Wallace Eugene Kirchhoff placed his trust in God’s will and word, and left this earthly world on December 28, 2022 at the age of 94, enjoying the company of family and friends for all the years of his life.&nbsp;

Six months prior to his death he lost the love of his life, his wife of 73 years, Dorothy.&nbsp; Finding it difficult to recover from her loss, he spoke bravely about his faith in God and his desire to be re-united with her in the eternal home he knows as Heaven.&nbsp; He prayed that his life was worthy of God’s forgiveness and acceptance and that they would be together again.&nbsp; Wally was a hard-working man; proud, dedicated to many causes, caring, loving, and sympathetic to those that faced adversity.&nbsp; He was appreciative of those that spent time caring for him and lending support and sharing their love.&nbsp;

Wally’s funeral will be held on Friday, January 20, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Saint John’s United Lutheran Church in Alliance, NE with the Reverend Megan Morrow and PMA Maurine Roller officiating.&nbsp; Interment will take place at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery with full military honors following the funeral service.&nbsp;

Wally was born in Bayard NE on August 28, 1928 and graduated from Bayard High School in 1946.&nbsp; His parents were Edward and Martha Kirchhoff who passed away in 1964.&nbsp; He was the youngest of five children.&nbsp; Wally worked and played hard, from the farm to the football field and track, he was a solid student and athlete.&nbsp; He served as the junior and senior high school class president and was a distinguished member and soloist in the choir.&nbsp; In his final weeks living at Highland Park Care Center, he could be seen near the fireplace softly singing Christmas carols and church hymns much to the delight of residents, staff, and family.&nbsp;

Wally and Dorothy were married on July 18, 1948.&nbsp;&nbsp; Wally worked as a meat cutter for Safeway before his induction into the US Army in 1951.&nbsp; He served in combat in Korea in the 73rd Engineer Combat Battalion.&nbsp; He was awarded several service medals including the Meritorious Unit Commendation for his duty in clearing five enemy minefields, with a bayonet, while crawling on his hands and knees, under fire from enemy mortar attacks and fire from enemy soldiers. He was Honorably Discharged at the end of 1953 and served in the ready reserve through 1960.

Upon return from Korea, Wally and Dorothy lived in Alliance.&nbsp; They welcomed their son Ken, into their family in 1954.&nbsp;&nbsp; Wally managed Basketeria Grocery Store and Decker’s Food Center until 1968 when he went to work for Harris Sales, where he worked for 50 years, finally retiring at the age of 90.&nbsp; Wally dedicated his life to family, friends, work, and community.&nbsp; He was a member of the Alliance Volunteer Fire Department, VFW, American Legion, Eagles, Lions Club, and Saint John’s Lutheran Church.&nbsp; He enjoyed square dancing, golf, playing cards, attending community events including sports, plays, musicals, and school programs.&nbsp; He helped deliver Meals on Wheels, serving at church functions, and serving on the church council.&nbsp; He especially loved following as many events as possible of his grandchildren and great grandchildren.&nbsp;

Wally is survived by his son Ken (Nancy) of Fort Collins, CO; grandchildren Amy Reynolds (Andy) of Fort Collins, CO; Betsey Kirchhoff of Wellington, CO; and Brian Kirchhoff (Avery) of West Palm Beach, FL and his great-grandchildren, Kayla and Allie Reynolds, Jasmin Kirchhoff, and Ryder Kirchhoff.&nbsp;

Wally was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy, brothers Lloyd and Doug Kirchhoff, sisters Marion Bowers and Bernice Schanhols.&nbsp;

Memorials may be made to the Kirchhoff family for distribution to Wally’s favorite causes.&nbsp; Memorial donations may be mailed to Ken Kirchhoff, 2118 Dover Drive, Fort Collins, CO 80526.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672863405223.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wallace Eugene Kirchhoff placed his trust in God’s will and word, and left this earthly world on December 28, 2022 at the age of 94, enjoying the company of family and friends for all the years of his life.&nbsp;Six months prior to his death he lost the love of his life, his wife of 73 years, Dorothy.&nbsp; Finding it difficult to recover from her loss, he spoke bravely about his faith in God and his desire to be re-united with her in the eternal home he knows as Heaven.&nbsp; He prayed that his life was worthy of God’s forgiveness and acceptance and that they would be together again.&nbsp; Wally was a hard-working man; proud, dedicated to many causes, caring, loving, and sympathetic to those that faced adversity.&nbsp; He was appreciative of those that spent time caring for him and lending support and sharing their love.&nbsp;Wally’s funeral will be held on Friday, January 20, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Saint John’s United Lutheran Church in Alliance, NE with the Reverend Megan Morrow and PMA Maurine Roller officiating.&nbsp; Interment will take place at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery with full military honors following the funeral service.&nbsp;Wally was born in Bayard NE on August 28, 1928 and graduated from Bayard High School in 1946.&nbsp; His parents were Edward and Martha Kirchhoff who passed away in 1964.&nbsp; He was the youngest of five children.&nbsp; Wally worked and played hard, from the farm to the football field and track, he was a solid student and athlete.&nbsp; He served as the junior and senior high school class president and was a distinguished member and soloist in the choir.&nbsp; In his final weeks living at Highland Park Care Center, he could be seen near the fireplace softly singing Christmas carols and church hymns much to the delight of residents, staff, and family.&nbsp;Wally and Dorothy were married on July 18, 1948.&nbsp;&nbsp; Wally worked as a meat cutter for Safeway before his induction into the US Army in 1951.&nbsp; He served in combat in Korea in the 73rd Engineer Combat Battalion.&nbsp; He was awarded several service medals including the Meritorious Unit Commendation for his duty in clearing five enemy minefields, with a bayonet, while crawling on his hands and knees, under fire from enemy mortar attacks and fire from enemy soldiers. He was Honorably Discharged at the end of 1953 and served in the ready reserve through 1960.Upon return from Korea, Wally and Dorothy lived in Alliance.&nbsp; They welcomed their son Ken, into their family in 1954.&nbsp;&nbsp; Wally managed Basketeria Grocery Store and Decker’s Food Center until 1968 when he went to work for Harris Sales, where he worked for 50 years, finally retiring at the age of 90.&nbsp; Wally dedicated his life to family, friends, work, and community.&nbsp; He was a member of the Alliance Volunteer Fire Department, VFW, American Legion, Eagles, Lions Club, and Saint John’s Lutheran Church.&nbsp; He enjoyed square dancing, golf, playing cards, attending community events including sports, plays, musicals, and school programs.&nbsp; He helped deliver Meals on Wheels, serving at church functions, and serving on the church council.&nbsp; He especially loved following as many events as possible of his grandchildren and great grandchildren.&nbsp;Wally is survived by his son Ken (Nancy) of Fort Collins, CO; grandchildren Amy Reynolds (Andy) of Fort Collins, CO; Betsey Kirchhoff of Wellington, CO; and Brian Kirchhoff (Avery) of West Palm Beach, FL and his great-grandchildren, Kayla and Allie Reynolds, Jasmin Kirchhoff, and Ryder Kirchhoff.&nbsp;Wally was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy, brothers Lloyd and Doug Kirchhoff, sisters Marion Bowers and Bernice Schanhols.&nbsp;Memorials may be made to the Kirchhoff family for distribution to Wally’s favorite causes.&nbsp; Memorial donations may be mailed to Ken Kirchhoff, 2118 Dover Drive, Fort Collins, CO 80526.Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bates-Gould Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Wallace Eugene Kirchhoff (1928 - 2022)

Elaine Hall October 11, 1931 - December 28, 2022. 

Elaine Hall, 91, of Elkhorn, Nebraska, passed away Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at the Josie Harper Hospice House in Omaha, NE, with her family by her side.&nbsp; 

Elaine was born October 11, 1931, in Ansley, Nebraska, to Glen H. Fowler and Bess (Lowe) Fowler.&nbsp; While growing up in various towns across Nebraska, Ardmore, OK, and Jonesboro, AK, she graduated from Alliance High School in 1949.&nbsp; She married Neil Stumbaugh on June 14, 1953, and lived in Missouri, New Mexico, and Colorado.&nbsp; After his death, she married Robert A. Hall in Edgemont, SD, on August 30, 1958.&nbsp; They resided in Colorado, Scottsbluff, NE, and Alliance, NE. She then moved to Elkhorn, NE, in 2015 after his death.&nbsp; While living in Scottsbluff, she was active in St. Andrew’s Church - past Altar Guild President, Guild President, and served on the Vestry.&nbsp; After moving to Alliance she became active in the Guild at St. Matthews, she was a member of PEO Chapter AH, Eagle Auxiliary, American Legion Auxiliary, Box Butte General Auxiliary, and co-president of Friends of the Library.&nbsp; She was a member of St. Augustine's of Canterbury Episcopal Church in Elkhorn, and PEO Chapter GL of Omaha. Watching her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow up and participate in activities was a top priority for her and her husband, as well as keeping up with the young people in Alliance.&nbsp; She was strong&nbsp;in her faith, loved playing bridge, reading the&nbsp;Bible and books, spending time with family and friends, her churches and church families.&nbsp; She was a HUGE Husker football and volleyball&nbsp;fan and loved the Denver Broncos.&nbsp; 

She is survived by her daughter Susan Messersmith of Omaha; son Allen (Christie) Hall of Lincoln, grandson Dustin (Caylee) Messersmith of Omaha, granddaughter Dani (Drew) Schmaltz of Scottsbluff, grandkids Dylan (Valyn) and Ciarra Dale of Lincoln, great-grandchildren Jax and Joss Messersmith of Omaha, Brytinn, Harper, and Tatum Schmaltz of Scottsbluff, and many wonderful nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved dearly.&nbsp; 

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Gwen Christofferson, four sister-in-laws, and five brother-in-laws.&nbsp; 

She will always be remembered as "feisty" (say it like it is) but also very kind, caring, giving, "the worrier," and a great lady.&nbsp; She will be greatly missed by all who&nbsp;knew her.&nbsp; 

Cremation&nbsp;has&nbsp;taken place, and the burial will be Friday, January 6, 2023, at 11:00 am at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Alliance, NE, with lunch to follow at the West Side Event Center (formerly the Alliance Country Club).&nbsp; 

A memorial&nbsp;service will be held at a later date at St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church in Elkhorn, NE.&nbsp; Memorials may be sent to St. Augustine Church and Nebraska Children's Home.&nbsp; Fond memories and condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reichmuthfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank">www.reichmuthfuneralhomes.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672777145480.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Elaine Hall October 11, 1931 - December 28, 2022. Elaine Hall, 91, of Elkhorn, Nebraska, passed away Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at the Josie Harper Hospice House in Omaha, NE, with her family by her side.&nbsp; Elaine was born October 11, 1931, in Ansley, Nebraska, to Glen H. Fowler and Bess (Lowe) Fowler.&nbsp; While growing up in various towns across Nebraska, Ardmore, OK, and Jonesboro, AK, she graduated from Alliance High School in 1949.&nbsp; She married Neil Stumbaugh on June 14, 1953, and lived in Missouri, New Mexico, and Colorado.&nbsp; After his death, she married Robert A. Hall in Edgemont, SD, on August 30, 1958.&nbsp; They resided in Colorado, Scottsbluff, NE, and Alliance, NE. She then moved to Elkhorn, NE, in 2015 after his death.&nbsp; While living in Scottsbluff, she was active in St. Andrew’s Church - past Altar Guild President, Guild President, and served on the Vestry.&nbsp; After moving to Alliance she became active in the Guild at St. Matthews, she was a member of PEO Chapter AH, Eagle Auxiliary, American Legion Auxiliary, Box Butte General Auxiliary, and co-president of Friends of the Library.&nbsp; She was a member of St. Augustine's of Canterbury Episcopal Church in Elkhorn, and PEO Chapter GL of Omaha. Watching her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow up and participate in activities was a top priority for her and her husband, as well as keeping up with the young people in Alliance.&nbsp; She was strong&nbsp;in her faith, loved playing bridge, reading the&nbsp;Bible and books, spending time with family and friends, her churches and church families.&nbsp; She was a HUGE Husker football and volleyball&nbsp;fan and loved the Denver Broncos.&nbsp; She is survived by her daughter Susan Messersmith of Omaha; son Allen (Christie) Hall of Lincoln, grandson Dustin (Caylee) Messersmith of Omaha, granddaughter Dani (Drew) Schmaltz of Scottsbluff, grandkids Dylan (Valyn) and Ciarra Dale of Lincoln, great-grandchildren Jax and Joss Messersmith of Omaha, Brytinn, Harper, and Tatum Schmaltz of Scottsbluff, and many wonderful nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved dearly.&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Gwen Christofferson, four sister-in-laws, and five brother-in-laws.&nbsp; She will always be remembered as "feisty" (say it like it is) but also very kind, caring, giving, "the worrier," and a great lady.&nbsp; She will be greatly missed by all who&nbsp;knew her.&nbsp; Cremation&nbsp;has&nbsp;taken place, and the burial will be Friday, January 6, 2023, at 11:00 am at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Alliance, NE, with lunch to follow at the West Side Event Center (formerly the Alliance Country Club).&nbsp; A memorial&nbsp;service will be held at a later date at St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church in Elkhorn, NE.&nbsp; Memorials may be sent to St. Augustine Church and Nebraska Children's Home.&nbsp; Fond memories and condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reichmuthfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank">www.reichmuthfuneralhomes.com</a>.

Elaine Hall (1931 - 2022)

Rosemarie Scott Meradith was born on February 13,1945 in Chadron, NE to Edward “Bud” and Ruth (Neeland) Scott. She went home to meet her Savior on December 26, 2022, after a short bout with Cancer. Services will be held at Chamberlain Chapel, in Chadron NE on Saturday, December 31st, 2022, 2:00pm. A private family burial will be held at a later date. It’s the time between these two dates that attest to how Rosemarie lived her life.

Growing up on a Registered Herford Ranch, with her two brothers, on Cottonwood Creek; Rosemarie always said she lived in the prettiest part of the world. She spent her days learning to cook, sew, and play the piano, as well as work in the fields or with the cattle. It didn’t matter if it was an indoor or outdoor task, Rosemarie was capable to do either. Along with her brothers, she was blessed to grow up with girl cousins that she considered more like sisters.

It was here that she learned to drive fast, work hard, and serve others by helping them. At the young age of 5, Rosemarie took Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. From that day forward, Rosemarie lived her life for the Lord.

Attending Cottonwood School until 8th grade, her high school years were spent at Chadron High. It was during these years, she boarded in town with her grandparents, to be close to school. Upon completion of high School, Rosemarie took the huge step of moving to St. Paul, MN to attend St. Paul Bible College, earning her BA in Religious Education. During her college years, she especially enjoyed being part of the music program and honed her piano skills even more.

While in college, back in Nebraska, a cute neighbor boy began working as a hired man for her parents. On vacations home from college, the two began to get to know each other and this lead to a proposal. They were married June 29th, 1969 and had a marriage of 54 years. It wasn’t long into their marriage that Uncle Sam took Gary away to Vietnam. Upon his return, the little family grew by one, adding Brenda Joy and two years later Monica Marie.

Gary and Rosemarie dedicated their lives to Farming/Ranching, first in Hereford CO and then on their beloved place on the Table, south of Chadron. It was here they spent 44 years working together in the wheat and alfalfa fields and raising cattle and sheep. They also dedicated that time to Open Door Church, which Rosemarie had attended since a Child. There wasn’t a job too small for Rosemarie to take care of and she served others through teaching Sunday School, being the church pianist, cleaning and cooking. She never let a special occasion go unnoticed without sending a card. Serving others was her way of showing God’s love to her community.

After raising her children, Rosemarie became an Admissions Clerk at Chadron Community Hospital. For 22 years, she was the smiling face that welcomed patients and visitors and made everyone feel taken care of. Although she retired from the hospital that only meant she would return full time to the ranch, which she loved.

Rosemarie’s favorite job was being a Grandma to her 5 grandchildren. She helped guide them into the amazing people they are, by being their constant support. They knew she was their number one fan and was often their confidant, friend, and counselor when they needed it. If being a Grandmother was the greatest job on earth, becoming a Great Grandma this year, was the icing on the cake. Quinn Rose (named after her Grandma), was a very bright spot in a really hard year for the Meradith Family. God, family and work in that order define how Rosemarie served her Lord and Savior.

Rosemarie left behind, to miss her every day, her husband, Gary Meradith; brother, Jerry Scott of Lingle, WY; daughters, Brenda (John) Morford, of Chadron, NE and Monica (Mark) Johnson of&nbsp;Minden, NE along with grandchildren: Taylor (Jake) Cleveland, Telli Morford, Meredith, Mason and Morgan Johnson; great granddaughter, Quinn Rose Cleveland. Also mourning her are her nieces and nephews and her cousins, especially her closest cousin, Mary Lou Marshall. Her church family that was as close to her heart as her biological family will also feel the impact of her death.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Bud and Ruth Scott; grandparents, Fred and Agnes Neeland and Walter and Pearl Scott; Brother Robert; Sister in law Kathy, along with numerous Aunts and Uncles.

Supporting Missionaries on the Mission Field was a passion for Rosemarie. Many of her cousins served and still serve as missionaries today. Because of that please consider a Memorial to Open Door for Missions, so the gospel can be preached around the world. Donations may be mailed to: Open Door Church or dropped off at First National Bank of Omaha.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672426019631.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Rosemarie Scott Meradith was born on February 13,1945 in Chadron, NE to Edward “Bud” and Ruth (Neeland) Scott. She went home to meet her Savior on December 26, 2022, after a short bout with Cancer. Services will be held at Chamberlain Chapel, in Chadron NE on Saturday, December 31st, 2022, 2:00pm. A private family burial will be held at a later date. It’s the time between these two dates that attest to how Rosemarie lived her life.Growing up on a Registered Herford Ranch, with her two brothers, on Cottonwood Creek; Rosemarie always said she lived in the prettiest part of the world. She spent her days learning to cook, sew, and play the piano, as well as work in the fields or with the cattle. It didn’t matter if it was an indoor or outdoor task, Rosemarie was capable to do either. Along with her brothers, she was blessed to grow up with girl cousins that she considered more like sisters.It was here that she learned to drive fast, work hard, and serve others by helping them. At the young age of 5, Rosemarie took Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. From that day forward, Rosemarie lived her life for the Lord.Attending Cottonwood School until 8th grade, her high school years were spent at Chadron High. It was during these years, she boarded in town with her grandparents, to be close to school. Upon completion of high School, Rosemarie took the huge step of moving to St. Paul, MN to attend St. Paul Bible College, earning her BA in Religious Education. During her college years, she especially enjoyed being part of the music program and honed her piano skills even more.While in college, back in Nebraska, a cute neighbor boy began working as a hired man for her parents. On vacations home from college, the two began to get to know each other and this lead to a proposal. They were married June 29th, 1969 and had a marriage of 54 years. It wasn’t long into their marriage that Uncle Sam took Gary away to Vietnam. Upon his return, the little family grew by one, adding Brenda Joy and two years later Monica Marie.Gary and Rosemarie dedicated their lives to Farming/Ranching, first in Hereford CO and then on their beloved place on the Table, south of Chadron. It was here they spent 44 years working together in the wheat and alfalfa fields and raising cattle and sheep. They also dedicated that time to Open Door Church, which Rosemarie had attended since a Child. There wasn’t a job too small for Rosemarie to take care of and she served others through teaching Sunday School, being the church pianist, cleaning and cooking. She never let a special occasion go unnoticed without sending a card. Serving others was her way of showing God’s love to her community.After raising her children, Rosemarie became an Admissions Clerk at Chadron Community Hospital. For 22 years, she was the smiling face that welcomed patients and visitors and made everyone feel taken care of. Although she retired from the hospital that only meant she would return full time to the ranch, which she loved.Rosemarie’s favorite job was being a Grandma to her 5 grandchildren. She helped guide them into the amazing people they are, by being their constant support. They knew she was their number one fan and was often their confidant, friend, and counselor when they needed it. If being a Grandmother was the greatest job on earth, becoming a Great Grandma this year, was the icing on the cake. Quinn Rose (named after her Grandma), was a very bright spot in a really hard year for the Meradith Family. God, family and work in that order define how Rosemarie served her Lord and Savior.Rosemarie left behind, to miss her every day, her husband, Gary Meradith; brother, Jerry Scott of Lingle, WY; daughters, Brenda (John) Morford, of Chadron, NE and Monica (Mark) Johnson of&nbsp;Minden, NE along with grandchildren: Taylor (Jake) Cleveland, Telli Morford, Meredith, Mason and Morgan Johnson; great granddaughter, Quinn Rose Cleveland. Also mourning her are her nieces and nephews and her cousins, especially her closest cousin, Mary Lou Marshall. Her church family that was as close to her heart as her biological family will also feel the impact of her death.Preceding her in death were her parents, Bud and Ruth Scott; grandparents, Fred and Agnes Neeland and Walter and Pearl Scott; Brother Robert; Sister in law Kathy, along with numerous Aunts and Uncles.Supporting Missionaries on the Mission Field was a passion for Rosemarie. Many of her cousins served and still serve as missionaries today. Because of that please consider a Memorial to Open Door for Missions, so the gospel can be preached around the world. Donations may be mailed to: Open Door Church or dropped off at First National Bank of Omaha.

Rosemarie Scott Meradith (1945 - 2022)

Robert “Bob” Adams Claussen, age 85 of Martin, made his eternal journey to our heavenly father on December 26th, 2022, at Monument Health in Rapid City, SD after a courageous battle with cancer.

Robert was born in Witten, SD to Claus and Gladys Claussen on February 15, 1937. He attended school in Martin and graduated from Bennett County High School in 1955. While in high school Robert met the love of his life, his homecoming queen, Shirley Farmer and they were happily married for 66 years.

&nbsp;Robert had a strong work ethic instilled within him, operating Bob’s Gas Service for 67 Years. Besides being a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friends to many, Robert was dedicated to the community in which he lived. He served as Mayor of Martin, fire chief, boy scout leader, Martin Little League Baseball coach, middle school basketball coach and was a member of the Martin Jaycees for more than 20 years. Robert was a strong advocate for supporting our Native American population. He was awarded the South Dakota Reconciliation Award from Governor George Mikkelson and Ben Black Bear for his efforts to create a cohesive, diverse community. He took pride in Bennett County athletics and served as part of the “chain gang” for the Bennett County Warrior Football team for more than 60 years. Robert could be seen delivering propane around the community unless it was 3:00, which was his coffee time where he would sit with his friends to discuss the happenings in the community and solve the world’s problems. Robert was as dedicated to his family as he was to his community.

&nbsp;Robert is survived by his loving wife Shirley, daughter Deb Soderlin, sons Gregg (Judi) Claussen, and Steve Claussen; grandchildren Shannon (Aaron) Brown, Brandon (Kelli) Claussen, Brett (Kelly) Soderlin, Trent (Carl) Deines, Brittney Soderlin, Chelsi (Brent) Weber, Shelby (Laura) Claussen, Shea Soderlin, Stevi Anne (Taylor) Claussen, Samantha Claussen; and 21 great-grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his father, Claus, his mother, Gladys, his sister Arlene Curtis, his brothers, Gail, Lloyd, Ralph, and Kenneth.

&nbsp;Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm on Friday December 30, 2022, at the Martin Activity Center with the burial at the Martin Community Cemetery and refreshments to follow at the new American Legion. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to C.H.A.R.T. to assist other community members who are suffering from the effects of cancer. Arrangements entrusted with the Bennett County Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672425851343.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Robert “Bob” Adams Claussen, age 85 of Martin, made his eternal journey to our heavenly father on December 26th, 2022, at Monument Health in Rapid City, SD after a courageous battle with cancer.Robert was born in Witten, SD to Claus and Gladys Claussen on February 15, 1937. He attended school in Martin and graduated from Bennett County High School in 1955. While in high school Robert met the love of his life, his homecoming queen, Shirley Farmer and they were happily married for 66 years.&nbsp;Robert had a strong work ethic instilled within him, operating Bob’s Gas Service for 67 Years. Besides being a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friends to many, Robert was dedicated to the community in which he lived. He served as Mayor of Martin, fire chief, boy scout leader, Martin Little League Baseball coach, middle school basketball coach and was a member of the Martin Jaycees for more than 20 years. Robert was a strong advocate for supporting our Native American population. He was awarded the South Dakota Reconciliation Award from Governor George Mikkelson and Ben Black Bear for his efforts to create a cohesive, diverse community. He took pride in Bennett County athletics and served as part of the “chain gang” for the Bennett County Warrior Football team for more than 60 years. Robert could be seen delivering propane around the community unless it was 3:00, which was his coffee time where he would sit with his friends to discuss the happenings in the community and solve the world’s problems. Robert was as dedicated to his family as he was to his community.&nbsp;Robert is survived by his loving wife Shirley, daughter Deb Soderlin, sons Gregg (Judi) Claussen, and Steve Claussen; grandchildren Shannon (Aaron) Brown, Brandon (Kelli) Claussen, Brett (Kelly) Soderlin, Trent (Carl) Deines, Brittney Soderlin, Chelsi (Brent) Weber, Shelby (Laura) Claussen, Shea Soderlin, Stevi Anne (Taylor) Claussen, Samantha Claussen; and 21 great-grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his father, Claus, his mother, Gladys, his sister Arlene Curtis, his brothers, Gail, Lloyd, Ralph, and Kenneth.&nbsp;Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm on Friday December 30, 2022, at the Martin Activity Center with the burial at the Martin Community Cemetery and refreshments to follow at the new American Legion. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to C.H.A.R.T. to assist other community members who are suffering from the effects of cancer. Arrangements entrusted with the Bennett County Funeral Home.

Robert 'Bob' Adams Claussen (1937 - 2022)

Memorial Services for Lynn Bilyeu, 99 of Chadron, Nebraska&nbsp;will be held at a later date.

Lynn passed away on December 25, 2022 at Chadron, Nebraska.

Mr. Bilyeu was born on June 17, 1923 in Scotia, Nebraska.

A memorial has been established and donations may be sent in care of&nbsp;Chamberlain Chapel, PO BOX 970, CHADRON, NE 69337.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672425686981.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Memorial Services for Lynn Bilyeu, 99 of Chadron, Nebraska&nbsp;will be held at a later date.Lynn passed away on December 25, 2022 at Chadron, Nebraska.Mr. Bilyeu was born on June 17, 1923 in Scotia, Nebraska.A memorial has been established and donations may be sent in care of&nbsp;Chamberlain Chapel, PO BOX 970, CHADRON, NE 69337.

Lynn Bilyeu (1923 - 2022)

Jerry Lee Matthews left this life for his eternal rest on December 22, 2022. He leaves behind family and friends too numerous to count.

Jerry was born in Exeter, California on January 6, 1949 to Lee Roy and Carol Elaine (Sterling nee Mildred Dorthea Vorderstrasse) Matthews. The family including sister Kathleen June moved to Fresno. The family grew to include brothers Kenneth Roy and James Allan and sisters Susan Joan and Lori Jean. He attended Emmanuel Lutheran Church and school. He was active in Boy Scouting and earned its highest rank, Eagle Scout in 1963. An honor that has continued in the family for three generations including his son and two grandsons.

In 1964 he began attending California Concordia High School /Junior College in Oakland, California as a sophomore. It was here he met Carole McMichael, a classmate who would eventually become his wife. They graduated from high school in 1967 and junior college in 1969. Carole continued her education at Concordia Teachers College in River Forest, Illinois while Jerry attended Fresno State College. They were married in San Francisco, California on July 12, 1970. After Carole graduated in 1971, they moved to San Diego for two years where Carole taught school and Jerry drove school bus while finishing his BA at San Diego State College.

They moved to San Francisco where Jerry attended Golden Gate Law School, graduating in May of 1976 just shortly after the birth of their first daughter, Jennifer. In June they moved to Martin, South Dakota where he worked with Attorney Mario Gonzolez. After several months he began working at Legal Aid in Pine Ridge, South Dakota and the family moved to Hay Springs, Nebraska.

During his career as an Attorney, he worked in many capacities including private practice with David Veath in Chadron, Nebraska and his brother, James in Hay Springs, Nebraska and Pine Ridge, South Dakota. He worked on the Pine Ridge Reservation as an attorney for Legal Aid and the Tribal Housing Authority. He also served several years as Chief Judge of the Tribal Court. He met and worked with many who remain friends to this day.

In the 1990s, his long interest in photography led him to begin a second career as a photographer. He became known to many as the “Picture Guy Dude” even to include this name on the sign for his car. He could be found for many years photographing participants and attendees at the annual Lakota Nation Invitational Tournament. He logged many miles taking school, prom, and graduation photos at schools around Pine Ridge, Rosebud and Todd County.

His latest career adventure was helping Mike Carlow set up a marijuana production facility.

He also served his community as a member of the School Board and City Council.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Lee Roy Matthews and Carol Elaine Meyers; and nephews, Dylan James Matthews, Eric Scott Perkins and Kristopher Perkins Bradford.

He leaves behind his wife of 52 years, Carole; son Jeffrey (Andrea) Matthews; daughters, Jennifer (Ricky) Wohl, Theresa “Tessa” (Isaac) Singer, and Elizabeth “Beth” (Charles) Brawner; grandchildren, Jordan (Brianna) Encinia, Kobe Encinia, Hannah Wohl, Deven and Dylan Matthews, Clara and Aria Singer, and Nathan, Keira, and William Brawner. Sisters, Kathleen (Michael) Bradford, Susan

Matthews, and Lori Matthews; brothers Kenneth Matthews and James (BJ) Matthews; nephews, nieces and cousins, and many, many friends from coast to coast.

Honorary pallbearers grandsons Jordan, Kobe, Deven, Dylan; nephews, Michael Bradford, Justin Matthews; sons in law, Ricky, Isaac, and Charles; friends, Bryan Brewer, Mike Carlow, Russ Harford, Joe Swiftbird, Pete Swiftbird, Russ Zephier.

Funeral services will be Saturday, January 14, 2023 at Zion Lutheran Church, 224 S Main St, Hay Springs, at 10:00 a.m. At 2:00 an Honoring for Jerry Matthews will be held at the Old Pine Ridge Gym.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Hay Springs Volunteer Fire Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672425559635.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Jerry Lee Matthews left this life for his eternal rest on December 22, 2022. He leaves behind family and friends too numerous to count.Jerry was born in Exeter, California on January 6, 1949 to Lee Roy and Carol Elaine (Sterling nee Mildred Dorthea Vorderstrasse) Matthews. The family including sister Kathleen June moved to Fresno. The family grew to include brothers Kenneth Roy and James Allan and sisters Susan Joan and Lori Jean. He attended Emmanuel Lutheran Church and school. He was active in Boy Scouting and earned its highest rank, Eagle Scout in 1963. An honor that has continued in the family for three generations including his son and two grandsons.In 1964 he began attending California Concordia High School /Junior College in Oakland, California as a sophomore. It was here he met Carole McMichael, a classmate who would eventually become his wife. They graduated from high school in 1967 and junior college in 1969. Carole continued her education at Concordia Teachers College in River Forest, Illinois while Jerry attended Fresno State College. They were married in San Francisco, California on July 12, 1970. After Carole graduated in 1971, they moved to San Diego for two years where Carole taught school and Jerry drove school bus while finishing his BA at San Diego State College.They moved to San Francisco where Jerry attended Golden Gate Law School, graduating in May of 1976 just shortly after the birth of their first daughter, Jennifer. In June they moved to Martin, South Dakota where he worked with Attorney Mario Gonzolez. After several months he began working at Legal Aid in Pine Ridge, South Dakota and the family moved to Hay Springs, Nebraska.During his career as an Attorney, he worked in many capacities including private practice with David Veath in Chadron, Nebraska and his brother, James in Hay Springs, Nebraska and Pine Ridge, South Dakota. He worked on the Pine Ridge Reservation as an attorney for Legal Aid and the Tribal Housing Authority. He also served several years as Chief Judge of the Tribal Court. He met and worked with many who remain friends to this day.In the 1990s, his long interest in photography led him to begin a second career as a photographer. He became known to many as the “Picture Guy Dude” even to include this name on the sign for his car. He could be found for many years photographing participants and attendees at the annual Lakota Nation Invitational Tournament. He logged many miles taking school, prom, and graduation photos at schools around Pine Ridge, Rosebud and Todd County.His latest career adventure was helping Mike Carlow set up a marijuana production facility.He also served his community as a member of the School Board and City Council.He is preceded in death by his parents, Lee Roy Matthews and Carol Elaine Meyers; and nephews, Dylan James Matthews, Eric Scott Perkins and Kristopher Perkins Bradford.He leaves behind his wife of 52 years, Carole; son Jeffrey (Andrea) Matthews; daughters, Jennifer (Ricky) Wohl, Theresa “Tessa” (Isaac) Singer, and Elizabeth “Beth” (Charles) Brawner; grandchildren, Jordan (Brianna) Encinia, Kobe Encinia, Hannah Wohl, Deven and Dylan Matthews, Clara and Aria Singer, and Nathan, Keira, and William Brawner. Sisters, Kathleen (Michael) Bradford, SusanMatthews, and Lori Matthews; brothers Kenneth Matthews and James (BJ) Matthews; nephews, nieces and cousins, and many, many friends from coast to coast.Honorary pallbearers grandsons Jordan, Kobe, Deven, Dylan; nephews, Michael Bradford, Justin Matthews; sons in law, Ricky, Isaac, and Charles; friends, Bryan Brewer, Mike Carlow, Russ Harford, Joe Swiftbird, Pete Swiftbird, Russ Zephier.Funeral services will be Saturday, January 14, 2023 at Zion Lutheran Church, 224 S Main St, Hay Springs, at 10:00 a.m. At 2:00 an Honoring for Jerry Matthews will be held at the Old Pine Ridge Gym.In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Hay Springs Volunteer Fire Department.

Jerry Lee Matthews (1949 - 2022)

Richard Dale Meier passed away on Thursday, December 29, 2022 at his home in Alliance, NE surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 27, 1951 in Scottsbluff, NE to William and Esther (Kaufman) Meier. He grew up in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.

On June 20, 1970 he married Kathleen Romick in Scottsbluff, NE and they enjoyed 52 wonderful years together. The couple made their home in Scottsbluff and Alliance throughout their marriage. The couple was blessed with two children, Tania and Richard. Both Richard and Kathy were wonderful caregivers for their family, although they served many different roles as caregiving throughout their marriage they always welcomed each new adventure with pride and loving care. Richard never met a stranger and always enjoyed meeting new people and spending time to share the story of their family journey. Richard saw the good in people and enjoyed spending time with his family.

Richard farmed until 1996 with his family then went to work for Bob Henderson, in 2000 he started working for the City of Alliance as a Sanitation Driver. He retired from the city after 16 years of service on July 1, 2017.

He is survived by his wife Kathleen, son Richard of Alliance, grand-daughters Ashly Lunbery of Alliance and Anna Meier of Gering, great granddaughter Brinlee Lunbery of Alliance, sister Jackie (Alan) Torres of Oregon, sister-in-law Betty Meier of Burlington, CO, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Tania, grandson Tyler Lunbery, brothers Jerry and Robert.

Memorial services will be Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Alliance with Rev. Dr. Gideon Achi officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for a future memorial designation.&nbsp; They may be sent in care of the family to 1453 Colorado Avenue, Alliance, NE&nbsp; 69301.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672424103883.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Richard Dale Meier passed away on Thursday, December 29, 2022 at his home in Alliance, NE surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 27, 1951 in Scottsbluff, NE to William and Esther (Kaufman) Meier. He grew up in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.On June 20, 1970 he married Kathleen Romick in Scottsbluff, NE and they enjoyed 52 wonderful years together. The couple made their home in Scottsbluff and Alliance throughout their marriage. The couple was blessed with two children, Tania and Richard. Both Richard and Kathy were wonderful caregivers for their family, although they served many different roles as caregiving throughout their marriage they always welcomed each new adventure with pride and loving care. Richard never met a stranger and always enjoyed meeting new people and spending time to share the story of their family journey. Richard saw the good in people and enjoyed spending time with his family.Richard farmed until 1996 with his family then went to work for Bob Henderson, in 2000 he started working for the City of Alliance as a Sanitation Driver. He retired from the city after 16 years of service on July 1, 2017.He is survived by his wife Kathleen, son Richard of Alliance, grand-daughters Ashly Lunbery of Alliance and Anna Meier of Gering, great granddaughter Brinlee Lunbery of Alliance, sister Jackie (Alan) Torres of Oregon, sister-in-law Betty Meier of Burlington, CO, and many nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Tania, grandson Tyler Lunbery, brothers Jerry and Robert.Memorial services will be Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Alliance with Rev. Dr. Gideon Achi officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for a future memorial designation.&nbsp; They may be sent in care of the family to 1453 Colorado Avenue, Alliance, NE&nbsp; 69301.Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com with Bates-Gould Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Richard Dale Meier (1951 - 2022)

Jerry Lee Fester, 68, passed away Saturday, December 10, 2022 at Hemingford Community Care Center.

He was born January 23, 1954 in Alliance to Glen and Lillian Fester.

He is survived by his daughters, Kelly (Todd) Vaughn of Omaha, Miranda Smith (Jason Howard) and Melodee (Justin) Kittelmann of Alliance, his grandchildren, Brady and Alayna Vaughn, Nicole (Jaden DeSantis), Bryson and Shelby Kittelmann and his great-granddaughter to be born in March).&nbsp; He is also survived by his sister, Betty Basden and his brothers, Roy, Dennis, Ron, Ed, Tim and Kenny.&nbsp;

His parents, his son, Cassidy, his brother, Jack and his niece, Anne Marie preceded him in death.

Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671207398914.jpg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Jerry Lee Fester, 68, passed away Saturday, December 10, 2022 at Hemingford Community Care Center.He was born January 23, 1954 in Alliance to Glen and Lillian Fester.He is survived by his daughters, Kelly (Todd) Vaughn of Omaha, Miranda Smith (Jason Howard) and Melodee (Justin) Kittelmann of Alliance, his grandchildren, Brady and Alayna Vaughn, Nicole (Jaden DeSantis), Bryson and Shelby Kittelmann and his great-granddaughter to be born in March).&nbsp; He is also survived by his sister, Betty Basden and his brothers, Roy, Dennis, Ron, Ed, Tim and Kenny.&nbsp;His parents, his son, Cassidy, his brother, Jack and his niece, Anne Marie preceded him in death.Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

Jerry Lee Fester (1954 - 2022)

Harlan Petersen passed away on Monday, Dec. 19, 2022 in Alliance, NE.&nbsp; He was born on March 3, 1933 in Frontier County to Clarence W. and Ilma M. (Razee) Petersen. He attended rural schools through the 8th grade and graduated from&nbsp; the Nebraska School of Agriculture in Curtis in 1951. He served in the Army from 1953-1955.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; On October 7, 1962 he married Amelene M. (Amy) Peterson. The couple made their home on the farm south of Curtis. Three sons were welcomed into the family, Steve, Darrell&nbsp; and Gary.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; After leaving the farm, he became an over the road truck driver, receiving the NE Carriers Driver Award in 1995. In 1990 they moved to the Hemingford area, settling south of Hay Springs while Amy taught school and Harlan continued to drive truck. He retired from trucking in 1998 and did many jobs as carpenter\handy-man. Harlan also had many volunteer positions on church boards, 4-H council and chairman of the Methodist Church building committee in Hay Springs. He was very involved in building the new parsonage there, contributing with many of his talents. Eventually they moved into Hemingford where Amy now resides.

&nbsp;&nbsp; Harlan was a quiet and easy going man who enjoyed his garden and helping out his neighbor. Harlan was also a tough guy surviving polio as a child, losing four fingers in a farm accident, enduring brain surgery, a heart attack and cancer. He always enjoyed&nbsp; keeping up with his grandkids events, visiting with friends and family, and traveling.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He is survived by his wife Amy, sons Steve (Linda) of Hemingford, Darrell ( Joni) of Lusk WY, and Gary (Cindy) of Cozad, his grandson Miles (Bo) Petersen, Grady and Adele of Riverton WY.,&nbsp; granddaughter Chelsea (Matt) Sernett and Lexi of Lincoln and grandson Blaine (Tori) Petersen and Briley, to be born in the spring,&nbsp; of Lott, TX and foreign exchange student Varun Kohli (Geetu) and children of New York.&nbsp; He is also survived by his brother Don (Darlene) of Superior and extra friends Dan Wouters, Hillary Goodwin and CJ Jerrell.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Virginia Meyers and brothers Gordon and Bob, and his in laws Amel and Eunice Peterson and many nieces and nephews.

&nbsp; Services will be held at 2 PM on Wednesday, Dec. 28th, at the Hemingford United Methodist Church with Pastor Esther Achi and Paul Smith officiating. Burial will be held in Curtis, NE at a future date. Memorials are suggested to The Nebraska 4-H Foundation, PO Box 4500, Lincoln, NE 68504.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672153530735.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Harlan Petersen passed away on Monday, Dec. 19, 2022 in Alliance, NE.&nbsp; He was born on March 3, 1933 in Frontier County to Clarence W. and Ilma M. (Razee) Petersen. He attended rural schools through the 8th grade and graduated from&nbsp; the Nebraska School of Agriculture in Curtis in 1951. He served in the Army from 1953-1955.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; On October 7, 1962 he married Amelene M. (Amy) Peterson. The couple made their home on the farm south of Curtis. Three sons were welcomed into the family, Steve, Darrell&nbsp; and Gary.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; After leaving the farm, he became an over the road truck driver, receiving the NE Carriers Driver Award in 1995. In 1990 they moved to the Hemingford area, settling south of Hay Springs while Amy taught school and Harlan continued to drive truck. He retired from trucking in 1998 and did many jobs as carpenter\handy-man. Harlan also had many volunteer positions on church boards, 4-H council and chairman of the Methodist Church building committee in Hay Springs. He was very involved in building the new parsonage there, contributing with many of his talents. Eventually they moved into Hemingford where Amy now resides.&nbsp;&nbsp; Harlan was a quiet and easy going man who enjoyed his garden and helping out his neighbor. Harlan was also a tough guy surviving polio as a child, losing four fingers in a farm accident, enduring brain surgery, a heart attack and cancer. He always enjoyed&nbsp; keeping up with his grandkids events, visiting with friends and family, and traveling.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He is survived by his wife Amy, sons Steve (Linda) of Hemingford, Darrell ( Joni) of Lusk WY, and Gary (Cindy) of Cozad, his grandson Miles (Bo) Petersen, Grady and Adele of Riverton WY.,&nbsp; granddaughter Chelsea (Matt) Sernett and Lexi of Lincoln and grandson Blaine (Tori) Petersen and Briley, to be born in the spring,&nbsp; of Lott, TX and foreign exchange student Varun Kohli (Geetu) and children of New York.&nbsp; He is also survived by his brother Don (Darlene) of Superior and extra friends Dan Wouters, Hillary Goodwin and CJ Jerrell.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Virginia Meyers and brothers Gordon and Bob, and his in laws Amel and Eunice Peterson and many nieces and nephews.&nbsp; Services will be held at 2 PM on Wednesday, Dec. 28th, at the Hemingford United Methodist Church with Pastor Esther Achi and Paul Smith officiating. Burial will be held in Curtis, NE at a future date. Memorials are suggested to The Nebraska 4-H Foundation, PO Box 4500, Lincoln, NE 68504.Bates-Gould Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.

Harlan Petersen (1933 - 2022)

Stanley Applegate, 94 of Scottsbluff, Nebraska passed away Sunday, December 18, 2022 at Regional West Medical Center with his family by his side.

His funeral service will be held Thursday, January 5, 2022 at 1:30 pm at Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel with Pastor Craig Collins officiating. Interment will follow at East Lawn Cemetery with military honors. Visitation will be held an hour prior services. Casket will be closed. Memorials may be given to Scottsbluff First United Methodist Church or Minatare Volunteer Fire Department. 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 Applegate family.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671551733943.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><h2>Stanley Applegate, 94 of Scottsbluff, Nebraska passed away Sunday, December 18, 2022 at Regional West Medical Center with his family by his side.</h2>His funeral service will be held Thursday, January 5, 2022 at 1:30 pm at Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel with Pastor Craig Collins officiating. Interment will follow at East Lawn Cemetery with military honors. Visitation will be held an hour prior services. Casket will be closed. Memorials may be given to Scottsbluff First United Methodist Church or Minatare Volunteer Fire Department. 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 Applegate family.

Stanley Applegate (1928 - 2022)

Donald F. Sjostrom, 89, passed away Wednesday, December 14th, 2022 at Pioneer Manor in Hay Springs, NE.

He was born March 20th, 1933 along with his twin brother Ronald, in Chicago, IL to Herman Sjostrom and Veronica Eileen Sjostrom.

Don entered the U.S. Army on March 24th, 1953 and served until he was honorably discharged on July 26th, 1955.

On March 17th, 1968 he was united in marriage to Paulla J. Vickers in Hemingford, NE.

Don was active in community groups including REACT and Kiwanis. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Chadron State College in 1976. He enjoyed engaging in conversation over a coffee at many local diners and he was a supportive figure in many lives throughout the town. As recognition of his military service, he was awarded the 300,000th Quilt of Valor in April 2022.

His survivors include his wife, Paulla, his children, Jack (Joey) Sjostrom of Las Vegas, NV, Anthony (Amanda Codina) Sjostrom of Lone Tree, CO and Katherine (Mark) Brykit of Toney, Alabama. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his twin brother, Ronald and older brother, Herman.

Memorial services and interment at Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance will be at a later date, on March 20, 2023.&nbsp; The time will be determined.

Memorials may be made on behalf of the memory of Don Sjostrom to Pioneer Manor, Hay Springs, NE. (http://pioneermanor.net/donate-now/), or to the donor’s choice. Bates-Gould Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671735891864.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Donald F. Sjostrom, 89, passed away Wednesday, December 14th, 2022 at Pioneer Manor in Hay Springs, NE.He was born March 20th, 1933 along with his twin brother Ronald, in Chicago, IL to Herman Sjostrom and Veronica Eileen Sjostrom.Don entered the U.S. Army on March 24th, 1953 and served until he was honorably discharged on July 26th, 1955.On March 17th, 1968 he was united in marriage to Paulla J. Vickers in Hemingford, NE.Don was active in community groups including REACT and Kiwanis. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Chadron State College in 1976. He enjoyed engaging in conversation over a coffee at many local diners and he was a supportive figure in many lives throughout the town. As recognition of his military service, he was awarded the 300,000th Quilt of Valor in April 2022.His survivors include his wife, Paulla, his children, Jack (Joey) Sjostrom of Las Vegas, NV, Anthony (Amanda Codina) Sjostrom of Lone Tree, CO and Katherine (Mark) Brykit of Toney, Alabama. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents, his twin brother, Ronald and older brother, Herman.Memorial services and interment at Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance will be at a later date, on March 20, 2023.&nbsp; The time will be determined.Memorials may be made on behalf of the memory of Don Sjostrom to Pioneer Manor, Hay Springs, NE. (http://pioneermanor.net/donate-now/), or to the donor’s choice. Bates-Gould Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.

Donald F. Sjostrom (1933 - 2022)

Due to inclement weather, the Committal Service for Stanley Daugherty will be at the Bates-Gould Chapel in Alliance on Friday, December 23 then proceeding to the St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery for the interment.

Stanley Eugene Daugherty was born in North Platte, Nebraska on January 20, 1940. He was baptized into Christ as a child and confirmed in his Christian faith on May 24, 1953 at First Lutheran Church in North Platte, NE.

It was in his hometown that Stan discovered his lifelong love of language--teaching himself Spanish in the local library. He also studied and spoke other languages including French and German. He attended North Platte High School and graduated with honors in 1958. Stan studied Spanish at Midland (Lutheran) College in Fremont, NE, where he met his wife Jean Fodnes. During his junior year, Stan studied abroad at Interamerican University in San German, Puerto Rico.

After graduating from Midland College in 1962, Stan went to Officer Candidate School and became a captain in the U.S. Air Force, serving as an air traffic controller in Germany and Thailand during the Vietnam War. After serving for five years (1962-1968) Stan and his family moved to New Mexico where he received a fellowship for graduate studies at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. In 1974, Stan took a position as a professor of language at Concordia Teachers College in Seward, NE. In 1984, the family moved to California where Stan taught at Los Angeles Lutheran High School for a short time. Stan finished his career working for the City of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. However, in retirement he took a part-time job at the Lancaster, CA public library for several years.

Stan was a faithful member of Grace Lutheran Church in Lancaster, CA, where he volunteered to teach language classes to members of the congregation. Throughout his life, Stan faithfully attended church and was nurtured in his Christian faith. He trusted in the promise of forgiveness and life in Christ and his family clings to that promise today.&nbsp;

On November 23, 2022, Stanley Eugene Daugherty passed away from a brain aneurysm.

Stan was preceded in death by his mother, Vivian (Merle) Vierson, father, Robert Daugherty, sister Marilyn and her husband Jim Wolle, niece, Jolynn Oskey, and son-in-law, Wade Young. Stan is lovingly remembered by his wife of 59 years, Jean Daugherty, daughter Krista Young, and sons Kevin (Elizabeth) Daugherty and Shaun (Beth) Daugherty. He was a proud grandfather of 10: Kalen (Isaac), Ashley (Chris), Kevin, Jordyn, Jonas, Micah, Olivia, Silas, Zachary, Amos, and a great-grandfather to Leo. Stan also leaves behind a nephew, Mike Goad and four great nieces.

The Funeral Service for Stan will be held on December 19 at 4:00p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Lancaster, CA (856 W Newgrove St, Lancaster, CA 93534). Service of Committal will be held on Friday, December 23 at 10:30am at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Hemingford, NE. In lieu of flowers, his family requests that donations be made to Grace Lutheran School Scholarship Fund (856 W Newgrove St, Lancaster, CA 93534).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671207664354.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Due to inclement weather, the Committal Service for Stanley Daugherty will be at the Bates-Gould Chapel in Alliance on Friday, December 23 then proceeding to the St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery for the interment.Stanley Eugene Daugherty was born in North Platte, Nebraska on January 20, 1940. He was baptized into Christ as a child and confirmed in his Christian faith on May 24, 1953 at First Lutheran Church in North Platte, NE.It was in his hometown that Stan discovered his lifelong love of language--teaching himself Spanish in the local library. He also studied and spoke other languages including French and German. He attended North Platte High School and graduated with honors in 1958. Stan studied Spanish at Midland (Lutheran) College in Fremont, NE, where he met his wife Jean Fodnes. During his junior year, Stan studied abroad at Interamerican University in San German, Puerto Rico.After graduating from Midland College in 1962, Stan went to Officer Candidate School and became a captain in the U.S. Air Force, serving as an air traffic controller in Germany and Thailand during the Vietnam War. After serving for five years (1962-1968) Stan and his family moved to New Mexico where he received a fellowship for graduate studies at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. In 1974, Stan took a position as a professor of language at Concordia Teachers College in Seward, NE. In 1984, the family moved to California where Stan taught at Los Angeles Lutheran High School for a short time. Stan finished his career working for the City of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. However, in retirement he took a part-time job at the Lancaster, CA public library for several years.Stan was a faithful member of Grace Lutheran Church in Lancaster, CA, where he volunteered to teach language classes to members of the congregation. Throughout his life, Stan faithfully attended church and was nurtured in his Christian faith. He trusted in the promise of forgiveness and life in Christ and his family clings to that promise today.&nbsp;On November 23, 2022, Stanley Eugene Daugherty passed away from a brain aneurysm.Stan was preceded in death by his mother, Vivian (Merle) Vierson, father, Robert Daugherty, sister Marilyn and her husband Jim Wolle, niece, Jolynn Oskey, and son-in-law, Wade Young. Stan is lovingly remembered by his wife of 59 years, Jean Daugherty, daughter Krista Young, and sons Kevin (Elizabeth) Daugherty and Shaun (Beth) Daugherty. He was a proud grandfather of 10: Kalen (Isaac), Ashley (Chris), Kevin, Jordyn, Jonas, Micah, Olivia, Silas, Zachary, Amos, and a great-grandfather to Leo. Stan also leaves behind a nephew, Mike Goad and four great nieces.The Funeral Service for Stan will be held on December 19 at 4:00p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Lancaster, CA (856 W Newgrove St, Lancaster, CA 93534). Service of Committal will be held on Friday, December 23 at 10:30am at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Hemingford, NE. In lieu of flowers, his family requests that donations be made to Grace Lutheran School Scholarship Fund (856 W Newgrove St, Lancaster, CA 93534).

Stanley Eugene Daugherty (1940 - 2022)

&nbsp;Bruce J. Johannsen, age 65, of Bayard, NE passed away in Scottsbluff, NE on Friday, December 16, 2022. Per his wishes, cremation will take place and there will be no visitation. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date with details to be announced. You may view Bruce’s Book of Memories, leave condolences, photos and stories at www.gehrigstittchapel.com. Gehrig-Stitt Chapel &amp; Cremation Service, LLC is in charge of Bruce’s care and funeral arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671552122253.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>&nbsp;Bruce J. Johannsen, age 65, of Bayard, NE passed away in Scottsbluff, NE on Friday, December 16, 2022. Per his wishes, cremation will take place and there will be no visitation. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date with details to be announced. You may view Bruce’s Book of Memories, leave condolences, photos and stories at www.gehrigstittchapel.com. Gehrig-Stitt Chapel &amp; Cremation Service, LLC is in charge of Bruce’s care and funeral arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bruce J. Johannsen (1957 - 2022)

Wilma Cecelia (Schmidling) Kirchner, 96, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, a faithful servant of our Lord, went to her heavenly home on December 14, 2022.

Wilma was born on September 16, 1926, at home in Nortonville, Kansas to Leo and Cecelia (Schneider) Schmidling. She grew up on farms in Eastern Kansas, and always preferred being outside working with her dad and doing farm chores. When her two older brothers joined the service in World War II, she was left to do the milking morning and night, before and after school.

Wilma attended Easton High School in Easton, Kansas, where she was a star defensive basketball player. Her basketball skills were outshined only by her stylish raven hair and bright red lipstick. After passing the civil service exam, she graduated early and immediately went to work at Fort Leavenworth, an important World War II induction center. There she met a handsome young Army sergeant who became the love of her life.

Wilma married Harold W. Kirchner on April 3, 1945 at St. Joseph’s of the Valley. Just as the Kansas sunflower tracks the sun from east to west, Wilma moved with Harold west to Alliance, Nebraska. They were blessed with eight children, who became their pride and joy. Wilma held multiple accounting and bookkeeping positions including roles at the United Transportation Union and the Alliance Consumers Co-op. After the death of her husband, she moved to Scottsbluff, Nebraska to spend the rest of her days close to family.

Wilma was always a Kansas girl, but by her own account she had a good life in Nebraska. It’s not for everyone, but it was for Wilma. She was an avid Huskers volleyball and football fan, but not of Coach Mike Riley. She enjoyed bridge, reading, and square dancing. Wilma was an active member of the Catholic Church, serving as a lay associate of the Order of Franciscans, a member of Holy Rosary Altar Society in Alliance, and numerous bible studies. In the course of raising her children, she served as a 4-H leader, Bluebird Troop Leader, and Cub Scout Den leader. She was a member of P.E.O. in Alliance and Scottsbluff.

Wilma is preceded in death by many loved ones including both parents, husband Harold, daughter Linda, three brothers, and son-in-law Steven Wilkinson. She is survived by seven children: son Joseph (Patti) Kirchner of Twin Falls, Idaho; son David (Karen Hynek) Kirchner of Chandler, Arizona; daughter Constance Kirchner of Scottsbluff, Nebraska; son Robert (Karie) Kirchner of Omaha, Nebraska; daughter Sandra (Mark) Butcher of Scottsbluff, Nebraska; daughter Sally (Mark) Brittan of Omaha, Nebraska; daughter Jill (John) Manchester of Chicago, Illinois; sister Darlyne Pape of Boise, Idaho; as well as 18 grandchildren; and 24 great grandchildren.

The Kansas sunflowers Wilma grew up with are a symbol of the life she led. She was the perpetual optimist, soaking up the goodness life offered, brightening the lives of those around her, and shining as a vibrant beacon of faith, hope, and love.

Services will be held after the holidays, with a rosary on Friday, January 6th, at 7:00 pm, and a Mass celebrating her life on Saturday, January 7th, at 10:00 am. Both will be at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Scottsbluff. Private graveside services will be held at Calvary Cemetery in Alliance.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Valley Christian Neighbors In Need, care of St Agnes Catholic Church or the Lied Scottsbluff Public Library. Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements, and online condolences for the family may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dugankramer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.dugankramer.com</a>

<figure>
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 </figure><h2>Wilma Cecelia (Schmidling) Kirchner, 96, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, a faithful servant of our Lord, went to her heavenly home on December 14, 2022.</h2>Wilma was born on September 16, 1926, at home in Nortonville, Kansas to Leo and Cecelia (Schneider) Schmidling. She grew up on farms in Eastern Kansas, and always preferred being outside working with her dad and doing farm chores. When her two older brothers joined the service in World War II, she was left to do the milking morning and night, before and after school.Wilma attended Easton High School in Easton, Kansas, where she was a star defensive basketball player. Her basketball skills were outshined only by her stylish raven hair and bright red lipstick. After passing the civil service exam, she graduated early and immediately went to work at Fort Leavenworth, an important World War II induction center. There she met a handsome young Army sergeant who became the love of her life.Wilma married Harold W. Kirchner on April 3, 1945 at St. Joseph’s of the Valley. Just as the Kansas sunflower tracks the sun from east to west, Wilma moved with Harold west to Alliance, Nebraska. They were blessed with eight children, who became their pride and joy. Wilma held multiple accounting and bookkeeping positions including roles at the United Transportation Union and the Alliance Consumers Co-op. After the death of her husband, she moved to Scottsbluff, Nebraska to spend the rest of her days close to family.Wilma was always a Kansas girl, but by her own account she had a good life in Nebraska. It’s not for everyone, but it was for Wilma. She was an avid Huskers volleyball and football fan, but not of Coach Mike Riley. She enjoyed bridge, reading, and square dancing. Wilma was an active member of the Catholic Church, serving as a lay associate of the Order of Franciscans, a member of Holy Rosary Altar Society in Alliance, and numerous bible studies. In the course of raising her children, she served as a 4-H leader, Bluebird Troop Leader, and Cub Scout Den leader. She was a member of P.E.O. in Alliance and Scottsbluff.Wilma is preceded in death by many loved ones including both parents, husband Harold, daughter Linda, three brothers, and son-in-law Steven Wilkinson. She is survived by seven children: son Joseph (Patti) Kirchner of Twin Falls, Idaho; son David (Karen Hynek) Kirchner of Chandler, Arizona; daughter Constance Kirchner of Scottsbluff, Nebraska; son Robert (Karie) Kirchner of Omaha, Nebraska; daughter Sandra (Mark) Butcher of Scottsbluff, Nebraska; daughter Sally (Mark) Brittan of Omaha, Nebraska; daughter Jill (John) Manchester of Chicago, Illinois; sister Darlyne Pape of Boise, Idaho; as well as 18 grandchildren; and 24 great grandchildren.The Kansas sunflowers Wilma grew up with are a symbol of the life she led. She was the perpetual optimist, soaking up the goodness life offered, brightening the lives of those around her, and shining as a vibrant beacon of faith, hope, and love.Services will be held after the holidays, with a rosary on Friday, January 6th, at 7:00 pm, and a Mass celebrating her life on Saturday, January 7th, at 10:00 am. Both will be at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Scottsbluff. Private graveside services will be held at Calvary Cemetery in Alliance.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Valley Christian Neighbors In Need, care of St Agnes Catholic Church or the Lied Scottsbluff Public Library. Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements, and online condolences for the family may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dugankramer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.dugankramer.com</a>

Wilma Cecelia (Schmidling) Kirchner (1926 - 2022)

Conrad J Scholl was born on June 29, 1936 in Wichita Falls, Texas and passed away December 18, 2022 in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. He worked in the transportation industry following graduation from UNL.

He owned Scholl Trucking and Molasses Haulers in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. He then moved to Lincoln, Nebraska and continued to hold various positions in the transportation industry until he retired at 80 years of age in 2016.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra Scholl to whom he was married 36 years, his daughters Theresa Glaston of Fort Collins, Colorado and Stacy Hall of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, his wife's two sons Scott and Shannon, his granddaughter Elizabeth Fletcher of Austin, Texas, his brother Robert Scholl of Amarillo, Texas, sisters Sara Scholl and Brenda Frasier of Sanger, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Joseph Scholl and his sister Mary Mullins.

Conrad J Scholl, age 86, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska passed away on Sunday, December 18, 2022.

A family and friends open house will be held in the Spring to Celebrate Conrad's life. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dugankramer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.dugankramer.com</a>&nbsp;for the Scholl family.

<figure>
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 </figure><h2>Conrad J Scholl was born on June 29, 1936 in Wichita Falls, Texas and passed away December 18, 2022 in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. He worked in the transportation industry following graduation from UNL.</h2>He owned Scholl Trucking and Molasses Haulers in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. He then moved to Lincoln, Nebraska and continued to hold various positions in the transportation industry until he retired at 80 years of age in 2016.He recently returned to Scottsbluff.He is survived by his wife, Sandra Scholl to whom he was married 36 years, his daughters Theresa Glaston of Fort Collins, Colorado and Stacy Hall of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, his wife's two sons Scott and Shannon, his granddaughter Elizabeth Fletcher of Austin, Texas, his brother Robert Scholl of Amarillo, Texas, sisters Sara Scholl and Brenda Frasier of Sanger, Texas.He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Joseph Scholl and his sister Mary Mullins.Conrad J Scholl, age 86, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska passed away on Sunday, December 18, 2022.A family and friends open house will be held in the Spring to Celebrate Conrad's life. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dugankramer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.dugankramer.com</a>&nbsp;for the Scholl family.

Conrad J Scholl (1936 - 2022)

Our beloved, Richard L Spencer, stepped into Heaven on Monday, December 12, 2022.

We celebrate because he is no longer in pain, but grieve because he will be deeply missed.

A service to honor Rick's life will be held on January 16, 2023 at 2:00 pm at The Rock Church in Scottsbluff.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dugankramer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.dugankramer.com</a>&nbsp;for the Spencer family.

<figure>
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 </figure><h2>Our beloved, Richard L Spencer, stepped into Heaven on Monday, December 12, 2022.</h2>We celebrate because he is no longer in pain, but grieve because he will be deeply missed.A service to honor Rick's life will be held on January 16, 2023 at 2:00 pm at The Rock Church in Scottsbluff.Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dugankramer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.dugankramer.com</a>&nbsp;for the Spencer family.

Richard L. Spencer (1951 - 2022)

Florine Mae (Ziegler) Votruba, 92, of Hemingford, NE, passed away Thursday, December 15, 2022, at the Hemingford Community Care Center. Her funeral service will be 10 AM Wednesday, December 21, 2022, at Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff, NE with Pastor Rick Reisig officiating. Burial will follow at Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Alliance, NE. It is respectfully requested that in lieu of flowers memorials be made to the Hemingford Care Center. Online condolences may be made by viewing Florine’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff has been entrusted with arrangements. Florine was born May 19, 1930, in Scottsbluff to Alexander and Irene Ziegler. She attended grade school at Lake Alice and graduated from Scottsbluff High School. She then began working at Montgomery Telephone Company doing accounting work. While there, she met her lifelong friend, Jean Ann and after going on a blind date with her boyfriend, Clifford Votruba’s, brother she was soon married to Lloyd Joseph Votruba, November 27, 1955. They moved to Hemingford to Lloyd’s farm where their great grandson, Lloyd G., still resides. To this marriage came three sons: Kevin (Janet), Keri and Trevor (Jennifer). They were the light of her life, and she relished in the triumphs and struggles that only a woman raising all boys can understand. The fruits of her labor were 5 grandchildren and, later, several great grandchildren. She loved watching them grow and hearing about the goings on at the farm. She will be remembered by many for her cooking skills – feeding many wedding goers and such with other German women. She also enjoyed knitting and sewing. Right up until her retirement in 2008 she fed many teenagers and hired hands meals and baked goods that will not be forgotten. Even while she enjoyed retirement in Scottsbluff, she kept a freezer stocked with baked goods and you never left empty-handed! She is preceded in death by her father and mother, Wilma and Robert Buckhamer (sister and brother-in-law); husband Lloyd J. and son, Keri, as well as a number of brother and sisters-in-law. She is survived by her sons: Kevin (Janet) and Trevor (Jennifer); grandchildren: Casey (Celeste – McKinley and Rowan), Catrina (daughter Natalia) Elley (Tyler), Lloyd (Micki – Gracia, Bryndle and Taos), and Jessica (Jason); sisters-in-law: Jean Ann Votruba, Delphine (Dale) Campbell, Shirley (Jim) Styvar, Mary Votruba and Bernice Herian; and numerous nieces and nephews.

<figure>
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 </figure>Florine Mae (Ziegler) Votruba, 92, of Hemingford, NE, passed away Thursday, December 15, 2022, at the Hemingford Community Care Center. Her funeral service will be 10 AM Wednesday, December 21, 2022, at Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff, NE with Pastor Rick Reisig officiating. Burial will follow at Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Alliance, NE. It is respectfully requested that in lieu of flowers memorials be made to the Hemingford Care Center. Online condolences may be made by viewing Florine’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff has been entrusted with arrangements. Florine was born May 19, 1930, in Scottsbluff to Alexander and Irene Ziegler. She attended grade school at Lake Alice and graduated from Scottsbluff High School. She then began working at Montgomery Telephone Company doing accounting work. While there, she met her lifelong friend, Jean Ann and after going on a blind date with her boyfriend, Clifford Votruba’s, brother she was soon married to Lloyd Joseph Votruba, November 27, 1955. They moved to Hemingford to Lloyd’s farm where their great grandson, Lloyd G., still resides. To this marriage came three sons: Kevin (Janet), Keri and Trevor (Jennifer). They were the light of her life, and she relished in the triumphs and struggles that only a woman raising all boys can understand. The fruits of her labor were 5 grandchildren and, later, several great grandchildren. She loved watching them grow and hearing about the goings on at the farm. She will be remembered by many for her cooking skills – feeding many wedding goers and such with other German women. She also enjoyed knitting and sewing. Right up until her retirement in 2008 she fed many teenagers and hired hands meals and baked goods that will not be forgotten. Even while she enjoyed retirement in Scottsbluff, she kept a freezer stocked with baked goods and you never left empty-handed! She is preceded in death by her father and mother, Wilma and Robert Buckhamer (sister and brother-in-law); husband Lloyd J. and son, Keri, as well as a number of brother and sisters-in-law. She is survived by her sons: Kevin (Janet) and Trevor (Jennifer); grandchildren: Casey (Celeste – McKinley and Rowan), Catrina (daughter Natalia) Elley (Tyler), Lloyd (Micki – Gracia, Bryndle and Taos), and Jessica (Jason); sisters-in-law: Jean Ann Votruba, Delphine (Dale) Campbell, Shirley (Jim) Styvar, Mary Votruba and Bernice Herian; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Florine Mae (Ziegler) Votruba (1930 - 2022)

Thomas Lee Boots, 87, passed away Friday, December 16, 2022 in Des Moines, Iowa. A Celebration of Life service will be 10:30 a.m. Wed. December 21, 2022 at the United Methodist Church in Afton, Iowa. Pastor Sheila Sutton will officiate. Services will be livestreamed under the obituary category. Burial will be at the Greenlawn Cemetery, near Afton. Open visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, with family receiving friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Powers Funeral Home 612 N. Dodge Afton, Iowa. Memorial may be directed to the church. Online condolences may be given at www.powersfh.com.

He was born September 12, 1935 in Alliance, Nebraska to Sanford and Lillian (Blair) Boots. The oldest of two children, Tom and his brother Bob grew up on a ranch in the sandhills of western Nebraska. Tom attended a one-room elementary school and Alliance High School. He later graduated from the University of Nebraska School of Agriculture in 1953. He proudly served in the National Guard for the following seven years. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, a former member of the Shriners, served on the board of the United Methodist Church, a former president of the Union County Beef Producers, Elks Club member, and he felt honored to assist with the Iowa Livestock Brand Directory.

Growing up on a ranch, Tom spent much of his life on a horse, riding to school and working cattle, so his last name fit him well! As a child, one of his only playmates was a little girl named Jean Herman, and on June 20, 1954 he married his best friend. To this union three children were born, Karla, Brenda, and Tara. They lived in western Nebraska raising cattle until 1963, and then moved to Ellsworth, NE where Tom owned and operated Boots Machine Shop. His love for ranching prompted a move to Arispe, Iowa in 1966 where he worked on the Russell Cheers’ farm to help manage his cattle herd and learn about farming. The following year he bought a farm near Thayer, Iowa where they currently reside. Tom loved the farm and often said “you’ll see spur marks across this deck if you ever try to drag me away from this place!”

Upon retirement, Jean and Tom enjoyed traveling across the nation in their 5th wheel and spent the past 25 winters in southern Texas. Alamo was a home away from home because of their winter Texan friends that truly have become like family. One of his dreams was to learn to fly and he loved the few years he spent as a pilot. He had never played golf, but when the local farmers decided to build Lakeshore Golf Club, he was ready to help and learn the game. He was a talented welder and created various pieces of ironwork with his plasma cutter. The family favorite was the creation of his firepots. Tom never met a stranger, and was always ready to have a glass of chardonnay and tell you his opinion on pretty much everything. His positive outlook on life was probably why some of his friends called him lucky, but looking back, we are the lucky ones to have had Tom in our life.

Tom is survived by his wife Jean, brother, Bob (Marcia) Boots of Alliance NE, sister-in-law Konnie Graham of Columbia, MO, daughters Karla (Dave) Tinius of Lincoln NE, Brenda (Gregor) Ware-Roge’ of Carmi IL, Tara (Gary Kort) Neal of Lincoln NE; 8 grandchildren, Sara (Cory) Gerner of DeSoto KS, John (Danielle) Tinius of Omaha NE, Thomas Dickey of Phillipstown, Trent (Chelsey) Dickey, Troy (fiance’ Tayler Hayes) Dickey both of Carmi, IL, Emily (Peter) Johnson of Sidney IA, Katie (Brett) Little, Hank Neal both of Lincoln NE; 4+ great-grandchildren, William and Andrew Gerner, Graham Tinius, Patrick Little, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law Kim Graham, and son-in-law Pat Neal.

<figure>
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 </figure>Thomas Lee Boots, 87, passed away Friday, December 16, 2022 in Des Moines, Iowa. A Celebration of Life service will be 10:30 a.m. Wed. December 21, 2022 at the United Methodist Church in Afton, Iowa. Pastor Sheila Sutton will officiate. Services will be livestreamed under the obituary category. Burial will be at the Greenlawn Cemetery, near Afton. Open visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, with family receiving friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Powers Funeral Home 612 N. Dodge Afton, Iowa. Memorial may be directed to the church. Online condolences may be given at www.powersfh.com. He was born September 12, 1935 in Alliance, Nebraska to Sanford and Lillian (Blair) Boots. The oldest of two children, Tom and his brother Bob grew up on a ranch in the sandhills of western Nebraska. Tom attended a one-room elementary school and Alliance High School. He later graduated from the University of Nebraska School of Agriculture in 1953. He proudly served in the National Guard for the following seven years. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, a former member of the Shriners, served on the board of the United Methodist Church, a former president of the Union County Beef Producers, Elks Club member, and he felt honored to assist with the Iowa Livestock Brand Directory.Growing up on a ranch, Tom spent much of his life on a horse, riding to school and working cattle, so his last name fit him well! As a child, one of his only playmates was a little girl named Jean Herman, and on June 20, 1954 he married his best friend. To this union three children were born, Karla, Brenda, and Tara. They lived in western Nebraska raising cattle until 1963, and then moved to Ellsworth, NE where Tom owned and operated Boots Machine Shop. His love for ranching prompted a move to Arispe, Iowa in 1966 where he worked on the Russell Cheers’ farm to help manage his cattle herd and learn about farming. The following year he bought a farm near Thayer, Iowa where they currently reside. Tom loved the farm and often said “you’ll see spur marks across this deck if you ever try to drag me away from this place!”Upon retirement, Jean and Tom enjoyed traveling across the nation in their 5th wheel and spent the past 25 winters in southern Texas. Alamo was a home away from home because of their winter Texan friends that truly have become like family. One of his dreams was to learn to fly and he loved the few years he spent as a pilot. He had never played golf, but when the local farmers decided to build Lakeshore Golf Club, he was ready to help and learn the game. He was a talented welder and created various pieces of ironwork with his plasma cutter. The family favorite was the creation of his firepots. Tom never met a stranger, and was always ready to have a glass of chardonnay and tell you his opinion on pretty much everything. His positive outlook on life was probably why some of his friends called him lucky, but looking back, we are the lucky ones to have had Tom in our life.Tom is survived by his wife Jean, brother, Bob (Marcia) Boots of Alliance NE, sister-in-law Konnie Graham of Columbia, MO, daughters Karla (Dave) Tinius of Lincoln NE, Brenda (Gregor) Ware-Roge’ of Carmi IL, Tara (Gary Kort) Neal of Lincoln NE; 8 grandchildren, Sara (Cory) Gerner of DeSoto KS, John (Danielle) Tinius of Omaha NE, Thomas Dickey of Phillipstown, Trent (Chelsey) Dickey, Troy (fiance’ Tayler Hayes) Dickey both of Carmi, IL, Emily (Peter) Johnson of Sidney IA, Katie (Brett) Little, Hank Neal both of Lincoln NE; 4+ great-grandchildren, William and Andrew Gerner, Graham Tinius, Patrick Little, and numerous nieces and nephews.Preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law Kim Graham, and son-in-law Pat Neal.

Thomas Lee Boots (1935 - 2022)

Judy Darlene Swesey, 74, passed away at Box Butte General Hospital on Friday, December 16, 2022.

She was born on May 23, 1948 in Alliance, Nebraska to Pete and Elizabeth “Betty” (Nuss) Schnell. She was the second oldest of nine children. Judy graduated from Alliance High School in 1966. After graduation she moved to Lincoln, Nebraska and worked for Back to the Bible for a short time. After returning to Alliance, Judy worked at the Box Butte County Courthouse.

Judy married Gerald (Jerry) Swesey on February 14, 1982 at the Alliance Berean Church. The couple was blessed with two children, Amy and Vernon, along with Jerry’s children Lynn, Dan, and Mark.

In 1985 the couple moved to Imperial, NE. Judy served the Imperial Berean Church and Grant Evangelical Free Church as the pastor’s wife. After years of service the couple moved back to Alliance in 2004 to be closer to family.

Judy loved her family with a passion. She enjoyed gardening, playing piano, taking walks, and cooking for the family. She also enjoyed teaching Sunday school and playing the piano for church service. She especially delighted in her grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Swesey; her parents, Pete and Betty Schnell; brother, Kenny Schnell; and brothers in law, Jim Shannon and Mike Sorensen.

She is survived by her children, Amy (Todd) Kinsey of Canon City, CO and Vernon (Jordon) Swesey of Grant, NE; stepchildren Lynn (Gary) Ranfeld of Kalamazoo, MI, Dan (Judy) Swesey of Fort Lupton, CO, and Mark Swesey of Maxwell, NE; grandchildren, Derrick, Taylor, Tyler, Spencer, Lucy, Madison, Abby, Ethan, Sophia, Eric, Andrew, Charlotte, and Otto; siblings, Larry (Pam) Schnell, Linda Shannon, Peggy Schnell, Paul (Brenda) Schnell, Steve Schnell, Roy (Vonda) Schnell, and Nancy Sorensen; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Memorials can be made to the Alliance Berean Church.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at the Alliance Berean Church with Pastor Glenn Johnson officiating.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church Wednesday one hour prior to service time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671549464156.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Judy Darlene Swesey, 74, passed away at Box Butte General Hospital on Friday, December 16, 2022.She was born on May 23, 1948 in Alliance, Nebraska to Pete and Elizabeth “Betty” (Nuss) Schnell. She was the second oldest of nine children. Judy graduated from Alliance High School in 1966. After graduation she moved to Lincoln, Nebraska and worked for Back to the Bible for a short time. After returning to Alliance, Judy worked at the Box Butte County Courthouse.Judy married Gerald (Jerry) Swesey on February 14, 1982 at the Alliance Berean Church. The couple was blessed with two children, Amy and Vernon, along with Jerry’s children Lynn, Dan, and Mark.In 1985 the couple moved to Imperial, NE. Judy served the Imperial Berean Church and Grant Evangelical Free Church as the pastor’s wife. After years of service the couple moved back to Alliance in 2004 to be closer to family.Judy loved her family with a passion. She enjoyed gardening, playing piano, taking walks, and cooking for the family. She also enjoyed teaching Sunday school and playing the piano for church service. She especially delighted in her grandchildren.She is preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Swesey; her parents, Pete and Betty Schnell; brother, Kenny Schnell; and brothers in law, Jim Shannon and Mike Sorensen.She is survived by her children, Amy (Todd) Kinsey of Canon City, CO and Vernon (Jordon) Swesey of Grant, NE; stepchildren Lynn (Gary) Ranfeld of Kalamazoo, MI, Dan (Judy) Swesey of Fort Lupton, CO, and Mark Swesey of Maxwell, NE; grandchildren, Derrick, Taylor, Tyler, Spencer, Lucy, Madison, Abby, Ethan, Sophia, Eric, Andrew, Charlotte, and Otto; siblings, Larry (Pam) Schnell, Linda Shannon, Peggy Schnell, Paul (Brenda) Schnell, Steve Schnell, Roy (Vonda) Schnell, and Nancy Sorensen; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.Memorials can be made to the Alliance Berean Church.Funeral services will be Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at the Alliance Berean Church with Pastor Glenn Johnson officiating.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church Wednesday one hour prior to service time.Bates-Gould Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.

Judy Darlene Swesey (1948 - 2022)

Doris Eileen Merrihew (Eileen) passed away Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at Linden Court, North Platte, Nebraska.

She had been a resident at Linden Estates in North Platte, Nebraska, since December 2, 2013, and later moved to Linden Court.

Doris Eileen Easton was born at Curtis, Nebraska, to Winford (Bud) and Georgia (Nichols) Easton on April 28, 1932. She spent most of her childhood in the Curtis area except for when the family had moved to Oregon to pick fruit during the Depression and when they had lived in Kearney, Nebraska, while her father was going to school.

Eileen married Robert (Bob) Merrihew of Ashby, Nebraska, on October 16, 1949, at Oberlin, Kansas. They lived on the family ranch 15 miles south of Ashby. Eileen had her pilot’s license and was crowned the National Flying Farmers Association queen in 1956. She was also involved in the local Wait and See Extension Club and the Ashby Fellowship Club.

Eileen is survived by her sons, Jerry (Cheryl) of Ashby, and Neil of Alliance and her daughter, Sandy (Charlie) Munn of Mullen. Her grandchildren, Tracy Merrihew, Brenda Merrihew, Craig (Erin) Merrihew, Mandy (Dan) Rohrer, Megan (Phil) Bohlen, Jason (Dallas) Merrihew, Corey Munn, Phillip Munn, and Marla Manarang. She also had 19 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Eileen was preceded in death by her husband, Robert, in 1988, her parents, Bud and Georgia Easton, her daughter-in-law, Marcy Merrihew, her brother, Bob Easton and his wife, Barb, her sister, Gloria Burke, and her husband, Charles, her father and mother-in-law, Curt and Mary Merrihew, her sister and brother-in-law, Margaret and Larry Bixby, and her brother-in-law, Knight Merrihew.

Memorial services will be Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at 1:00 pm MT at the Hyannis Congregation Church in Hyannis, NE. Burial will be in the Hyannis Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Grant County Rescue. Govier Brothers Mortuary are in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.govierbrothers.com/">www.govierbrothers.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671209624339.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Doris Eileen Merrihew (Eileen) passed away Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at Linden Court, North Platte, Nebraska.She had been a resident at Linden Estates in North Platte, Nebraska, since December 2, 2013, and later moved to Linden Court.Doris Eileen Easton was born at Curtis, Nebraska, to Winford (Bud) and Georgia (Nichols) Easton on April 28, 1932. She spent most of her childhood in the Curtis area except for when the family had moved to Oregon to pick fruit during the Depression and when they had lived in Kearney, Nebraska, while her father was going to school.Eileen married Robert (Bob) Merrihew of Ashby, Nebraska, on October 16, 1949, at Oberlin, Kansas. They lived on the family ranch 15 miles south of Ashby. Eileen had her pilot’s license and was crowned the National Flying Farmers Association queen in 1956. She was also involved in the local Wait and See Extension Club and the Ashby Fellowship Club.Eileen is survived by her sons, Jerry (Cheryl) of Ashby, and Neil of Alliance and her daughter, Sandy (Charlie) Munn of Mullen. Her grandchildren, Tracy Merrihew, Brenda Merrihew, Craig (Erin) Merrihew, Mandy (Dan) Rohrer, Megan (Phil) Bohlen, Jason (Dallas) Merrihew, Corey Munn, Phillip Munn, and Marla Manarang. She also had 19 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.Eileen was preceded in death by her husband, Robert, in 1988, her parents, Bud and Georgia Easton, her daughter-in-law, Marcy Merrihew, her brother, Bob Easton and his wife, Barb, her sister, Gloria Burke, and her husband, Charles, her father and mother-in-law, Curt and Mary Merrihew, her sister and brother-in-law, Margaret and Larry Bixby, and her brother-in-law, Knight Merrihew.Memorial services will be Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at 1:00 pm MT at the Hyannis Congregation Church in Hyannis, NE. Burial will be in the Hyannis Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Grant County Rescue. Govier Brothers Mortuary are in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.govierbrothers.com/">www.govierbrothers.com</a>.

Doris Eileen Merrihew (1932 - 2022)

Jeanne Marie (Miller) Johnson, mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend to many is now at rest with Our Heavenly Father.

&nbsp;Jeanne was born on February 21, 1934 to Karl and Romelle (St. Claire) Miller in East Helena, Montana.

Jeanne was very special because of the way she felt about others. Once you were in her heart you would always stay there. She remembered you for how you made her feel, not who you were or what you did. She treasured her friends. She was sentimental and would send birthday cards for decades regardless of the original relationship.

She attended schools in Helena and Butte finally graduating from Girl’s Central High School in Butte. When her mother was ill, she deferred a year of high school to care for her younger siblings. This was typical of the selflessness and thoughtfulness she exemplified. She was always concerned, always helping someone. After high school she worked at the telephone company in Butte and in Helena while her sister Karlene earned her nursing degree at Carroll College and moved to the East Coast. Her brother Ted served in the military, both in the Army and the Marines. Her younger brothers Ric and Phil were in high school and grade school at this time.

Being kind, accepting and non-judgmental, she was easy to be around. She was quiet and reserved so the depth of her intelligence was not immediately perceived. She could remember names, dates, and facts beyond normal ability. Jeanne could whistle better than anyone and she loved Jiminy Cricket. What most people remember about Jeanne is her smile, her laugh and her sense of humor. She was a gem – definitely one of a kind.

After high school she met and married Wally Johnson and they had two daughters, Janelle and Janice, and a son Jerry. She and Wally had a strong bond; he was the love of her life. She was a devoted wife and an amazing mother. She loved animals so they added a Boxer dog named Candy. They first moved into a small house on Oregon Avenue on the Flats in Butte. Most memorable was their house at the Columbia Gardens. Everyone like to visit them there! Wally worked in the mines in Butte until a prolonged strike caused them to move the family to Livingston, MT in 1960.

Life in Livingston was all about family, camping, railroads and fly-tying. Jeanne tied flies for “Dan Bailey’s”, one of the foremost suppliers of fishing flies in the USA. She mastered several different fly patterns, some of which were quite complex. Wally worked as an electrician at the Burlington Northern Railroad Roundhouse while they raised their family.

They spent a lot of time camping as a family and with friends and relatives. Their favorite locations were Pine Creek, Mill Creek and Big Creek in the Paradise Valley. Nephews Bill, Kevin and Sean have a lasting memory camping with them, learning about motor bikes, hiking and living in the outdoors in the mountains of Montana! This was quite a change from the reserved setting where they grew up in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. This was the authentic Wild West in their eyes! They also remember an incident observing kooky behavior from Jeanne, with arms flailing, screaming wildly! What they didn’t see was what Jeanne could see – a Moose in the neighbor’s yard! She was so excited she couldn’t express fast enough that he was there and the danger he posed! Fortunately the moose gracefully jumped the fence and was gone.

Her brother Phil stayed with them one summer and worked at the O’Haire ranch in the Paradise Valley, riding his Yamaha 90 motorcycle that she and Wally advised him to buy. Her brother Ric also stayed with them or rather spent most of his time at the city pool. In addition to all of this, she also was caregiver to her ailing mother for her mom’s last years. Her mother’s vision was to have her blended family together. When Romelle died she made all the siblings promise to call each other on birthdays and holidays, which they did. Thankfully, a mother’s influence extends beyond the grave!

When Burlington Northern closed the Livingston Roundhouse in 1986 Jeanne and Wally chose to move to the BN facility in Alliance, Nebraska. Jeanne continued to tie flies at home. They lived in a neighboring rural town, Hemmingford, Nebraska. Now it was life on the farm. Talk about two people in their native environment! They had a few acres on the edge of town so they raised a garden, built a big workshop/garage and of course had animals - a black Labrador named Zorro and Leroy the cat. Because they always drew people to them, they made several life-long friendships in that small town. They traveled to every place within hundreds of miles: a pavilion where Lawrence Welk played, Fort Robinson, the Black Hills, The Badlands, Carhenge, the Corn Palace, and many more. When Wally retired they stayed in Nebraska for a time and then eventually returned to Butte. He passed away not long after, in 2016. Needless to say she was lost without him.

Jeanne then moved back to Livingston. Her new home was in the Caslen Living Center. She had a bright corner room with windows on two walls and a great view of “Mt. Fuji” as her mother used to call the pointed peak at the north end of the Absaroka mountain range south of Livingston. Jeanne won the hearts of all the staff and always said “I love this place!”

Jeanne carried herself with grace in the face of trials and success. Her memory is a blessing to all who knew her.

Jeanne is survived by her sister Karlene Kennedy and brother Phil Garcia; daughters Janelle Johnson and Janice (Gary) Berg, and son Jerry (Heidi) Johnson; grandsons Andy and Jason, and granddaughter Peach; and many nieces and nephews.

She joins in the next life her husband Wally; parents Karl and Romelle; siblings Ted and Ric; and many other close relatives and friends.

Donations can be made to a memorial of your choice.

The family wishes to thank the staff for their wonderful care at Caslen Living Centers, LIvingston, MT, COMPASSUS Hospice staff, and her many friends at Caslen.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671209438392.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jeanne Marie (Miller) Johnson, mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend to many is now at rest with Our Heavenly Father. &nbsp;Jeanne was born on February 21, 1934 to Karl and Romelle (St. Claire) Miller in East Helena, Montana.Jeanne was very special because of the way she felt about others. Once you were in her heart you would always stay there. She remembered you for how you made her feel, not who you were or what you did. She treasured her friends. She was sentimental and would send birthday cards for decades regardless of the original relationship.She attended schools in Helena and Butte finally graduating from Girl’s Central High School in Butte. When her mother was ill, she deferred a year of high school to care for her younger siblings. This was typical of the selflessness and thoughtfulness she exemplified. She was always concerned, always helping someone. After high school she worked at the telephone company in Butte and in Helena while her sister Karlene earned her nursing degree at Carroll College and moved to the East Coast. Her brother Ted served in the military, both in the Army and the Marines. Her younger brothers Ric and Phil were in high school and grade school at this time.Being kind, accepting and non-judgmental, she was easy to be around. She was quiet and reserved so the depth of her intelligence was not immediately perceived. She could remember names, dates, and facts beyond normal ability. Jeanne could whistle better than anyone and she loved Jiminy Cricket. What most people remember about Jeanne is her smile, her laugh and her sense of humor. She was a gem – definitely one of a kind.After high school she met and married Wally Johnson and they had two daughters, Janelle and Janice, and a son Jerry. She and Wally had a strong bond; he was the love of her life. She was a devoted wife and an amazing mother. She loved animals so they added a Boxer dog named Candy. They first moved into a small house on Oregon Avenue on the Flats in Butte. Most memorable was their house at the Columbia Gardens. Everyone like to visit them there! Wally worked in the mines in Butte until a prolonged strike caused them to move the family to Livingston, MT in 1960.Life in Livingston was all about family, camping, railroads and fly-tying. Jeanne tied flies for “Dan Bailey’s”, one of the foremost suppliers of fishing flies in the USA. She mastered several different fly patterns, some of which were quite complex. Wally worked as an electrician at the Burlington Northern Railroad Roundhouse while they raised their family.They spent a lot of time camping as a family and with friends and relatives. Their favorite locations were Pine Creek, Mill Creek and Big Creek in the Paradise Valley. Nephews Bill, Kevin and Sean have a lasting memory camping with them, learning about motor bikes, hiking and living in the outdoors in the mountains of Montana! This was quite a change from the reserved setting where they grew up in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. This was the authentic Wild West in their eyes! They also remember an incident observing kooky behavior from Jeanne, with arms flailing, screaming wildly! What they didn’t see was what Jeanne could see – a Moose in the neighbor’s yard! She was so excited she couldn’t express fast enough that he was there and the danger he posed! Fortunately the moose gracefully jumped the fence and was gone.Her brother Phil stayed with them one summer and worked at the O’Haire ranch in the Paradise Valley, riding his Yamaha 90 motorcycle that she and Wally advised him to buy. Her brother Ric also stayed with them or rather spent most of his time at the city pool. In addition to all of this, she also was caregiver to her ailing mother for her mom’s last years. Her mother’s vision was to have her blended family together. When Romelle died she made all the siblings promise to call each other on birthdays and holidays, which they did. Thankfully, a mother’s influence extends beyond the grave!When Burlington Northern closed the Livingston Roundhouse in 1986 Jeanne and Wally chose to move to the BN facility in Alliance, Nebraska. Jeanne continued to tie flies at home. They lived in a neighboring rural town, Hemmingford, Nebraska. Now it was life on the farm. Talk about two people in their native environment! They had a few acres on the edge of town so they raised a garden, built a big workshop/garage and of course had animals - a black Labrador named Zorro and Leroy the cat. Because they always drew people to them, they made several life-long friendships in that small town. They traveled to every place within hundreds of miles: a pavilion where Lawrence Welk played, Fort Robinson, the Black Hills, The Badlands, Carhenge, the Corn Palace, and many more. When Wally retired they stayed in Nebraska for a time and then eventually returned to Butte. He passed away not long after, in 2016. Needless to say she was lost without him.Jeanne then moved back to Livingston. Her new home was in the Caslen Living Center. She had a bright corner room with windows on two walls and a great view of “Mt. Fuji” as her mother used to call the pointed peak at the north end of the Absaroka mountain range south of Livingston. Jeanne won the hearts of all the staff and always said “I love this place!”Jeanne carried herself with grace in the face of trials and success. Her memory is a blessing to all who knew her.Jeanne is survived by her sister Karlene Kennedy and brother Phil Garcia; daughters Janelle Johnson and Janice (Gary) Berg, and son Jerry (Heidi) Johnson; grandsons Andy and Jason, and granddaughter Peach; and many nieces and nephews.She joins in the next life her husband Wally; parents Karl and Romelle; siblings Ted and Ric; and many other close relatives and friends.Donations can be made to a memorial of your choice.The family wishes to thank the staff for their wonderful care at Caslen Living Centers, LIvingston, MT, COMPASSUS Hospice staff, and her many friends at Caslen.

Jeanne Marie (Miller) Johnson (1934 - 2022)

John Julian Pyatt, 64, passed away on Sunday, December 11, 2022 in Omaha, Nebraska.&nbsp;

He was born September 25, 1958 in Santa Fe, New Mexico to Robert and LaVaughn (Elliott) Pyatt. His childhood was spent in Santa Fe and Hobbs, New Mexico. His family moved back to their family home in Trenton, Missouri, and then finally to Chillicothe, Missouri, where John graduated from Chillicothe High School in 1976. During his high school years, he participated in Band by playing the trombone, a talent he utilized throughout his life in various musical groups. He was an enthusiastic and active member of the Boy Scouts of America, attaining the rank and honor of Eagle Scout.

After graduating from high school, John attended North Central Missouri College and graduated with an associate degree in Agricultural Business in 1978.&nbsp; He then worked for Churchill Transportation in Chillicothe before hiring on with the Burlington Northern Railroad in Creston, Iowa in the signal department in 1979.&nbsp; His deep desire to be a train conductor led him to Alliance, Nebraska in late 1979, where he became a conductor and remained in that position until an unfortunate heart condition forced him off of train service in 2015.&nbsp; He then worked as a railyard communications specialist until his retirement in 2018.

In January 1980, John began dating Janelle Jo Meade and the two were united in marriage on October 26, 1980.&nbsp; On October 1, 1989, John and Janelle’s only child, a son named James, was born. John was a devoted family man who loved spending time with Janelle and James, especially when he and his family would take their annual family vacations.&nbsp; John was also an avid cyclist and participated in RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) in 2005 and the Mickelson Trail Trek in the Black Hills of South Dakota in 2010.&nbsp;

Along with his enthusiasm and talent for playing the trombone, John also had a magnificent singing voice and was involved in church choirs and the Alliance Community Choir, an activity that he shared with his son James on multiple occasions.&nbsp; But John’s main area of interest and expertise was railroads and the “art of railroading,” as he called it.&nbsp; From a young age, he would wake up early and ride his bike to his favorite train viewing spot and watch the Southwest Chief (a daily passenger train) come by.&nbsp;

As previously stated, John was forced off of train service because of a heart condition called HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy), with which he was diagnosed in 2015.&nbsp; This heart condition continued to escalate into his retirement, which culminated in a heart transplant in December 2020. His transplant was a success, thanks to the team at Mayo Clinic Phoenix. John was able to enjoy his new lease on life for a while; however, in May 2022, he was diagnosed with stage four esophageal cancer. He received treatment at Nebraska Medicine in Omaha.

He is survived by his wife, Janelle, his son, James of Alliance; his mother-in-law, Darlene Meade of Auburn, Nebraska; his brother-in-law Jeffrey Meade and sister-in-law, Shannon Stemm of Auburn; niece, Madison Meade of Chicago, IL; and brother-in-law, Andrew Meade of Auburn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his father-in-law, Roy Meade of Alliance.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church.&nbsp; Pastor Gideon Achi will officiate.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be held Monday, December 19, 2022 from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home with the family present to greet friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671207197872.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>John Julian Pyatt, 64, passed away on Sunday, December 11, 2022 in Omaha, Nebraska.&nbsp;He was born September 25, 1958 in Santa Fe, New Mexico to Robert and LaVaughn (Elliott) Pyatt. His childhood was spent in Santa Fe and Hobbs, New Mexico. His family moved back to their family home in Trenton, Missouri, and then finally to Chillicothe, Missouri, where John graduated from Chillicothe High School in 1976. During his high school years, he participated in Band by playing the trombone, a talent he utilized throughout his life in various musical groups. He was an enthusiastic and active member of the Boy Scouts of America, attaining the rank and honor of Eagle Scout.After graduating from high school, John attended North Central Missouri College and graduated with an associate degree in Agricultural Business in 1978.&nbsp; He then worked for Churchill Transportation in Chillicothe before hiring on with the Burlington Northern Railroad in Creston, Iowa in the signal department in 1979.&nbsp; His deep desire to be a train conductor led him to Alliance, Nebraska in late 1979, where he became a conductor and remained in that position until an unfortunate heart condition forced him off of train service in 2015.&nbsp; He then worked as a railyard communications specialist until his retirement in 2018.In January 1980, John began dating Janelle Jo Meade and the two were united in marriage on October 26, 1980.&nbsp; On October 1, 1989, John and Janelle’s only child, a son named James, was born. John was a devoted family man who loved spending time with Janelle and James, especially when he and his family would take their annual family vacations.&nbsp; John was also an avid cyclist and participated in RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) in 2005 and the Mickelson Trail Trek in the Black Hills of South Dakota in 2010.&nbsp;Along with his enthusiasm and talent for playing the trombone, John also had a magnificent singing voice and was involved in church choirs and the Alliance Community Choir, an activity that he shared with his son James on multiple occasions.&nbsp; But John’s main area of interest and expertise was railroads and the “art of railroading,” as he called it.&nbsp; From a young age, he would wake up early and ride his bike to his favorite train viewing spot and watch the Southwest Chief (a daily passenger train) come by.&nbsp;As previously stated, John was forced off of train service because of a heart condition called HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy), with which he was diagnosed in 2015.&nbsp; This heart condition continued to escalate into his retirement, which culminated in a heart transplant in December 2020. His transplant was a success, thanks to the team at Mayo Clinic Phoenix. John was able to enjoy his new lease on life for a while; however, in May 2022, he was diagnosed with stage four esophageal cancer. He received treatment at Nebraska Medicine in Omaha.He is survived by his wife, Janelle, his son, James of Alliance; his mother-in-law, Darlene Meade of Auburn, Nebraska; his brother-in-law Jeffrey Meade and sister-in-law, Shannon Stemm of Auburn; niece, Madison Meade of Chicago, IL; and brother-in-law, Andrew Meade of Auburn.He was preceded in death by his parents, and his father-in-law, Roy Meade of Alliance.Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church.&nbsp; Pastor Gideon Achi will officiate.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be held Monday, December 19, 2022 from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home with the family present to greet friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.Memorials may be given to:&nbsp; Help In Healing Home, Development Office, 5811 E Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85054-4503, in memory of John Pyatt.Online condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.batesgould.com/" target="_blank">www.batesgould.com</a>

Obituaries