Clifford “Dean” Garringer, 81, of Aurora passed away on Thursday, March 28, 2019.
To honor Dean’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be a burial of ashes in Yankee Point Cemetery in North English, Iowa.  All Faiths Funeral Home of Grand Island is serving the family.
Dean was born Feb. 18, 1938 in North English, the son of John and Bertha (Claypool) Garringer.  He grew up and received his education in Iowa.
On May 3, 1974, Dean was united in marriage to Gwendolyn Raschke Anding.  Following their marriage, they lived in Omaha, relocating to Grand Island in 1976.
Dean was in the restaurant business most of his life.  He and Gwen owned and operated The Eatery of Grand Island.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Gwen; children, Deborah Garringer of Grand Island, Karla (Ed) Parsons of Grand Island and Michelle Garringer of Omaha; three grandchildren, Jessica (Steve) Verba, Shanna (Tim) Taylor and Katie (Michael) Wiese; four great-grandchildren, Barrett Verba, Broderick Verba, Blake Verba and MaKenna Wiese; a brother, Charles Garringer of Conroy, Iowa; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.  
He was preceded by his parents and nine brothers.
Online condolences may be left at www.giallfaiths.com.

Daniel J. Bykerk, 80, of Aurora, died Friday March 29, 2019 at Westfield Quality Care.  A mass of Christian burial will be held on Thursday, April 4 at 10:30 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament in Grand Island.  Father Martin Egging will officiate.  Visitation will be Wednesday from 5-7 p.m., with a Rosary at 7 p.m., at All Faiths Funeral Home.
Daniel was born on Nov. 3, 1938 to Daniel and Anna (Seaman) Bykerk, in Spalding.  He graduated from Spalding Academy with the class of 1956.
He was united in marriage to Loretta Hodson on Sept. 18, 1965.  Four children were blessed into this union.  Following their marriage, they lived in Grand Island for one year and then moved to Phillips.  Dan was employed as a truck driver before moving to B&Y Supply and finally settling at Bonneville Manufacturing.
Daniel was a member of Blessed Sacrament Church, a Cub Scout Master, and the mayor of Phillips for 13 years.  He enjoyed going fishing, and spending time with his dogs.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Loretta; children, Christina “Tina” (Tim) Mullins of Cairo, Michele (Mike) Schuele of Grand Island, Reba (Lance) Jones of Marquette; Kevin (Echo) Bykerk of Grand Island; grandchildren, Emilio, Isiah, Cortney, Joselyn, Ethan, Annalise; brothers, Edward (Sonja) Bykerk, Paul Bykerk, James Bykerk; sisters, Rosemary (Lynn) Douglas, Eileen (Roger) Deiterman, Carol Shuda, Elizabeth Buresh, Rita (Jerry) Keezer; and several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.
Daniel was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Dorothy Koehler; brother, Joseph Bykerk; and nephews, Robert Koehler and Brian Buresh.
Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation.
Online remembrances may be left at www.giallfaiths.com.

Kay Omel, age 66, of Giltner, passed away Saturday, March 30, 2019, at Westfield Quality Care in Aurora.
Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 3 at the United Methodist Church in Giltner. Rev. Kathy Uldrich will officiate. Interment will be in the Giltner Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday at the United Methodist Church in Giltner.  Memorials may be made to the family to designate at a later date.  Higby-McQuiston Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be e-mailed to the family through the mortuary website at www.higbymortuary.com.
Kay Frances Omel, the daughter of Francis and Mildred (Halbmaier) Skupa, was born in Hastings, on July 18, 1952 and passed away in Aurora, on March 30, 2019, at the age of 66.
Kay graduated from Campbell High School in 1970.  She graduated from Mary Lanning School of Nursing as a Registered Nurse on June 1, 1973.  During her 40 year nursing career Kay worked at Eastern Ambulance and Mary Lanning.  Before retiring in October of 2014, Kay had been working at Homestead Nursing Home for last 14 years of her career.
Kay married Dennis Bartlett on August 12, 1972.  They had two daughters: DanYel and Kelly.
Kay married Elton ‘Skeeter’ Omel on April 17, 2004.  She cherished her time attending her grandchildren’s many activities and traveling to many beautiful places.
Kay enjoyed barrel racing, country music, especially George Strait and Jimmy Buffet, dancing, avid collector of antiques, proud Husker and Raiders fan and loved sand volleyball.  She was the proud great-granddaughter of Julia Pavelka for whom the book “My Antonia” was written about.  Kay enjoyed giving presentations about the book and history behind it.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Julia and brother-in-law, Bob.
Those who remain to cherish her memory are her husband, Elton ‘Skeeter’; her two daughters, DanYel (George) Hill and Kelly (Logan) Giger; Skeeter’s children, Nicole Omel, Andrea Hall and Brady (Beth) Omel; grandchildren, Quinten, Cassie, Colton, Noah, Daniel, Madison, Sydnee, Colton, Hope, Connor, Fostin and Julion; brother and sister-in-law, Steve (Jenny) Skupa  and other relatives and friends.

Maylon Hanson, age 88, of Grand Island, passed away on Friday, March 29, 2019, at the Grand Island VA Medical Center.
Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 3 at the chapel of Higby-McQuiston Mortuary in Aurora. Rev. Adam Snoberger will officiate. Interment will be in the Aurora Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday at Higby-McQuiston Mortuary in Aurora. Memorials may be made to the family to designate at a later date.  Condolences may be e-mailed to the family through the mortuary website at www.higbymortuary.com.
Maylon John Hanson, the son of Paul and Julia (Shaneyfelt) Hanson, was born in Aurora, on Nov. 25, 1930 and died in Grand Island, on March 29, 2019, at the age of 88.
He grew up on the family farm north of Aurora. Maylon graduated from Aurora High School and then began farming with his family.  In 1950, Maylon married Katherine Shull and they had three children: Bruce, Katheryn and John.  Maylon served in the U.S. Army Signal Corp for two years being honorably discharged in 1954. He returned to farming and being a part-time rural mail carrier.  In 1970, Maylon went into the aviation business, starting, Aviation Services and Avionic Systems in Grand Island.
In 1989, Maylon married Karen Keiper.  They resided in Grand Island, where they attended Trinity Lutheran Church.  After retiring in 2002, Maylon remained active, helping others and having time for their trips to the casino.
Maylon was very involved in his community.  He was a member of the Fire District, Fair Board, Flying Farmers, Saddle Club, Jaycees, where he served as the State Vice President for Nebraska and was a 63-year member of the Aurora American Legion Post #42.  Maylon carried his Christian faith throughout his life, he especially loved his family, yet also took time to care for those around him.  He enjoyed making Christmas cookies and candies with family and tinkering with anything mechanical.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother and sister-in-law, Donald and Pat Hanson and first wife Katherine.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Karen of Grand Island; children, Bruce (Lisa) Hanson of Aurora, Katheryn (Mike) Peters of Bullhead City, Arizona, John (Sandy) Hanson of Papillion, Tony (Vickie Rodabaugh) Keiper of Grand Island and Monte (Jody) Keiper of Crystal Lake, Illinois; 17 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren and many other relatives and special friends.

Don H. “Wrinkle” Culver, 88, of Aurora, died Saturday, March 30, 2019 at Memorial Community Care in Aurora.  Graveside services will be held Thursday, April 4, 2019 at 2 p.m. at the Central City Cemetery.  Visitation will be on Wednesday, April 3 from 5-7 p.m. at Solt-Wagner Funeral Home in Central City.  Memorials are suggested to the family.  Condolences may be sent to the family at www.soltwagnerfuneral.com.
Don was born on Oct. 5, 1930 to William J. and Hilda S. (Rann) Culver in Central City.  He attended Central City Schools into high school and enlisted in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict, serving on the USS Carbonaro before graduating.  While stationed in San Diego, CA, he met and married Corana L. Wimer on Sept. 23, 1952.  After being Honorably Discharged in 1952, Don returned to the Central City area to try his hand at farming near Clarks and start a family.   In 1960, he closed that part of his life off and moved into Central City to do different jobs over the years.  He drove truck off and on, as well as working at Lepp and Larsen John Deere, along with other jobs until his retirement from Hampton Co-op.  He and Corana enjoyed camping, travelling, and seeing the sights in their RV for many years, until her health ended that.  In his younger years he was involved in the Jaycees, the local Presbyterian Church and groups around town.  He was also a long time member of the Central City Fire Department, earning an award for heroism due to saving a young girl from drowning in a local sand pit.
He was a man of few words and had an ornery streak and a way to make people laugh with it.  He was well known for his trademark nickname, “Wrinkle” that he wore proudly when spoken to.  Was dedicated to his beliefs and steadfast devotion to his family and friends.  He was always ready to help in any way he could.
He is survived by his six children: son, Bill and Sandy Culver of Phoenix, AZ, John and Cheryl Culver of Milford, Don A. Culver of Manhattan, KS, daughter, Jo and her husband Roger Carlson of Shickley, Tom and Mary Culver of Lake Havasu, AZ, daughter Kathy and her husband Brian Vossler of Wilber, along with eleven grandchildren, many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.  He also has one living brother, Robert Culver of Lincoln.
He was preceded in death by his one child, David Ray in 1964, his wife, Corana in November of 2018, his parents, and a brother Bill, and a sister Rogene Dilley.
Fair Winds and following Seas Sailor.  We have the watch.

Ieleen Marjorie Larsen, 95, of Lincoln, died at the Monarch Hospice House in Lincoln on Wednesday, April 3, 2019.
Ieleen was born Jan. 17, 1924, in Marquette, to Alfred and Agnes Serine (Andersen) Nissen. She grew up on the family farm and graduated from Marquette High School in 1941. She attended Grand Island Business College and worked for Radio Intelligence of the Federal Communication Division in Grand Island.
Ieleen married Gilbert Danhauer Larsen on April 3, 1944, in Kronberg, and they made their home near Marquette where they farmed. Together they raised two children, Twila and Dan. They moved to North Platte in 1961 where Ieleen worked for Schweser’s Clothing and later the Internal Revenue Service for 10 years.
She was very committed to a strong relationship with God and supported many activities within the First United Methodist Church of North Platte where she was an active member of the United Methodist Women.  She was also an active member of the North Platte Shrine Auxiliary and supported the Salvation Army.
Ieleen was an excellent cook, sharing recipes from her Danish heritage for all to enjoy. She was a gracious hostess at holiday celebrations, with family traveling from throughout the U.S. to enjoy her warm welcome and family traditions. Ieleen appreciated the beauty of flowers and planted lovely flower gardens around her home. Gifts of bouquets always delighted her and she would lovingly tend to them, extending the life of each blossom to enjoy their beauty as long as possible. She taught herself to play the piano and xylophone at a young age and entertained her family and church congregation with her talent.
Ieleen’s spirit of nurturing was evident in the love and care she gave to her family. Her marriage to Gib lasted 66 years and they were known as an inspiration to all who saw their enduring bonds of devotion. Her children and grandchildren knew they could always depend on her wise guidance and comfort in times of need.
Ieleen leaves behind to cherish her memories her son and daughter-in-law, Dan and Ann Larsen, of Dayton, Ohio and son-in-law, Roger Voss, of Lincoln; nine grandchildren, Trevor Larsen, Tiffany O’Day, Tara Laymon, Tami Schmitt, Adrian Voss, Kristin Williams, Megan Scott, Devin Larsen and Dana Wright; 15 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and special friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Gilbert, and their daughter, Twila Voss; great-grandson, Douglas Hoegemeyer; her parents, Alfred and Agnes Nissen; and brothers, Dean Nissen and Irvin Nissen.
Cremation was chosen.  Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 8, 2019, at Southwood Lutheran Church, 4301 Wilderness Hills Blvd in Lincoln.  Graveside service and burial of her cremains will be at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 10, 2019, in Fort McPherson National Cemetery, south of Maxwell.
Memorials are suggested to the North Platte First United Methodist Church or the Shrine Club Transportation Fund.  The memorial book may be signed at odeanchapel.com or at the services.  Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore is in charge of arrangements.

Annette Jean Johnson, age 77, of York, died Saturday, Feb. 23, 2019 at Lincoln. She was born March 21, 1941 in Minden, to Alferd and Dorothy (Epke) Bienhoff. She was married to Duane R. Johnson, and was later divorced. Annette worked for several years as a waitress in York County. She enjoyed attending Senior Center activities and was an avid card player.  
She is survived by her daughter Deborah K. (Michael) Mitchell of Littleton, CO, daughter Pamela J. Murray of York, son Brian D. Johnson of Sioux City, IA, and daughter Brenda A. Johnson of York. Annette is also survived by her dog Chesney,  brothers Roger (Glenda) Bienhoff and Rick (Kathy) Bienhoff, both of Minden,  and Randy Bienhoff of Kearney, grandchildren Matthew (Courtney) Mitchell of Littleton, CO, Andrew (Jenelle Seret) Mitchell of Littleton, CO, and Molly (Chris Boatright) Mitchell of               Ireland, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She is preceded in death by her parents, former husband, and son-in-law Dave Murray.
Memorial services are scheduled for 1:30 p.m., Saturday, April 13, 2019 at the Metz Chapel. Private family inurnment. No viewing or visitation, cremation. Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation.
Condolences may be left for her family at www.metzmortuary.com.
Metz Mortuary in York is in charge of arrangements.

William “Bill” V. Kuehner, 88, of Doniphan, died April 6, 2019. With undeterred spirit, he met the challenges presented by pulmonary fibrosis. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 10. Family will greet guests from 3-7 p.m. Tuesday, April 9 at Apfel Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Doniphan Senior Center, Giltner Community Center, Aurora Memorial Hospital, and the Phillip’s Cemetery. Online condolences may be directed to www.apfelfuneralhome.com.
Bill was born Feb. 20, 1931 in rural Phillips to William E. and Frieda (Stoppkotte) Kuehner. He grew up in rural Phillips and attended Dearing School District 32 through 8th grade. Bill then attended Phillips High School where he played baseball and basketball, graduating in 1948. He was drafted into the United States Army on April 4, 1952 and served in the 101st Airborne Screaming Eagles Division during the Korean War. He was stationed at Fort Knox and Camp Breckinridge, KY, until he was honorably discharged on April 3, 1954.
On August 31, 1963, Bill was united in marriage to Carolyn E. Guenther in Grand Island. The couple lived in rural Hamilton County where he farmed and raised cattle his entire life. They were married for 55 years.
Bill served on many boards throughout his life including: Five Points Bank Board of Directors, Giltner School Board, Upper Big Blue NRD, Farmers Union Cooperative Association, Central Co-op Non-Stock Transport, and the Warm Slough. He enjoyed hunting, piloting small aircraft and traveling, especially to Germany and Montana. Bill enjoyed the 3 o’clock coffee group and was honored to be able to have gone on a Korean War Hero Flight. He thoroughly enjoyed fireworks and the freedoms they represent. He was an eternal optimist.
Survivors include: wife: Carolyn Kuehner of Doniphan; children: Karla (Jack) Obermeier of Grand Island, Kenda Kuehner of Kearney, Kaila (Clint) Mailahn of Denton, William (Jennie) Kuehner of Hamilton County; grandchildren: Tanner Obermeier, Elena Kuehner, Garrett Kuehner; brother: Richard (Nancy) Kuehner of Phillips; sister-in-law: Dorothy (Lorin) Bremer of Lexington; special cousin Gabi Kühner and Gerd Lorch of Heilbronn, Germany; nieces: Lori Bremer, Brenda Valasek, Julie Kennedy; and great nieces: Tecla, Elly, and Lily.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Chuck Jansen, age 85, former Aurora businessman passed away on Wednesday, April 10, 2019, at Aurora Memorial Hospital.
A Memorial Service will be held 10:30 a.m., Friday, April 26 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Aurora. Rev. Loras Grell will officiate. Inurnment will be at later date in the Atkinson Cemetery. No Visitation.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to designate at a later date.   Higby-McQuiston Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be e-mailed to the family through the mortuary website at www.higbymortuary.com.
Charles Louis Jansen, the son of Ed and Mary (Steinhouser) Jansen, was born in Atkinson, on Feb. 23, 1934 and passed away in Aurora, on April 10, 2019, at the age of 85.
Chuck’s parents were in the middle of moving from one farm sted to another when Chuck decided to come into this world.  He grew up on a farm west of Atkinson.  Chuck attended country school through 8th grade and graduated from St. Joseph High School in Atkinson.
Chuck married Carolyn Cobb at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Stuart.  They lived on a farm for 1½ years then moved into Stuart and purchased a grocery store and meat processing business which they operated for 7 years under the name of Jansen’s Market.  To this union were born three children:  Wayne, Jody and Casey.  While in Stuart, Chuck was a member of St. Boniface Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus and a volunteer fireman.
Chuck worked at Grand Central Super Value in York as a meat cutter before purchasing the Herbst Drive-In at Aurora in January 1964.  After a year, the Drive-In name was changed to Chuck’s Drive-In.  He also owned and operated a half section of farm ground south of Aurora for 12 years.  He enjoyed working with cattle.
Chuck was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, and Honorary Lifetime member of Knights of Columbus.  He served on the Chamber of Commerce board four years, Aurora Country Club board two years and Aurora Park Board 12 years.  He also supported a stock car, bowling teams and Little League baseball.
After selling the Drive-In in 1998 Chuck worked at Schneider’s Hardware and enjoyed raising a picture perfect garden every summer.
He was preceded in death by one infant son, Casey; his parents; his only brother, Ed Jansen, Jr.; two sisters, Evelyn Skrdla and Mary Catherine Estes; three brothers-in-law, Lawrence Skrdla, Ray Estes and Bert Kunz.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Carol; daughter, Jody (Dale) Moore of Aurora; son, Wayne (Mary) Jansen of Golden, Colorado; 5 grandchildren, Amber, Jake, Justin, Levi and Lacy; 3 great-grandchildren, Tyler and Emma Burkett and Sophia Romero; two sisters, Edith Kunz and Irene Cobb, nieces, nephews, friends, staff and coffee crowd that hung out at the Aurora Veterinary Clinic and all the lives he touched through Chuck’s Drive-In.

Francis “Bud” Irwin, 90, of Central City, died Tuesday, April 16, 2019 at Bryan East in Lincoln.  Funeral services will be Friday, April 19, 2019 at 10 a.m. at the United Presbyterian Church with Pastors Doug McHargue and Nick Schonlau officiating.  Visitation will be Thursday, April 18, 2019 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Solt-Wagner Funeral Home in Central City.  Burial will be in the Central City Cemetery.
Memorials are suggested to the family to be designated at a later date.  Condolences can be sent to the family at www.soltwagnerfuneral.com.
Bud was born on Sept. 14, 1928 to Francis and Bertha (Conard) Irwin in Newport.  Bud grew up in Newport and graduated from Newport High School in 1946.  He entered the United States Air Force where in 1948 where he served in Niigata, Japan and Offutt Air Force Base as a Staff Sergeant in the Motor Pool.  He married Dorothy L. Butt on Nov. 22, 1953 at the First Christian Church in Central City.  The couple lived on a farm north of Central City until February of 1968 when they moved to rural Hordville and farmed until he retired to Central City in October of 1990.  Bud continued to farm 80 acres near Hordville until 2012.
Bud enjoyed so many things in his life; he had a CB Radio business, remodeled his rental homes, and enjoyed the maintenance on them.  He enjoyed going to farm sales looking for tractors and parts for them.  He loved the work that he did on restoring his tractors.  Bud’s proudest accomplishment besides his six great-granddaughters was restoring a single row, left handed, corn picker.  The Coop, Oliver, and Cockshutt were some of the many tractors Bud restored.  He enjoyed driving them in parades and going to Clay Center to Old Trusty Days.  Bud delivered funeral cards around various towns with his wife Dorothy for over 18 years and also delivered Meals on Wheels.
Bud was a Board Member and past President of the Farmer’s Coop Gas and Oil.  He served as a District 50 Board Member.  He was baptized in the First Christian Church and was an Elder, Deacon, and adult Sunday school teacher.  He was currently a member of the United Presbyterian Church in Central City.
Bud is survived by his wife Dorothy; one daughter Karla and Richard Person of Hordville; three grandchildren November and Nicholas Schonlau; Lindsay and Jesse Hengelfelt; and Austin Francis and Sarah Person;  six great-granddaughters Avery Hengelfelt, Callie Hengelfelt, Autry Person, Maddie Hengelfelt, Britton Schonlau, and Jolie Person.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one son Kevin Dale Irwin; one brother Dewey Irwin; one sister Esther A. Irwin Skinner;  two sisters-in-law Katherine Kanter and Illa Jean Scherer; parents-in-law Otto F. and Susie Butt; four brothers-in-law Adolph Butt, Clarence Kanter, and Donald Skinner, and Jim Stufft.

Judith Lee “Judy” Wiegert, 76, of Grand Island passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at CHI Health St. Francis surrounded by her family.
Service and celebration of Judy’s life will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 23,  at All Faiths Funeral Home.  Daniel Naranjo will officiate.  Burial will be in the Wiegert Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Monday at All Faiths Funeral Home.
Judy was born Oct. 13, 1942 in Minden, the daughter of Harvey and Ardelle (Petersen) Vang.  She grew up in Grand Island and graduated from Grand Island Senior High, class of 1960.
On November 16, 1961 Judy married Larry P. Wiegert and they made their home in rural Grand Island.  Over the years, Judy was employed with Kaufmann’s Dime Store, Capital Theater and Five Points Bank from which she retired in 2013, after 42 years.
Judy was a 4-H leader, a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, member and officer of the Chamber of Commerce and a 50-year member of her card club.
A cancer survivor for ten years, Judy was always upbeat and positive.  “Give it everything you’ve got” was her motto.  She loved playing cards, reorganizing, decorating for all seasons, mowing, and painting, but her greatest enjoyment was attending her grandchildren’s sporting events.
Those left to cherish her memory include her husband, Larry; children, Lynn (Sue) Wiegert of Grand Island, Kim (Dwayne) Bergmark of Phillips and Mark (Stacie) Wiegert of Grand Island; seven beloved grandchildren, Emily, Kara, Jamie, Scott, Kinser, Tucker and Chase; brothers, Raymond (Marilyn) Vang of Grand Island, Kendall Vang of Aurora, CO and Randall (Pam) Vang of Wichita, KS; sister, Patty Morris of Grand Island; several nieces and nephews; and special friends of 50 years, The Card Club.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Karen; brother-in-law, Larry Morris and sisters-in-law, Margaret Vang and Florence Vang.
Memorials are suggested to the family to be designated at a later date.
Online remembrances may be left at www.giallfaiths.com.

Earl Bicknase, age 80, of Hampton, passed away on Friday, April 19, 2019, at Westfield Quality Care in Aurora.
Funeral Services will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, April 24 at Zion Lutheran Church north of Hampton.  Rev. David Feddern will officiate. Inurnment will be at the Zion Lutheran Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday at Higby-McQuiston Mortuary in Aurora. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project.  Condolences may be e-mailed to the family through the mortuary website at www.higbymortuary.com.
Earl Dean Bicknase, the son of Walter and Sadie (Theiman) Bicknase, was born in Fairmont, Minnesota on Nov. 17, 1938 and passed away in Aurora, on April 19, 2019, at the age of 80.
Earl grew up in a Fairmont, Minnesota.  His family moved to Paletine, Illinois, where Earl graduated from Palentine High School.  Earl entered the U.S. Air Force on July 16, 1956 where he had a 22 year career.  His responsibilities during the time he served were missiles and the precision maintenance lab.  He was stationed at: Lincoln, AFB, Tuscon, Davis Monthan AFB, Turkey,Incirlik AFB, California, Travis AFB, Phillipines, Clark AFB and Bellevue, Offutt AFB.
Earl married Elizabeth Goertzen on Nov. 21, 1959 at Henderson.  To this union four children were born: Alan, Wally, Judy and Eric.
Earl was united in marriage to Harleen Johnson on April 3, 1987.  After completing his military career in 1978, Earl worked at Olson International, the Stan Allen dealership in Aurora, was manager at the Hampton American Legion Club and worked for United Coop in Hampton.
Earl was a longtime member of the American Legion.  He enjoyed woodworking, working in the yard and spending time with his family.  Earl was a fan of the Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers and Oklahoma Sooners.
Earl was preceded in death by his parents and step-mother, Esther Bicknase; five sisters, Elsie Bicknase, Ruth Hoover, Mabel Dorband, Grace Krstich and Dorothy Elvey; three brothers, Walter (Butch) Bicknase, Robert Dorband and Mike Bicknase; step-son, Jeff Heiden and granddaughter, Hannah Kaiser.
Those who remain to cherish his memory are his wife of 32 years, Harleen; daughter, Judy Green; three sons, Alan (Elaine) Bicknase, Wally (Cheryl) Bicknase and Eric (Tracy) Bicknase; step-children, Jackie (Tom) Staley, Joan De Heus, Jason (Cindy) Heiden and Mary Heiden; sisters, Donna Feitsma, Nancy Reese, Linda Dombrowski, Karen Dombrowski, Sandy Groshek; two brothers, Richard Bicknase and Wayne Bicknase; 21 grandchildren, Cody Bicknase, Sean Bicknace, Chris Bicknase, Erika Bicknase, Matt Bicknase, Reese Bicknase, Bre Bicknase, Rebecca Bicknase, Melissa Green, Kati Green, Whitney Bicknase, Zachary Bicknase, Paige Waters, Bethani Staley, Ambyr Staley, Alex Heiden, Aaron Heiden, Jolie Heiden, Kason Heiden, Ellie Kaiser and Jacob Kaiser and 12 great-grandchildren, Teagan Carlin, AnnaBeth Bicknase, Sawyer Bicknase, Cailyn Shaneyfelt, Ullr Bicknase, Jaycek Green, William Waters, Codi Waters, Augustus Waters, Callum Waters, Aria Heiden and Bentley Heiden.

Giltner resident Wilbur H. Ocker, 83, passed away Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019, at Mary Lanning Healthcare, Hastings, surrounded by his family.        
Graveside Services with military rites by Doniphan American Legion Post 300 are at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 27, at Giltner Cemetery in Giltner with Rev. Paul Nauman officiating. The family requests casual dress at the services. Memorials may be given to the family for a memorial to be established at a later date. There will be no viewing or visitation. Private condolences may be sent to the family at www.lbvfh.com. Livingston Butler Volland Funeral Home & Cremation Center is serving the family.
Wilbur was born Jan. 18, 1936, on the family farm near Glenvil, to Henry and Reka (Koch) Ocker. He graduated from Hastings High School in 1953. Wilbur served in the U.S. Marine Corps from August 11, 1954, to August 10, 1957, and was proud of being in the Military Police while serving his country. He was employed as a welder for Ingersoll Rand (now Flowserv), farmed, drove a truck, and was a bricklayer. Wilbur was a member of Doniphan American Legion Post 300. Wilbur enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with family and friends.
Wilbur was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Walter Ocker; and two sisters, Evelyn Sharp and Ida Tracey.  
He is survived by his children and their spouses Robert Ocker of Athol, KS, Douglas and Debra Ocker of Giltner, Sandra and Russell Meyer of Giltner, Tammie and Jeff Schwerdtfeger of Trumbull, Mach Ocker of Mechanicsville, VA, 16 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, sister and her spouse Laura and Clarence Milster of Ft. Collins, CO and numerous nieces and nephews.

Marlin Rasmussen, age 89, of Aurora, passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, at the Memorial Hospital in Aurora.
Celebration of Life Service will be held 10:30 a.m., Monday, April 29, at the Pleasant View Bible Church in Aurora. Pastor Bob Gannon will officiate. Interment will be at the Aurora Cemetery (9 a.m.) prior to the service. Visitation will be 4-6 p.m. Sunday, April 28 at Higby-McQuiston Mortuary.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Rio Grande Bible Ministries, International Evangel Heralds, Inc. (Duane and Marilyn Gibson), Pleasant View Bible Church or the Gideons International.  Condolences may be e-mailed to the family through the mortuary website at www.higbymortuary.com.

Gerald (Jerry) R. Anderson, age 85, was promoted to his heavenly home from his earthly home at Memorial Community Care in Aurora, on April 20, 2019, with his family at his side.
A celebration of life service will be held Saturday, April 27 at 11 a.m. at Monroe Evangelical Free Church in rural Hamilton County.  Military Rites will be held at the church following the service.  A private, immediate family inurnment will be held at the Aurora Cemetery.  Visitation with the family is available Friday, April 26, from 5-7 p.m. at the church.
Gerald was born June 7, 1933, at Grand Island, to Irving and Violet (Nyblom) Anderson.
Gerald accepted Christ as his Savior at a young age and spent his entire life in service to his Lord & Savior.
Gerald attended country school in Hamilton County through the 8th grade and then attended high school in Aurora where he graduated with the class of 1950.  He was drafted into the army in 1952 and served in Korea and Japan until 1955.
Gerald met the love of his life, Bertina Beins at a Phillips basketball game, when she insisted she’d go find him a Mr. Goodbar. They dated and were engaged before he left for the service.  After Gerald’s discharge the couple was married August 7, 1955, at Aurora.  Born to this union were five children: Carrie, Ricky, Shelly, Barry and Kenda.
Gerald and Bertina farmed in Hamilton County, most of his life, spent a short time on a ranch in western Nebraska, enjoyed raising horses and livestock, and was active in the community.  He was part of a Young Farm Couples group, served on the Hamilton County Livestock Feeders organization, served on the Aurora School Board, was always supportive of all his children’s many activities and later in life enjoyed his driving team of horses, Nip and Tuck and gave many groups rides on the wagon he built with handicapped access pulled by his team.  Jerry was a true cowboy!  He could more recently be seen driving his electric wheelchair around the hospital and in the park.
He was also very involved in his church home, the Monroe Evangelical Free Church in rural Hamilton County where he served as Sunday School Superintendent, church chairman, deacon/elder board, trustee, building committee, etc.
Even in the past year as a resident at MCC Jerry led a devotional group twice a month.  We know he heard, “Well done my good and faithful servant”.
Jerry is survived by those on his prayer list which he faithfully prayed for daily by name…his children Carrie (Brian) Barber of rural Phillips; Shelly (Pat) Seaton of Greeley, CO; Barry (Melanie) Anderson of Ames, IA; Kenda (Jon) High of Johnson’s Lake, 12 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren; brothers and sister-in-law Francis Webb of Everett, Wash., Len and Bev Beckenbach of Lincoln, nieces, nephews, cousins, and numerous friends.
Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Bertina; son Ricky Lynn; parents Irving and Violet Anderson; step-mother Ann Anderson; brother and sister-in-law Warren and Norma Anderson and sister Connie Webb.
Memorials may be sent to his daughter Carrie at 124 Platte View Drive Phillips, NE 68865 for future designation by the family.

John Mahon, age 87, of Aurora, passed away on Monday, April 29, 2019, at Westfield Quality Care in Aurora.
Visitation will be from 9-11 a.m. Friday, May 3 with a Rosary at 11 a.m. at Higby-McQuiston Chapel in Aurora.  Burial will immediately follow at the Grand Island City Cemetery.  Rev. Loras Grell will officiate. Memorials may be made to the family to be designated at a later date. Condolences may be e-mailed to the family through the mortuary website at www.higbymortuary.com.
John William Mahon, the son of Patrick F. and Helen A. (McCloud) Mahon was born on Nov. 19, 1931 in Hartington, and passed away on April 29, 2019 at the age of 87.
He grew up in the Hartington area.  The family moved to Colorado due to his father’s health.  John enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on May 13, 1952 and was honorably discharged on May 12, 1956.
John was united in marriage to Barbara Cochran and three children were born to this marriage, Johnny, Debra and Timmy.
John was united in marriage to Georgia Bense Jensen on Nov. 4, 1967.  Georgia passed away on August 24, 2018.
John was an over the road truck driver.  After his marriage to Georgia, John started his own drywall business, Mahon’s Home Improvements.  Georgia’s job with IBM took them to many places including, Colorado, North Carolina, Illinois and Nebraska.  John continued to run his business in all of the places they lived. After they retired they moved to Aurora. John and Georgia enjoyed going to Texas during the winter months.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Georgia; son, Timothy Mahon; brother, Pat Mahon and two granddaughters, Mindy and Nevaeh.
Those left to cherish his memory are his son, John S. (Rennie) Mahon, of Arkansas; daughter, Debra Desch of Denver, Colorado; step-daughters, Linda Ambrose of Yutan and Cindy Montgomery of Grand Island, Tara (Frank) Gregoski of Kearney; step-son, Nick (Sue) Jensen of Garland; 18 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

David Hubsch, 67, Grants, NM passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2019.
Private Family Memorial Service to be scheduled at later date.
No Visitation, Direct Cremation by the Neptune Society of Albuquerque, NM
David was born in Burbank, CA to Willis and Edna (Willadsen) Hubsch Nov. 28, 1951.
He graduated from Marquette High School in 1969, and then entered the US Navy 1970 as a Navy Corpsman and later became a Radiology Technician. David worked at the Cibola General Hospital as an X-ray Technician, and at the Northwest New Mexico Correctional Facility in the same capacity.
David was an active member of the American Cribbage Club ACC Grass Roots (1998-2019); where he won many ribbons and awards for his keen card playing skills.
David married Lorisa Rae on  March 27, 1976 and they raised two children, Sarah A. May and Joshua D. Hubsch.
He was proceeded in death by: parents Willis and Edna Hubsch, uncles Willard and Wilfred Hubsch, aunt Sabina (Rumpza) Hubsch, sister Janine Montana-Critchlow.
Survivors include wife Lorisa Rae Hubsch of Washington, daughter Sarah Allison (Glenn) May of Washington, son Joshua D. Hubsch, sister Debra Passmore-Hubsch of Grants, NM, brother Paul (Linda) Hubsch of Davey; nephews and nieces Jay (Rhonda) Montana of Marysville, WA, Tanya (Geoff) Althof  of El Cajon, CA, Jack W. Passmore of Wrightwood, CA, Nathan P. Hubsch of Omaha; grandchildren Ryder and Kiera May  of Washington and Beau Hubsch; cousins Gary (Sally) Hubsch, Mark (Janice) Hubsch, Nick (Kris) Hubsch and Lori Hubsch, all of Webster, SD; friend Maryann Mayhler of Grants, NM; and dog Buddy.

Jerry Omel, age 91, of Aurora, passed away Thursday, May 2, 2019, at Westfield Quality Care.
Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, May 6 at the First Christian Church in Aurora. Rev. Bruce Bradley will officiate. Interment will be in the Aurora Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Sunday at Higby-McQuiston Mortuary. Memorials may be made in care of family to designate at a later date.  Condolences may be e-mailed to the family through the mortuary website at www.higbymortuary.com.
Jerry Ray Omel, the son of Armand and Alta (Lanterman) Omel, was born on the family farm near Giltner on May 24, 1927 and passed away in Aurora on May 2, 2019, at the age of 91.
Jerry graduated from Giltner High School in 1945.  He served in the U.S. Army during WW II for one year before being honorably discharged.  Jerry returned to Aurora where he worked as a carpenter.
Jerry was married to Shirley Miller for six years.  Two children were born to this union: Valerie and Elton ‘Skeeter’.
On May 1, 1961, he was united in marriage to Lucile Wilma Norman at Sterling, Colorado. After their marriage, they moved to Aurora where Jerry worked at the Aurora Creamery, Phillips 66 as a mechanic and BonnaVilla as a carpenter.  After retiring, Jerry drove a school bus for the Aurora School District. Lucile passed away on Jan. 24, 2014.
Jerry was a member of the First Christian Church.  He enjoyed being part of a card club.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; daughter-in-law, Kay Omel and six siblings.
Those left to cherish his memory are his two children, Valerie (Ron) Peery of Denton and Elton ‘Skeeter’ Omel of Giltner; 6 grandchildren, Spencer (Mandy) Peery, Ryan (Heather) Peery, Preston Peery, Nicole Omel, Andrea Hall and Brady (Beth) Omel; 19 greatgrandchildren.  He is also survived by three brothers, Myron Omel of Aurora, Warren (Pat) Omel of Las Vegas, Nevada and Marion (Delores) Omel of Grand Island; special friend, Louise Hack of Aurora and many other family members and friends.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, May 16 at the Aurora United Methodist Church.  Revs. Greg and Michelle Reed will officiate.  Inurnment will be at a later date.  No Visitation.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hamilton Community Foundation, to be designated by the family at a later date.  Condolences may be e-mailed to the family through the mortuary website at www.higbymortuary.com.
A full obituary will follow.

Pauline Rae Burson, 81, of Grand Island, passed away Thursday, May 9, 2019 at Kearney Regional Medical Center in Kearney.
A graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 15 at Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery with Jim Craft officiating. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. at Livingston-Sondermann Funeral Chapel.
Pauline was born Jan. 27, 1938 to Ray and Cordilia (Carr) Kearns at Scotia. She was united in marriage to Harry Burson on Nov. 23, 1953 at North Loup. Pauline and Harry made their home in Giltner where they raised their family. She was an outstanding nurses aid at the Aurora Memorial Hospital and St. Francis Lutheran Hospital until retirement.
She was very involved in her coffee group at Grand View, she enjoyed spending time with family, especially watching her children laugh and she had a special place in her heart for her grandchildren.
She is survived by her sons, David Burson of Giltner, Steven Burson of Aurora, Colorado, Luke Burson of Elba, Sam Burson of Aurora; daughters, Patricia Schamp of Grand Island; sister-in-law, Delores Wray; 18 grandchildren; and 22 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; her daughter Joyce Killham; two sisters, Cecilia and Donna; and two brothers, Ed and Bud.
Memorials are suggested to the family to be designated at a later date. Online condolences may be directed to. Livingston-Sondermann Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.