with the family being present from 4-7 p.m. at the  Bates-Gould Funeral Home.

Barbara was born to Robert and Hazel Hood August 16, 1931 in Scottsbluff, NE. The second of four daughters, she spent her early childhood in Sioux County where her father was a ranch hand. Her first teacher was her mother, but she later attended school in Harrison and Scottsbluff, where she graduated from high school in 1948. She worked as a secretary at Consumer Public Power in Scottsbluff before her marriage to William R. Henderson on May 11, 1952 at the United Methodist Church in Scottsbluff. Together they ranched with his father and brother under the Earl Henderson & Sons banner in Sioux and Box Butte Counties.

A strong-willed woman with an incredible work ethic, she always seemed to have time for one more task or volunteer mission. As a young woman she was her father’s hired hand. She could saddle and ride a horse, rake hay, check water, fight fire, care for a house full of youngsters, and cook for an infinite number of people—branding and bull sale day were special events.  Barbara loved to make bread, pies, and great roast beef.  In her mind “food was love” and sharing her table was the greatest gift you could give her.  Until arthritis claimed her hands, she was a beautiful seamstress, making suits for her and her husband to wear to Hereford functions and bull sales.

Her work as a secretary was very important to her and its lessons followed her throughout life. A file for everything and everything in its file. She kept meticulous ranch records. It is ironic she died on Valentine’s Day as one story she enjoyed telling about her days as a secretary, was the Valentine’s Day she left work to find a handsome neighbor sitting on his car in front of the building with a smile on his face. His mother had talked her parents into allowing him to drive her home for the weekend, and to bring her back to Scottsbluff on Sunday. In later years she even shared a box of love letters he had written her. After sharing them with a grandson, he commented “Pa had game”.

Barbara cherished her active role in the lives of her four children. Along with her husband, Barbara was a 4-H leader of the Belles and Bobbies and Barrel Springs 4-H Clubs and a volunteer from 1962 to 1985. She attended calf shows and fashion shows. She ran the 4-H Food Booth at the Box Butte County Fair and served on the 4-H Council. She was the driving force behind the idea that every member of the 4-H club should give a speech or demonstration; a little public speaking is good for everyone.

There was nothing she enjoyed more than caring for her grandchildren. She attended their livestock shows, rodeos, school and church programs, speech meets and plays. She taught them cooking, sewing, and driving. A day at Grandma’s didn’t mean watching TV and laying on the couch. There was gardening, cooking, cleaning and delivering snacks to the hay crew and their help was needed to make that all happen. The reward for a day’s hard work was often a bonfire which ended with homemade ice cream made by Grandma and churned by Pa.

She served as treasurer for the Alliance Chapter of Soroptimist International and enjoyed worshiping at the Alliance Methodist Church where she participated in Bible study and the Methodist Faith Circle. She was a member of the Nebraska Cowbelles and the Nebraska Hereford Auxiliary.

She is survived by her four children: William R. Jr. (Pam); E. Douglas (Sally) all of Alliance and daughters Ann Henderson and Carla Berglund both of Mesa, AZ. Her grandchildren: Jeri Massie, Gary Henderson, Shea (Zach) Baird, Sage and Cody Henderson, Trey and Micayla Berglund and great grandchildren Anthony Massie and Owen and Libby Baird. She is also survived by two sisters, Roberta Laursen, Lakewood, CO and Margie Boardman, Reedley, CA; in-laws Dorothy Henderson, Alliance and Mary Jane (Tom) Gray, Vale, OR and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She is also survived by her life-long best friend Joan Johns of Omaha, NE. She is preceded in death by her husband and sister Shirley Laursen.

The family suggests memorials to the Box Butte County 4-H Council, 415 Black Hills Avenue, Alliance NE 69301 or The United Methodist Church of Alliance, 704 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance, NE, 69301.

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

Les Douglass, 79, passed away Thursday, February 14, 2019 at his home in Alliance with his family by his side.  Les was a hardworking man who was dedicated to his family and extended family.

Les was born to Lawrence and Vera Douglass in Cushing, NE on June 10, 1939.  He married Karen Rolston of Alliance on March 22, 1959.  To this union 3 children were born, one dying in infancy.  Les was a hardworking man who did a lot in his lifetime.  He worked as a ranch hand, in a furniture store and doing construction work that involved building Interstate 80.  He also owned a Texaco Station in North Platte with his older brother.  He later took a position in Lincoln with Wells Fargo a route carrier and supervisor for 20 years.  After that Les and his wife moved to Verdigre, NE managing a small cattle and hog operation.  Then in 1990 they decided to move back home to the Sandhills residing in Ashby.  There he worked for Village of Hyannis for 21 years and served as a Grant County Commissioner for 12 years.

Following the passing of his wife Karen in 1995 he continued to reside in Ashby.  Later he was blessed with Marcia Walters coming into his life.  After his retirement Les and Marcia traveled, going to Hawaii, Alaska and Nashville.  They also were busy going to grandkids games.

He is survived by his daughter, Debra Douglas of Yankton, SD, his son, Brian Douglass of Lincoln, Marcia’s children, Greg and Suzie Walters of O’Neill, NE, Steve and Tina Walters of Mitchell, NE, his grandchildren, Cody Burkhardt, Rianna Douglass, Bobbi, Brandi and Blake Walters, Alexis Brening, Darryn and Lyndsey Walters and great-grandchildren, Daniel, Alaynah and Brie.  He is also survived by his brothers, Vance (Jan) Douglass of Ashby and Dennis Douglass of Grand Island.

Les was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Karen, his friend, Marcia Walters, his infant son, David, his brothers, Jerald and Alvin and his sisters, Freda Hagmann, Leila Wempen and Janice Hendrickson.

Memorial services will be Saturday, February 23 at 10:30 a.m. at the Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Hyannis with Reverend John Stubenrouch officiating.  Interment at the Ashby Cemetery will be at a later date.

Over a century ago, a baby girl named Mary Ruth Freeman was born to Chris and Salina Susan Freeman in a small house near the Brazos River in Brazos County Texas.  The year was 1917 and the date was October 22.  She passed away on February 13, 2019 at her home in Gordon, Nebraska.  She was 101 years, 3 months and 23 days old.

At the age of 3, Ruth moved with her family to north central Texas and then on to Crosbyton, a small town in the Texas panhandle. It was here she spent her adolescent and teenage years and graduated from Crosbyton High School in 1936.

Two years after high school she enrolled in Eastern New Mexico Junior College and after a semester of school she moved to Las Cruses, New Mexico and began working for the Telephone Co.   It was while living in Las Cruses she met and began dating Jimmie Wheeler.  When World War II started, Jimmie joined the Navy and was immediately stationed in California.  After a year of correspondence, Ruth moved to California and Jimmie and Ruth were married on December 16, 1942.  Ruth worked in various war related industries in California while Jimmie served his time in the Pacific.

In 1945, following the end of the war, Jimmie and Ruth moved to Gordon, Nebraska to join Jimmie’s older brother Forest in the electrical business.  It was in Gordon that they chose to settle down, build a home and raise their children. Their first child Myra was born on February 12, 1946.  Their second child Kay was born on January 16, 1948 and their fourth child Harlen was born on May 1, 1954.

After the loss of James, her 7-day-old third child, Ruth experienced a spiritual awakening that would direct her steps for the rest of her life. Around 1950, she became active in the Church of God and remained active for the next 67 years.  She taught Sunday School, visited shut ins, transported the elderly to and from church and participated in endless prayer meetings.

In 1985 she lost her husband Jimmie and lived alone in Gordon until her oldest daughter Myra moved in with her in 1997.  She spent her days reading her Bible and corresponding with her friends and family.  Ruth always remembered her family on their birthdays and loved visiting with people about her Lord.  It was impossible for her to write a note, card or letter without adding a scripture or a prayer.

There was one characteristic, however, that set Ruth apart. She had the most wonderful laugh that when you heard it you couldn’t help but smile. Don Knotts and Tim Conway could trigger that laughter which usually brought tears to her eyes.  Her laughter was like music to one’s ears and made you feel that all was well with the world.

She is preceded in death by her husband Jimmie and son James.  Her parents and all of her siblings.

She is survived by her children:  Myra Wheeler Ward of Gordon.  Kay Wheeler Green of Gordon and Harlen Wheeler and wife Merry of Gordon. Her Grandchildren:  Jason Ward of Decatur, Tennessee.  Jamie Ward and wife Heather of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.  Kim South of Gordon.  Shelly Harding and husband Jason of Gordon.  Zac Wheeler and wife Stacy of Salisbury, Maryland.  Matt Wheeler and wife Jory of Gordon.  Jon Wheeler and wife Katie of Omaha, Nebraska. Her Great Grandchildren:  Brock, Brooklyn, Logan, Luke, Madison, Cassidy, Griffin, Barrett, Claire and Jake. Her many nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

A memorial has been established and donations may be sent in care of Chamberlain-Pier Funeral Home, PO Box 366, Gordon, NE 69343.

A Celebration for the life of JoAnne Norman of Whitney, Nebraska will be held on Friday,
February 22, 2019 at 10:30 AM at the United Methodist Church in Whitney with Pastor Tim
McCrary officiating. Inurnment and scattering of her ashes by the family will take place at a
later date.

JoAnne Marie Norman was born on May 23, 1931 in Alpena, South Dakota. She was the
youngest of four children born to Everett and Fannie McWilliams. She departed this life
peacefully at her home south of Whitney, Nebraska on February 14, 2019 at the age of 87.

JoAnne lived with her family in South Dakota and Kansas before moving to Crawford, Nebraska
in 1942. There she would go on to graduate from Crawford High School. In November of 1948,
she met the love of her life, Jacque Harry Norman, at a basketball game with the couple’s first
date not being planned on Valentine’s Day of 1949. Jacque was late, but she showed up with a
bouquet of flowers and a box of chocolates, so she decided to still go out with him. They were
later married on June 30, 1949 and spent the entire rest of their lives on their ranch south of
Whitney, Nebraska. There they raised two children, Mac Harry Norman and Muffy Norman
Gregg. Jacque and JoAnne were married for 64 years.

JoAnne loved her family and activities with her friends which included; time at the lake, water
skiing, bowling, bridge club, and a good scrabble game. Her home was always open with love to
all who stopped by and she always dressed sharp, even if it was to town for some groceries.
Papa Jacque always called her “the pick of the litter.” She attended many sporting events of
her kids and later grandkids and always enjoyed a good horse race. She dearly loved her
husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who lovingly and devotedly called
her “GRANNY” and they will greatly miss their days with her.

She is survived by her daughter, Muffy (Bob) Gregg of Lorenzo, NE; 10 grandchildren and 29
great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her father and mother, husband Jacque, Son Mac, sisters Shirley
and Phyllis, and brother Harley.

A memorial has been established for the Whitney Methodist Church or the Chadron Home
Health and Hospice. 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.

Terry Don Muhr, 79, passed away at home in Gering, on February 17, 2019. Cremation has taken place and A Memorial Service will be held at 2 PM on Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at the Church Of Christ with Pastor Jonathan Seng officiating. Inurnment will follow at Oregon Trail Memorial Cemetery. Memorials may be given in care of the family for a designation at a later time. Online condolences may be left at www.dugankramer.com

Terry was born on July 13, 1939 in Bridgeport, Nebraska to Allen B. and Helen B. (Hutchison) Muhr. He married Claire Mae Stuart on September 14, 1957 in Banner County and they lived in Bridgeport and surrounding areas throughout his life. He worked for several farmers and ranchers as well as Morrill County Implement in Bridgeport. He also helped manage Dome Rock Manor in Gering and Harry’s Motel in Minatare.

He enjoyed spending time with his two dogs, Skeeter and Macy. He enjoyed visits from all of his grandkids near and far. He also enjoyed fishing, visiting with his friends and neighbors at Grey Eagle apartments, and listening to country music.

He and Claire always had a big garden and an extra plate at their table. Terry never met a stranger and was willing to help anyone who needed it.

Survivors include his twin brother Jerry (Carolyn) Muhr of Mitchell, NE; sister Peggy Kreiling in Minatare, NE; His children Carlene (Greg) Hansen of Scottsbluff, NE, Rollie (Elsie) Muhr of Minatare NE and Tim (Tammy) Muhr of Jacksonville, MO; Grandchildren: Melissa (Steve) Clement, April (Jay) Conn, Justin (Heather) Hansen, Jacob (Wendy) Hansen, Angie (Josh) O’Leary, Eric Muhr, Krisie (Roy) Adams, Kyle Muhr and Alek Muhr. He is also survived by 10 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren

Terry was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, 2 brothers, and four sisters.

Former local pastor, the Rev. Robert Randall Brauninger, 77, died on February 17, 2019, at the Highland Park Memory Care Center in Alliance. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, February 27, 2019, at 1:30 p.m. at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church with Fr. Coke McClure officiating.

Fifteen of Dr. Brauninger’s 42 years of ordained ministry in the United Church of Christ were at his first parish in Hemingford (1976-1991). He also served First Presbyterian Church of Alliance and Crawford UCC. While in Hemingford, the clergy team led several innovative, community-wide programs through the church, including Mini-School, a youth group, a day camp/Bible School called SCAMP, and the Dial-Your-Church daily meditation program.  His garage teemed with waiting recyclables. He was active in the Nebraska Farmers Union.

Bob and Dee also served in West Point, Exeter-Friend Parish, and Burwell.  He also served as liaison minister to area UCC clergy and as a representative of the UCC World Board. In retirement, he was pastoral visitor in Port Angeles, WA, and coached international students in English at Peninsula College.

For 18 summers, he led the Adventures in Community Outdoors Ministry Kamp for persons with intellectual disabilities. He also led 18 International Affairs Youth Study and Cultural Seminars in New York City and Washington DC.

Modeling tolerance, Bob’s life and ministry carried a sense of respect and the oneness of all people. He was a gentle, quiet encourager of all ages, whether nurturing three foster children or serving the YMCA of Bangkok as a World Service Worker. After graduation from the University of Missouri-Columbia and while at The Chicago Theological Seminary, the Brauninger couple led youth in a YMCA work-study group in Japan, later teaching English in Sapporo. Bob made several trips to Ghana on behalf of Nebraska Conference.

Bob was born in Kansas City on August 25, 1941, to Frank Edward Brauninger and Jewel Huffman Brauninger. He and Dallas Dee Andersen Brauninger were united in marriage on March 18, 1967.

His family includes his spouse; son, Samuel James Brauninger, and daughter, Teri Ann Brauninger Schledewitz (Roger). He has two great-grandchildren, Aubrey and Jakob, children of Ryan (Nicole).  Three living siblings include Frank Edward, Jr., Stephen (Carolene), and Judith Crowl (Doug). Also surviving are several nieces and nephews and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Gary and Kenneth; and a sister-in-law, niece, and grandnephew.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Leader Dogs for the Blind, 1039 S. Rochester Rd., Rochester Hills, MI 48307-3115 (https://www.leaderdog.org/).

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

Virginia Garcia, 68, died Saturday, February 16, 2019 at the University of Colorado Hospital in Aurora, Colorado.

She was born August 4, 1950 in Alliance, Nebraska to Federico and Sara (Sanchez) Alvarado.

Virginia was a graduate of St. Agnes Academy.  She later went on to work for Dayco where she worked for nearly 30 years until her health forced her retirement in 2004.  She was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church.

She enjoyed the occasional trip to Prairie Winds Casino and always enjoyed playing Bingo.  She especially loved watching and supporting her grandchildren in their various activities.

She is survived by her children, Maria Alvarado of Alliance, Abel (Laura) Garcia of Scottsbluff, Anita (Abelardo) Olvera of Alliance and Ruben Garcia of Alliance; her grandchildren, Elizabeth (Cristian) Hulsey, Adriana Olvera, Devin Garcia, Abel Garcia, Jr., Liliana Cuevas, Natalie Garcia, Aubree Garcia, Nicolas Olvera, Adan Garcia and George Hernandez; and her great-grandchildren, Ariella Werner and Angel Garcia.  She is also survived by her brother, Mike (Rita) Alvarado; her sisters, Francisca Vasquez and Teresa (Eudolio) Alvarado, all of Alliance; her daughter-in-law, Jessica Garcia of Alliance; numerous nieces and nephews; and lifetime friends, Julie Garett and Mary Reed.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Vickie Hernandez, and her grandsons, Isiah Garcia and Marcos Alvarado.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, February 23 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church.  Father Tim Stoner will officiate.  Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.  Rosary services will be held Friday, February 22 at 7:00 p.m. at the church.  Visitation will be at the funeral home on Friday, February 22 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Memorials may be given to the Box Butte General Hospital Dialysis Unit, P.O. Box 810, Alliance, Nebraska, 69301.

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

Kearney, NE – Martha (Bobbie) M. Perrin age 91 of Kearney, formerly of Hyannis, died Friday, February 15, 2019, at the Kearney Regional Hospital.

Memorial services will be held on Monday, February 25, 2019, at 1:00 PM CT at the First Church of God in Kearney with Pastor Charlie Gable officiating.  A service will also be held on Tuesday, February 26, 2019, at 1:00 PM MST at the Church of the Sandhills in Hyannis NE with Pastor Roy Monahan officiating. Private inurnment will be in the Hyannis Cemetery.  Memorials are suggested to Prairie View Gardens at 1705 Prairie View Place, Kearney, NE 68845.  Online condolences can be left at www.govierbrothers.com

Martha Marie (Mallory) Perrin was born on September 24, 1927, to Elmer and Isabel (Stinnette) Mallory joining older sister Phyllis who called her “Bobba”, which then translated to Bobbie in later years.  All of Bobbie’s school years were spent in Bingham NE and she graduated from Bingham High School in 1944 as Salutatorian at the age of 16.  After high school, she attended business school in Colorado Springs, CO.

On May 9, 1948, Bobbie was married to Harold V. Perrin at her parent’s home in Ashby. They spent the next 40 years together working at various ranches in the Sandhill.  Among others, they worked for Earl Monahan, Felix and Pete Becker, plus twenty years managing the Pullman Ranch north of Whitman NE.  Bobbie was a wonderful ranch cook; she and Harold worked together as a team.  In 1988, they retired and moved to Hyannis.  Mr. Perrin died in 2003.  Bobbie continued to live in Hyannis until the spring of 2009 when she and daughter Lynn moved to Kearney.  Bobbie loved living in a “big city” that had more than 1 grocery store.  She made many good friends, played bridge and she found a church that she thoroughly enjoyed attending. She liked playing games, working puzzles and she was an avid NE Husker volleyball/NBA fan. Bobbie and her grandsons had many conversations about NBA stats.

Bobbie is survived by her three daughters; Ronda (Leonard) Adam of Hyannis, Jackie Sathre of Arvada, CO, and Lynn Perrin of Kearney, four grandchildren; Elizabeth (Josh) Ingram of Arvada, CO, Sara (Matt) O’Neill of Kearney, Seth (Jenna) Adam of Grand Island, and Doug (Rachel) Adam of Ashby, and she was “GiGi” to 6 great-grandchildren.

Bobbie was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two infant sons, her sister and brother-in-law, Phyllis and Dean Hinton, and numerous aunts and uncles.

Connie Lee Schumacher died on Tuesday, February 19, 2019.  She was born November 25, 1937 to Percy A. Dyer and Rena F. (Dawson) Dyer in rural Box Butte County. She attended rural country schools and graduated from Hemingford High School in 1954.

On August 26, 1956 she married Keith Schumacher in Hemingford and they farmed together south of Hemingford.

She was a member of the Hemingford United Methodist Church where she was active in the UMW group. One of her favorite activities was being chairperson for the queens luncheon for the county fair. She enjoyed sewing clothes for herself and her family. She and Keith were very active in the Nebraska Flying Farmers and Ranchers organization.  She served as chapter Queen as well as the newsletter editor. They traveled with the group for many years along with hosting several fly-ins and state conventions.

Connie is survived by her husband Keith, son, Martin (Tricia) Schumacher and daughter, Linda (Steve) Petersen, both of rural Hemingford, her grandchildren, Justin Schumacher of Chad, Africa, Jeff (Natasha) Schumacher of rural Hemingford, Joelle (Sean) Wacker of Shelby, NE, and Jaimee (Titus) Cline of Frederick, MD and her  great-grandchildren, Brenna, Raegan, and Wyatt Schumacher, Rachel, Rebecca, Jacob, Elliot, and Theodore Wacker, and Adele and Elva Cline. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Keith.

Memorial services will be held on Monday, February 25 at 10:30 AM at Hemingford United Methodist Church. Pastor Esther Achi will officiate.  Interment will be held at a later date. A luncheon will be held at the Westside Events Center at Alliance following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Hemingford United Methodist Church elevator fund.

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

Henry T. Kampbell, 42, died Wednesday, February 20, 2019, surrounded by his family, at his home in Hemingford.

Henry was born December 16, 1976 in Flemington, New Jersey.  He graduated from Hemingford High School in 1995 and following graduation attended Chadron State College.  He went on to work for Sorensen’s Irrigation in Hemingford as a service technician, later at Safeway and was currently working at Parker Hannifin in Alliance.

As a young boy, Henry enjoyed spending time on the farm working with his dad, Kenny.  He was active as a boy scout, 4-H Club, FFA, federation wrestling, basketball and football. Henry’s favorite hobby was raising chickens.  He also enjoyed listening to 80’s tunes, inventing new products and had an interest in foreign currency.  Those that knew him well knew he always had a joke or a quick-witted comeback that made everyone laugh.  Henry enjoyed spending time with his nephews and was known by his younger nephews as “Uncle Hen.”  He was a member of the United Methodist Church and Pheasants Forever.

He is survived by his mothers, Linda Luce of Hemingford and Marilyn Kampbell of Ada, OK.  He is also survived by his father, Donald Kampbell and (wife) Vivian of Stratford, OK; sisters, Stephanie (Waylon) Dancer of Stratford, OK and Darcy (Ryan) Hansen of Grand Island, NE; his nephews, Alexander Dancer, Christian Dancer, Stephen Dancer, Jens Hansen, Gaven Hansen and Dane Hansen; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.  Henry is also survived by his long time best friend, Dennis Harrahill.  He was preceded in death by his grandparents and his dad, Kenneth Luce.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, February 23, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at the Hemingford United Methodist Church.  Pastor Esther Achi will officiate.

Memorials may be given to the Hemingford United Methodist Church.

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

Attachments area

Emilia (Emily) Jurado, 83, died Wednesday February 20^th, 2019, at the Mitchell Care Center, in Mitchell, Nebraska, surrounded by her children.  Her Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday February 25^th 2019, at 10:30am Christ the King Catholic Church in Gering Nebraska with Father Mike McDonald as Celebrant.  Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park in Scottsbluff.  Her viewing will be held Sunday, February 24^th, 2019 at Christ the King Catholic Church from 3pm-6pm followed by a Rosary at 6pm. The Jurado family respectfully request that memorials in Emily’s honor be made in care of Regional West Hospice or Mitchell Care Center. Bridgman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be offered at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com.

Emilia was born in Bryan, Texas on Aug 8, 1935. She was the daughter of Domingo and Rafaela Aguallo and was the oldest of 10 siblings. Emilia married the love of her life, Santiago Jurado, in 1954 and resided in Torrington, Wyoming and was a proud full time house wife and mother, while raising their 7 children before moving to Gering, Nebraska in the early nineties. Over the course of her life Emilia developed many interests, and developed a passion for her crocheting, knitting and cooking of her fabulous Mexican food. She was highly recognized by everyone for her fondness and skills in gardening and planting of her flowers. She especially enjoyed the outdoors and was very proud that her dad taught her how to fish and fillet. She always enjoyed fishing with her brothers and would always giggle and laugh when she would outdo her brothers when fishing and filleting fish. Emilia was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, who enjoyed traveling with her husband, Santiago, and her children and family.

She leaves behind seven children, son Jesse (Sharon) Jurado of Alliance, NE, daughter Ria (Terry) Scott of Scottsbluff, NE, daughter Teresa (Rick) Scott of Cleveland, NC, daughter Maria Jurado-Flynn of Atlanta, GA, son Joe (Beth) Jurado of Denver, CO, daughter Gloria (Anthony) Delgado of Denver, CO, daughter Esther (Brad) Holliday of Billings, MT, and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Santiago Jurado and parents Domingo and Rafaela Aguallo and grandchild Michael Delgado.

The family would like to thank the Mitchell Care Center and Regional West Hospice for the wonderful care and support they provided for their mom.

Gerald “Jerry” Larson

5/27/1942 – 2/19/19

THE MAN……

Jerry Larson came into this world 5/27/1942 in Omaha NE.  The son of Carl E. & Amy A. Larson.   He served in the Air Force from 1961-1965 during the Cuban Missile Crisis.   In 1965 he started work with the Omaha Fire Dept. where he achieved the rank of Fire/Paramedic Captain until he resigned in 1981. While working with the Omaha Fire Department he met his loving wife Ronda L. Ruterbories and they were married on 11/16/1973.  In 1981 Jerry moved with his family to the panhandle of Nebraska where he started work as a Deputy State Fire Marshal, and joined the Hemingford Volunteer Fire Department.  While he was with the Fire Marshal Jerry was assigned a partner to assist in his fire investigations.  Jake joined Jerry in his fight to bring arsonists to justice.  They worked as a team until their retirement in 1997.  After his retirement in 1997 he moved to Gordon Nebraska, where he Joined the Gordon Volunteer Fire Department and became Chief of the Gordon Volunteer Rescue Squad achieving the Certification of EMT Intermediate.  He was a member till his retirement in 2013.  Jerry passed away suddenly on 2/19/19. He lives on through his wife: Ronda L. Larson; his 4 children Robin Huggins, Gerald Larson Jr., Marla Larson, and Michael Larson; 5 grandchildren:  Kyle and Donald Christy, Julia and Oliver Larson, Jason McKinney; and 2 great grandchildren: Clark And Amelia Christy.

THE MYTH……

Jerry was a man who was dedicated to family, friends, and the community.  While as a Fire Investigator he never failed to answer the call.  He would be home at night and gone before morning to help the Fire Department that needed him. He would always stop in on meetings and training nights just to visit. He always strived to be there for the people who needed him; be it family events, helping friends, or assisting in the community.   Jerry was always trying to better himself and those around him.  He was always a member of volunteer departments never caring about pay or the hours he had to work.  He was there when the call came in, and stayed till the call was done.  He would always volunteer to teach classes or assist in the teaching of EMS and Fire Classes throughout the panhandle of Nebraska.   He passed on his knowledge and education to anyone who was willing to learn.  He was always taking the time to answer questions, and further people’s knowledge and experience.

THE LEGEND……

Jerry always had a Saying “The Day That I Stop Learning is The Day I am Dead”.  Though his time for learning is over, our time to carry on the legacy that he created is here.  There is not a person or department throughout the panhandle that does not know him personally, heard of who he was, or know of something that he accomplished.  Though he is gone from this world, he is happy knowing that there are people out there who are dedicated and striving to selflessly serve their community, and make things better.  He was not out to change the world, just make his little part better.   Though he may be gone he will always remain in our hearts.  He will always be there to lend a steadying hand to the newest member of Emergency Services or the oldest of veterans.

The family suggests memorials to the Gordon Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad and donations may be sent in care of Chamberlain-Pier Funeral Home, PO Box 366, Gordon, NE 69343.

Graveside services for Gerald Walgren will be held on Tuesday, February 26, 2019 at 11:00 AM at Fairview Cemetery in Rushville with Reverend Paul Smith officiating.

Albert “Gerald” Walgren passed away on February 22, 2019, at the Pioneer Nursing Home in Hay Springs, Nebraska.

He was born on May 11, 1924, at his parent’s home southwest of Hay Springs. His parents were James Edward and Emma (Anderson) Walgren.  Gerald was the youngest of five children.

He spent his early years on the farm and later attended high school in Hay Springs.  He enlisted in the Navy in June of 1942 in Denver, Colorado.  He took his basic training in San Diego and was later transferred to Treasure Island where he took a gunnery course. He was sent overseas in August of 1942 aboard a liberty ship loaded with General Grant Tanks bound for Australia. He spent thirty-two months at sea circling the globe twice during the war.  He spent most of the war in the South Pacific Theater delivering supplies to the South Pacific Islands from Australia.  In January 1944, he was transferred to the Atlantic Fleet and served there until he was honorably discharged from the Navy in October of 1945.  He came back to Hay Springs and worked as a mechanic and did part time farming for two years.

He married Pearle Walgren on June 8, 1947; in October of 1948, they moved to the ranch that was to be their home together for over 60 years.  They moved just in time for the blizzard of 1949 when they had to feed the cattle with two teams of horses.  They raised two daughters, Ginger and Jill.  As a young boy he farmed with horses, and at 93 he was still running his swather.  He often remarked about the amazing changes in his lifetime. He was an avid reader to the end and was always up on current events around the world.  He was a good neighbor and was always there to help when needed.  Gerald worked hard all his life but loved the ranch and working with his cattle the most.  He became a true steward of the land, and the animals under his care, especially his bucket calves.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Pearle, in May of 2013.  He is survived by his daughters Ginger, and her husband, Eldon Kroemer, of Arapahoe, Nebraska, and his daughter, Jill, of Rushville, Nebraska, grandchildren, Ryan Kroemer, and wife, Tina, of Waverly, Nebraska, Jeremy Kroemer and wife Tyas, of St. Louis, Missouri, great-grandchildren Kolbee, Keaton, and Norah.

A memorial has been established for the Rushville Volunteer Fire Department.  Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE  69337.

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com

Chamberlain Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Funeral services will be held March 2, 2019 at 10:00 AM at Zion Lutheran Church in Hay Springs, with Pastor Allan Wierschke officiating. Interment will be at Hay Springs Cemetery.

Trudy Walgren, age 96, died at the Chadron Community Hospital in Chadron, NE on February 23, 2019. She was born on Sunday April 2, 1922, the youngest child of Bernhard and Lydia (Jungck) Petersen.

Trudy was preceded in death by her husband Gene, her parents, three brothers, three sisters, and sons Stuart and Glen. She is survived by daughters Eunice (George) Foldesy of Frisco, TX, Joanne of Carrollton, TX, son Bruce (Donna) of Casper WY, daughter-in-law Molly of Cedar Falls, IA, grandsons Derek (Kim), Chad (Denise) both of Cedar Falls, IA, George Foldesy IV of Tulsa, OK, granddaughter Shawn Foldesy of Dallas, TX, and great-grandchildren Ashlyn, Katelyn, Rachel, and Jonathan all of Cedar Falls, IA.

Trudy grew up on a farm southwest of Rushville near where her grandparents homesteaded. Faith and religion were a key part of her life. Her family were among the founders (organizers) of Immanuel Lutheran Church near Rushville. Her immediate family and her large circle of cousins played important roles in her life as a child through adulthood. At Immanuel, Trudy and her best friend and Cousin Ruth Flueckinger-Spillman, who was her age, went to Sunday school, youth groups, enjoyed singing in the church choir together. They also sang in the high school choir. She loved to sing and would break into song at a moment’s notice, usually with a song that fit the occasion. She could also recite poems, favorite quotes, or relate stories about growing up; some of them funny, others taught life lessons.

Trudy married Gene Walgren on January 8, 1943. Together they raised five children on their farm south of Hay Springs; it was her proudest achievement. She was an elementary school teacher before and after her marriage. She began teaching right out of high school in 1939. She taught in several different rural schools in Sheridan County. As a teacher, reading was always important to her. She read to her children even though she may have been tired from her work as a farm wife, teacher, and mother.

She always enjoyed having visitors, whether at the farm or for the last seven years at Prairie Pines Lodge in Chadron. Generally, when visitors came, card games or dominoes were played while visiting and catching up on news of family and friends. If the visit occurred at mealtime, there was always room for one more plate at the table.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Zion Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice.  Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Drabbels Mortuary, PO Box 443, Hay Springs, NE  69347.

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com

Chamberlain Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Etta M. Henley passed away Sunday, February 24, 2019 in Mountain Home, Arkansas, after living in assisted care there for 6 years, being close to her son. Funeral services will be held Monday, March 4 at 2:00 p.m. at Bates-Gould Chapel in Alliance, with Jeanie Sedivy from the Alliance Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery.

Etta was born Dec 23, 1924 in Lincoln, NE to Samuel and Katherine (Wiese) Mundt.  She was married to Vern Henley on February 15, 1946, in Alliance.  They had two children, John Terry and Jan Joleen.  Etta spent her childhood and received her education in the Berea and Alliance area.  She was employed at Thieles Drug Store and Gambles.  After her marriage to Vern, she was his part-time bookkeeper and support for their Culligan businesses in Alliance and Kalispell, Montana.  She was always an avid gardener and homemaker for her family.

Since returning to Nebraska from Montana in 1993, Etta was a member of the Gering Methodist Church, the VFW auxiliary, and a shopper for seniors and the Co-Op food store in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.

Survivors are her son, John Henley, wife Phyllis, and daughter, Jan Carter, husband John.  She is also survived by her grandchildren and great grandchildren,  Erik Koshman, wife Missy and their daughter, Aubrey; Angela Voss, mother of Alex Gallo and Lillianna Voss; Amber Benjamin, mother of Cruise, Costen, and Ruby Benjamin; Alicia Fine, husband Brad, and children, Brittan and Graham.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Vern Henley, her parents Samuel and Katherine Mundt, her brothers Hans Dickinson, Christopher Mundt, LeeRoy Mundt and Elmer Mundt, and her sisters Loretta Hinman, Phoebe Franklin, Dolly Mundt and an infant sister.

Donations for a memorial may be made to the United Methodist Church in Gering, Nebraska, or your choice.

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

Twyla J. (Batterman) Metz, 95, was born into this temporary world at Broadwater, on June 11, 1923, and resurrected from her Scottsbluff home to her eternal one on February 22, 2019. Her memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 2, at 1:30 p.m. at the Church of Christ in Bridgeport with her pastor, Jonathan Seng, officiating. Refreshments and visiting will be at the Angora Club House following Twyla’s burial at the Angora Cemetery. All are welcome. Memorials have been established to the Gideons and to the Bridgeport Church of Christ.

Twyla June was the baby of the Telko A. and Nellie Mae (Hawkinson) Batterman family. She became the bride of Guy H. Metz, Jr. of Angora on December 10, 1940. The couple farmed east of Angora and east of Alliance before purchasing the home place west of Angora in 1950. Moving to Scottsbluff in 1974, they traveled and eventually settled into their Metz Road oasis. Twyla loved gardening, fishing, and spending time with her Jesus and her family, especially her grandchildren, and since 2014 she spent many hours with her special caregiver, Bonny Richards.

Twyla is survived by her three sons, Guy (Sue) Metz of Seattle, WA, Don (Mary Lee) Metz of Angora and Dwight Metz of Minatare; grandkids, Jeff (Kim) Metz of Angora, Misti (Greg) Lacy of Scottsbluff, Tiffany (John) Gaertner of Cheyenne, WY, Zac (Katie) Metz of Chamberlain, SD, Wes Metz of Cheyenne, WY, Michelle Metz of Ellensburg, WA, Brittany (Jake) Marlow of Laramie, WY, Telly Metz of Seattle, WA and Phil (Melissa) Oberg of St. Paris, OH; 14 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Neal and Wayne; sister, Rowena Hutchinson; grandson, John Samuel Metz; and two granddaughters, Lisa Bressack and Jennifer Oberg.

Daisey L. Thomas, age 95, of Gering, went home to our Lord on Wednesday, February 21, 2019 in Scottsbluff. A service will be at 2pm on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at the Rejoice Lutheran Church in Gering, Nebraska.

Daisey Lorraine Reed was born May 20, 1935 at Gordon, Nebraska to Ralph and Lorraine (Sipp) Reed. She attended school in Gordon until the family moved to Rushville when she was a child. She graduated from Rushville High School in 1952. She married Kenneth N. Thomas on December 25, 1953. The family moved to Gering in 1962. She operated a home daycare for over 30 years, enriching the lives of many children and their families. She retired and moved to Dome Rock Manor in 2000. Her love of children led her to volunteer as a foster grandmother at the Longfellow Elementary School where she touched the lives of many more children. She also volunteered every summer to help with Camp Scott, a summer camp for disabled children. She was very active and held many positions in her church over the years. She enjoyed bowling, baseball, sewing, and reading. She will be remembered with love and greatly missed.

Survivors include her son, Doug Thomas of Mitchell, NE; her two daughters, DeAnn (Ted) Kryger of Custer, SD and Debra (Lowell) McLaughlin of Midland, MI; her grandchildren, Dawn (Jon) Clark of Parker, CO, Jeremiah (Jeni) Norwood of Volga, SD, Damian (Laura) Thomas of Valparaiso, IN, Randi Thomas of Boise, ID, Danielle Thomas of Mitchell, NE, Samantha McLaughlin of Columbus, OH, and Corey McLaughlin of Marquette, MI; her great grandchildren, Logan Norwood of Volga, SD and Douglas and Owen Thomas of Valparaiso, IN; one brother, Stan (Stella) Reed of Iowa; one sister, Shirley Stouffer of Rushville, NE; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ken, and her sons David and Dennis.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday March 2, 2019 at the Seneca Auditorium at
10:00 AM MST with Pastor Insung Kim officiating. Burial will be in the Seneca
Cemetery with Military Honors. Memorials are suggested to the Seneca Church, the
Seneca Auditorium or the Seneca Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Friday March
1, 2019, 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Mullen Funeral Home.

“Doc Larry Isom or Captain Isom to some, passed from this world on Tuesday,
February 26, 2019, with his wife of 48 years by his bedside. He was highly thought of in
the medical community, as well as the military community, long after retiring from twenty
years of service.

When asked if he would consider being the medical advisor to Rosalynn Carter aboard
Air Force Two, he declined. He joked about taking a position aboard Air Force One if it
were offered, though.

Larry was born in Mullen, NE. on September 18, 1950 to Marion and Paul Isom. After
graduating at seventeen, he enlisted in the United Air Force for the next 20 years. He
served in Vietnam and came home to start school in the medical field, while still serving
in the military. After all of his medical schooling, he became an officer.

He married Nancy Hilderhoff on January 23, 1971. To this union was born Christina
(Kelly), David (Sarah), and Angela (Kevin).

Larry loved the Lord, family and country. Whether you knew him as Doc, Captain, Dad
or Grandpa, he was a very humble man in all titles. His grandchildren were his pride
and joy.

Although he made it out of Vietnam alive, his doctors were reasonably sure his type of
pancreatic cancer was caused by Agent Orange, like so many other vets have acquired
while serving in Vietnam.

Larry had no regrets for going to war,
It was part of his duty to his country and more.
He served twenty years of complete dedication,
He was top in his medical classes each year.
A field that he loved and held so dear.
His patients came first, just like his military career.
No matter life’s requests, he knew God was always near..

Larry retired from two careers early, where we began to travel and enjoy each other’s
company. Then, the day came in our retirement years, that people so dread.
It’s cancer, he has pancreatic CANCER, The doctors found.
I sat in that doctors office white walls all around,

It was so eerily quiet, just the word cancer, a deathly sound.
Through chemo, radiation and whipple surgery he fought all the way.
Larry hung in there fighting to stay with me, another day.
God called him home, He must have needed him more,
He gave all of us borrowed time to spend before closing the door.

Larry beat the cancer, in the end you see,
It only caused his death on earth, for now he is free.
He’s alive and is with family and God for all eternity.

Larry was proceeded in death by his parents, Marion and Paul Isom, his In-Laws, Dale
and Ruth Andersen, Brother-In-Law Ed Hilderhoff.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Isom, of Mullen, children, Christina (Kelly) Sack, of
North Platte, David (Sarah) Isom, of Crete, Angela (Kevin) Snyder, of Topeka, KS, his
14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Robert
(Peggy) Isom of Las Vegas, NV, a sister Sharon (Bob) McMullen of Burwell, and a
sister-in-law Bonnie Hilderoff of Mullen.