Ruth Ann Messersmith, 74, of Gering, went home to the Lord on Sunday, March 17, 2019 after a long battle with cancer. A memorial service will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, March 23, 2019 at St. James Lutheran Church in Scottsbluff. Cremation has taken place. Memorials in Ruth’s honor may be made to St. Jude’s Cancer Center.

Ruth was born June 13, 1944 in Scottsbluff to Henry and Amalia (Martin) Hoffman. She graduated from Scottsbluff High School. Ruth attended college in Omaha where she received her Bachelor’s in accounting.

She worked as a manager for motels in the area before becoming the office manager at Herbergers where she was employed until the store closed.

Survivors include her husband, Tony; daughters, Debbie (Jim) Rose and Elizabeth (Robert) Graves; son, Jeff (Teresa) Messersmith; six grandchildren; and one great grandson.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; five siblings; and great grandson, Jason Frey.

She was loved and will be missed by all who knew her.

Virginia M. (Becker) Cook, 88, met her Heavenly Father on Thursday, March 14, 2019 at Well-Life Assisted Living Center, Scottsbluff, Nebraska surrounded by her children. Visitation at Dugan-Kramer Funeral Home will be held on Friday, March 22 from 1 to 7 p.m. Services will be held at Emmanuel Congregational Church, 310 W. 40th Street, Scottsbluff, Nebraska at 10 a.m. with Pastor, Garry Schick officiating. Interment will be at Fairview Cemetery. Please join the family following the service for a luncheon to celebrate her life – Hampton Inn Convention Center, Redrock Room, 301 West Highway 26, Scottsbluff. Virginia was born August 27, 1930 in Scottsbluff to David and Mollie Becker and received her education at Lake Alice Schools and later graduated from WNCC GED Program. She married Elmer G. Cook on June 3, 1951 in Scottsbluff and was married for 62 years. They made their home in Scottsbluff, Alliance and Morrill, before returning to Scottsbluff for their retirement. A talented seamstress, avid quilter, exquisite cook and baker, Virginia shared her gifts with many family, friends, guests, and those in need. Virginia worked as faithful farm wife for many years. After her children were grown, she worked for Morrill Public Schools cafeteria and then for Duncan Drapery in Morrill for 35 years. After moving to Scottsbluff, she was employed by Scottsbluff Public Schools as a transportation assistant for special needs students and received her 15-year service award. After a brief absence, she returned to the same position until the first week of January, 2019. She was loved and graciously cared for many children beyond her own and found joy in caring and loving children of many ages. Her family and friends were inspired by her strength, faith, tenacity, energy, and graciousness. Over the years, Virginia was a member of Panhandle Quilt Guild, Platte Valley Bank Ambassador’s Club, Nebraska Cattlewomen’s Association, WIFE, Daisy Garden Club, Morrill Woman’s Golf Association, numerous bible studies, various church organizations, and Emmanuel Congregational Church. Survivors include her three children, Jana Longoria (Mike), Gordon Cook (Tina) of Scottsbluff, and Renee Griffith (Richard) of Casper, Wyoming. Seven grandchildren: Zach Johnson of Castle Pines, CO; Trevor Johnson (Lindsey), Court Cook (Leslie), Meghan Krajewski (TJ) all of Scottsbluff; Alexis Kiesel (Cody) of Gering; Morgan Benson (Austin) of Chelan, WA and Austin Griffith of Colorado Springs, CO; and five great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings: Betty Grasmick, Larry Becker (Patricia), Albert Becker (Shirley), and Pat Hardt (John) all of Scottsbluff. She was preceded in death by her husband and parents. Memorials would be appreciate to Well-Life Assisted Living, 617 West 33rd Street, Scottsbluff, Nebraska, 69361 for the outstanding care and support Virginia received as a resident or Emmanuel Congregational Church, 310 W. 40th Street, Scottsbluff, Nebraska in recognition of her commitment and dedication.

Sophia Monroe Escamilla, infant daughter of Rolando and Shannon Escamilla, was born at rest on Monday, March 18, 2019 at Scottsbluff, Nebraska.

She is survived by her parents, Rolando and Shannon, her brothers, Christopher Escamilla and Matthew Escamilla, her grandparents, Gary Stairs, Sr., and Federico and Angelica Escamilla.  She is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family. She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Connie Stairs, her uncles, Gary G. Stairs, Jr. and Kyle Stairs along with numerous other aunts, uncles and other relatives.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, March 26 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church with Father Tim Stoner officiating.  Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Memorials may be sent in care of the family to 1116 Potash Avenue, Alliance, NE  69301.  Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com with Bates-Gould Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Patricia O. Hayward, 93 passed away at her home in Lancaster, CA on March 15, 2019.

Patricia was born in Syracuse, Kansas to Winifred and Bernard Klase. She attended 2 years of high school in Mullen and graduated from Curtis in 1944. On November 28, 1946 Patricia married Burdette Hayward and of this union was born Linda, Ed and Bonnie.

Patricia was a member of O.E.S. and the UCC Church of Hyannis and she was very active in both. Surviving Patricia is Linda of Lancaster CA, Ed of Toston MT, Bonnie of Cheyenne WY and step daughter, Sharline Haney of Hyannis NE, five grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sister in law, Lily Klase.

Patricia was preceded in death by her husband, Burdette, her parents, Winifred and Bernard Klase and brother, Don Klase.

Graveside services will be held at the Whitman Cemetery at 11 A.M. on Saturday March 30th with Rev. Roy Monahan officiating. Dinner will be served at the Hyannis Congregational Church in Hyannis following the service.

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

Darwin Elvin Jespersen, 86, passed away March 24, 2019 at Box Butte General Hospital in Alliance.
He was born on March 15, 1933 to Elvin and Mabel (Jordan) Jespersen on the family
farm near Hemingford.

On November 23, 1955 he was united in marriage to Shirley Fry at St. John’s Lutheran Church
in Alliance. Shirley passed away on November 20, 1999.

On October 11, 2001 Darwin married Carole Christ. Carole passed away on October 12, 2018.
Darwin is survived by his children and their spouses, Donald and Joni Jespersen of Hemingford,
Brenda (Jespersen) and Greg Krieser of Omaha and Ronald and Barbara Jespersen of
Hemingford, and his grandchildren, Taylor Jespersen, Gina Jespersen and fiancé Kolt
Osentowski, Kaila (Krieser) and Jeff Brabec, Karl Krieser and girlfriend Laura Shillito, and
Kalvin and Christen Krieser, Patrick Jespersen, Aaron Jespersen and girlfriend Brigette White,
Kaitlyn (Jespersen) and Kyle Kumpf, and Lee Jespersen. Great-grandchildren, Kendall
Jespersen, Iven Brabec, Elayne Brabec, Jeromiah Brabec and Kynlee Drews. He is also survived
by his sister, Devona (George) Tschacher of Cheyenne, WY and his brother, Duane (Barbara)
Jespersen of Mesa, AZ.

Darwin’s wife, Carole Christ’s children: Patricia Christ, Thomas and Diane Christ, Jane (Christ)
Walton and husband John Raile, Elizabeth Anne (Christ) Gould, husband Dr. Jon Gould, Sarah
and John Taylor, seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

In addition to Shirley and Carole he was preceded in death by his parents, infant son and infant
daughter.

Darwin graduated from Hemingford High School in 1950. He enlisted in the United States Air
Force and started basic training December 25, 1951. He spent most of his time stationed in
Panama at the end of the Korean War.

Darwin and Shirley made their home on the family farm west of Hemingford. His passion was
family, land and cattle. In addition with his involvement in the farm, he served on many boards
including the Farmers Coop, District 57 School Board, Farm Service Agency, a 4-H leader and
active at the Box Butte County Fair. He was a member of the James Barry Post #9 American
Legion and the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Alliance. He was instrumental in the
consolidation of District 10 and the advancement of dial telephone in rural Hemingford. In the
80’s and 90’s Darwin enjoyed expanding his feedlot. Purchasing cattle on the Blackfoot
reservation in Montana was a highlight. Conservation was important to Darwin. He began
planting trees with his grandfather in the 1930s. He passed on that legacy by planting trees
alongside his grandchildren. Over his lifetime he and his family planted over one million trees.
Darwin and his family received the Omaha World Herald Conservation Award. Darwin and
Shirley moved to Alliance in 1990 and bought a vacation home in Branson, Missouri in 1992.
During this time they began to welcome their grandchildren and supporting them in their various
interests.

After Shirley passed away, Darwin reconnected with his high school sweetheart, Carole
(Heeren) Christ. After their marriage Darwin moved to Omaha where they lived for 17 years.
During this time Carole and Darwin were involved in the Aksarben Livestock Buyers Club.
In 2017 Darwin and Carole moved back to Hemingford. Darwin became part of the Treasured
Grounds family. The Avenue of Flags and Veterans Corner were special to Darwin. He really
appreciated the honor shown to the veterans.

Darwin most cherished these things in his life: God, family, friends and his country.
Memorial services will be Thursday, March 28 at 10:30 a.m. at St. John’s United Lutheran
Church with Reverend Tim Stadem and Reverend Kent Bryant officiating. Darwin will be laid to
rest with military honors at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance.

Darwin Jespersen memorials may be sent to the Hemingford Community Federal Credit Union
(P.O. Box 991, Hemingford, NE 69348) for the Hemingford American Legion Avenue of Flags.

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

Harley N. Jensen, 94, of Hay Springs, Nebraska passed away on March 24, 2019 at the Western Nebraska Veteran’s Home in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.  He was born on October 24, 1924 in Omaha, Nebraska to Harold and Agnes Jensen.

A visitation, open to the public will be held on Friday, March 29, 2019 at Chamberlain Drabbels Mortuary in Hay Springs, Nebraska from 6:00 – 7:30 PM.  Private family graveside services will be held on Saturday, March 30, 2019 at Fairview Cemetery in Rushville, Nebraska with Sonia Wilcox officiating.

Military honors will be provided at the graveside service by the Army National Guard and the Rushville Veteran’s Honor Guard.

A memorial has been established.  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 Drabbels Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial services will be held at St. Peters Lutheran Church on April 6, 2019, at 10:30 AM. Burial will be at the Mirage Flats Community Cemetery and lunch at the church will follow.

Donna Jean Kuskie was born February 26, 1928, the eighth of eleven children of Frank and Bessie Kuskie who lived on a farm near Rushville, Nebraska. The family had moved there from Beaver City in 1926.

Donna taught at the Banner School and after WWII met Russell Lynn Alcorn of Hay Springs. They were married at St. Peters Lutheran Church on the Mirage Flats in 1948, and they began farming Irrigation Unit # 3 on the Mirage Flats. In 1959, they moved to the Lee Alcorn farm and also bought adjacent irrigation Unit #34. Donna Jean was active in the community and St. Peters Lutheran Church, as well as helping Russell Lynn on the farm.

Russell Lynn and Donna Jean enjoyed many years of hard work on the farm and raised registered Angus bulls as well as crops for feed and cash and bountiful gardens for table fare. Donna always expressed thankfulness for the wonderful life they had in the community of the “Happy Danes” there on the Flats. Donna Jean and Russell Lynn retired in 1995 and moved to Chadron. Donna continued to be active in the LCW, church music program, and other activities such as Flower Mission and Quilting Group at the church.

Donna Jean died March 22, 2019 at Pioneer Manor in Hay Springs, Nebraska where she had resided the past 5 years.

She is survived by sons, Bruce and wife Debbie of Port Orchard WA, Don and wife Echo of Grand Island, NE, and Daughter Cheryl and husband Jamie of Thousand Oaks, CA. Donna also has 9 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Donna Jean was preceded in death by all of her siblings, parents, husband Russell Lynn, and son Richard (Dick).

A memorial fund will be established for the Chadron Hospice and St. Peters Lutheran Church.  Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Drabbels Mortuary, PO Box 443, Hay Springs, NE  69347.

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com

Marie E. King Grover, age 89, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 30, 2019 at her home.

She was born March 4, 1930 in Shohola, Pennsylvania to Harvey and Priscilla (Schields) McKean.

Marie was a painter for over 45 years and was well known for painting inside and outside many of the area homes.  She retired in 1999.

She was an avid trap shooter and taught hunter safety for many years.  She enjoyed baking, gardening, dancing and sewing, having sewn many hand sewn quilts for her family.  Her biggest love was her family.

Marie worked many years for the Box Butte County Fair.  She was a member of the Alliance Eagles Auxiliary and Eastern Star.

She is survived by her children, Cheryl (Tom) Dasher, Dan (Sharla) King, and Steven (Jennifer) King all of Alliance, Glenn (Sheila) King of Hemingford, Diane (Tim) Bellamy of Scottsbluff, and Vickie-Lynn King- Fritzler of Chadron.  She is also survived by 18 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren; her brother, Hugh McKean of Shohola, PA; sisters, Jenny Davis and Francie McKean both of Shohola, PA and Clara (Bob) Plucinsky of Lincoln Park, NJ; her sister-in-law Joan McKean of Shohola, PA; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her infant son Raymond, and her brother, Harvey McKean.

Funeral services will be held Friday, April 5, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at the Bates-Gould Chapel with Jeanie Sedivy officiating.  Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery.  Visitation will be at the funeral home on Thursday from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with the family being present to greet friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Memorials may be given in care of the family at, 606 Toluca Ave., Alliance, Nebraska, 69301 for a memorial to be designated later.

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

Graveside service for Adelaide Walther of Crawford, Nebraska will be held on Friday, April 5, 2019 at 2:00 PM at the Crawford City Cemetery with Pastor Tim McCrary officiating.  A visitation will be held on Friday, April 5, 2019 from 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM at Chamberlain Chapel in Crawford.

Adelaide passed away on March 31, 2019 at Pioneer Manor Nursing Home in Hay Springs.  She was born on November 11, 1917 in Quick, Nebraska.  She was 101.

A memorial has been established for the Pioneer Manor Nursing Home.  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.

Robert Eugene Dickinson, age 66, of Minatare, Nebraska passed away on April 1, 2019, at Regional West Hospital. Memorial services will be held at 2 PM on Friday, April 5, 2019, at Buckboard Arena (140500 S 14th St. Gering, Nebraska). Online condolences may be left at www.dugankramer.com. Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Robert was born on July 20, 1953, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. His parents were Laurel Dickinson and Mary Gerhard. He attended Hope and Highland Elementary Schools, Scottsbluff High School, as well as Nebraska Western College.

He married Pamela Becker on February 25, 2011, and they lived near Lake Minatare where Robert farmed.

Survivors include sisters Patti (Don) Ryan and Mary Ann (Mike) Davis, wife Pamela Dickinson, son Torey Armstrong, daughter Tessa Armstrong. Robert also had three nieces and two nephews. He was loved by extended family members as well as many friends. He was preceded in death by his sisters Barb and Linda as well as his parents

Earl “Grumpy Man” Clifford Conley, 67, passed into Christ’s Heavenly Kingdom on April 4, 2019, surrounded by his family, at Davis Hospice Center in Cheyenne, WY.

He was born on January 30, 1952 to Clifford and Phyllis Conley in New Castle, WY where he spent most of his childhood. His family later moved to Chadron, NE where he graduated high school and met his soul mate Doris Hensel.

Earl and Doris were married on April 21, 1972. Together they had two beautiful daughters, Delana, who married Don Hamilton, and Christine, who married Steven Price.

In October 1975 Earl was in a car accident that left him disabled and with brain stem damage. This did not stop Earl from taking care of his family.  He always worked hard to overcome the challenges of his disability and always had a great sense of humor about it.  He loved his family and was the best husband, father and grandfather he could be.

Earl and Doris lived in Alliance, NE from 1975 to 2004 when they moved to Cheyenne, WY to be closer to their grandson.  Earl worked at the Del Range Wendy’s as a host for nine years and was known around town as the Wendy’s Grandpa.

Earl is survived by this mother Phyllis Conley, his brother, Jim (Twila) Conley, his sister,  Bonnie (Byford) Avery, his daughter Christine (Steven) Price, his son-in-law,  Don Hamilton, and his grandchildren Jared Price, Rachel Price, and Landon Hamilton.  He is preceded in death by his father, Clifford Conley, his wife, Doris Conley, his daughter, Delana Hamilton, and his niece, Jennifer Avery.  He will be greatly missed by all of us until we meet again.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 9 at 10:00 a.m. at the Alliance Berean Church with Pastor Glenn Nelson officiating.  Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery.

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

With sadness, the family of Maria T. Chikos announces the passing of their beloved Mother, Yiayia and Great Yiayia. On the evening of April 4th, 2019 with family members at her side, Maria took her last breath on earth and entered Heaven. She was a remarkable woman with tremendous faith, strength, selflessness, and capacity to love. Maria was the cornerstone of our family and will be greatly missed. Born on May 10, 1927 in Meligalas, Greece, Maria died a few weeks shy of her 92nd birthday. After raising her two brothers and a sister, she immigrated into the United States in October 1951 through Ellis Island, to live with her uncle in Chicago. She visited Bridgeport in 1952 and met the love of her life Ted J. Chikos and was married to him for 30 years. She loved living on the farm, just down from Angora hill, where they raised their seven children. Maria was proud of her Greek heritage and was a member of the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Bayard for 66 years, and very rarely missed a Sunday service. Her passions in life were centered around church, walking, gardening, cooking, enjoying her family, friends and neighbors, following the Cornhusker teams and the Greek Freak. Her baklava has always been a favorite at the Greek Festival. In 1986 Maria moved into town, across from the park, after her husband Ted passed away. She is most proud of her 20 years of service as a cook in the Bridgeport School System and her 30 years of service at the Bridgeport nursing home. Through these experiences she grew to know just about everyone in town. Maria is survived by six children: John (and Jeanine) of Baton Rouge, LA, Pete (and Robin) of Seattle, WA, Mike of Norfolk, NE, Irene Pappas of Bridgeport, NE, Jim (and Michelle) of Rapid City, SD, and Daniel of Cebu, Philippines; her sister Vasso in Greece; thirteen grandchildren (Jennifer Adams, Jayme and Julie Chikos; Andy Chikos and Kay Tomoson; Cody Chikos; Christopher Chikos, Heidi Bailey and Michael Chikos; Nicholas and Johnny Pappas; Tyler and Kaili Chikos); and twelve great-grandchildren (Duncan and Piper Adams; Adeline Chikos; Theodore Tomoson; Colton, Karly and Kiera Chikos; Thomas and Madeline Chikos; Hannah, Eva, and Jonah Bailey).

She is preceded in death by her parents Pete and Ethel Mintzas, two brothers (Aleko and John Mintzas), her husband Ted, and son George. Services will be held Monday, April 8, 2019, at 10:30 AM at the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Bayard, with Father Christodoulos George Papadeas of Denver officiating. Internment will be in the Bayard Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 3-6 PM Sunday with a Trisagion Prayer Service to follow at 6:00 PM, both at the Greek Orthodox Church. Memorials may be made to the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church. Online condolences may be left at www.bridgeportmemorialchapel.com

May Her Memory Be Eternal

Yasou!!

Memorial services for Nels Wayne Engebretsen, 76 of Chadron, NE will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2019 at 10:00 AM at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Chadron with Pastor Peter Bertram officiating.  Inurnment will take place at a later date in the Lusk Wyoming City Cemetery.

Mr. Engebretsen passed away on April 5, 2019 at his home in Chadron, Nebraska.

Nels was born on December 21, 1942 in Lusk, Wyoming.

A memorial has been established for Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.  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.

Donna Rose Huck-Block, 76 of Bayard, Nebraska passed away Sunday, April 7, 2019 after a brave 38-year battle with Addison’s disease with her family by her side in Waco, Texas. She was born to Manuel and Kathryn (Schwindt) Huck, March 10, 1943 in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Donna graduated from Bayard High School in 1961 and received a BA in Elementary Education from University of Wyoming in 1964. She then went on to get a Masters of Educational Administration at the University of Nebraska in 1979 and was a proud member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority. She met the love of her life, Ron Block, at 16 when he was a carry out boy at the Coop Food Store and they married on August 18, 1963 and were happily married for 55 years. Donna is survived by her husband Ronald Block, their only child Denise Block-Van Amburgh and her husband Ronald Van Amburgh, Jr. She is also survived by her two grandchildren who were the apple of her eyes Ron III and Brittany. Donna loved teaching Kindergarten and 4th grade at Bryant Elementary. She later became the Media Specialist at Lincoln Heights and Roosevelt Elementary Schools. Her teaching career spanned 32 years until she retired in 1996. Donna was a loving and doting mother, but even a more loving and caring grandmother. She loved to scrapbook, sew and bake with Brittany and followed Ron’s III athletic career and helped him gain his Eagle Scout. Later in life, she enjoyed her Ladies of Corte Bella group in Sun City West, Arizona as well as, supporting Ron and Denise with their horse racing and breeding business’s. Donna and Ron along with her daughter Denise and Ron purchased her first race horse, Mr. PYC To You, who won the 2017 Champion of Champions. It is the most prestigious race in Quarter Horse Racing and it was the largest major race upset in racing history at 60:1. Her funeral service will take place at the Scottsbluff First United Methodist Church on Friday, April 12, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday between 7-9 pm at Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel. The family asks that friends and family make donations in support of the Shriners Children’s Hospital, in lieu of flowers. Online condolences may be left at www.dugankramer.com.

Adelaide Florille (Hansen) Walther was born on November 11, 1917 in Quick, NE to M. Peter Hansen and Georgia (Cramer) Hansen.  She died on March 31, 2019 at the Pioneer Manor in Hay Springs at the age of 101 years.

She grew up on the family farm in Frontier County north of McCook, NE.  The family all worked together and when it was time for high school they bought a house in Curtis.  Adelaide graduated from there in 1936, took the training necessary to teach school, and in the fall of 1936 began her teaching career in a one room country school.  She would teach in many more of these in counties across Nebraska including Dawes and Sioux county.

On May 20, 1939 she married her high school sweetheart, Bruce Walther.  As newlyweds they headed for Chadron, NE so Adelaide could renew her teaching certificate and were amazed at the beauty of the pine ridge.  They would eventually return, and purchased land east of Belmont and built a beautiful log home from the trees harvested on their property.  They were able to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in 1989 at this log home.

Bruce passed away November 16, 1989 of a sudden heart attack.  Even while grieving his death, Adelaide was able to stay at the log house and continue their dream of working the place. She would stay there for the next 26 years, always appreciating the many people who helped her be able to stay at the log home.  In December of 2015 her health mandated full care and she resided at the Pioneer Manor Nursing home in Hay Springs surrounded by more loving caregivers until her death.

Visitation will be Friday, April 5 from 9am to 1:30 pm at Chamberlain Chapel of Crawford. Graveside services will be Friday, April 5, 2019 at 2pm at the Crawford City Cemetery.
A memorial has been established for the Pioneer Manor Nursing Home.  Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE  69337.

Francisco Julian Rodriguez, 73, of Gering, passed away on April 1, 2019 at Regional West Medical Center. His Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 Am on Friday, April 5, 2019 at Christ The King Catholic Church in Gering with Father Mike McDonald officiating. Burial with military honors by the Nebraska National Guard Honor Guard will follow at West Lawn Cemetery in Gering. The Rosary will be recited at 6 PM on Thursday at Christ The King Catholic Church. Visitation will be held from 1-4 PM on Thursday at Gering Memorial Chapel and at the church prior to the Rosary Service. Memorials may be given to Boy Scout Troop #17 or Christ The King Catholic Church. Online condolences may be left at www.geringchapel.com

Frank was born February 1, 1946 at Scottsbluff, Nebraska to Julio and Isabel (Perez) Rodriguez. He received his education in Gering, graduating with the Class of 1964. He enlisted in the Nebraska National Guard on December 6, 1965 and served for 35 years until his honorable discharge on December 5, 2001. Frank was united in marriage to Gloria Hernandez on November 6, 1965 at Gering. The couple made their home in Gering all their married lives.

Frank worked at various companies, retiring from Regional West Medical Center. He was an active member of Christ The King Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus Council # 10285, and the Gering American Legion Post #2. He loved to watch Nebraska football, Western Nebraska Pioneer Baseball, and NCAA and NBA basketball.

Frank was loved by all who knew him and always had a smile on his face.

Frank is survived by his wife Gloria Rodriguez of Gering; children: Francisco J. Rodriguez II of Cheyenne, WY, Samuel (Alice) Rodriguez of Omaha, Denise A. Rodriguez (Efrain Santoyo) of Cheyenne, WY, and Andrew P. (Jessica) Rodriguez of Cheyenne, WY; grandchildren Kayleigh (Adam) Larson, Bobbyjo Rodriguez, Chelsey Rodriguez, Tyler Rodriguez, Carina Colin (Noe Torres), Genaro Colin, Efrain Santoyo Jr., Ramiro Santoyo, Abbigail Rodriguez, and Kurtis Rodriguez; great-grandchildren Clare, Luke, and Benjamin Larson, Jedediah Rodriguez, and Lilya, Saul, and Vianey Torres; sister Mary Ellen Garcia of Denver, CO; brothers Mark (Jennie) Rodriguez of Denver, CO and Anthony (Ginger) Rodriguez of Maryland; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Frank is preceded in death by his parents, sister Phyllis Ramirez, and mother and father-in-law Josephine and Lorenzo Hernandez.

Alfred J. Kortum, retired State of Nebraska District Judge, 86, of Scottsbluff, died Wednesday, April 10, 2019 at his home after a short battle with cancer. Cremation has taken place at his request and there will be no visitation. His memorial service will be held at 10am on Saturday, April 20, 2019 at the First United Methodist Church in Gering with Pastor Seth Leypoldt officiating. Interment will follow at West Lawn Cemetery in Gering with military honors rendered by the Gering American Legion Post #36 Honor Guard. The family respectfully requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials in Alfred’s honor be made in care of the First United Methodist Church of Gering, Panhandle Humane Society, or the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be made by viewing Alfred’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff is entrusted with arrangements.

Alfred was born on May 2, 1932 in Charlo, MT to Edward W. and Ella (Seiling) Kortum. He grew up mainly in Lincoln, NE and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1950. In 1952, during the Korean War, he enlisted in the United States Navy and he was honorably discharged in 1954.

Alfred then enrolled at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and received his Bachelor Degree from UNL and in addition in 1960 he received his Juris Doctorate from the College of Law at UNL. In 1961, he commenced the practice of law in Gering with the law firm of Holtorf and Hansen. During his law practice years and during the Vietnam War, he served as board member and later chairman of the Scotts Bluff County Selective Service board. He also served on the Panhandle Humane Society Board during this period of time. In 1972, he was appointed as State of Nebraska District Judge for Scotts Bluff County and the panhandle of Nebraska by then Governor JJ Exon. He served as District Judge for 25 years and was blessed to help the attorneys in his court try their cases and settle and resolve their clients’ differences. He was an over 50 year member of the Gering First United Methodist Church and the American Legion Post 36, and served on the Board of Directors of the Scottsbluff Family YMCA after his retirement.

In 1957, while in college, he married Dorothy Sara Simons in Lincoln. To this union was born two children: Sarah Lynn Kortum Jones (Frank) and two grandchildren Kylie Ann and Ian Conner Jones of Fremont, CA; and son Philip Ted Kortum (Rebecca Richards-Kortum) and six grandchildren Alexander, Maxwell, Zachary, Kate, Elizabeth and Maggie Kortum all of Houston, TX. His first wife Dorothy preceded him in death from cancer. He is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

In 2001 he married former Nebraska State Senator Joyce Hillman and was blessed to become a member of the Hillman-Kortum families. The Lord blessed him with the unity and love of his two combined families. He enjoyed traveling with both of his families throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and especially Hawaii. He loved fishing and golf, especially golf… He also enjoyed singing with the Sugar Valley Singers for a number of years.

Alfred is survived by his wife Joyce; stepdaughter Janine Sue Hergenreder (Bob), Shari K Copsey (Monty) and grandchildren Brian and Brad Johnston all of Scottsbluff and Terry Hillman (Cindy) of Rapid City, SD; grandchildren Ryan Hergenreder (Shawn) and great-grandchildren Malaya Osuba of Missouri, Joshua, Noah and Emma of Scottsbluff, NE and great-great-grandchild Mason of Missouri; Trevor Hergenreder (Liz) and great-grandchildren Carter and Tanner of Scottsbluff, NE; Meggan Rice (Garret) and great-grandchildren Hollen and Hobbs of Rapid City, SD; and Stephanie Eardley (Duke) and great-grandchildren Decker and Dean of Mountain View, WY.

Bernard Girard passed away April 8, 2019 at Box Butte General Hospital.

Memorial services will be Tuesday, April 23 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church with interment to follow at Calvary Cemetery.  A wake service will be Monday, April 22 at 7:00 p.m. at Holy Rosary Church.

A complete obituary will be posted when it becomes available.

L. Dale Johnson, 84, of Hemingford passed away Wednesday, April 10, 2019 at Box Butte General Hospital with his wife Jeanne at his bedside.

Dale was born on March 10, 1935 to Peter and Edna (Powell) Johnson on the family farm near Berea. He was the youngest of six children, while growing up he learned to farm at an early age. Dale attended grade school in Berea and graduated from Alliance High School. While attending high school, he met the Love of his Life, Jeanne. On January 31, 1954 he was united in marriage to Jeanne F. Hullinger. Their first home was at the beloved family farm. They welcomed their first son, Michael Dale in February 1955, and second son, Gregory Lee joined them in March 1958. They lived on the family farm until Dale became interested in flying while watching his older brothers who were both pilots. Dale successfully earned his Private Pilot License; he continued to fly and earned his Commercial Pilot License. Shortly after that the family moved to Scottsbluff, NE., where Dale continued to fly and became the owner of Bluffs Aviation, he continued with this business for several years, and influenced his son’s Michael and Greg to become pilots. Several years later Dale wanted to return to farming, the family moved back to Hemingford family farm, Dale continued farming until his retirement.  Dale loved the outdoors and growing things, he loved tending to his garden and his yard, which had to be done his way. When the Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren came along, he lit up when they came through the door. Dale enjoyed life to the fullest; he will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Jeanne, his sons and their wives, Michael and Paulette Johnson of Hemingford and Gregory and Jenny Johnson of Grape Vine, TX.  He is also survived by his 4 grandchildren, Nicole (Chad) Livingston of Burke, VA., Aaron (Heather) Johnson of Alliance, NE., Cassey (Jon) Worthman of Scottsbluff NE. and Sean (Tara) Johnson of Lincoln NE.  And 13 great-grandchildren: Dylan, Colton, Avery, Connor, Ethan, Greyor, Cora, Claire, Emmett, Paxton, Stella, Trabor and Maya.  His sister, Lucille Appleby of Tucson, AZ and numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Arthur and Harold, and his sisters, Hazel Brennan and Elaine Marsh.

Funeral services will be Thursday, April 18 at 2:00 p.m. at the Alliance Berean Church with Pastor Glenn Johnson officiating.  Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday, April 17 from 2-7 p.m. at the Bates-Gould Funeral Home in Alliance.

Memorials may be sent in care of the family at 1600 CR 70, Hemingford NE  69348 or to the charity of the donor’s in Dale’s name.

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