Cheryl Garvin, age 61, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, passed away on January 6, 2024 at her home in Gering. An open house memorial gathering will be held on Monday, January 15, 2024 from 2-5pm at a family residence located at 2280 20th St, Gering, Nebraska 69341. Per her wishes, cremation has taken place. Messages of sympathy and fond memories may be left for the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.geringchapel.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.geringchapel.com</a>

She was born in Casper, Wyoming on December 31, 1962 to Oliver Moore and Frances Stovall, receiving her early education in Casper at Garfield Elementary. She later obtained her GED from WNCC. Cheryl was united in marriage to Dana C. Garvin on April 17, 1987 in Hot Springs, South Dakota, and they made their home in Scottsbluff. This union was blessed with their daughter, Nicole, and Cheryl was a dedicated stay at home mom for 20 years. An avid reader, she loved her books, and was also a fan of film and television. Some of her favorite series included Golden Girls, M.A.S.H., and Harry Potter. She was a beautiful friend who had a big heart, and she will be greatly missed.

Cheryl was met at the Pearly Gates by her parents, Oliver and Frances (Stovall) Moore; husband, Dana; both sets of grandparents; and sisters, Marla and Carla.

<figure>
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 </figure>Cheryl Garvin, age 61, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, passed away on January 6, 2024 at her home in Gering. An open house memorial gathering will be held on Monday, January 15, 2024 from 2-5pm at a family residence located at 2280 20th St, Gering, Nebraska 69341. Per her wishes, cremation has taken place. Messages of sympathy and fond memories may be left for the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.geringchapel.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.geringchapel.com</a>She was born in Casper, Wyoming on December 31, 1962 to Oliver Moore and Frances Stovall, receiving her early education in Casper at Garfield Elementary. She later obtained her GED from WNCC. Cheryl was united in marriage to Dana C. Garvin on April 17, 1987 in Hot Springs, South Dakota, and they made their home in Scottsbluff. This union was blessed with their daughter, Nicole, and Cheryl was a dedicated stay at home mom for 20 years. An avid reader, she loved her books, and was also a fan of film and television. Some of her favorite series included Golden Girls, M.A.S.H., and Harry Potter. She was a beautiful friend who had a big heart, and she will be greatly missed.Cheryl was met at the Pearly Gates by her parents, Oliver and Frances (Stovall) Moore; husband, Dana; both sets of grandparents; and sisters, Marla and Carla.

Cheryl Garvin (1962 - 2024)

William J. Schultz Jr., 82, of Morrill, Nebraska, passed away on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, in the comfort of his home near Morrill. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at Reverence Funeral Parlor in Scottsbluff with Fr. Mike McDonald as Celebrant. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery near Morrill. A Rosary will be recited at 12:30 p.m. prior to the service. The service will be live-streamed and recorded to William’s obituary page viewable at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reverencefuneralparlor.com/">www.reverencefuneralparlor.com</a>.

William was born January 13, 1941, to William Sr. and Gladina (Stuckey) Schultz at his grandparents’ home south of Gering, Nebraska. William was a premature baby and was placed in the oven for warmth until his grandfather hand-built him a homemade incubator. He attended the Sunflower School.

William married Barbara Mulford in Scottsbluff. Three children were born to this union: William III, Michael, and Libby. He started farming at an early age and said there was nothing else he would have rather done. William made farming his life-long career.

He loved basketball and football in high school. William enjoyed collecting vintage coins and above all else, loved being with his family and friends. He was a very hospitable and friendly person that was always willing to help those in need.

Survivors include his sons, William III (Belinda) and Mike (Karen) Schultz; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; half-brother, Bob Zweifel; and his special dog, Billie.

<figure>
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 </figure>William J. Schultz Jr., 82, of Morrill, Nebraska, passed away on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, in the comfort of his home near Morrill. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at Reverence Funeral Parlor in Scottsbluff with Fr. Mike McDonald as Celebrant. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery near Morrill. A Rosary will be recited at 12:30 p.m. prior to the service. The service will be live-streamed and recorded to William’s obituary page viewable at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reverencefuneralparlor.com/">www.reverencefuneralparlor.com</a>.William was born January 13, 1941, to William Sr. and Gladina (Stuckey) Schultz at his grandparents’ home south of Gering, Nebraska. William was a premature baby and was placed in the oven for warmth until his grandfather hand-built him a homemade incubator. He attended the Sunflower School.William married Barbara Mulford in Scottsbluff. Three children were born to this union: William III, Michael, and Libby. He started farming at an early age and said there was nothing else he would have rather done. William made farming his life-long career.He loved basketball and football in high school. William enjoyed collecting vintage coins and above all else, loved being with his family and friends. He was a very hospitable and friendly person that was always willing to help those in need.Survivors include his sons, William III (Belinda) and Mike (Karen) Schultz; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; half-brother, Bob Zweifel; and his special dog, Billie.

William J. Schultz Jr. (1941 - 2024)

Austin James Descharme, 29, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, in Mitchell, Nebraska.&nbsp; A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am, Friday, January 12, 2024, at Reverence Funeral Parlor in Scottsbluff with Pastor Jon Simpson officiating. Inurnment will follow at Mitchell City Cemetery in Mitchell, Nebraska.&nbsp; Cremation has taken place.&nbsp; Memorials may be made to the family under the care of his mother, Lisa Descharme.&nbsp; The service will be live-streamed and recorded to Austin’s obituary page viewable at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reverencefuneralparlor.com/">www.reverencefuneralparlor.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Austin was born August 25, 1994, in Scottsbluff to Michael and Lisa (Sinner) Descharme.&nbsp; Austin attended Morrill Public Schools graduating in 2013.&nbsp; He enjoyed football, track and FFA throughout high school and continued his education at Western Nebraska Community College.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Austin most recently worked as a conductor for BN Railroad and truly enjoyed his work.&nbsp; Austin was also a proud member of the Minatare Fire Department.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Austin had an outgoing and friendly personality. He always took the time to stop and talk with people he knew or share a take-your-breath-away hug.&nbsp; He was a selfless person who cared deeply about the people in his life. He was fiercely protective and hated to see others sad or struggling.&nbsp; Austin loved spending time with friends and family and was a wonderful uncle to his nieces and nephews. He liked to play and roughhouse with them whenever he got the chance. Austin shared many special moments with his family, like becoming an uncle for the first time with Logan, camping with Kali’s family, or eating almost all of his Grandma’s blackberry pie.&nbsp; Austin was an avid Husker fan, loved to fish and hunt, and had an affinity for cool vehicles.&nbsp; He was incredibly proud of his new pickup.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Austin and his quick, bright smile will be greatly missed by his mom, Lisa Descharme of Scottsbluff, NE;&nbsp;father, Mike Descharme of Terreton, ID; sisters, Janae Descharme of Wayne, NE and Kali (Brandon) Smith of Scottsbluff, NE;&nbsp; two nieces, two nephews, and a soon-to-be niece; uncles, Eddie (DeeDe) Sinner of Morrill, NE, Jon (Kim)&nbsp;Sinner of Ankeny, IA, and Dale Sinner of Lyman, NE; paternal grandparents, Joe and Bonnie Brown of Terreton, ID; as well as many other family members and friends.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704996086472.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Austin James Descharme, 29, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, in Mitchell, Nebraska.&nbsp; A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am, Friday, January 12, 2024, at Reverence Funeral Parlor in Scottsbluff with Pastor Jon Simpson officiating. Inurnment will follow at Mitchell City Cemetery in Mitchell, Nebraska.&nbsp; Cremation has taken place.&nbsp; Memorials may be made to the family under the care of his mother, Lisa Descharme.&nbsp; The service will be live-streamed and recorded to Austin’s obituary page viewable at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reverencefuneralparlor.com/">www.reverencefuneralparlor.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Austin was born August 25, 1994, in Scottsbluff to Michael and Lisa (Sinner) Descharme.&nbsp; Austin attended Morrill Public Schools graduating in 2013.&nbsp; He enjoyed football, track and FFA throughout high school and continued his education at Western Nebraska Community College.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Austin most recently worked as a conductor for BN Railroad and truly enjoyed his work.&nbsp; Austin was also a proud member of the Minatare Fire Department.&nbsp;&nbsp;Austin had an outgoing and friendly personality. He always took the time to stop and talk with people he knew or share a take-your-breath-away hug.&nbsp; He was a selfless person who cared deeply about the people in his life. He was fiercely protective and hated to see others sad or struggling.&nbsp; Austin loved spending time with friends and family and was a wonderful uncle to his nieces and nephews. He liked to play and roughhouse with them whenever he got the chance. Austin shared many special moments with his family, like becoming an uncle for the first time with Logan, camping with Kali’s family, or eating almost all of his Grandma’s blackberry pie.&nbsp; Austin was an avid Husker fan, loved to fish and hunt, and had an affinity for cool vehicles.&nbsp; He was incredibly proud of his new pickup.&nbsp;&nbsp;Austin and his quick, bright smile will be greatly missed by his mom, Lisa Descharme of Scottsbluff, NE;&nbsp;father, Mike Descharme of Terreton, ID; sisters, Janae Descharme of Wayne, NE and Kali (Brandon) Smith of Scottsbluff, NE;&nbsp; two nieces, two nephews, and a soon-to-be niece; uncles, Eddie (DeeDe) Sinner of Morrill, NE, Jon (Kim)&nbsp;Sinner of Ankeny, IA, and Dale Sinner of Lyman, NE; paternal grandparents, Joe and Bonnie Brown of Terreton, ID; as well as many other family members and friends.&nbsp;

Austin James Descharme (1994 - 2024)

Mary Ramirez, 77, of Gering, NE passed away on Monday, January 8, 2024 at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff, NE surrounded by her family. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 am on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at Christ the King Catholic Church, Gering, NE with Father Michael McDonald as Celebrant. Visitation will be 4 – 6:00 pm with a rosary beginning at 6:00 pm on Friday, January 12, 2024 at Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff, NE. In lieu of flowers memorials may be in care of the family. Online condolences may be made by viewing Mary’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com.

 Mary was born to Catarion and Estanislado (Hernandez) Gonzales in Fort Collins, CO on September 12, 1946. Andres “Andy” Ramirez won her heart! They were married on June 22, 1964. To this union eight children were born. Mary was a lovely, loving lady. She enjoyed family gatherings, sewing, cooking and most of all her family, children and grandchildren. She loved music, dancing and spending holidays with her family. She enjoyed garage sales and gambling. Mary is survived by her husband Andres; children Andy (Shelly), Adam (Mina), Saint (Jessica), Estanislado, Freddy, Elsa (Felipe), David and Jefferey; 29 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; sisters Kathy, Frosty (Victor), Josie, Lily, Andrea and Ramona; brothers Chris and Eddie; sisters and brothers-in-law Lola (Richard), Amado, (Eva), Christina (Greg), Santa, Rosa, Carmen, Vickie, Lucy (Saul), Santos and numerous nieces and nephews. Mary is preceded by her parents; sister; brothers; mother-in-law; father-in-law; sister-in-law; brothers-in-law and many other family members and friends.&nbsp;

 To her family she wrote: I want my family an friends to know my time spent with you was valuable my family I taught you to be strong an hold the family together an fight remember to hold each other together I want you all to know I will always love you!&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704995832048.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Mary Ramirez, 77, of Gering, NE passed away on Monday, January 8, 2024 at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff, NE surrounded by her family. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 am on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at Christ the King Catholic Church, Gering, NE with Father Michael McDonald as Celebrant. Visitation will be 4 – 6:00 pm with a rosary beginning at 6:00 pm on Friday, January 12, 2024 at Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff, NE. In lieu of flowers memorials may be in care of the family. Online condolences may be made by viewing Mary’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Mary was born to Catarion and Estanislado (Hernandez) Gonzales in Fort Collins, CO on September 12, 1946. Andres “Andy” Ramirez won her heart! They were married on June 22, 1964. To this union eight children were born. Mary was a lovely, loving lady. She enjoyed family gatherings, sewing, cooking and most of all her family, children and grandchildren. She loved music, dancing and spending holidays with her family. She enjoyed garage sales and gambling. Mary is survived by her husband Andres; children Andy (Shelly), Adam (Mina), Saint (Jessica), Estanislado, Freddy, Elsa (Felipe), David and Jefferey; 29 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; sisters Kathy, Frosty (Victor), Josie, Lily, Andrea and Ramona; brothers Chris and Eddie; sisters and brothers-in-law Lola (Richard), Amado, (Eva), Christina (Greg), Santa, Rosa, Carmen, Vickie, Lucy (Saul), Santos and numerous nieces and nephews. Mary is preceded by her parents; sister; brothers; mother-in-law; father-in-law; sister-in-law; brothers-in-law and many other family members and friends.&nbsp; To her family she wrote: I want my family an friends to know my time spent with you was valuable my family I taught you to be strong an hold the family together an fight remember to hold each other together I want you all to know I will always love you!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mary Ramirez (1946 - 2024)

Tom Detwiler was born May 9, 1935, in Minden, NE to Theodore and Mamie Detwiler and grew up on a farm near Kearney. 

After graduating from Kearney High School, he attended the University of Nebraska, subsequently Receiving three degrees. 

In 1960 he Married Lee Wombacher. Prior to his appointment in 1965 to the CSC faculty, he taught English at Plattsmouth, Grand Island, and the UNL Extension Division. He also substitute taught in the Lincoln Public Schools. 

For several years he served as CSC’s first-year teacher. Upon retiring from CSC, he chaired school accreditation teams and administered rural schools in Dawes and Sioux County until their closures. His career in education spanned over forty-five years. He was a member and served as president of several organizations, including the Nebraska Association of teacher Educators, Lions Club, American Cancer Society, Federal Credit Union Board, Public Library Board, CSC’s Retired faculty, and St. Patrick’s Parish Council. 

Other affiliations included Phi Delta Kappa, Nebraska School Masters, NSEA, Job Corps Community Council, CSC Booster Club, Westerners club, and the American Legion. 

In 1963, After serving several years in the enlisted active reserves, he was appointed and commissioned officer in the U.S Army reserve, Adjutant General Corps. A fan of target shooting as a kid, he attributed his expert weapons rating with the M-1 rifle, to his practice of hunting rodents on the family farm. An avid traveler, he and his spouse visited all fifty states, several European countries, South America, Canada, and Mexico. For over fifty-five years, he served as a lector in the Catholic Church. In 2022, he and Lee received the Aksarben Good Neighbor Award and the college’s prestigious Distinguished Service Award.

Survivors include his wife, Lee, daughters and sons-in-law Ann and Josh Jamison of Chadron, Geri and Del Dack of Paxton. Grandchildren Melissa Brown Valerie/Marty Muthuswami, Josh/Amanda Dack, Mechelle/Avery Thomas, Justin Jamison, Taylor Dack, and Dylan Jamison. Great Grandchildren Brinly, Jayce, Arathana, Athavan, Everett, Violet, Miles. Preceded in death by his parents Theodor and Mamie and grandson in law - Ryan Brown.

Services were January 11, 2024 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Chadron.

A Memorial has been established for the Tom &amp; Lee Detwiler Scholarship fund at CSC.

Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, P.O. Box 970 Chadron, NE 69337

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704995492505.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Tom Detwiler was born May 9, 1935, in Minden, NE to Theodore and Mamie Detwiler and grew up on a farm near Kearney. After graduating from Kearney High School, he attended the University of Nebraska, subsequently Receiving three degrees. In 1960 he Married Lee Wombacher. Prior to his appointment in 1965 to the CSC faculty, he taught English at Plattsmouth, Grand Island, and the UNL Extension Division. He also substitute taught in the Lincoln Public Schools. For several years he served as CSC’s first-year teacher. Upon retiring from CSC, he chaired school accreditation teams and administered rural schools in Dawes and Sioux County until their closures. His career in education spanned over forty-five years. He was a member and served as president of several organizations, including the Nebraska Association of teacher Educators, Lions Club, American Cancer Society, Federal Credit Union Board, Public Library Board, CSC’s Retired faculty, and St. Patrick’s Parish Council. Other affiliations included Phi Delta Kappa, Nebraska School Masters, NSEA, Job Corps Community Council, CSC Booster Club, Westerners club, and the American Legion. In 1963, After serving several years in the enlisted active reserves, he was appointed and commissioned officer in the U.S Army reserve, Adjutant General Corps. A fan of target shooting as a kid, he attributed his expert weapons rating with the M-1 rifle, to his practice of hunting rodents on the family farm. An avid traveler, he and his spouse visited all fifty states, several European countries, South America, Canada, and Mexico. For over fifty-five years, he served as a lector in the Catholic Church. In 2022, he and Lee received the Aksarben Good Neighbor Award and the college’s prestigious Distinguished Service Award.Survivors include his wife, Lee, daughters and sons-in-law Ann and Josh Jamison of Chadron, Geri and Del Dack of Paxton. Grandchildren Melissa Brown Valerie/Marty Muthuswami, Josh/Amanda Dack, Mechelle/Avery Thomas, Justin Jamison, Taylor Dack, and Dylan Jamison. Great Grandchildren Brinly, Jayce, Arathana, Athavan, Everett, Violet, Miles. Preceded in death by his parents Theodor and Mamie and grandson in law - Ryan Brown.Services were January 11, 2024 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Chadron.A Memorial has been established for the Tom &amp; Lee Detwiler Scholarship fund at CSC.Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, P.O. Box 970 Chadron, NE 69337

Tom Detwiler (1935 - 2024)

Merlyn Ludwig Gramberg was born near Wayne, Nebraska on February 26, 1937 to Ludwig Heinrich and Lucy Ann (Kester) Gramberg. Merlyn passed away peacefully on Monday, January 8th with family by his side. Merlyn spent his early years on the farm before his father was ill. The family moved to town when Merlyn was eight. As his father was bedridden, each of the 6 siblings had a job to assist with family expenses. As the youngest, Merlyn had a paper route, faithfully delivering no matter the weather. His father passed when Merlyn was 10.

Merlyn was determined to get an education. After attending Wayne High School, Merlyn enrolled at Wayne State College. There he earned his Bachelors in Industrial Arts. It's also where he met and fell in love with his one and only bride – Karleen. He couldn’t have found a better lifetime match! Both Merlyn and Karleen had a strong work ethic and together worked hard to better their lives. Merlyn went on to graduate with his Masters in Industrial Arts from Kearney State College and his Doctorate in Education from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley. He had a very interesting subject for his dissertation – “Program Budgeting for Industrial Education”. While he was furthering his education, he taught high school Industrial Arts in Bellevue NE, Shell Rock IA, and Waverly IA before accepting a teaching position at Chadron State College in the fall of 1966. He was instrumental in the design of the new Industrial Arts Building now known as the Burkhiser Complex. Through his 31 years at Chadron State College, Merlyn was the Department Chair of the Industrial Arts Department, the Dean of Business and Applied Sciences, and before ending his CSC career, as Vice President of Academic Affairs. He touched so many students’ lives! It never failed when walking through an airport that Merlyn would run into someone he knew!

His retirement from Chadron State College did not mean he sat back with his feet up, sipping a toddy (altho he was known to do that too!) Together with his wife, they jumped into the rental home business and then joined their daughter and her husband in purchasing a campground. Merlyn loved to work with his hands – whatever his wife dreamed up, Merlyn would remodel or build! In addition to manual skills, many organizations benefited from his leadership skills. He was President of the Nebraska Council for Community Colleges and President of the Board of Governors for Western Nebraska Community College. Through the years, he was also involved in Kiwanis, Chadron State Booster Club and Golden Eagles.

God was very important to Merlyn. He was baptized, confirmed and married in the Lutheran Church. He faithfully took his family to church every Sunday and ensured that the Lord was a part of their lives. He served on the church council at Immanuel Lutheran Church for 12 years, and as President 3 different terms.

Merlyn loved his family very much – both his immediate and extended family! And we all loved him dearly! Not only was he a father to Robyn, Greg, Michaelle and Kandee, he and Karleen opened their home to foster children Tish and David, nieces and nephews. Merlyn always was there to listen and offer well thought out advice… and lend a hand whenever and wherever he could! He took the loss of his first grandson, Ryan, very hard but he stayed strong for his son. He mourned the loss of 2 of his brothers, a sister and a sister-in-law all in 2020.

That good ole German stubbornness kept him very independent. It was that damn snow shovel breaking his sternum that started his issues this past year. We’d like to thank the caring staff at Chadron Medical Clinic and Chadron Community Hospital, Pioneer Manor and Crest View for their devoted care.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704995099355.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Merlyn Ludwig Gramberg was born near Wayne, Nebraska on February 26, 1937 to Ludwig Heinrich and Lucy Ann (Kester) Gramberg. Merlyn passed away peacefully on Monday, January 8th with family by his side. Merlyn spent his early years on the farm before his father was ill. The family moved to town when Merlyn was eight. As his father was bedridden, each of the 6 siblings had a job to assist with family expenses. As the youngest, Merlyn had a paper route, faithfully delivering no matter the weather. His father passed when Merlyn was 10.Merlyn was determined to get an education. After attending Wayne High School, Merlyn enrolled at Wayne State College. There he earned his Bachelors in Industrial Arts. It's also where he met and fell in love with his one and only bride – Karleen. He couldn’t have found a better lifetime match! Both Merlyn and Karleen had a strong work ethic and together worked hard to better their lives. Merlyn went on to graduate with his Masters in Industrial Arts from Kearney State College and his Doctorate in Education from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley. He had a very interesting subject for his dissertation – “Program Budgeting for Industrial Education”. While he was furthering his education, he taught high school Industrial Arts in Bellevue NE, Shell Rock IA, and Waverly IA before accepting a teaching position at Chadron State College in the fall of 1966. He was instrumental in the design of the new Industrial Arts Building now known as the Burkhiser Complex. Through his 31 years at Chadron State College, Merlyn was the Department Chair of the Industrial Arts Department, the Dean of Business and Applied Sciences, and before ending his CSC career, as Vice President of Academic Affairs. He touched so many students’ lives! It never failed when walking through an airport that Merlyn would run into someone he knew!His retirement from Chadron State College did not mean he sat back with his feet up, sipping a toddy (altho he was known to do that too!) Together with his wife, they jumped into the rental home business and then joined their daughter and her husband in purchasing a campground. Merlyn loved to work with his hands – whatever his wife dreamed up, Merlyn would remodel or build! In addition to manual skills, many organizations benefited from his leadership skills. He was President of the Nebraska Council for Community Colleges and President of the Board of Governors for Western Nebraska Community College. Through the years, he was also involved in Kiwanis, Chadron State Booster Club and Golden Eagles.God was very important to Merlyn. He was baptized, confirmed and married in the Lutheran Church. He faithfully took his family to church every Sunday and ensured that the Lord was a part of their lives. He served on the church council at Immanuel Lutheran Church for 12 years, and as President 3 different terms.Merlyn loved his family very much – both his immediate and extended family! And we all loved him dearly! Not only was he a father to Robyn, Greg, Michaelle and Kandee, he and Karleen opened their home to foster children Tish and David, nieces and nephews. Merlyn always was there to listen and offer well thought out advice… and lend a hand whenever and wherever he could! He took the loss of his first grandson, Ryan, very hard but he stayed strong for his son. He mourned the loss of 2 of his brothers, a sister and a sister-in-law all in 2020.That good ole German stubbornness kept him very independent. It was that damn snow shovel breaking his sternum that started his issues this past year. We’d like to thank the caring staff at Chadron Medical Clinic and Chadron Community Hospital, Pioneer Manor and Crest View for their devoted care.

Merlyn Ludwig Gramberg (1937 - 2024)

Lana Loy Chappell was born June 20th, 1948, in Gordon Nebraska to Byron &amp; Aloha Chappell.&nbsp; She spent her young life helping her parents with ranching duties.&nbsp; She went to school in Gordon.&nbsp; In 1967, Lana married Vern Owen, to this union 2 children were born, Jerry Dean &amp; Tawnie Dylawn.&nbsp; They later divorced and she moved to Gordon and began working at Hinn’s Restaurant.

&nbsp;While living in Gordon, Lana met and married Ed Holderness.&nbsp; She then went to work at the Gordon Nursing home, where she worked for many years as a CNA helping take care of patients.&nbsp;

In the late 1980’s Lana &amp; Ed divorced, and she moved to Hereford, Texas where she managed the Ranch House Café for 20 years.&nbsp; Lana loved her time in Texas, however when her parents needed her help, she moved back to Gordon to help take care of Byron and Aloha. Lana worked at Gordon Elementary School as a cook and loved her job dearly, her favorite part was of course the kids.

In her free-time, Lana enjoyed reading her Bible and fixing up her house room by room until it was just the way she liked it.&nbsp; She also dearly loved working in her yard and making sure every gnome and flower was in place to make it look in order. Lana was called to be with the Lord on January 6th, 2024, at Gordon Memorial Hospital.

Although Lana is no longer with us on Earth, she is also no longer suffering.&nbsp; We will forever remember her in our hearts.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her parents, Byron and Aloha Chappell and Nephew Tyler Chappell.

Lana is survived by her brothers, Burdette (Lila) Chappell of Kearney, NE, Travis (Terry) Chappell of Berthound, CO, and Mitch (Belinda) Chappell of Huntsville, AL; her children Jerry (Minette) Owen, and Tawnie (Tom) Eichenberger; her Grand-children Austin (Sarah) Keiser, Tucker Keiser and Tristen Owen; and great-grand-children Emma, Allie and Beau Keiser; along with many nieces and nephews.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Services will be held at the Chamberlain-Pier Funeral Home in Gordon, Nebraska on Tuesday, January 16th, 2024, 2:00 PM.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow at the Gordon Cemetery.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704994893264.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lana Loy Chappell was born June 20th, 1948, in Gordon Nebraska to Byron &amp; Aloha Chappell.&nbsp; She spent her young life helping her parents with ranching duties.&nbsp; She went to school in Gordon.&nbsp; In 1967, Lana married Vern Owen, to this union 2 children were born, Jerry Dean &amp; Tawnie Dylawn.&nbsp; They later divorced and she moved to Gordon and began working at Hinn’s Restaurant.&nbsp;While living in Gordon, Lana met and married Ed Holderness.&nbsp; She then went to work at the Gordon Nursing home, where she worked for many years as a CNA helping take care of patients.&nbsp;In the late 1980’s Lana &amp; Ed divorced, and she moved to Hereford, Texas where she managed the Ranch House Café for 20 years.&nbsp; Lana loved her time in Texas, however when her parents needed her help, she moved back to Gordon to help take care of Byron and Aloha. Lana worked at Gordon Elementary School as a cook and loved her job dearly, her favorite part was of course the kids.In her free-time, Lana enjoyed reading her Bible and fixing up her house room by room until it was just the way she liked it.&nbsp; She also dearly loved working in her yard and making sure every gnome and flower was in place to make it look in order. Lana was called to be with the Lord on January 6th, 2024, at Gordon Memorial Hospital.Although Lana is no longer with us on Earth, she is also no longer suffering.&nbsp; We will forever remember her in our hearts.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her parents, Byron and Aloha Chappell and Nephew Tyler Chappell.Lana is survived by her brothers, Burdette (Lila) Chappell of Kearney, NE, Travis (Terry) Chappell of Berthound, CO, and Mitch (Belinda) Chappell of Huntsville, AL; her children Jerry (Minette) Owen, and Tawnie (Tom) Eichenberger; her Grand-children Austin (Sarah) Keiser, Tucker Keiser and Tristen Owen; and great-grand-children Emma, Allie and Beau Keiser; along with many nieces and nephews.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Services will be held at the Chamberlain-Pier Funeral Home in Gordon, Nebraska on Tuesday, January 16th, 2024, 2:00 PM.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow at the Gordon Cemetery.&nbsp;

Lana Loy Chappell (1948 - 2024)

Cindy, (Sue) Silvester, 67 of Gering passed away on December 14 at regional West hospital surrounded by family and friends.

Cindy was born July 14, 1956 to Lee and Clara Silvester in Sidney Ne where she grew up and graduated in 1974 from Sidney high school. She attended one year of college at the University of Nebraska but then decided to start her family having her first daughter in 1977 and her second in 1988.

Throughout her life she walked several career paths but being a dispatcher and nurse were her favorite. She loved most of her life in Wyoming, Nebraska and Colorado as well as a leap of faith adventure to Florida for a year.

Cindy will be most remembered for her listening ear, caring heart and infectious sense of humor. She was preceded in death by her parents, and daughter Shelly.

She is survived by her daughter Jaime (Wes Smith) of Alliance, grandchildren Kassie, Conner and Bailey Smith of Verona North Carolina and two grandsons Jensen and Logan Klohr of Colorado. As well as countless friends, her church family and her beloved fur baby Spencer.

Donations can be made in her name to the Panhandle Humane Society in Scottsbluff NE. Fond memories and condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dugankramer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.dugankramer.com</a>&nbsp;for the family.

Her daughter Jaime would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and kind words during this time.

Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel assisted the family with arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704994547142.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Cindy, (Sue) Silvester, 67 of Gering passed away on December 14 at regional West hospital surrounded by family and friends.Cindy was born July 14, 1956 to Lee and Clara Silvester in Sidney Ne where she grew up and graduated in 1974 from Sidney high school. She attended one year of college at the University of Nebraska but then decided to start her family having her first daughter in 1977 and her second in 1988.Throughout her life she walked several career paths but being a dispatcher and nurse were her favorite. She loved most of her life in Wyoming, Nebraska and Colorado as well as a leap of faith adventure to Florida for a year.Cindy will be most remembered for her listening ear, caring heart and infectious sense of humor. She was preceded in death by her parents, and daughter Shelly.She is survived by her daughter Jaime (Wes Smith) of Alliance, grandchildren Kassie, Conner and Bailey Smith of Verona North Carolina and two grandsons Jensen and Logan Klohr of Colorado. As well as countless friends, her church family and her beloved fur baby Spencer.Donations can be made in her name to the Panhandle Humane Society in Scottsbluff NE. Fond memories and condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dugankramer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.dugankramer.com</a>&nbsp;for the family.Her daughter Jaime would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and kind words during this time.Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel assisted the family with arrangements.

Cindy, (Sue) Silvester (1956 - 2024)

Sandra L. “Sandi” Spencer, 74, passed away Saturday, January 6, 2024 at her home in Bridgeport with her family by her side.

She was born February 14, 1949 in Gordon, Nebraska to Frank F. and Evelyn L. (Lorenz) Slaby.

On June 11, 1967 Sandi was united in marriage to the late Wendel R. Spencer at the United Methodist Church in Gordon.

Sandi enjoyed reading, working on puzzles, and was excellent at baking homemade bread.&nbsp; Her love of animals was unconditional.&nbsp; She was a member of the Bridgeport Church of Christ.

She is survived by her children, Evelyn Morgan of Bridgeport, Samantha (James) Kittelmann of Bridgeport, William (Amy) Spencer of Bartlett, Nebraska, and Sidney (Jeana) Spencer of Bridgeport.&nbsp; She is also survived by 17 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild; and numerous cousins.&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her son-in-law, and a granddaughter.

Memorial services will be held Friday, January 12, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at the Bridgeport Church of Christ.&nbsp; Pastor Jonathan Seng will officiate.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance.

Memorials may be given to the Bridgeport Church of Christ, 314 W. 7th&nbsp;Street, Bridgeport, Nebraska, 69336.

<figure>
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 </figure>Sandra L. “Sandi” Spencer, 74, passed away Saturday, January 6, 2024 at her home in Bridgeport with her family by her side.She was born February 14, 1949 in Gordon, Nebraska to Frank F. and Evelyn L. (Lorenz) Slaby.On June 11, 1967 Sandi was united in marriage to the late Wendel R. Spencer at the United Methodist Church in Gordon.Sandi enjoyed reading, working on puzzles, and was excellent at baking homemade bread.&nbsp; Her love of animals was unconditional.&nbsp; She was a member of the Bridgeport Church of Christ.She is survived by her children, Evelyn Morgan of Bridgeport, Samantha (James) Kittelmann of Bridgeport, William (Amy) Spencer of Bartlett, Nebraska, and Sidney (Jeana) Spencer of Bridgeport.&nbsp; She is also survived by 17 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild; and numerous cousins.&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her son-in-law, and a granddaughter.Memorial services will be held Friday, January 12, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at the Bridgeport Church of Christ.&nbsp; Pastor Jonathan Seng will officiate.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance.Memorials may be given to the Bridgeport Church of Christ, 314 W. 7th&nbsp;Street, Bridgeport, Nebraska, 69336.

Sandra L. “Sandi” Spencer (1949 - 2024)

Ronald (Ron) Eugene Meradith passed away Friday, January 5, 2024 at his home in Alliance with his family by his side.&nbsp; He was 72.

He was born on May 23, 1951 in Alliance to Dean and Dorothy (Hamaker) Meradith of Hemingford.

On June 10, 1978 he was united in marriage to Yolanda M. Garcia in Hemingford. They were blessed with two children, Kyle and Amanda Meradith.

After graduating from Hemingford High School he enrolled at Chadron State College.&nbsp; He transferred after one year to a tech school in Sidney, NE graduating with a degree in diesel mechanics from there.&nbsp; He then returned to the area began working at Farmer's Implement in Alliance. Even though he enjoyed working in mechanics his true calling was farming. He proceeded to work for Kenny Luce and later Bill Koester and Vogel’s in farming and raising cattle.&nbsp; When he retired from full time, he continued part-time farming with Randy Benda and Western Potato.&nbsp; About the only time you could get him off a tractor was to spend time with his granddaughters. From going on drives with Leighton to sitting and watching cartoons with Addisyn and Bristyn, whom he dearly loved and enjoyed.

He is survived by his wife, Yolanda, his son Kyle Meradith along with his fiancé’ Sarah Hicks of Alliance and his daughter, Amanda Meradith of Lincoln and his granddaughters, Leighton Meradith of Lincoln,&nbsp; Addisyn Meradith and Bristyn Meradith of Alliance, and step grandchildren Copper Hicks, Breleigh Hicks, Emma Hicks of Alliance. He is also survived by his brother, Gary Meradith of Chadron and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Dean and Dorothy Meradith, sister in-law Rosemarie Meradith, mother in-law Juanita Garcia, sister in-law Rosa Garcia, and three brother in-laws.

Memorial services will be Friday, January 19 at 10:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Hemingford. Please be causal and bibs are strongly welcomed.&nbsp; Memorials may be given to the family for a future designation and may be sent in care of his family to 804 Yellowstone Avenue, Alliance, NE&nbsp; 69301.

<figure>
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 </figure>Ronald (Ron) Eugene Meradith passed away Friday, January 5, 2024 at his home in Alliance with his family by his side.&nbsp; He was 72.He was born on May 23, 1951 in Alliance to Dean and Dorothy (Hamaker) Meradith of Hemingford.On June 10, 1978 he was united in marriage to Yolanda M. Garcia in Hemingford. They were blessed with two children, Kyle and Amanda Meradith.After graduating from Hemingford High School he enrolled at Chadron State College.&nbsp; He transferred after one year to a tech school in Sidney, NE graduating with a degree in diesel mechanics from there.&nbsp; He then returned to the area began working at Farmer's Implement in Alliance. Even though he enjoyed working in mechanics his true calling was farming. He proceeded to work for Kenny Luce and later Bill Koester and Vogel’s in farming and raising cattle.&nbsp; When he retired from full time, he continued part-time farming with Randy Benda and Western Potato.&nbsp; About the only time you could get him off a tractor was to spend time with his granddaughters. From going on drives with Leighton to sitting and watching cartoons with Addisyn and Bristyn, whom he dearly loved and enjoyed.He is survived by his wife, Yolanda, his son Kyle Meradith along with his fiancé’ Sarah Hicks of Alliance and his daughter, Amanda Meradith of Lincoln and his granddaughters, Leighton Meradith of Lincoln,&nbsp; Addisyn Meradith and Bristyn Meradith of Alliance, and step grandchildren Copper Hicks, Breleigh Hicks, Emma Hicks of Alliance. He is also survived by his brother, Gary Meradith of Chadron and nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents Dean and Dorothy Meradith, sister in-law Rosemarie Meradith, mother in-law Juanita Garcia, sister in-law Rosa Garcia, and three brother in-laws.Memorial services will be Friday, January 19 at 10:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Hemingford. Please be causal and bibs are strongly welcomed.&nbsp; Memorials may be given to the family for a future designation and may be sent in care of his family to 804 Yellowstone Avenue, Alliance, NE&nbsp; 69301.

Ronald (Ron) Eugene Meradith (1951 - 2024)

Robert Lee “Bob” Olson passed away peacefully Monday, January 1, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born May 27, 1939, to Clarence J. and Emma M. (Duecker) Olson in Loup City, Nebraska.&nbsp; His family moved to Chadron, Nebraska when he was a child and graduated from Chadron High School in 1957 and then graduated from Chadron State College in 1961 with a bachelor's degree in business and a Minor in English.&nbsp; After college, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in September 1961.&nbsp; He served four years, including a deployment to Germany.&nbsp; He was honorably discharged in September 1964.&nbsp;

Bob married the love of his life, Margy C. Christensen on February 4, 1968, at the United Methodist Church in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.&nbsp; To this union, they were blessed with three children, Jodi Lynn, Amy Jo, and Bradley William.&nbsp;

Bob, also known as “Taxi Bob or Diesel Tower Bob” began his career at Burlington Northern in September 1973 as a clerk and retired in 2003.&nbsp; He met a lot of great friends and always had many stories to tell. He was a member of the United Methodist Church, a 35-year member of the Elks, 40-year member of the Eagles, and a 50-year member of the American Legion.&nbsp; He also served on the Western Heritage Credit Union Board for 12 years.

Bob was a very involved father and grandfather.&nbsp; You could find him attending every sporting event and activity possible for the Hemingford Bobcats, Alliance Bulldogs or Chadron State Eagles.&nbsp; His wife, children, and his grandkids were the most important people in his life.

He is survived by his children, Jodi (JD) Sutphen of Hemingford, Amy Varner of Alliance, and Brad Olson (Nina Schefcik) of Alliance; his grandchildren that he was so proud of, Morgan (Ashleigh) Sutphen of Omaha, Peyton Sutphen (Autumn Hoff) of Chadron, Katelyn and Drew Varner of Alliance; his brother-in law, Melvin Christensen of Chadron; special nieces and nephews, Kim Metz, Tori Marchant, and Brian Fisher, and Bill Christensen.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, his parents, in-laws Bill and Ruth Christensen, and his brother and sister in laws, Bill and Jean Marchant and Dolores Christensen.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 10:00 am at the United Methodist Church with Reverend Gregory Reed officiating. Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery with military honors. A reception will be held at the Alliance Eagles Club.

Memorials may be sent in care of the family for a future designated memorial to 903 Platte Avenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704400118831.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Robert Lee “Bob” Olson passed away peacefully Monday, January 1, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family.He was born May 27, 1939, to Clarence J. and Emma M. (Duecker) Olson in Loup City, Nebraska.&nbsp; His family moved to Chadron, Nebraska when he was a child and graduated from Chadron High School in 1957 and then graduated from Chadron State College in 1961 with a bachelor's degree in business and a Minor in English.&nbsp; After college, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in September 1961.&nbsp; He served four years, including a deployment to Germany.&nbsp; He was honorably discharged in September 1964.&nbsp;Bob married the love of his life, Margy C. Christensen on February 4, 1968, at the United Methodist Church in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.&nbsp; To this union, they were blessed with three children, Jodi Lynn, Amy Jo, and Bradley William.&nbsp;Bob, also known as “Taxi Bob or Diesel Tower Bob” began his career at Burlington Northern in September 1973 as a clerk and retired in 2003.&nbsp; He met a lot of great friends and always had many stories to tell. He was a member of the United Methodist Church, a 35-year member of the Elks, 40-year member of the Eagles, and a 50-year member of the American Legion.&nbsp; He also served on the Western Heritage Credit Union Board for 12 years.Bob was a very involved father and grandfather.&nbsp; You could find him attending every sporting event and activity possible for the Hemingford Bobcats, Alliance Bulldogs or Chadron State Eagles.&nbsp; His wife, children, and his grandkids were the most important people in his life.He is survived by his children, Jodi (JD) Sutphen of Hemingford, Amy Varner of Alliance, and Brad Olson (Nina Schefcik) of Alliance; his grandchildren that he was so proud of, Morgan (Ashleigh) Sutphen of Omaha, Peyton Sutphen (Autumn Hoff) of Chadron, Katelyn and Drew Varner of Alliance; his brother-in law, Melvin Christensen of Chadron; special nieces and nephews, Kim Metz, Tori Marchant, and Brian Fisher, and Bill Christensen.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, his parents, in-laws Bill and Ruth Christensen, and his brother and sister in laws, Bill and Jean Marchant and Dolores Christensen.Memorial services will be held Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 10:00 am at the United Methodist Church with Reverend Gregory Reed officiating. Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery with military honors. A reception will be held at the Alliance Eagles Club.Memorials may be sent in care of the family for a future designated memorial to 903 Platte Avenue.

Robert Lee “Bob” Olson (1939 - 2024)

Dale R. Kyser, 71, of Oshkosh passed away December 29, 2023, at Regional West Garden County Hospital in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/nebraska/oshkosh">Oshkosh, Nebraska</a>.

Dale’s funeral service will be held on January 9, 2024, at the Tiger Den in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/nebraska/lewellen">Lewellen, Nebraska</a>, at 10:00am MST, with public viewing at 9:00am. A private burial will be on January 11, 2024, at the Zion Lutheran Cemetery, south of Crookston.

Holechek-Bondegard Funeral Home and Cremations of Oshkosh is serving the family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a monetary donation to the family to be used to a charity or scholarship of their choice at a later date.

Dale Ray Kyser was born on Juiy 29, 1952, to his parents Roy and Lucille Kyser of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/nebraska/hay-springs">Hay Springs, Nebraska</a>. He was the sixth child in a family of one brother and four sisters. He spent his life in Hay Springs, Chadron, Torrington (Wyoming), Ainsworth, Brule, Oshkosh, Valentine, and Green River (Wyoming). Dale was baptized December 1959 at the First United Methodist Church in Hay Springs and was raised in a Christian home. His childhood and teen years were spent in the Hay Springs school system. He participated in a variety of sports all year round. At a young age he learned how to hunt and fish, and how to play the accordion and piano.

Dale graduated from Hay Springs High School in May 1970 and went to college at Chadron State College, running on the CSC track team. He was a member of the CSC Fellowship of Christian Athletes. At CSC he earned his Bachelor of Science in K-12 Education and later a Masters in Guidance Counseling. His first teaching job was in Ainsworth, followed by positions in Brule, Oshkosh, Valentine, and Green River.

On November 15, 1972, Dale lost his left leg above the knee in a PTO accident south of Hay Springs. After that he coached summer basketball camps in Chicago and Nashville, giving motivational talks and sharing his love of the sport with players at all levels. While teaching, Dale pursued a career in coaching basketball, cross country, and track. He was awarded the Wyoming Coaches Association 40 Years of Service Award in 2014-2015. He also shared his passion for hunting with many kids and adults as a Hunter Safety instructor.

Dale married his wife of 50 years, Carol Jane Riege, on June 24, 1973, at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Crookston. Two daughters were born to this union, Cheryl Kaye in 1980 and Carrie Lynn in 1984. His daughters grew up in Garden County, tagging along on adventures with their dad to Lake McConaughy, the goose pit, and anywhere else their 1978 Chevy Blazer would take them.

Dale had interests in hunting and fishing, farming and ranching, sports, and pets. He respected all facets of nature: the scenery, the wildlife, and the seasons. Hunting and fishing were his life-long passions, and he especially enjoyed when he could share those times in nature with others. Dale admired the farming and ranching ways of life, playing a part in haying, harvesting, riding and breaking horses, and fixing fence. Sports were a daily part of Dale’s life, whether it was sledding down the schoolhouse hill as a kid, water skiing with his artificial leg, teaching physical education, participating in high school sports, coaching students, target shooting, or watching televised events. He understood the dynamics of sports and the enrichment that athletics could bring to people at all levels. For pets, Dale always had a dog by his side and kitties around to entertain him and Carol. He passed the love of all his interests to his daughters and the many high school students he met as a guidance counselor and coach over the years.

Dale is survived by: his wife Carol of Oshkosh; daughters Cheryl Kyser Rolf (Jon Rolf) of Wood River and Carrie Kyser Weeks (Matt Weeks) of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/idaho/lewiston">Lewiston, Idaho</a>; granddaughter Chloe Weeks of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/idaho/lewiston">Lewiston, Idaho</a>; sisters Doris (Elwin) Lawrence of Hay Springs, Bea (Bill) Dinkel of North Platte, Dorothy Kenning of Wichita, Kansas, Evelyn (Jim) Hougland of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/illinois/rockford-area">Rockford, Illinois</a>; brother Keith (Ellen) Kyser of Hay Springs; mother-in-law Alice Riege of Cherry County; sister-in-law Kristi Colburn of Valentine; many nieces, nephews, and extended family; numerous teachers, administrators, and coaches; great hunting and fishing buddies; and countless friends.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704382252996.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Dale R. Kyser, 71, of Oshkosh passed away December 29, 2023, at Regional West Garden County Hospital in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/nebraska/oshkosh">Oshkosh, Nebraska</a>.Dale’s funeral service will be held on January 9, 2024, at the Tiger Den in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/nebraska/lewellen">Lewellen, Nebraska</a>, at 10:00am MST, with public viewing at 9:00am. A private burial will be on January 11, 2024, at the Zion Lutheran Cemetery, south of Crookston.Holechek-Bondegard Funeral Home and Cremations of Oshkosh is serving the family.In lieu of flowers, please consider a monetary donation to the family to be used to a charity or scholarship of their choice at a later date.Dale Ray Kyser was born on Juiy 29, 1952, to his parents Roy and Lucille Kyser of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/nebraska/hay-springs">Hay Springs, Nebraska</a>. He was the sixth child in a family of one brother and four sisters. He spent his life in Hay Springs, Chadron, Torrington (Wyoming), Ainsworth, Brule, Oshkosh, Valentine, and Green River (Wyoming). Dale was baptized December 1959 at the First United Methodist Church in Hay Springs and was raised in a Christian home. His childhood and teen years were spent in the Hay Springs school system. He participated in a variety of sports all year round. At a young age he learned how to hunt and fish, and how to play the accordion and piano.Dale graduated from Hay Springs High School in May 1970 and went to college at Chadron State College, running on the CSC track team. He was a member of the CSC Fellowship of Christian Athletes. At CSC he earned his Bachelor of Science in K-12 Education and later a Masters in Guidance Counseling. His first teaching job was in Ainsworth, followed by positions in Brule, Oshkosh, Valentine, and Green River.On November 15, 1972, Dale lost his left leg above the knee in a PTO accident south of Hay Springs. After that he coached summer basketball camps in Chicago and Nashville, giving motivational talks and sharing his love of the sport with players at all levels. While teaching, Dale pursued a career in coaching basketball, cross country, and track. He was awarded the Wyoming Coaches Association 40 Years of Service Award in 2014-2015. He also shared his passion for hunting with many kids and adults as a Hunter Safety instructor.Dale married his wife of 50 years, Carol Jane Riege, on June 24, 1973, at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Crookston. Two daughters were born to this union, Cheryl Kaye in 1980 and Carrie Lynn in 1984. His daughters grew up in Garden County, tagging along on adventures with their dad to Lake McConaughy, the goose pit, and anywhere else their 1978 Chevy Blazer would take them.Dale had interests in hunting and fishing, farming and ranching, sports, and pets. He respected all facets of nature: the scenery, the wildlife, and the seasons. Hunting and fishing were his life-long passions, and he especially enjoyed when he could share those times in nature with others. Dale admired the farming and ranching ways of life, playing a part in haying, harvesting, riding and breaking horses, and fixing fence. Sports were a daily part of Dale’s life, whether it was sledding down the schoolhouse hill as a kid, water skiing with his artificial leg, teaching physical education, participating in high school sports, coaching students, target shooting, or watching televised events. He understood the dynamics of sports and the enrichment that athletics could bring to people at all levels. For pets, Dale always had a dog by his side and kitties around to entertain him and Carol. He passed the love of all his interests to his daughters and the many high school students he met as a guidance counselor and coach over the years.Dale is survived by: his wife Carol of Oshkosh; daughters Cheryl Kyser Rolf (Jon Rolf) of Wood River and Carrie Kyser Weeks (Matt Weeks) of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/idaho/lewiston">Lewiston, Idaho</a>; granddaughter Chloe Weeks of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/idaho/lewiston">Lewiston, Idaho</a>; sisters Doris (Elwin) Lawrence of Hay Springs, Bea (Bill) Dinkel of North Platte, Dorothy Kenning of Wichita, Kansas, Evelyn (Jim) Hougland of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/illinois/rockford-area">Rockford, Illinois</a>; brother Keith (Ellen) Kyser of Hay Springs; mother-in-law Alice Riege of Cherry County; sister-in-law Kristi Colburn of Valentine; many nieces, nephews, and extended family; numerous teachers, administrators, and coaches; great hunting and fishing buddies; and countless friends.

Dale R. Kyser (1952 - 2023)

John R. Bauer, 80, entered into eternal rest on Monday, January 1, 2024 at Box Butte General Hospital surrounded by his family.

John was born on May 29, 1943 to Adolph and Mary (Schwartz) Bauer in the Gering Valley of Nebraska.

After spending the early part of his childhood in the Bayard area, the family relocated northeast of Alliance, Nebraska which is where he spent the rest of his life farming. John attended Alliance High School where he was actively involved in FFA and graduated in 1961. He spent much of his early years enjoying the thrill of fast cars. Many of his friends can still tell stories of seeing him running the rubber off his ‘64 Impala. His racing days slowed after marrying Abigail Turman and his sons Ben and Trabor being born. When the boys were very young, he met Patricia Bolek and she agreed to babysit his kids. Little did they know how that innocent agreement would lead to a lifetime together. He not only found his soulmate but also gained three children in Billy, Brenda, and Barbara (Whom he lovingly nicknamed “George”). After seeing the children off into their adult years, the two eloped to Eureka Springs, Arkansas and wed on August 16, 2002. They spent many years enjoying each other and in later years depending upon each other.

John enjoyed spending time “window farming”, driving around the area and talking farming with anyone. One of his favorite things to do was to drive out to see how planting or harvest was going on his son’s farm. From a card room at the local club to the big lights in Las Vegas he was always known as a formidable opponent when the cards were dealt. Anyone that had met John in life would tell you he was a gentleman gambler and that was true to the end.

John is survived by his children, Billy (Diane) Taylor of Rapid City, South Dakota, Brenda (Terry) Croswell of Alliance, Barb Addleman of Kansas City, Missouri, Ben (Dana) Bauer of Alliance, Trabor (Brittney) Bauer of Alliance and 17 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Robert (Susan) Bauer of Fairbury, Nebraska Jerry Bauer of Alliance, Roger (Jill) Bauer of Alliance. He was preceded in death by his wife Patricia, his parents Adolph and Mary, his sister Darlene, and brother Ronald. Also preceding him were a granddaughter and great granddaughter.

Funeral services will be held Friday, January 5 at 2:00 p.m. at the Bates-Gould Chapel with Pastor Richard C. Mueller officiating. Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday, January 4 from 1-7 p.m. with the family present from 4-6 p.m. at the funeral home.&nbsp; A reception will follow the burial at the Alliance Eagles Club.

Memorials can be sent to the Alliance Eagles Club to be made to a charitable donation.

Online condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.batesgould.com/" target="_blank">www.batesgould.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704304359651.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>John R. Bauer, 80, entered into eternal rest on Monday, January 1, 2024 at Box Butte General Hospital surrounded by his family.John was born on May 29, 1943 to Adolph and Mary (Schwartz) Bauer in the Gering Valley of Nebraska.After spending the early part of his childhood in the Bayard area, the family relocated northeast of Alliance, Nebraska which is where he spent the rest of his life farming. John attended Alliance High School where he was actively involved in FFA and graduated in 1961. He spent much of his early years enjoying the thrill of fast cars. Many of his friends can still tell stories of seeing him running the rubber off his ‘64 Impala. His racing days slowed after marrying Abigail Turman and his sons Ben and Trabor being born. When the boys were very young, he met Patricia Bolek and she agreed to babysit his kids. Little did they know how that innocent agreement would lead to a lifetime together. He not only found his soulmate but also gained three children in Billy, Brenda, and Barbara (Whom he lovingly nicknamed “George”). After seeing the children off into their adult years, the two eloped to Eureka Springs, Arkansas and wed on August 16, 2002. They spent many years enjoying each other and in later years depending upon each other.John enjoyed spending time “window farming”, driving around the area and talking farming with anyone. One of his favorite things to do was to drive out to see how planting or harvest was going on his son’s farm. From a card room at the local club to the big lights in Las Vegas he was always known as a formidable opponent when the cards were dealt. Anyone that had met John in life would tell you he was a gentleman gambler and that was true to the end.John is survived by his children, Billy (Diane) Taylor of Rapid City, South Dakota, Brenda (Terry) Croswell of Alliance, Barb Addleman of Kansas City, Missouri, Ben (Dana) Bauer of Alliance, Trabor (Brittney) Bauer of Alliance and 17 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Robert (Susan) Bauer of Fairbury, Nebraska Jerry Bauer of Alliance, Roger (Jill) Bauer of Alliance. He was preceded in death by his wife Patricia, his parents Adolph and Mary, his sister Darlene, and brother Ronald. Also preceding him were a granddaughter and great granddaughter.Funeral services will be held Friday, January 5 at 2:00 p.m. at the Bates-Gould Chapel with Pastor Richard C. Mueller officiating. Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday, January 4 from 1-7 p.m. with the family present from 4-6 p.m. at the funeral home.&nbsp; A reception will follow the burial at the Alliance Eagles Club.Memorials can be sent to the Alliance Eagles Club to be made to a charitable donation.Online condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.batesgould.com/" target="_blank">www.batesgould.com</a>

John R. Bauer (1943 - 2024)

Diana L. Zellaha, 59 of South Sioux City, formerly of Spencer, IA passed away Tuesday, December 26, 2023. A memorial service will be held&nbsp;at 10:30 A.M. Saturday, January 6, 2024&nbsp;at First Christian Church,&nbsp;701 E 18th Street, Spencer, Iowa.&nbsp;A celebration of life will follow the service at Weasy’s,&nbsp;216 Grand Ave, Spencer, Iowa,&nbsp;from 12:00 to 3:00 P.M.

Diana was born the daughter of Max and Kathy (Swantek) Merrill on September 18, 1964 in Osceola, Nebraska. She graduated from Alliance High School. Diana married the love of her life, Shane Zellaha on December 4, 1983 making their home in Spencer where they raised their children, Tyson and Shayna.&nbsp;

Diana worked at Stylecraft for many years before pursuing her dream of nursing. She graduated from Iowa Lakes Community College with a nursing degree. She worked as a registered nurse for Spencer Hospital and did private health care for several clients.&nbsp;

Diana enjoyed spending time with her family, especially sleepovers with the grandchildren and going to all of their activities. She was a proud mom and grandma. She was the main cook at every family gathering and made the best turkey and corn bake. Diana had many dogs over the years that she loved dearly, most recently Sunny and Peanut. She was a longtime Huskers fan, enjoyed dancing in her younger years, and loved the outdoors, especially flowers, and gardening. Diana always went out of her way to help her friends and family.&nbsp;

Diana is survived by her husband, Shane of South Sioux City; daughter, Shayna (Cory) Ege of Cherokee; grandchildren, Emma, Ellie, Trice Ege, and Landon and Brooklyn Zellaha; siblings, Josh, Matt, James, Tim, Steve, and Lisa; mother-in-law, Marilyn; and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704209775351.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Diana L. Zellaha, 59 of South Sioux City, formerly of Spencer, IA passed away Tuesday, December 26, 2023. A memorial service will be held&nbsp;at 10:30 A.M. Saturday, January 6, 2024&nbsp;at First Christian Church,&nbsp;701 E 18th Street, Spencer, Iowa.&nbsp;A celebration of life will follow the service at Weasy’s,&nbsp;216 Grand Ave, Spencer, Iowa,&nbsp;from 12:00 to 3:00 P.M.Diana was born the daughter of Max and Kathy (Swantek) Merrill on September 18, 1964 in Osceola, Nebraska. She graduated from Alliance High School. Diana married the love of her life, Shane Zellaha on December 4, 1983 making their home in Spencer where they raised their children, Tyson and Shayna.&nbsp;Diana worked at Stylecraft for many years before pursuing her dream of nursing. She graduated from Iowa Lakes Community College with a nursing degree. She worked as a registered nurse for Spencer Hospital and did private health care for several clients.&nbsp;Diana enjoyed spending time with her family, especially sleepovers with the grandchildren and going to all of their activities. She was a proud mom and grandma. She was the main cook at every family gathering and made the best turkey and corn bake. Diana had many dogs over the years that she loved dearly, most recently Sunny and Peanut. She was a longtime Huskers fan, enjoyed dancing in her younger years, and loved the outdoors, especially flowers, and gardening. Diana always went out of her way to help her friends and family.&nbsp;Diana is survived by her husband, Shane of South Sioux City; daughter, Shayna (Cory) Ege of Cherokee; grandchildren, Emma, Ellie, Trice Ege, and Landon and Brooklyn Zellaha; siblings, Josh, Matt, James, Tim, Steve, and Lisa; mother-in-law, Marilyn; and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.&nbsp;

Diana L. Zellaha (1964 - 2023)

Stanley Ray Slater, 95, of Scottsbluff, Neb., passed away Monday, December 18, 2023, at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff. &nbsp;A joint memorial service for Stan and his wife, Bunni, who preceded him in death just four days prior, will be held at a later date. Cremation has taken place in accordance with his wishes.&nbsp; Online condolences may be expressed by visiting Stan’s obituary page viewable at www.reverencefuneralparlor.com.

Stan was born July 5, 1928, in Gordon, Neb. to parents, William Orin Slater and Georgia Raye (Nern) Slater.&nbsp; He always took pride in being born the same year as Mickey Mouse. He lived with his family, on his grandparents Felix and Mae Nern’s ranch, in the Sand Hills, just south of Gordon during most of his childhood years. He rode his horse, Sonny, to school every day until the eighth grade when the family moved into Gordon.&nbsp; As a young boy, he gave his heart to Jesus as his savior at the Church of God in Gordon. Stan played basketball and was in the band at Gordon High School, where he graduated in 1947.&nbsp; He also attended the Church of God Bible School for one year in Chadron, Neb.&nbsp; He worked as a teller at the Gordon State Bank for his first job.

Stan was drafted into the Army during the Korean War. He served from March 14, 1951, to March 9, 1953, and the majority of this time he was in the Engineer Topographic Detachment 8210th Army Unit.&nbsp; After his basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, he entered the Corp of Army Engineers at Fort Belvoir, Vir., where he had the second highest test scores in his class.&nbsp; This qualified him to be part of the map making and photography division of the Army Engineers, which gave him top security clearance and secret service status.&nbsp; He was based near the front lines in Korea and would make many trips by air and by jeep above and at the front lines on reconnaissance missions to make accurate battle maps for the military to use.

Stan returned to Nebraska after the war and attended the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, Neb. It was there he met his future wife, Bernice ‘Bunni’ Rose Howland, on the steps of her church the first Sunday of his arrival in town.&nbsp; They were married in the Lincoln Sunken Gardens at 7:00 in the morning on August 28, 1955.&nbsp; Stan was a member of the Alpha Kappa Psi and the Glee Club while at university.&nbsp; Two and a half years of college later, he graduated in 1956 from the University of Nebraska with a bachelor’s degree in business administration.&nbsp; The same year he was hired by Bank of America to train as a bank manager in southern California. He often spoke of seeing Walt Disney in person one time, when he happened to visit that branch where Stan worked.&nbsp; California was where Stan and Bunni’s two daughters, Susan and Lauri, were born. The family lived in Glendale, Altadena, and Pasadena, while Stan worked mostly in mortgage banking in Beverly Hills.&nbsp;

The family moved back to Nebraska to be closer to family in 1967, settling in Scottsbluff.&nbsp; The same year Stan became the business manager for St. Mary’s Hospital, where he worked until 1976 when the hospital merged with the then Methodist Hospital.&nbsp; At that time, he left the hospital system to join Bunni in full time retailing at their store, The Cat’s Meow, which she had started in 1968.&nbsp;

Stan and Bunni traveled extensively from 1976 to 2009. First in the U.S. and short visits to Paris and Europe, and then after retirement to Lompoc, Cal. in 1989, they went on regular trips to the British Isles and Western Europe.&nbsp; Many of these years they went on bicycle tours together in New England and England.&nbsp; On one trip to England, they operated their own boat on one of the canals.&nbsp; They became friends with a number of people in England and Italy, who they would return to visit when possible.&nbsp; Some of Stan’s hobbies were woodworking, restoring old furniture, and painting.

Stan and Bunni made another move back to Scottsbluff in 2001, because of Stan’s restlessness to always get back to Nebraska where he felt most at home.&nbsp; This time they remained in Scottsbluff and spent most of their time with family during their final years.

His family recounts listening to many stories Stan told of growing up on the ranch and his time in Korea. Stan was an amazing storyteller. They were colorful, larger than life stories of a legendary ranch. He often told the story of the Korean boy who worked in his barracks named Kim Sing Yuong or ‘Half Pint.’&nbsp;

Dear Lord, thank you for Stan. Thank you for helping him persevere to be close to You, especially later in life. Thank you for answering his prayer to go to be with You at the same time as his loving wife, Bunni. They passed four days apart and for this we are grateful. Thank you for Your faithfulness to Stan. Amen.

Survivors include his daughters, Susan (Tom) Perkins and Lauri Matisse of Scottsbluff; brother, Maurice (Marlys) Slater of Gordon, Neb.; seven grandchildren, Miner, John, and Michaela Perkins of Scottsbluff, April Mallord of Fayetteville, Ark., Peter Mallord of Silver Lake, Cal., and Julia Mallord and Cyrus Matisse of Scottsbluff; and sister-in-law, Nancy (Howland) Regier of Lincoln.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704209629266.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Stanley Ray Slater, 95, of Scottsbluff, Neb., passed away Monday, December 18, 2023, at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff. &nbsp;A joint memorial service for Stan and his wife, Bunni, who preceded him in death just four days prior, will be held at a later date. Cremation has taken place in accordance with his wishes.&nbsp; Online condolences may be expressed by visiting Stan’s obituary page viewable at www.reverencefuneralparlor.com.Stan was born July 5, 1928, in Gordon, Neb. to parents, William Orin Slater and Georgia Raye (Nern) Slater.&nbsp; He always took pride in being born the same year as Mickey Mouse. He lived with his family, on his grandparents Felix and Mae Nern’s ranch, in the Sand Hills, just south of Gordon during most of his childhood years. He rode his horse, Sonny, to school every day until the eighth grade when the family moved into Gordon.&nbsp; As a young boy, he gave his heart to Jesus as his savior at the Church of God in Gordon. Stan played basketball and was in the band at Gordon High School, where he graduated in 1947.&nbsp; He also attended the Church of God Bible School for one year in Chadron, Neb.&nbsp; He worked as a teller at the Gordon State Bank for his first job.Stan was drafted into the Army during the Korean War. He served from March 14, 1951, to March 9, 1953, and the majority of this time he was in the Engineer Topographic Detachment 8210th Army Unit.&nbsp; After his basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, he entered the Corp of Army Engineers at Fort Belvoir, Vir., where he had the second highest test scores in his class.&nbsp; This qualified him to be part of the map making and photography division of the Army Engineers, which gave him top security clearance and secret service status.&nbsp; He was based near the front lines in Korea and would make many trips by air and by jeep above and at the front lines on reconnaissance missions to make accurate battle maps for the military to use.Stan returned to Nebraska after the war and attended the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, Neb. It was there he met his future wife, Bernice ‘Bunni’ Rose Howland, on the steps of her church the first Sunday of his arrival in town.&nbsp; They were married in the Lincoln Sunken Gardens at 7:00 in the morning on August 28, 1955.&nbsp; Stan was a member of the Alpha Kappa Psi and the Glee Club while at university.&nbsp; Two and a half years of college later, he graduated in 1956 from the University of Nebraska with a bachelor’s degree in business administration.&nbsp; The same year he was hired by Bank of America to train as a bank manager in southern California. He often spoke of seeing Walt Disney in person one time, when he happened to visit that branch where Stan worked.&nbsp; California was where Stan and Bunni’s two daughters, Susan and Lauri, were born. The family lived in Glendale, Altadena, and Pasadena, while Stan worked mostly in mortgage banking in Beverly Hills.&nbsp;The family moved back to Nebraska to be closer to family in 1967, settling in Scottsbluff.&nbsp; The same year Stan became the business manager for St. Mary’s Hospital, where he worked until 1976 when the hospital merged with the then Methodist Hospital.&nbsp; At that time, he left the hospital system to join Bunni in full time retailing at their store, The Cat’s Meow, which she had started in 1968.&nbsp;Stan and Bunni traveled extensively from 1976 to 2009. First in the U.S. and short visits to Paris and Europe, and then after retirement to Lompoc, Cal. in 1989, they went on regular trips to the British Isles and Western Europe.&nbsp; Many of these years they went on bicycle tours together in New England and England.&nbsp; On one trip to England, they operated their own boat on one of the canals.&nbsp; They became friends with a number of people in England and Italy, who they would return to visit when possible.&nbsp; Some of Stan’s hobbies were woodworking, restoring old furniture, and painting.Stan and Bunni made another move back to Scottsbluff in 2001, because of Stan’s restlessness to always get back to Nebraska where he felt most at home.&nbsp; This time they remained in Scottsbluff and spent most of their time with family during their final years.His family recounts listening to many stories Stan told of growing up on the ranch and his time in Korea. Stan was an amazing storyteller. They were colorful, larger than life stories of a legendary ranch. He often told the story of the Korean boy who worked in his barracks named Kim Sing Yuong or ‘Half Pint.’&nbsp;Dear Lord, thank you for Stan. Thank you for helping him persevere to be close to You, especially later in life. Thank you for answering his prayer to go to be with You at the same time as his loving wife, Bunni. They passed four days apart and for this we are grateful. Thank you for Your faithfulness to Stan. Amen.Survivors include his daughters, Susan (Tom) Perkins and Lauri Matisse of Scottsbluff; brother, Maurice (Marlys) Slater of Gordon, Neb.; seven grandchildren, Miner, John, and Michaela Perkins of Scottsbluff, April Mallord of Fayetteville, Ark., Peter Mallord of Silver Lake, Cal., and Julia Mallord and Cyrus Matisse of Scottsbluff; and sister-in-law, Nancy (Howland) Regier of Lincoln.&nbsp;

Stanley Ray Slater (1928 - 2023)

Bernice “Bunni” Rose Slater, beloved owner of The Cat’s Meow, 88, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, passed away Thursday, December 14, 2023, in Scottsbluff. A memorial service will be held at a later date and cremation has taken place in accordance with her wishes. Online condolences may be expressed by visiting Bunni’s obituary page viewable at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reverencefuneralparlor.com/">www.reverencefuneralparlor.com</a>.

Bunni was born September 7, 1935, in Lincoln, Nebraska to James and Mary Helen (Cook) Howland and grew up in Juniata, Weeping Water, Brainard, McCook, and Wahoo, before moving back to Lincoln. She graduated from Lincoln High School in 1953. She was a big sister to Helen Marie and Nancy Kay. Bunni gave her life to Jesus as a little girl and had a heart for missions. Although her given name was Bernice, everyone knew her as Bunni, a name she loved.

She met her future husband, Stan Slater, while telling a funny story on the steps of their local church. He asked her to sing a duet with him, and she knew she had found her cowboy. They were married in 1955 at Sunken Gardens in Lincoln and a honeymoon to Niagara Falls followed.&nbsp; They returned to Lincoln to finish college and Bunni became a layout editor for the Cornhusker yearbook. Stan landed a job with the Bank of America in Los Angeles, and Bunni set aside her major. The couple seized the opportunity for their grand adventure to California.

Bunni worked for a short time at Cook Electric in California, where she operated an old teletype machine and handled classified paperwork. She then worked for twelve years as secretary of the Church of the Foothills, Church of God, Pasadena. She was responsible for an 8,000-member mailing list for 65 churches as her boss was the head of the Association of the Church of God in Southern California. Bunni and Stan loved to sing in the choir and did so most of their lives at the churches they attended. Bunni’s favorite songs were Morning Has Broken, In the Garden, and Be Thou My Vision, which her family sang with her often and until the end.

Bunni enjoyed becoming a mother when her two miraculous daughters, Susan and Lauri, were born in ‘58 and ‘61. Her life became filled with sewing projects, reading children’s books, and helping in school activities. Soon family and home beckoned Stan and Bunni to return to Nebraska in 1967. It was September 10, 1968, when Bunni used her new-found skills in sewing, art, and marketing to begin The Cat’s Meow in Scottsbluff. She joined the first generation of career women and was one of the first women business-owners in Scottsbluff. Her cool shop took off! It was The Cat’s Meow! As Bunni would say on the radio, it was an ‘International Treasure Hunt’ with anything and everything from soap, candles, stickers, cards, coffee, silk flowers, baskets, toys, gizmos, aprons, cookware, waterbeds, designer fabric, wedding dishes and fashion, to name a few.

Bunni and Stan retired and made another big move back out to California in 1989. Bunni’s retirement was filled with sewing herself new designer clothes, bicycling and traveling with Stan all over America, England, and Italy to visit beloved friends, and reading British mysteries and romances. She read a book a day for many years. She also became an accomplished watercolorist and a talented decorator with a knack for furniture painting.

Grandchildren also became a big part of her life. She loved reading Winnie the Pooh to each of her seven grandchildren in turn. Her eldest granddaughter April said, “Grandma Bunni was the classiest and most joyous lady I have ever known. She had the most impeccable style and had a life that was well crafted. She made every moment magical for her grandkids, and I hope that magic can live on through us. She taught me to look at and appreciate the small things other people would easily pass right over. Nothing was lost on grandma, and she made everything seem significant and special.”

As her life drew to a close, God became more and more important to Bunni. She avidly read the books of William Barclay and enjoyed sharing her faith with her friends at The Residency retirement home. She formed many meaningful friendships there and enjoyed leaving notes of encouragement. Bunni led many people to Jesus. Even in her weak state toward the end of her life, she was concerned for others. Her daughter Lauri said, “She never said a bad word in her life, nor did she ever say an unkind word about anyone. She was a truly selfless and precious person.”

The last year of her life, Bunni struggled with growing dementia, but she kept her positivity and thankfulness even in her darkest hours. Prayer was also a great comfort for her, especially in the last weeks. She recently said, “I’ve been praying since I was a baby.” She often thanked God for all that He was doing in her life as it drew to a close here on earth; and was assured of His complete sovereignty in the events of her life and in her death.

The family would like to say a prayer in honor of that, “Dear Jesus, we are so thankful that we are part of Bunni’s family and that we got the chance to know her. She was truly a gift that cannot be replaced, but our prayer is that her gift of love and care for others’ lives on to everything she touched and through us. Thank you for taking her into Your everlasting arms. We know she is in a perfect place with You, in Your eternal garden. We will miss you, Bunni, until we see you again. In Jesus Name, Amen.”

Survivors include her sister, Nancy Howland-Regier of Lincoln; husband of 68 years, Stanley of Scottsbluff; daughter, Susan (Tom) Perkins and Lauri Matisse of Scottsbluff; and seven grandchildren, Miner, April, John, Peter, Michaela, Julia, and Cyrus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704209476120.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Bernice “Bunni” Rose Slater, beloved owner of The Cat’s Meow, 88, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, passed away Thursday, December 14, 2023, in Scottsbluff. A memorial service will be held at a later date and cremation has taken place in accordance with her wishes. Online condolences may be expressed by visiting Bunni’s obituary page viewable at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reverencefuneralparlor.com/">www.reverencefuneralparlor.com</a>.Bunni was born September 7, 1935, in Lincoln, Nebraska to James and Mary Helen (Cook) Howland and grew up in Juniata, Weeping Water, Brainard, McCook, and Wahoo, before moving back to Lincoln. She graduated from Lincoln High School in 1953. She was a big sister to Helen Marie and Nancy Kay. Bunni gave her life to Jesus as a little girl and had a heart for missions. Although her given name was Bernice, everyone knew her as Bunni, a name she loved.She met her future husband, Stan Slater, while telling a funny story on the steps of their local church. He asked her to sing a duet with him, and she knew she had found her cowboy. They were married in 1955 at Sunken Gardens in Lincoln and a honeymoon to Niagara Falls followed.&nbsp; They returned to Lincoln to finish college and Bunni became a layout editor for the Cornhusker yearbook. Stan landed a job with the Bank of America in Los Angeles, and Bunni set aside her major. The couple seized the opportunity for their grand adventure to California.Bunni worked for a short time at Cook Electric in California, where she operated an old teletype machine and handled classified paperwork. She then worked for twelve years as secretary of the Church of the Foothills, Church of God, Pasadena. She was responsible for an 8,000-member mailing list for 65 churches as her boss was the head of the Association of the Church of God in Southern California. Bunni and Stan loved to sing in the choir and did so most of their lives at the churches they attended. Bunni’s favorite songs were Morning Has Broken, In the Garden, and Be Thou My Vision, which her family sang with her often and until the end.Bunni enjoyed becoming a mother when her two miraculous daughters, Susan and Lauri, were born in ‘58 and ‘61. Her life became filled with sewing projects, reading children’s books, and helping in school activities. Soon family and home beckoned Stan and Bunni to return to Nebraska in 1967. It was September 10, 1968, when Bunni used her new-found skills in sewing, art, and marketing to begin The Cat’s Meow in Scottsbluff. She joined the first generation of career women and was one of the first women business-owners in Scottsbluff. Her cool shop took off! It was The Cat’s Meow! As Bunni would say on the radio, it was an ‘International Treasure Hunt’ with anything and everything from soap, candles, stickers, cards, coffee, silk flowers, baskets, toys, gizmos, aprons, cookware, waterbeds, designer fabric, wedding dishes and fashion, to name a few.Bunni and Stan retired and made another big move back out to California in 1989. Bunni’s retirement was filled with sewing herself new designer clothes, bicycling and traveling with Stan all over America, England, and Italy to visit beloved friends, and reading British mysteries and romances. She read a book a day for many years. She also became an accomplished watercolorist and a talented decorator with a knack for furniture painting.Grandchildren also became a big part of her life. She loved reading Winnie the Pooh to each of her seven grandchildren in turn. Her eldest granddaughter April said, “Grandma Bunni was the classiest and most joyous lady I have ever known. She had the most impeccable style and had a life that was well crafted. She made every moment magical for her grandkids, and I hope that magic can live on through us. She taught me to look at and appreciate the small things other people would easily pass right over. Nothing was lost on grandma, and she made everything seem significant and special.”As her life drew to a close, God became more and more important to Bunni. She avidly read the books of William Barclay and enjoyed sharing her faith with her friends at The Residency retirement home. She formed many meaningful friendships there and enjoyed leaving notes of encouragement. Bunni led many people to Jesus. Even in her weak state toward the end of her life, she was concerned for others. Her daughter Lauri said, “She never said a bad word in her life, nor did she ever say an unkind word about anyone. She was a truly selfless and precious person.”The last year of her life, Bunni struggled with growing dementia, but she kept her positivity and thankfulness even in her darkest hours. Prayer was also a great comfort for her, especially in the last weeks. She recently said, “I’ve been praying since I was a baby.” She often thanked God for all that He was doing in her life as it drew to a close here on earth; and was assured of His complete sovereignty in the events of her life and in her death.The family would like to say a prayer in honor of that, “Dear Jesus, we are so thankful that we are part of Bunni’s family and that we got the chance to know her. She was truly a gift that cannot be replaced, but our prayer is that her gift of love and care for others’ lives on to everything she touched and through us. Thank you for taking her into Your everlasting arms. We know she is in a perfect place with You, in Your eternal garden. We will miss you, Bunni, until we see you again. In Jesus Name, Amen.”Survivors include her sister, Nancy Howland-Regier of Lincoln; husband of 68 years, Stanley of Scottsbluff; daughter, Susan (Tom) Perkins and Lauri Matisse of Scottsbluff; and seven grandchildren, Miner, April, John, Peter, Michaela, Julia, and Cyrus.

Bernice “Bunni” Rose Slater (1935 - 2023)

Alvin Leroy Bauer, 98, of Gering, Nebraska, died on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at Heritage Estates in Gering, Nebraska.

A Memorial Service, with military honors, will be held on Saturday, January 6, at 10:30 a.m. at the Gering United Methodist Church, with Bev Russell and Pastor Francis Kinyua officiating. At his request, Al’s ashes will be scattered on Laramie Peak at a later date.

Memorials may be made to Boy Scouts of America: Camp Laramie Peak or Gering United Methodist Church. Fond memories and condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dugankramer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.dugankramer.com</a>&nbsp;for the Bauer family. Dugan-Kramer Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Alvin Bauer was born on April 5, 1925, in Greeley, Colorado, to Pauline (Betz) and John Bauer. As a child, he hoed sugar beets with his family in western Nebraska. His high school education was interrupted when he joined the Marines during World War II, eventually attaining the rank of Corporal. He finally graduated from Bayard High School in 1947, after he returned from serving in the South Pacific.

He married Beth Evelyn Lucas on June 26, 1949, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. They made their home in Gering, Nebraska.

Al worked at Dutch Maid Bakery from 1947-1954. Next, he worked for Lockwood Graders for 20 years, traveling all over the country for that job. He finished his working years as Chief Mechanic at Western Sugar, working year-round for more than 26 years with the sugar factory maintenance crews in Gering and Bayard. After he retired, he drove a truck during sugar beet harvest for several years.

Al was a long-time volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America, beginning as a leader in 1961. He was excited to take three canoe trips with his sons to Charles L. Sommers Wilderness Canoe Base. He loved to work at the Laramie Peak Scout Camp, helping with numerous maintenance and building projects over the years. He served on the National Scout Jamboree Staff near Washington, D.C. for two years, and earned the Silver Beaver and Wood Badge Awards, as well as a national award commemorating 50 years of Service to Scouting.

He was a member of Gering United Methodist Church since 1952.

Al lived in the same house in Gering for 70 years, until he moved to his daughter JoAnn’s house, and then to Heritage Estates. Throughout his life, he loved to go fishing and camping, and also enjoyed photography and working on his elaborate model railroad lay out. In his later years, Al was always pleased to spend time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved his family, and will be sadly missed by all.

Al is survived by his daughter, JoAnn (William) Lathrop of Gering; son, William (Janet) Bauer of Gering; granddaughters, Lindsey (Brian) Ferguson and Shana (Brock) Schank of Scottsbluff, Erin Bauer (Reed Tyler) of Pickerington, Ohio, Meagan (Andy) Stobel of Gering, Victoria (Caleb) Schank of Minatare; grandson, Levi Bauer of Gering; and great-grandchildren, Sheridan and Dillon Ferguson, Carter Lathrop, Tobin, Evelyn, Lydia, Ari, Ruthie, and Lucy Stobel, and William and Anna Tyler.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of 59 years, Beth; his only brother, Kenneth Bauer; and his youngest son, James P. Bauer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704208848097.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Alvin Leroy Bauer, 98, of Gering, Nebraska, died on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at Heritage Estates in Gering, Nebraska.A Memorial Service, with military honors, will be held on Saturday, January 6, at 10:30 a.m. at the Gering United Methodist Church, with Bev Russell and Pastor Francis Kinyua officiating. At his request, Al’s ashes will be scattered on Laramie Peak at a later date.Memorials may be made to Boy Scouts of America: Camp Laramie Peak or Gering United Methodist Church. Fond memories and condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dugankramer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.dugankramer.com</a>&nbsp;for the Bauer family. Dugan-Kramer Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.Alvin Bauer was born on April 5, 1925, in Greeley, Colorado, to Pauline (Betz) and John Bauer. As a child, he hoed sugar beets with his family in western Nebraska. His high school education was interrupted when he joined the Marines during World War II, eventually attaining the rank of Corporal. He finally graduated from Bayard High School in 1947, after he returned from serving in the South Pacific.He married Beth Evelyn Lucas on June 26, 1949, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. They made their home in Gering, Nebraska.Al worked at Dutch Maid Bakery from 1947-1954. Next, he worked for Lockwood Graders for 20 years, traveling all over the country for that job. He finished his working years as Chief Mechanic at Western Sugar, working year-round for more than 26 years with the sugar factory maintenance crews in Gering and Bayard. After he retired, he drove a truck during sugar beet harvest for several years.Al was a long-time volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America, beginning as a leader in 1961. He was excited to take three canoe trips with his sons to Charles L. Sommers Wilderness Canoe Base. He loved to work at the Laramie Peak Scout Camp, helping with numerous maintenance and building projects over the years. He served on the National Scout Jamboree Staff near Washington, D.C. for two years, and earned the Silver Beaver and Wood Badge Awards, as well as a national award commemorating 50 years of Service to Scouting.He was a member of Gering United Methodist Church since 1952.Al lived in the same house in Gering for 70 years, until he moved to his daughter JoAnn’s house, and then to Heritage Estates. Throughout his life, he loved to go fishing and camping, and also enjoyed photography and working on his elaborate model railroad lay out. In his later years, Al was always pleased to spend time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved his family, and will be sadly missed by all.Al is survived by his daughter, JoAnn (William) Lathrop of Gering; son, William (Janet) Bauer of Gering; granddaughters, Lindsey (Brian) Ferguson and Shana (Brock) Schank of Scottsbluff, Erin Bauer (Reed Tyler) of Pickerington, Ohio, Meagan (Andy) Stobel of Gering, Victoria (Caleb) Schank of Minatare; grandson, Levi Bauer of Gering; and great-grandchildren, Sheridan and Dillon Ferguson, Carter Lathrop, Tobin, Evelyn, Lydia, Ari, Ruthie, and Lucy Stobel, and William and Anna Tyler.He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of 59 years, Beth; his only brother, Kenneth Bauer; and his youngest son, James P. Bauer.

Alvin Leroy Bauer (1925 - 2023)

&nbsp; A fighter until the end, at just the age of 59, Shelley Lummel has lost a long-term health battle. On December 30, 2023, Shelley was taken into the Lord's embrace and left this physical world, but never our hearts. A memorial service will be held on January 6th, 2023, at the Church of Christ in Bridgeport, Nebraska at 10:30 am with Pastor Jonathan Seng presiding. The family requests that guests wear something casual with lots of colors to celebrate Shelley’s colorful life. Online condolences may be made by viewing Shelley’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport is assisting with arrangements.

Shelley was born on February 7, 1964, to Kenneth and Janet Hennis in Holton, Kansas. When she was only a child, she met the woman who she would come to know as mom. Ruth Betterton raised Shelley and her 5 siblings with love and patience. She taught her to love baking and the importance of hard work, which Shelley then passed on to her children. 

On February 14th, 1993, Shelley would meet the true love of her life. Together she and Jim would go on to raise 6 children and share in the joys of 23 grandchildren. Shelley and Jim spent many of their days at the lake fishing and boating, spending time with family and friends. She was always full of laughter and wanted to share it with those around her. 

Shelley had many talents in this life but none as great as her writing ability. Shelley could put any emotion into words and many times you would find her with a notebook and pen in hand. Shelley was an incredible artist as well, however, she did not seem to pass on that ability to any of her children. She will continue to live on through the works she has created over the years. 

While she may be gone from this world she will live on in the hearts of so many. Shelley was kind, fierce, and loyal, but mostly an amazing wife and mother. She taught her children the importance of hard work and the meaning of unconditional love. Shelley will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her husband and children and of course strawberry pop-tarts and coffee. 

Shelley’s love and ferocity will live on in her loving husband Jim Lummel; daughter Amber (Matthew) Moore; sons Anthony (Cynthia) McCollum; Josh (Jessica) White; Jacob (Jessica) White; Aron Lummel (Brandi Ehler); loving mother Ruth Betterton, brothers and sisters; 23 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews. Shelley will be greeted in Heaven by her son Andrew Lummel; nephew Chris Wise; mom Oneva Lummel; her biological parents; and her brother Kevin Lewman.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 </figure>&nbsp; A fighter until the end, at just the age of 59, Shelley Lummel has lost a long-term health battle. On December 30, 2023, Shelley was taken into the Lord's embrace and left this physical world, but never our hearts. A memorial service will be held on January 6th, 2023, at the Church of Christ in Bridgeport, Nebraska at 10:30 am with Pastor Jonathan Seng presiding. The family requests that guests wear something casual with lots of colors to celebrate Shelley’s colorful life. Online condolences may be made by viewing Shelley’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport is assisting with arrangements.Shelley was born on February 7, 1964, to Kenneth and Janet Hennis in Holton, Kansas. When she was only a child, she met the woman who she would come to know as mom. Ruth Betterton raised Shelley and her 5 siblings with love and patience. She taught her to love baking and the importance of hard work, which Shelley then passed on to her children. On February 14th, 1993, Shelley would meet the true love of her life. Together she and Jim would go on to raise 6 children and share in the joys of 23 grandchildren. Shelley and Jim spent many of their days at the lake fishing and boating, spending time with family and friends. She was always full of laughter and wanted to share it with those around her. Shelley had many talents in this life but none as great as her writing ability. Shelley could put any emotion into words and many times you would find her with a notebook and pen in hand. Shelley was an incredible artist as well, however, she did not seem to pass on that ability to any of her children. She will continue to live on through the works she has created over the years. While she may be gone from this world she will live on in the hearts of so many. Shelley was kind, fierce, and loyal, but mostly an amazing wife and mother. She taught her children the importance of hard work and the meaning of unconditional love. Shelley will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her husband and children and of course strawberry pop-tarts and coffee. Shelley’s love and ferocity will live on in her loving husband Jim Lummel; daughter Amber (Matthew) Moore; sons Anthony (Cynthia) McCollum; Josh (Jessica) White; Jacob (Jessica) White; Aron Lummel (Brandi Ehler); loving mother Ruth Betterton, brothers and sisters; 23 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews. Shelley will be greeted in Heaven by her son Andrew Lummel; nephew Chris Wise; mom Oneva Lummel; her biological parents; and her brother Kevin Lewman.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Shelley Renee Lummel (Hennis) (1964 - 2023)

&nbsp;Harley Buford Carter, 84, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, passed away on December 28, 2023. Cremation has taken place and graveside services will be held at the Nebraska Veteran’s Cemetery in Alliance, NE at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to the Harrisburg, Nebraska (Banner County) Volunteer Fire Department in memory of Buford Carter. 

Online condolences may be made by viewing Buford’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Family Funeral Home in Scottsbluff is entrusted with arrangements.

He was born on March 28, 1939, in Littlefield, Texas to Clark and Corda Carter. Buford was a hardworking man who was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He believed in giving people a chance as long as they were willing to try. Buford graduated from Friona High School in Friona, Texas, in 1957. While in high school he was active in sports and FFA. He served in the Army from 1957 to 1960. A majority of his service time was spent in Germany. While stationed in Germany, he was a member of his unit's football team. After his military service, Buford embarked on a successful farming career. He farmed in Vega, Texas, from 1960 to 1967 before moving to the Sublette/Kismet, Kansas area, where he farmed until 1975. Buford and his wife then purchased a ranch and farm in Banner County, Nebraska, where they farmed and raised cattle until their retirement in 2002. Buford was recognized as a top producer for Holly Sugar during his farming career. 

In 2002, Buford and Mary moved to Gering, Nebraska, where they enjoyed a semi-retired life. Buford continued his involvement in the beef industry. He also worked part time for Panhandle Coop. He took great pleasure in supporting his grandchildren's activities and was an avid supporter of 4-H and the Kimball/Banner County Fair. In August 2014, Buford and Mary moved into the Western Nebraska Veterans Home in Scottsbluff, where they participated in many activities and formed cherished friendships. Buford was grateful for the care and companionship they received during their time there. 

Buford worshipped at the Veteran's Home Chapel. He had a passion for agriculture and was not afraid to try something new. He had a love for sports and was an avid fan of Husker Football, the Dallas Cowboys, the Denver Broncos, and the Utah Jazz. 

Buford is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Mary Gruhlkey Carter, and their three sons: Kurt (Kim) Carter of North Platte, NE, Keith (Katie) Carter of Alliance, NE, and Bart (Jean) Carter of Bentonia, MS. He was a proud grandfather to Meaghan Wade, Justin (Ashley) Carter, Ty (Abby) Carter, Krista Carter, Dani Carter, Abigail Carter, and Trey Carter. Buford also had eight great-grandchildren: Hudson, Austin, Camden, Millie, Kenzie, Amelia, Banks, and Payton. He is also survived by his brother, "Pete" Roy Dale (Linda) Carter, brother-in-law Herman Janzen, sister-in law Carolyn (Jordan) Mills, sister-in-law Billie Neal, brother-in-law Dale (Carol) Gruhlkey, brother-in-law Neal Bennett, and numerous nieces, nephews, and a long-time family friend, Anselmo (Connie) Resendiz.

Buford was preceded in death by his parents, Clark and Corda Carter, his brother Kenneth, his sisters, Joy Hughes (and her husband, Jim), and Judy Janzen; in-laws Roger and Cosetta Gruhlkey, brother-in-law Charles Neal, brother-in-law Roger Gruhlkey, (and his wife Janice Gruhlkey), sister-in-law Gale Bennett, nephew, Jimmy Carter, and great nephew, Andersen Gruhlkey.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 </figure>&nbsp;Harley Buford Carter, 84, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, passed away on December 28, 2023. Cremation has taken place and graveside services will be held at the Nebraska Veteran’s Cemetery in Alliance, NE at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to the Harrisburg, Nebraska (Banner County) Volunteer Fire Department in memory of Buford Carter. Online condolences may be made by viewing Buford’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Family Funeral Home in Scottsbluff is entrusted with arrangements.He was born on March 28, 1939, in Littlefield, Texas to Clark and Corda Carter. Buford was a hardworking man who was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He believed in giving people a chance as long as they were willing to try. Buford graduated from Friona High School in Friona, Texas, in 1957. While in high school he was active in sports and FFA. He served in the Army from 1957 to 1960. A majority of his service time was spent in Germany. While stationed in Germany, he was a member of his unit's football team. After his military service, Buford embarked on a successful farming career. He farmed in Vega, Texas, from 1960 to 1967 before moving to the Sublette/Kismet, Kansas area, where he farmed until 1975. Buford and his wife then purchased a ranch and farm in Banner County, Nebraska, where they farmed and raised cattle until their retirement in 2002. Buford was recognized as a top producer for Holly Sugar during his farming career. In 2002, Buford and Mary moved to Gering, Nebraska, where they enjoyed a semi-retired life. Buford continued his involvement in the beef industry. He also worked part time for Panhandle Coop. He took great pleasure in supporting his grandchildren's activities and was an avid supporter of 4-H and the Kimball/Banner County Fair. In August 2014, Buford and Mary moved into the Western Nebraska Veterans Home in Scottsbluff, where they participated in many activities and formed cherished friendships. Buford was grateful for the care and companionship they received during their time there. Buford worshipped at the Veteran's Home Chapel. He had a passion for agriculture and was not afraid to try something new. He had a love for sports and was an avid fan of Husker Football, the Dallas Cowboys, the Denver Broncos, and the Utah Jazz. Buford is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Mary Gruhlkey Carter, and their three sons: Kurt (Kim) Carter of North Platte, NE, Keith (Katie) Carter of Alliance, NE, and Bart (Jean) Carter of Bentonia, MS. He was a proud grandfather to Meaghan Wade, Justin (Ashley) Carter, Ty (Abby) Carter, Krista Carter, Dani Carter, Abigail Carter, and Trey Carter. Buford also had eight great-grandchildren: Hudson, Austin, Camden, Millie, Kenzie, Amelia, Banks, and Payton. He is also survived by his brother, "Pete" Roy Dale (Linda) Carter, brother-in-law Herman Janzen, sister-in law Carolyn (Jordan) Mills, sister-in-law Billie Neal, brother-in-law Dale (Carol) Gruhlkey, brother-in-law Neal Bennett, and numerous nieces, nephews, and a long-time family friend, Anselmo (Connie) Resendiz.Buford was preceded in death by his parents, Clark and Corda Carter, his brother Kenneth, his sisters, Joy Hughes (and her husband, Jim), and Judy Janzen; in-laws Roger and Cosetta Gruhlkey, brother-in-law Charles Neal, brother-in-law Roger Gruhlkey, (and his wife Janice Gruhlkey), sister-in-law Gale Bennett, nephew, Jimmy Carter, and great nephew, Andersen Gruhlkey.&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Harley Buford Carter (1939 - 2023)

William Paul Emick, longtime Chadron resident, passed away quietly on December 27 in Chadron NE. Paul was born on November 7, 1950 in Scottsbluff NE to William “Bill” and Helen Wood Emick. He spent his childhood growing up in Scottsbluff, Lawrence KS, and Riverton WY and was active in Boy Scouts and swim teams. The family moved to Chadron in 1968. He graduated from Chadron High School in 1969 and four years later from Chadron State College with an Industrial Arts degree. Through the years, Paul worked for his father in the Gambles store, Dau Plumbing, Country General and Henkens Implement.

Paul’s many hobbies included hunting, fishing, camping, playing guitar, watching Husker football, repairing things and spending time with his family. He especially enjoyed Sunday dinners at his mother’s every week and taking care of her in her advanced years.

Paul is survived by his sisters, Lois (Jim) Fauerbach of Emporia, KS and Patricia Emick (Mark Leppert) of Kansas City, MO. He is also survived by sister-in-law Pam Emick of Chadron, nieces and nephew Debra Fauerbach (Stewart Williams) of Shawnee, KS, Mark (Brenda) Fauerbach of Kansas City, MO, Diana (Rob) Himmelmann of Highlands Ranch, CO, Lisa (Victor) Guajardo and Tara Bates of Chadron and Nicole (Nick) Roberts of Kansas City, MO, as well as great nieces and nephew Kiara Emick, Jacee Bates and RJ Bates of Chadron, Bianca and Jocelyn Himmelmann of Highlands Ranch and Hailey and Emily Roberts of Kansas City. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Tom Emick of Chadron.

<figure>
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 </figure>William Paul Emick, longtime Chadron resident, passed away quietly on December 27 in Chadron NE. Paul was born on November 7, 1950 in Scottsbluff NE to William “Bill” and Helen Wood Emick. He spent his childhood growing up in Scottsbluff, Lawrence KS, and Riverton WY and was active in Boy Scouts and swim teams. The family moved to Chadron in 1968. He graduated from Chadron High School in 1969 and four years later from Chadron State College with an Industrial Arts degree. Through the years, Paul worked for his father in the Gambles store, Dau Plumbing, Country General and Henkens Implement.Paul’s many hobbies included hunting, fishing, camping, playing guitar, watching Husker football, repairing things and spending time with his family. He especially enjoyed Sunday dinners at his mother’s every week and taking care of her in her advanced years.Paul is survived by his sisters, Lois (Jim) Fauerbach of Emporia, KS and Patricia Emick (Mark Leppert) of Kansas City, MO. He is also survived by sister-in-law Pam Emick of Chadron, nieces and nephew Debra Fauerbach (Stewart Williams) of Shawnee, KS, Mark (Brenda) Fauerbach of Kansas City, MO, Diana (Rob) Himmelmann of Highlands Ranch, CO, Lisa (Victor) Guajardo and Tara Bates of Chadron and Nicole (Nick) Roberts of Kansas City, MO, as well as great nieces and nephew Kiara Emick, Jacee Bates and RJ Bates of Chadron, Bianca and Jocelyn Himmelmann of Highlands Ranch and Hailey and Emily Roberts of Kansas City. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Tom Emick of Chadron.

William Paul Emick (1950 - 2023)

Lyle R. Hare of Alliance passed away Tuesday, December 26, 2023 at Box Butte General Hospital at the age of 73.

He was born on August 15, 1950 in North Platte, Nebraska to Lyle and Betty (Rogers) Hare. &nbsp;His family moved to Alliance in the following year. &nbsp;Lyle attended St. Agnes Academy and graduated from Alliance High School in 1969.

Lyle was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church. In his earlier years Lyle enjoyed hunting and was also an avid card player.

He is survived by his brothers, Michael Hare of Yuma, AZ and Mark (Lori) Hare of Alliance. &nbsp;He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Lisa (Richard) McDonald of Mesa, AZ, Adam (Melissa) Hare of Yuma, AZ, James (Lana) Hare of Chandler, AZ, Joseph (Ashley) Hare of Scottsdale, AZ, Jessica Hare (Kyle McCarville) of Durham, NC, Amanda (Kyle) Cummings of Lake Ozark, MO and Anthony Hare of Omaha. He is also survived by his cousins, Deborah Ann Rogers, James Rogers, Tom Hare, Susan Dye and Steve Hansen. &nbsp;Lyle’s family would like to acknowledge the care given to Lyle by Janelle Rolls, Pam Cyza and Kristy Bolek. &nbsp;He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial services will be Thursday, January 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church. &nbsp;Father Matt Koperski will officiate and interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to Holy Rosary Catholic Church or the Alliance Volunteer Fire Department.

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 </figure>Lyle R. Hare of Alliance passed away Tuesday, December 26, 2023 at Box Butte General Hospital at the age of 73.He was born on August 15, 1950 in North Platte, Nebraska to Lyle and Betty (Rogers) Hare. &nbsp;His family moved to Alliance in the following year. &nbsp;Lyle attended St. Agnes Academy and graduated from Alliance High School in 1969.Lyle was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church. In his earlier years Lyle enjoyed hunting and was also an avid card player.He is survived by his brothers, Michael Hare of Yuma, AZ and Mark (Lori) Hare of Alliance. &nbsp;He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Lisa (Richard) McDonald of Mesa, AZ, Adam (Melissa) Hare of Yuma, AZ, James (Lana) Hare of Chandler, AZ, Joseph (Ashley) Hare of Scottsdale, AZ, Jessica Hare (Kyle McCarville) of Durham, NC, Amanda (Kyle) Cummings of Lake Ozark, MO and Anthony Hare of Omaha. He is also survived by his cousins, Deborah Ann Rogers, James Rogers, Tom Hare, Susan Dye and Steve Hansen. &nbsp;Lyle’s family would like to acknowledge the care given to Lyle by Janelle Rolls, Pam Cyza and Kristy Bolek. &nbsp;He was preceded in death by his parents.Memorial services will be Thursday, January 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church. &nbsp;Father Matt Koperski will officiate and interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.Memorials may be given to Holy Rosary Catholic Church or the Alliance Volunteer Fire Department.

Lyle R. Hare (1950 - 2023)

Marvin Lee Toedtli was born December 24, 1936 in Denver, Colorado to Richard Herman and Margaret (Gindling) Toedtli. The family moved to Alliance in 1947 and farmed north of Alliance. Marv, his brother Don, and their many friends spent numerous happy hours at the farm, hunting and playing ball. He graduated with the AHS Class of '55 and went to work at the Alliance Times Herald, and retired from the newspaper after 45 years. He married Kathie Parker and to this union four children were born: Jody (Dick) Williamson of Fort Worth TX, Chris (Janet) of Alliance, Patrick (Annette) of Clermont FI, and Dana (Dan) Fredrick of Grand Island NE.&nbsp;

As a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Marv was an ordained elder and deacon, a trustee, and was involved for many, many years with the video ministry. He was an active JayCee, served on the City Planning Board, Park's Board, Park's Foundation and Box Butte County Weed Board. He was a Box Butte County Commissioner for eight years.&nbsp;

Marv liked photography and was given both still and movie cameras when a teenager. We have lots of photos of the family dogs! His interest in growing things began at a young age, and continued his entire life. Marv planted trees on the family farm, part of which is now the Lakefield Addition, and then many more on the acreage where his and Kathie's home was built. He always tried to save any type of volunteer plant, and many of the trees are scattered throughout this community. Marv planted, pruned and fed the roses at the Carnegie Arts Center, and assisted with many other projects for that organization.&nbsp;

In mid-life, snow skiing, and running 5 K races became for him fun activities. Post retirement, Marv was invited by Bob Laing to join the Over the Hill Gang- a group of guys who met weekly for lunch. He was referred to as "The Kid". He continued with this group until his mobility would not allow. Popular music of the '50's was his favorite- later stuff made no sense to him at all. He liked TV westerns, old movies, chicken fried steak, ice cream, and the Huskers. He really enjoyed decorating for Christmas- lots of lights!&nbsp;

Marv was called Home to his Lord and Savior on December 26, 2023 and is dearly missed by his wife, Kathie, son, Chris, daughters Jody and Dana and their spouses, daughter-in-law Annette, brothers-in-law Joe (Kathy) and Rod Parker. Also, his 7 wonderful grandchildren all born with the Toedlti last name, Elizabeth (Jordan), Jake (Mikala), Richie (Mackenzie), Alyssa (Kyle), and Kylee (James), plus an additional blessing of 7 great-grands, his always on deck, niece Amber (Craig) Cottrell and their 3 boys, plus several more nieces and nephews.&nbsp;

Marv was preceded in death by his son Patrick, daughter-in-law Janet, parents, brother Don, wife's parents, Harold and Dorothy Parker and his sister-in-law, Terry Dunham&nbsp;

A celebration of his life will be Friday, January 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church with Reverend Sue Spencer officiating. Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery. A soup luncheon will follow at the Westside Event Center. &nbsp;Visitation will be Thursday, January 4 from 1-7 p.m. with the family being present 4-6 at the Bates-Gould Funeral Home.

<figure>
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 </figure>Marvin Lee Toedtli was born December 24, 1936 in Denver, Colorado to Richard Herman and Margaret (Gindling) Toedtli. The family moved to Alliance in 1947 and farmed north of Alliance. Marv, his brother Don, and their many friends spent numerous happy hours at the farm, hunting and playing ball. He graduated with the AHS Class of '55 and went to work at the Alliance Times Herald, and retired from the newspaper after 45 years. He married Kathie Parker and to this union four children were born: Jody (Dick) Williamson of Fort Worth TX, Chris (Janet) of Alliance, Patrick (Annette) of Clermont FI, and Dana (Dan) Fredrick of Grand Island NE.&nbsp;As a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Marv was an ordained elder and deacon, a trustee, and was involved for many, many years with the video ministry. He was an active JayCee, served on the City Planning Board, Park's Board, Park's Foundation and Box Butte County Weed Board. He was a Box Butte County Commissioner for eight years.&nbsp;Marv liked photography and was given both still and movie cameras when a teenager. We have lots of photos of the family dogs! His interest in growing things began at a young age, and continued his entire life. Marv planted trees on the family farm, part of which is now the Lakefield Addition, and then many more on the acreage where his and Kathie's home was built. He always tried to save any type of volunteer plant, and many of the trees are scattered throughout this community. Marv planted, pruned and fed the roses at the Carnegie Arts Center, and assisted with many other projects for that organization.&nbsp;In mid-life, snow skiing, and running 5 K races became for him fun activities. Post retirement, Marv was invited by Bob Laing to join the Over the Hill Gang- a group of guys who met weekly for lunch. He was referred to as "The Kid". He continued with this group until his mobility would not allow. Popular music of the '50's was his favorite- later stuff made no sense to him at all. He liked TV westerns, old movies, chicken fried steak, ice cream, and the Huskers. He really enjoyed decorating for Christmas- lots of lights!&nbsp;Marv was called Home to his Lord and Savior on December 26, 2023 and is dearly missed by his wife, Kathie, son, Chris, daughters Jody and Dana and their spouses, daughter-in-law Annette, brothers-in-law Joe (Kathy) and Rod Parker. Also, his 7 wonderful grandchildren all born with the Toedlti last name, Elizabeth (Jordan), Jake (Mikala), Richie (Mackenzie), Alyssa (Kyle), and Kylee (James), plus an additional blessing of 7 great-grands, his always on deck, niece Amber (Craig) Cottrell and their 3 boys, plus several more nieces and nephews.&nbsp;Marv was preceded in death by his son Patrick, daughter-in-law Janet, parents, brother Don, wife's parents, Harold and Dorothy Parker and his sister-in-law, Terry Dunham&nbsp;A celebration of his life will be Friday, January 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church with Reverend Sue Spencer officiating. Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery. A soup luncheon will follow at the Westside Event Center. &nbsp;Visitation will be Thursday, January 4 from 1-7 p.m. with the family being present 4-6 at the Bates-Gould Funeral Home.

Marvin Lee Toedtli (1936 - 2023)

Monte Darell Sample, 70, passed away Saturday, December 23, 2023 at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff&nbsp; after 3 and a half years of living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

He was born October 9, 1953 in Crawford, Nebraska to Darell E. and Dorothy L. (Moyer) Sample.&nbsp;

In July 1972 he entered the United States Navy. He married Joleen (Jo) Neitz on September 20, 1972 in Torrington, Wyoming. After their marriage, they lived in San Diego, California for the duration of his naval service. He was honorably discharged from the Navy in June of 1976.

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 </figure>Monte Darell Sample, 70, passed away Saturday, December 23, 2023 at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff&nbsp; after 3 and a half years of living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s Disease.He was born October 9, 1953 in Crawford, Nebraska to Darell E. and Dorothy L. (Moyer) Sample.&nbsp;In July 1972 he entered the United States Navy. He married Joleen (Jo) Neitz on September 20, 1972 in Torrington, Wyoming. After their marriage, they lived in San Diego, California for the duration of his naval service. He was honorably discharged from the Navy in June of 1976.In 1976 they moved to Hemingford.&nbsp; While in Hemingford he worked at the Electric Hose (now Parker) and Box Butte County Road Department. He retired from the County in 2010. When he retired he started his own scrapping business, MS Metal Recycling. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.Monte is survived by his daughters, Kristin (Roy) Bryner of Vienna, GA and Emily (Thomas) Linegar of South Beach, OR; brothers Arlin (Linda) Sample of Greeley, CO and Mike (Deb) Sample of Goodrich, CO.&nbsp; He is also survived by his grandchildren, Clarissa (Trevor) Carter of Casper, WY, Colin Bryner of Rock Springs, WY, Clay Bryner of Vienna, GA, and Natalee Linegar of South Beach, OR; his great-grandchildren, Harper, Arden, and Freya Carter of Casper, WY; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.&nbsp; He was looking forward to the birth of his great-grandson Carter in March.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his wife Jo Sample, his parents, and his sister Darellyn Kohrman.Monte’s wish was to be cremated and no services will be held at this time.

Obituaries