Jean Ann Hilderman, 87, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2021 at The Residency Care Center with family by her side after a long, courageous battle with cancer and heart issues. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a private family-only memorial service will be held on Friday, March 5, 2:00 p.m., at St. Francis Episcopal Church in Scottsbluff, with Father Mark Selvey officiating. The service will be live-streamed on the St. Francis Episcopal Church Facebook page and website, www.saintf.org. A private interment at Fairview Cemetery in Scottsbluff will immediately follow the funeral. The family respectfully requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials in Jean’s name be made to The Residency Care Center, Regional West Hospice, or St. Francis Episcopal Church in Scottsbluff. Online condolences by be made by visiting Jean’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Jean was born near the North Dakota/Montana state line in McKenzie County, North Dakota on April 27, 1933 to Ethel (Cook) and Elzie (Mike) Ward. After graduating high school in Fairview, Montana in 1951, she worked as a legal secretary in Sidney and Billings, Montana. While working in Billings, Jean went to Washington, DC and helped with lobbying work for the National Beef Council and the National Cattlemen’s Association. From there she assisted in setting up the two organizations’ national offices in Kansas City, Missouri. After moving back to Billings, she married Ray Hilderman on July 27, 1957. She and Ray moved to Denver later that year while Ray completed his accounting degree at Denver University. During their time in Denver, Jean worked for the manager of the Geophysical department of Carter Oil. She and Ray moved to Scottsbluff in Dec. 1958 where Jean was a legal secretary for the law firm of Wright and Simmons until the birth of their daughter Teresa Jean in 1962. Later, Jean worked during tax seasons for over 20 years with Ray at his CPA firm. Volunteering was an important part of Jean’s life, and she shared her time and innumerable talents with a number of organizations in Scottsbluff. After she and Ray joined Plymouth Congregational Church in 1959, she held many offices there over the next 50-plus years, in addition to teaching Sunday school and being active in Pilgrim Society. She served as Bethel Secretary for Job’s Daughters, was a Girl Scout leader, and served a term as President of the Volunteers and Friends of Regional West during her decades of volunteering at the hospital, including years as a volunteer at the Breast Health Center. She volunteered as a shopper for seniors at Panhandle Coop, was a member of PEO Chapter FC and The Questers Club, and co-chaired the first Penny Carnival at Westmoor Elementary School in Scottsbluff. In later years, Jean served on numerous committees at the Residency in Scottsbluff. Family was everything to Jean, and she cherished being a wife, mother, grandma, and great-grandma. As they grew, she loved cheering on grandson Drew in soccer and tennis, and attending granddaughter Carolyn’s piano recitals, dance recitals and competitions, and drill team events. She took great pride in creating a cozy, welcoming home – the kind of place where friends and family loved spending time. Jean enjoyed gardening, traveling, bridge clubs, reading, baking, and cooking. She was an expert on all things tea, and her family’s annual Christmas tea, complete with reading “A Cup of Christmas Tea,” was a treasured tradition for decades that continues today. In her later years, she and Teresa enjoyed traveling together to Las Vegas; Savannah; Breckenridge; Victoria, Canada; and a special trip back to her hometown of Fairview, Montana. Survivors include her daughter Teresa (Tod) Clark of Omaha and Gothenburg; grandson Drew (Bethany) Clark of Omaha, granddaughter Carolyn (Scott) Nelson of New York City; great-grandsons Barrett and Collin Clark of Omaha, sisters Betty Hegge of Williston, North Dakota; Shirley Propp of Azle, Texas; and Janice (Chuck) Jacobson of Fayetteville, North Carolina; plus many beloved nieces and nephews. Jean was preceded in death by her parents Mike and Ethel Ward; husband, Ray Hilderman; brother Jim Ward; and brothers-in-law Reuben Hegge and Don Propp. Jean’s family would like to extend a very special thank you to Rebecca Guerrero with Regional West Hospice, Father Mark Selvey at St. Francis Episcopal Church, and the staff at the Residency Care Center for their loving care and support given to Jean during the final months of her life. They are truly all angels here on earth.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614708577443.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jean Ann Hilderman, 87, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2021 at The Residency Care Center with family by her side after a long, courageous battle with cancer and heart issues. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a private family-only memorial service will be held on Friday, March 5, 2:00 p.m., at St. Francis Episcopal Church in Scottsbluff, with Father Mark Selvey officiating. The service will be live-streamed on the St. Francis Episcopal Church Facebook page and website, www.saintf.org. A private interment at Fairview Cemetery in Scottsbluff will immediately follow the funeral. The family respectfully requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials in Jean’s name be made to The Residency Care Center, Regional West Hospice, or St. Francis Episcopal Church in Scottsbluff. Online condolences by be made by visiting Jean’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Jean was born near the North Dakota/Montana state line in McKenzie County, North Dakota on April 27, 1933 to Ethel (Cook) and Elzie (Mike) Ward. After graduating high school in Fairview, Montana in 1951, she worked as a legal secretary in Sidney and Billings, Montana. While working in Billings, Jean went to Washington, DC and helped with lobbying work for the National Beef Council and the National Cattlemen’s Association. From there she assisted in setting up the two organizations’ national offices in Kansas City, Missouri. After moving back to Billings, she married Ray Hilderman on July 27, 1957. She and Ray moved to Denver later that year while Ray completed his accounting degree at Denver University. During their time in Denver, Jean worked for the manager of the Geophysical department of Carter Oil. She and Ray moved to Scottsbluff in Dec. 1958 where Jean was a legal secretary for the law firm of Wright and Simmons until the birth of their daughter Teresa Jean in 1962. Later, Jean worked during tax seasons for over 20 years with Ray at his CPA firm. Volunteering was an important part of Jean’s life, and she shared her time and innumerable talents with a number of organizations in Scottsbluff. After she and Ray joined Plymouth Congregational Church in 1959, she held many offices there over the next 50-plus years, in addition to teaching Sunday school and being active in Pilgrim Society. She served as Bethel Secretary for Job’s Daughters, was a Girl Scout leader, and served a term as President of the Volunteers and Friends of Regional West during her decades of volunteering at the hospital, including years as a volunteer at the Breast Health Center. She volunteered as a shopper for seniors at Panhandle Coop, was a member of PEO Chapter FC and The Questers Club, and co-chaired the first Penny Carnival at Westmoor Elementary School in Scottsbluff. In later years, Jean served on numerous committees at the Residency in Scottsbluff. Family was everything to Jean, and she cherished being a wife, mother, grandma, and great-grandma. As they grew, she loved cheering on grandson Drew in soccer and tennis, and attending granddaughter Carolyn’s piano recitals, dance recitals and competitions, and drill team events. She took great pride in creating a cozy, welcoming home – the kind of place where friends and family loved spending time. Jean enjoyed gardening, traveling, bridge clubs, reading, baking, and cooking. She was an expert on all things tea, and her family’s annual Christmas tea, complete with reading “A Cup of Christmas Tea,” was a treasured tradition for decades that continues today. In her later years, she and Teresa enjoyed traveling together to Las Vegas; Savannah; Breckenridge; Victoria, Canada; and a special trip back to her hometown of Fairview, Montana. Survivors include her daughter Teresa (Tod) Clark of Omaha and Gothenburg; grandson Drew (Bethany) Clark of Omaha, granddaughter Carolyn (Scott) Nelson of New York City; great-grandsons Barrett and Collin Clark of Omaha, sisters Betty Hegge of Williston, North Dakota; Shirley Propp of Azle, Texas; and Janice (Chuck) Jacobson of Fayetteville, North Carolina; plus many beloved nieces and nephews. Jean was preceded in death by her parents Mike and Ethel Ward; husband, Ray Hilderman; brother Jim Ward; and brothers-in-law Reuben Hegge and Don Propp. Jean’s family would like to extend a very special thank you to Rebecca Guerrero with Regional West Hospice, Father Mark Selvey at St. Francis Episcopal Church, and the staff at the Residency Care Center for their loving care and support given to Jean during the final months of her life. They are truly all angels here on earth.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jean Ann Hilderman (1933 - 2021)

Ruth Agnes Lukens, 100, of Mitchell, NE, passed away Saturday, February 27, 2021 at Emerald Court Scottsbluff, NE. She was born to James and Emma Griffin on September 10, 1920 in Mason City, NE. She lived most of her life in western Nebraska. Living in the Haig and Mitchell area and for most of her teenage years on the Watson Ranch in Sioux County. She graduated from Liberty High School. On January 12, 1946 she married Edward Lukens, about 6 weeks after his discharge from the Navy following WWII. In 1949 they moved to the Lukens family homestead north of Mitchell and resided there until 1973. Ruth was an excellent homemaker and seamstress. She loved sewing and quilting and was not afraid to tackle any project. She also became the family historian, organizing pictures and clippings. After moving to Mitchell, she was employed at First National Bank (Pinnacle) until her retirement. She had been an active member of the Mitchell American Legion Auxiliary since 1948. She was a member of the Federated Church in Mitchell serving as the Treasurer for many years. She also belonged to the Cum-a-gan Project Club and as local Pinochle and Sewing Clubs. She is survived by her daughter, Sandra (Butch) Hendren; grandson, Kenny “Spike” (ZanDee) Hendren; and great grandchildren, Jace, Zeke and Ella. They were all the light of her life and she was proud of each one. Also surviving are sisters-in-law, Dee Lamb of Beaver City, NE and Joella Johnson of Mitchell, NE; along with numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her parents; husband, Ed; brother, Dean (Verla) Griffin; an infant daughter; and brothers and sisters-in-law, Leora (Mark Hughson) (Clark Taylor) Hughson-Taylor, Mary (Clarence Jenkins) (Ted Tipton) Jenkins-Tipton, Dick Lukens, Jerry (Pearly) Lukens, June (Elwood Beeman) (Chuck Piper) Beeman-Piper, Roy Babcock, Bill Lamb, Donald Johnson and Claire (Jack) Reifschneider; and nieces, Linda Hughson Ross and Cynthia Lamb Hunt. Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, March 5, 2021 in the Federated Church at Mitchell with Pastor Kevin Fink officiating. Private family internment will be prior to the service. Visitation with the family will be following the service. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be given to the Federated Church or the Mitchell American Legion Auxiliary. Online condolences may be made by visiting Ruth’s memorial page at www.jones-mortuary.com. Jones Mortuary in Mitchell is entrusted with arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614708447363.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ruth Agnes Lukens, 100, of Mitchell, NE, passed away Saturday, February 27, 2021 at Emerald Court Scottsbluff, NE. She was born to James and Emma Griffin on September 10, 1920 in Mason City, NE. She lived most of her life in western Nebraska. Living in the Haig and Mitchell area and for most of her teenage years on the Watson Ranch in Sioux County. She graduated from Liberty High School. On January 12, 1946 she married Edward Lukens, about 6 weeks after his discharge from the Navy following WWII. In 1949 they moved to the Lukens family homestead north of Mitchell and resided there until 1973. Ruth was an excellent homemaker and seamstress. She loved sewing and quilting and was not afraid to tackle any project. She also became the family historian, organizing pictures and clippings. After moving to Mitchell, she was employed at First National Bank (Pinnacle) until her retirement. She had been an active member of the Mitchell American Legion Auxiliary since 1948. She was a member of the Federated Church in Mitchell serving as the Treasurer for many years. She also belonged to the Cum-a-gan Project Club and as local Pinochle and Sewing Clubs. She is survived by her daughter, Sandra (Butch) Hendren; grandson, Kenny “Spike” (ZanDee) Hendren; and great grandchildren, Jace, Zeke and Ella. They were all the light of her life and she was proud of each one. Also surviving are sisters-in-law, Dee Lamb of Beaver City, NE and Joella Johnson of Mitchell, NE; along with numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her parents; husband, Ed; brother, Dean (Verla) Griffin; an infant daughter; and brothers and sisters-in-law, Leora (Mark Hughson) (Clark Taylor) Hughson-Taylor, Mary (Clarence Jenkins) (Ted Tipton) Jenkins-Tipton, Dick Lukens, Jerry (Pearly) Lukens, June (Elwood Beeman) (Chuck Piper) Beeman-Piper, Roy Babcock, Bill Lamb, Donald Johnson and Claire (Jack) Reifschneider; and nieces, Linda Hughson Ross and Cynthia Lamb Hunt. Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, March 5, 2021 in the Federated Church at Mitchell with Pastor Kevin Fink officiating. Private family internment will be prior to the service. Visitation with the family will be following the service. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be given to the Federated Church or the Mitchell American Legion Auxiliary. Online condolences may be made by visiting Ruth’s memorial page at www.jones-mortuary.com. Jones Mortuary in Mitchell is entrusted with arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ruth Agnes Lukens (1920 - 2021)

Howard Everett Rincker, age 94, passed away peacefully at Chadron Community Hospital on February 24, 2021. He was surrounded by many loving family members.

He was typically known as Howard in his business dealings but as Everett by his family and friends. Everett was born in Scottsbluff, NE., on April 11, 1926. His life started in a small tarpaper shack but it was filled with love. Everett’s mother was frequently sick so the three brothers learned to cook, clean, and do the many animal and farm chores, in the manner it was done in the “good ole days” of the dirty thirties. They all milked cows twice daily, every day, throughout their school years.

Everett started school at age four, which put him in the same grade as his older brother Bill. What started in a small country school 1/8 mile from home, ended up being an 18-mile bus rid to Huntley High School in WY. Due to milking cows, he didn’t get to attend any extra-curricular activities after school. This also meant he never milked after starting farming on his own. Everett found he was able to make more friends attending Church and their activities at Lyman, NE. The good news is one of his best friends was Lola DeBoer. Their friendship was sidetracked for a bit when Everett joined the Army in October 1944. He traveled through Scotland, England, France, Belgium, Holland, and Germany where he witnessed terrible destruction. Lola wrote him many letters while he was in the Service. He was discharged in August 1946 and married the love of his life, Lola, on December 21, 1947.

Everett and Lola farmed in Lyman until they drew Unit 116 on Mirage Flats in Nebraska. Their life in Nebraska started right after the 49 blizzard, in a small trailer with no heat, electricity, or running water. They soon built a beautiful home and adopted two children, Roger and Kathy. They put together a successful farm where they Raised their two children. They also fed cattle to use up all their idle time.

Everett served on many boards including: school, church, irrigation, telephone, bean, beet, and 30 years on the PCA Board. Everett was instrumental in getting telephone service on the Mirage Flats.

After retiring they lived in Sun City, AZ in the winter, back to the farm in summer and later moved into Prairie Pines Lodge in Chadron.

Everett carried the work ethic and thriftiness he learned growing up in the dirty thirties all his life. He was a man of strong Faith who did his best to pass his virtues on. He was a great storyteller who also listened and enjoyed a good joke. Everett was a wonderful father, husband, farmer, and friend of many. He will be greatly missed and if there ever was a man who could pass on with no regrets, it should be Everett.

We know he is finally at rest with his Maker.

Everett was preceded in death by his parents John Clarence and Clare Montgomery Rincker, Brothers Clarence (Monty) and Bill, Granddaughter Tanya Teske, Jerry Teske, Constance Rincker, and BJ Garvin.

He is survived by his wife Lola M. Rincker, Son Roger (Crystal Dawn), Daughter Kathy Test, 5 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Services will be held at Saint Peters Lutheran Church on Mirage Flats on Saturday, March 6, 2021 at 2:00 PM. You may make gifts in his memory to Chadron or Hay Springs Fire Departments or Saint Peters Lutheran Church. Donations can be sent to Chamberlain Drabbels Mortuary, PO Box 443, Hay Springs, NE 69347.

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com

Chamberlain Drabbels Mortuary of Hay Springs, NE is in charge of arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614708204659.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Howard Everett Rincker, age 94, passed away peacefully at Chadron Community Hospital on February 24, 2021. He was surrounded by many loving family members.He was typically known as Howard in his business dealings but as Everett by his family and friends. Everett was born in Scottsbluff, NE., on April 11, 1926. His life started in a small tarpaper shack but it was filled with love. Everett’s mother was frequently sick so the three brothers learned to cook, clean, and do the many animal and farm chores, in the manner it was done in the “good ole days” of the dirty thirties. They all milked cows twice daily, every day, throughout their school years.Everett started school at age four, which put him in the same grade as his older brother Bill. What started in a small country school 1/8 mile from home, ended up being an 18-mile bus rid to Huntley High School in WY. Due to milking cows, he didn’t get to attend any extra-curricular activities after school. This also meant he never milked after starting farming on his own. Everett found he was able to make more friends attending Church and their activities at Lyman, NE. The good news is one of his best friends was Lola DeBoer. Their friendship was sidetracked for a bit when Everett joined the Army in October 1944. He traveled through Scotland, England, France, Belgium, Holland, and Germany where he witnessed terrible destruction. Lola wrote him many letters while he was in the Service. He was discharged in August 1946 and married the love of his life, Lola, on December 21, 1947.Everett and Lola farmed in Lyman until they drew Unit 116 on Mirage Flats in Nebraska. Their life in Nebraska started right after the 49 blizzard, in a small trailer with no heat, electricity, or running water. They soon built a beautiful home and adopted two children, Roger and Kathy. They put together a successful farm where they Raised their two children. They also fed cattle to use up all their idle time.Everett served on many boards including: school, church, irrigation, telephone, bean, beet, and 30 years on the PCA Board. Everett was instrumental in getting telephone service on the Mirage Flats.After retiring they lived in Sun City, AZ in the winter, back to the farm in summer and later moved into Prairie Pines Lodge in Chadron.Everett carried the work ethic and thriftiness he learned growing up in the dirty thirties all his life. He was a man of strong Faith who did his best to pass his virtues on. He was a great storyteller who also listened and enjoyed a good joke. Everett was a wonderful father, husband, farmer, and friend of many. He will be greatly missed and if there ever was a man who could pass on with no regrets, it should be Everett.We know he is finally at rest with his Maker.Everett was preceded in death by his parents John Clarence and Clare Montgomery Rincker, Brothers Clarence (Monty) and Bill, Granddaughter Tanya Teske, Jerry Teske, Constance Rincker, and BJ Garvin.He is survived by his wife Lola M. Rincker, Son Roger (Crystal Dawn), Daughter Kathy Test, 5 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren.Services will be held at Saint Peters Lutheran Church on Mirage Flats on Saturday, March 6, 2021 at 2:00 PM. You may make gifts in his memory to Chadron or Hay Springs Fire Departments or Saint Peters Lutheran Church. Donations can be sent to Chamberlain Drabbels Mortuary, PO Box 443, Hay Springs, NE 69347.Masks are being requested.Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.comChamberlain Drabbels Mortuary of Hay Springs, NE is in charge of arrangements.

Howard Everett Rincker (1926 - 2021)

Teresa “Gayle Smith” Clark, 52, of Potter, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on February 24, 2021 at Regional West Medical Center after a long battle with cancer. At her request, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Her Life will take place later this year. Teresa was born to Terry and Barb Smith on February 25, 1968 in Quincy, Illinois at St. Mary’s Hospital. At the age of four, her family moved to Cheyenne, Wyoming where she lived until she graduated from Cheyenne East High School in 1986. She then attended Laramie County Community College and then Colorado State University where she obtained bachelor degrees in Animal Science and Agriculture Journalism. She was also a member of CSU’s livestock showing and judging teams. After college, Teresa moved to the Scottsbluff area where she met her husband David. They married in 1994 in Harrison, Nebraska and had four daughters: Hayley, Hollie, Heidi, and Halsey. Teresa worked as a freelance writer and wrote many articles for various agricultural newspapers including: Tri-State Livestock, Wyoming Livestock Roundup, Cattle Business Weekly, The Fence Post, Beef Magazine, and numerous others under the pen name Gayle Smith.

Teresa was very passionate about agriculture and enjoyed the country lifestyle. She loved animals and always looked forward to caring for calves and any other animals the family had over the years. When she was younger, Teresa was an avid member of 4-H and FFA. She served as her FFA Chapter President in High School. She passed her love of animals and livestock showing to her daughters which she helped them with for many years. Teresa also enjoyed crafting, gardening, reading, cooking, and watching crime shows, and she loved spending time with her family and little dog Sophie. 

She was a strong woman and still made sure to take care of family and rarely complained even though she battled cancer twice over the course of seven years. She fought hard until the very end. 

Teresa will be greatly missed and leaves behind her husband of 27 years, David; children Hayley (Devin) Stall, Hollie, Heidi, and Halsey Clark; parents Terry and Barb; sisters Jessica (Danny) Burt and Sammie Smith, and numerous other extended relatives. 

She was preceded in death by her grandparents Harold and Mildred Smith and LeRoy and Dorothy Goehl; father-in-law and mother-in-law Eldon and Bonnie Clark; and brother-in-law Bruce Clark. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society and the Festival of Hope. 

Sympathy cards may be sent to the family at PO Box 183 Minatare, NE 69356

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614707663338.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Teresa “Gayle Smith” Clark, 52, of Potter, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on February 24, 2021 at Regional West Medical Center after a long battle with cancer. At her request, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Her Life will take place later this year. Teresa was born to Terry and Barb Smith on February 25, 1968 in Quincy, Illinois at St. Mary’s Hospital. At the age of four, her family moved to Cheyenne, Wyoming where she lived until she graduated from Cheyenne East High School in 1986. She then attended Laramie County Community College and then Colorado State University where she obtained bachelor degrees in Animal Science and Agriculture Journalism. She was also a member of CSU’s livestock showing and judging teams. After college, Teresa moved to the Scottsbluff area where she met her husband David. They married in 1994 in Harrison, Nebraska and had four daughters: Hayley, Hollie, Heidi, and Halsey. Teresa worked as a freelance writer and wrote many articles for various agricultural newspapers including: Tri-State Livestock, Wyoming Livestock Roundup, Cattle Business Weekly, The Fence Post, Beef Magazine, and numerous others under the pen name Gayle Smith. Teresa was very passionate about agriculture and enjoyed the country lifestyle. She loved animals and always looked forward to caring for calves and any other animals the family had over the years. When she was younger, Teresa was an avid member of 4-H and FFA. She served as her FFA Chapter President in High School. She passed her love of animals and livestock showing to her daughters which she helped them with for many years. Teresa also enjoyed crafting, gardening, reading, cooking, and watching crime shows, and she loved spending time with her family and little dog Sophie. She was a strong woman and still made sure to take care of family and rarely complained even though she battled cancer twice over the course of seven years. She fought hard until the very end. Teresa will be greatly missed and leaves behind her husband of 27 years, David; children Hayley (Devin) Stall, Hollie, Heidi, and Halsey Clark; parents Terry and Barb; sisters Jessica (Danny) Burt and Sammie Smith, and numerous other extended relatives. She was preceded in death by her grandparents Harold and Mildred Smith and LeRoy and Dorothy Goehl; father-in-law and mother-in-law Eldon and Bonnie Clark; and brother-in-law Bruce Clark. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society and the Festival of Hope. Sympathy cards may be sent to the family at PO Box 183 Minatare, NE 69356

Teresa “Gayle Smith” Clark (1968 - 2021)

Jeannie Thomas "Tomi" (Durnal) Bailey, age 74, of Watauga, South Dakota, passed away at her home, filled with love and surrounded by her husband, son and daughter, on the morning of Tuesday, February 23,&nbsp; 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tomi was born on September 4, 1946 in Bridgeport, NE, to Tom and Jean (Nerud) Durnal. She graduated from Bayard High School in 1965 and attended Chadron State College, where she met her husband, Michael Bailey.&nbsp; They were united in marriage on August 24, 1968 at the 1st Methodist Church in Bayard, NE.&nbsp; The couple later made their primary home in Watauga, South Dakota where they spent their lives farming and ranching, which also included the farm at Big Springs, NE.&nbsp; The couple raised two children Christopher (Zeke) and Tamara.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tomi was lover of life and never knew a stranger.&nbsp; She was the youth group leader and VBS teacher for many years at the 1st Presbyterian Church in McIntosh, SD.&nbsp; She had strong community involvement, being a member of the Watauga Women’s Club helping to run the children’s annual Halloween party, often checking on local elderly and offering a plate of food or hot cup of coffee to anyone in need.&nbsp;&nbsp;

She was a fair to middling cribbage player and a staunch Nebraska Husker and Dallas Cowboy football fan, even in their bad years. She loved her coffee to the point she drank it cold.&nbsp; Tomi was an amazing cook, taught by her mother, a so-so, bowler and golfer but a cake baker extraordinaire.&nbsp; Many neighbors and friends were blessed with wedding, shower and birthday cakes made by her hands.&nbsp; She was also a proficient seamstress making baby blankets and doll clothing for her grandchildren.

Raised on a cattle ranch in the shadow of Chimney Rock, she learned her way around cattle and horses at a young age.&nbsp; In her high school and college years she qualified for high school national finals rodeos where she set and held several records there.&nbsp; She competed in barrels, poles and breakaway roping, well into adulthood.&nbsp; &nbsp;She loved raising cattle often volunteering for the night shift check, which she did horseback, usually with a sleeping child in tow.&nbsp; She continued to check cattle until the very end.&nbsp;

Later in life, Tomi took immense joy spending time with her grandchildren, baking them cookies, going to their sporting events, making their wedding cakes and later, baby blankets for her great grandchildren.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tomi was loved by everyone who knew her, but loved most by her husband, daughter, son and grandchildren.&nbsp; For as much as she was loved, we knew we were loved more.&nbsp; The light and energy she left behind, far out shined our own.&nbsp; She was a best friend to many, including her daughter, sisters Sally and Judy and close friends Kelly and Toots.&nbsp; She was audacious, adventurous and kind and she will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her husband; Michael Bailey; 1 son, Chris (Dena) Bailey; 1 daughter, Tamara (Matt) Cooper; 2 sisters; Judy Durnal; Sally (Jerry) Weekes; grandchildren; Austin (Ashley) Bailey; Summer (Mason) Steinmetz; Jett (Hannah) Bailey; Carson Bailey; Bailey Thomas Cooper; and great-grandchildren; Baylor, Weston, Emma and Logan; as well as many nieces and nephews and cousins.&nbsp;

She is preceded in death by her parents Tom and Jean Durnal and an infant sister Kathleen May.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a&nbsp; in Watauga, South Dakota.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Graveside Service and burial will be held at a later date at Chimney Rock Cemetery in Bayard, Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Online condolences may be given at www.drauckerfh.com by clicking the share a memory button.&nbsp;

A memorial has been established in her memory.&nbsp;

Draucker Funeral Home of Ogallala is assisting the Bailey family with arrangements.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614706983090.jpeg" alt="Tomi Bailey.jpg" />
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 </figure>Jeannie Thomas "Tomi" (Durnal) Bailey, age 74, of Watauga, South Dakota, passed away at her home, filled with love and surrounded by her husband, son and daughter, on the morning of Tuesday, February 23,&nbsp; 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tomi was born on September 4, 1946 in Bridgeport, NE, to Tom and Jean (Nerud) Durnal. She graduated from Bayard High School in 1965 and attended Chadron State College, where she met her husband, Michael Bailey.&nbsp; They were united in marriage on August 24, 1968 at the 1st Methodist Church in Bayard, NE.&nbsp; The couple later made their primary home in Watauga, South Dakota where they spent their lives farming and ranching, which also included the farm at Big Springs, NE.&nbsp; The couple raised two children Christopher (Zeke) and Tamara.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tomi was lover of life and never knew a stranger.&nbsp; She was the youth group leader and VBS teacher for many years at the 1st Presbyterian Church in McIntosh, SD.&nbsp; She had strong community involvement, being a member of the Watauga Women’s Club helping to run the children’s annual Halloween party, often checking on local elderly and offering a plate of food or hot cup of coffee to anyone in need.&nbsp;&nbsp;She was a fair to middling cribbage player and a staunch Nebraska Husker and Dallas Cowboy football fan, even in their bad years. She loved her coffee to the point she drank it cold.&nbsp; Tomi was an amazing cook, taught by her mother, a so-so, bowler and golfer but a cake baker extraordinaire.&nbsp; Many neighbors and friends were blessed with wedding, shower and birthday cakes made by her hands.&nbsp; She was also a proficient seamstress making baby blankets and doll clothing for her grandchildren.Raised on a cattle ranch in the shadow of Chimney Rock, she learned her way around cattle and horses at a young age.&nbsp; In her high school and college years she qualified for high school national finals rodeos where she set and held several records there.&nbsp; She competed in barrels, poles and breakaway roping, well into adulthood.&nbsp; &nbsp;She loved raising cattle often volunteering for the night shift check, which she did horseback, usually with a sleeping child in tow.&nbsp; She continued to check cattle until the very end.&nbsp;Later in life, Tomi took immense joy spending time with her grandchildren, baking them cookies, going to their sporting events, making their wedding cakes and later, baby blankets for her great grandchildren.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tomi was loved by everyone who knew her, but loved most by her husband, daughter, son and grandchildren.&nbsp; For as much as she was loved, we knew we were loved more.&nbsp; The light and energy she left behind, far out shined our own.&nbsp; She was a best friend to many, including her daughter, sisters Sally and Judy and close friends Kelly and Toots.&nbsp; She was audacious, adventurous and kind and she will be deeply missed.She is survived by her husband; Michael Bailey; 1 son, Chris (Dena) Bailey; 1 daughter, Tamara (Matt) Cooper; 2 sisters; Judy Durnal; Sally (Jerry) Weekes; grandchildren; Austin (Ashley) Bailey; Summer (Mason) Steinmetz; Jett (Hannah) Bailey; Carson Bailey; Bailey Thomas Cooper; and great-grandchildren; Baylor, Weston, Emma and Logan; as well as many nieces and nephews and cousins.&nbsp;She is preceded in death by her parents Tom and Jean Durnal and an infant sister Kathleen May.A Celebration of Life will be held at a&nbsp; in Watauga, South Dakota.&nbsp;&nbsp;Graveside Service and burial will be held at a later date at Chimney Rock Cemetery in Bayard, Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;Online condolences may be given at www.drauckerfh.com by clicking the share a memory button.&nbsp;A memorial has been established in her memory.&nbsp;Draucker Funeral Home of Ogallala is assisting the Bailey family with arrangements.

Jeannie Thomas "Tomi" (Durnal) Bailey (1946 - 2021)

Denise Annette Novotny, 53, of Minatare, passed away at home Monday, February 15th, 2021, after her second battle with cancer. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 PM, Saturday, April 10th, at the Broken Spoke in Minatare, Nebraska, with reception immediately following. The family respectfully request casual attire. Memorials may be made in Denise’s honor to the Festival of Hope. Bridgman Funeral Home provided cremation and online condolences may be made by viewing Denise’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Denise was born July 5th, 1967, in Prineville Oregon, to Dean and Doris Novotny. She grew up in Oregon until 1982, when the family moved back to Nebraska, making Minatare her permanent home. Denise graduated from Minatare High School in 1985, where her deep love for all things cheerleading began. She attended classes at WNCC, while working for USA Video and helping at her parents’ business. Denise loved all sports and helped coach her younger sister’s volleyball team. She loved to watch football (especially the Oregon Ducks), horse racing, and absolutely enjoyed watching and supporting her nephew Travis when he bowled. She enjoyed gardening with her Mom and took care of a multitude of animals over the years. She also loved to assist her sister Darla with coaching cheerleading and treasured the trips to Orlando and Walt Disney World for UCA Nationals and the Capital One bowl game. For the last 25 years, Denise worked as a merchandiser, employed by companies like Driveline and News America Marketing. Denise is survived by her parents Dean and Doris Novotny, her sister Dawn (Vance) Raskiewicz, her sister Darla (John) Grumbles, her nephew/brother Travis (Angela Judge) Novotny, and her great niece Everly. She was preceded in death by her sister Deanna, her grandparents, and numerous aunts and uncles. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Bjorling, the nurses and staff at the Infusion Center that cared for her and gave her chemo, and the staff of Hospice that cared for Denise and the family at the end. Denise will be forever missed and eternally loved by her family and friends.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614100789579.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Denise Annette Novotny, 53, of Minatare, passed away at home Monday, February 15th, 2021, after her second battle with cancer. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 PM, Saturday, April 10th, at the Broken Spoke in Minatare, Nebraska, with reception immediately following. The family respectfully request casual attire. Memorials may be made in Denise’s honor to the Festival of Hope. Bridgman Funeral Home provided cremation and online condolences may be made by viewing Denise’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Denise was born July 5th, 1967, in Prineville Oregon, to Dean and Doris Novotny. She grew up in Oregon until 1982, when the family moved back to Nebraska, making Minatare her permanent home. Denise graduated from Minatare High School in 1985, where her deep love for all things cheerleading began. She attended classes at WNCC, while working for USA Video and helping at her parents’ business. Denise loved all sports and helped coach her younger sister’s volleyball team. She loved to watch football (especially the Oregon Ducks), horse racing, and absolutely enjoyed watching and supporting her nephew Travis when he bowled. She enjoyed gardening with her Mom and took care of a multitude of animals over the years. She also loved to assist her sister Darla with coaching cheerleading and treasured the trips to Orlando and Walt Disney World for UCA Nationals and the Capital One bowl game. For the last 25 years, Denise worked as a merchandiser, employed by companies like Driveline and News America Marketing. Denise is survived by her parents Dean and Doris Novotny, her sister Dawn (Vance) Raskiewicz, her sister Darla (John) Grumbles, her nephew/brother Travis (Angela Judge) Novotny, and her great niece Everly. She was preceded in death by her sister Deanna, her grandparents, and numerous aunts and uncles. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Bjorling, the nurses and staff at the Infusion Center that cared for her and gave her chemo, and the staff of Hospice that cared for Denise and the family at the end. Denise will be forever missed and eternally loved by her family and friends.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Denise Annette Novotny (1967 - 2021)

William (Bill) Allen Henderson, 95, of Scottsbluff, passed away peacefully Tuesday February 16th with his son and daughter-in-law by his side. A private graveside service will be held at Fairview Cemetery with Pastor Craig Collins officiating. Military honors will be provided by the United State Navy. A celebration of his life to follow at a later date. Online condolences by be made by visiting Bill’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bill was born May 7, 1925 in Boxholm, IA to Jean (Carlson) and Axel Henderson. The family moved to Boone, Iowa in 1930, and to Scottsbluff, Nebraska in 1937. He graduated from Scottsbluff High School in 1943 where he was a member of the 1941 Nebraska State Basketball Championship team. Bill was listed on the Omaha World Herald All State basketball team in 1943. Enlisting in the Navy Air Corp in 1943, he was honorably discharged in late 1944 and subsequently joined the Merchant Marines. He graduated from Denver University in 1948 with a degree in Business Administration and Accounting. Bill married his best friend, Lenore Abel, on December 16th 1951. They were blessed with two children, Lori Lynn and William Abel. They were married over 65 years when Lenore passed away in 2017. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Lenore, his daughter Lori, and his brothers John A. and Keith Palmer Henderson. He is survived by son Bill Henderson (Deb) of Granger, IN, son-in-law Jim Henderson (Nashville TN), granddaughters: Taylor (Paul) Macaluso of Roswell, GA, Claire Henderson of Indianapolis, IN, Audrey Henderson of St Louis, MO, and one great granddaughter, Emerson Macaluso. Bill was a Vice-President, co-owner, and Office Manager with Hiner Implement for over 40 years. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church where he served as a Trustee, was a member of the American Legion, and the Scottsbluff Country Club. He spent many years enjoying his passion for golf, winning many local tournaments and club championships. His kind, compassionate, generous demeanor was evident to all he came in contact with. A memorial for the junior golf program has been established in Bills honor at Scottsbluff High School Booster Club Golf Program, c/o Bridgman Funeral Home, 2104 Broadway Avenue, Scottsbluff, Nebraska 69361.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614100630171.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>William (Bill) Allen Henderson, 95, of Scottsbluff, passed away peacefully Tuesday February 16th with his son and daughter-in-law by his side. A private graveside service will be held at Fairview Cemetery with Pastor Craig Collins officiating. Military honors will be provided by the United State Navy. A celebration of his life to follow at a later date. Online condolences by be made by visiting Bill’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bill was born May 7, 1925 in Boxholm, IA to Jean (Carlson) and Axel Henderson. The family moved to Boone, Iowa in 1930, and to Scottsbluff, Nebraska in 1937. He graduated from Scottsbluff High School in 1943 where he was a member of the 1941 Nebraska State Basketball Championship team. Bill was listed on the Omaha World Herald All State basketball team in 1943. Enlisting in the Navy Air Corp in 1943, he was honorably discharged in late 1944 and subsequently joined the Merchant Marines. He graduated from Denver University in 1948 with a degree in Business Administration and Accounting. Bill married his best friend, Lenore Abel, on December 16th 1951. They were blessed with two children, Lori Lynn and William Abel. They were married over 65 years when Lenore passed away in 2017. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Lenore, his daughter Lori, and his brothers John A. and Keith Palmer Henderson. He is survived by son Bill Henderson (Deb) of Granger, IN, son-in-law Jim Henderson (Nashville TN), granddaughters: Taylor (Paul) Macaluso of Roswell, GA, Claire Henderson of Indianapolis, IN, Audrey Henderson of St Louis, MO, and one great granddaughter, Emerson Macaluso. Bill was a Vice-President, co-owner, and Office Manager with Hiner Implement for over 40 years. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church where he served as a Trustee, was a member of the American Legion, and the Scottsbluff Country Club. He spent many years enjoying his passion for golf, winning many local tournaments and club championships. His kind, compassionate, generous demeanor was evident to all he came in contact with. A memorial for the junior golf program has been established in Bills honor at Scottsbluff High School Booster Club Golf Program, c/o Bridgman Funeral Home, 2104 Broadway Avenue, Scottsbluff, Nebraska 69361.

William (Bill) Allen Henderson (1925 - 2021)

Mike Ferguson, age 69, of Scottsbluff, NE, passed away suddenly on February 14, 2021. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 27, 2021 at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Scottsbluff with Fr. Gerald Harr as Celebrant. A private burial will be held prior to the service and there will be no visitation. The funeral will be live streamed on Bridgman Funeral Home Facebook page. 

Mike had a kind and giving heart. In lieu of any flowers, please consider a donation in Mike’s name to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made by viewing Mike’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff is entrusted with arrangements. Michael Floyd Ferguson was born on January 7, 1952, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, to Donavon and Virginia Marie Ferguson. He was the first of two sons born to this union. Mike grew up between Scottsbluff and Mitchell and graduated from Scottsbluff High School in 1970. He then obtained his associates degree from Nebraska Western College in 1972. Mike was a life-long sign man. He began working with his father at Ferguson Signs at the age of 5. After graduation from WNCC, he went to work with his father full time and with his talent and energy spent the next 50 years creating a very successful business. Ferguson Signs are seen throughout western Nebraska and eastern Wyoming. Mike took great pride in his work and his company, which was founded by his father in 1949. In his earlier years he loved to drag race. This led him into being a member of the Scottsbluff Timing Association which ran the dragstrip at the airport. He was a member of the Scottsbluff Jaycees and chaired many projects. The Fireworks Display and Haunted Houses were his favorites. Mike, with longtime friends, Tracy Ford and Pat Gilman, formed a small business, shooting fireworks and, among other things, did the Ball Drop at the Franklin Hotel in Deadwood SD on New Year’s for about 20 years. In 2020 Mike experienced a life changing trip to the Holy Land where he visited many sites and got to walk where Jesus did. Every time Mike talked about this trip his face would light up. Mike had many hobbies - motorcycles, fireworks, community service, travel and lighting people’s lives with signs. Those left to mourn Mike’s memory are his brother, Robert (Kris) Ferguson, nieces Robin (Cody) Scherbarth and Reann Ferguson, his former wife, Deanna Scherbarth, and his sign crew, John Goodman, Jacob Aguallo and Aaron Aguallo...And COUNTLESS friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and 3 uncles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614100329106.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Mike Ferguson, age 69, of Scottsbluff, NE, passed away suddenly on February 14, 2021. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 27, 2021 at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Scottsbluff with Fr. Gerald Harr as Celebrant. A private burial will be held prior to the service and there will be no visitation. The funeral will be live streamed on Bridgman Funeral Home Facebook page. Mike had a kind and giving heart. In lieu of any flowers, please consider a donation in Mike’s name to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made by viewing Mike’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff is entrusted with arrangements. Michael Floyd Ferguson was born on January 7, 1952, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, to Donavon and Virginia Marie Ferguson. He was the first of two sons born to this union. Mike grew up between Scottsbluff and Mitchell and graduated from Scottsbluff High School in 1970. He then obtained his associates degree from Nebraska Western College in 1972. Mike was a life-long sign man. He began working with his father at Ferguson Signs at the age of 5. After graduation from WNCC, he went to work with his father full time and with his talent and energy spent the next 50 years creating a very successful business. Ferguson Signs are seen throughout western Nebraska and eastern Wyoming. Mike took great pride in his work and his company, which was founded by his father in 1949. In his earlier years he loved to drag race. This led him into being a member of the Scottsbluff Timing Association which ran the dragstrip at the airport. He was a member of the Scottsbluff Jaycees and chaired many projects. The Fireworks Display and Haunted Houses were his favorites. Mike, with longtime friends, Tracy Ford and Pat Gilman, formed a small business, shooting fireworks and, among other things, did the Ball Drop at the Franklin Hotel in Deadwood SD on New Year’s for about 20 years. In 2020 Mike experienced a life changing trip to the Holy Land where he visited many sites and got to walk where Jesus did. Every time Mike talked about this trip his face would light up. Mike had many hobbies - motorcycles, fireworks, community service, travel and lighting people’s lives with signs. Those left to mourn Mike’s memory are his brother, Robert (Kris) Ferguson, nieces Robin (Cody) Scherbarth and Reann Ferguson, his former wife, Deanna Scherbarth, and his sign crew, John Goodman, Jacob Aguallo and Aaron Aguallo...And COUNTLESS friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and 3 uncles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Michael Floyd Ferguson (1952 - 2021)

Woodallen Gene Snyder was born on May 22, 1944 in Gordon, Nebraska, the second of three children of Woodrow L. and Charlyn G. Watson Snyder. He died February 12, 2021 at the age of 76 years in the Cheyenne, Wyoming hospital. He grew up on a ranch south of Rushville, NE on Pine Creek. He attended elementary school grades 1-8 at District 98, known as the Mill School. Gene graduated from Rushville High School in 1962. He played football in high school and college. He attended Chadron State College for 3 years and then received his Doctor of Dentistry degree in 1969 from the University of Missouri Dental School in Kansas City, MO. He met the love of his life, Carol Sue Ward, while in dental school and they were married on August 19, 1967 in Burlington, KS. Three children were born to this union, Brian Gene, Kevin Dean and Angela Lynn.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gene set up his first dental practice in 1969 in Bassett, NE. In 1970 he moved his practice to Rushville, NE. Carol worked with him in the Rushville office as secretary/bookkeeper until they both retired in 2011. He served patients from a large area surrounding Rushville. Former patients often remark about the size of his hands and how he would always ask you questions when he had his hands in your mouth. A toothache requiring attention after hours or on a weekend would most likely mean meeting him in his hunting or fishing clothes, if you were lucky enough to reach him.&nbsp;

He loved his family, hunting, fishing and gardening. Gene aka Doc, Geno, Tinkerbell or Tooth Fairy, was a big man with a gruff voice disguising his teddy bear interior. He enjoyed following his grandsons’ activities. He liked even more taking them hunting or fishing. As Gene was telling of their accomplishments you might see a tear rolling down his cheek. He had a great time on hunting and fishing trips with friends. If the weather prevented going out on the lake the cards came out and the stories and laughter abounded. Gene raised a huge garden every year. It was his pride and joy and provided vegetables of every variety for family and friends.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He is survived by his wife, Carol, sons Brian (Colette) of Rushville NE, Kevin (Angela) Topeka, KS, daughter Angela, Chadron, NE and 8 grandsons, Cole Witt, Riley Snyder, Tegan Snyder, Kazden Snyder, Talon Snyder, Slade Snyder, Hunter Townsend and Gunnar Townsend. Also surviving are brother-in-law Gerald Flaherty Thornton, CO, brother Ronnie (Jean) Rushville, NE, sisters-in-law Donna Schif, Bonner Springs, KS, Maxine Haverfield Shawnee, KS, uncle Donald Watson, Kalispell, MT, numerous nieces and nephews, and many friends.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He was preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow and Charlyn Snyder, son-in-law Roger Townsend, sister Twilyn Snyder Flaherty, brothers-in-law, Larry Schif and Ken Haverfield, one nephew and two nieces.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A memorial service will be held later this spring. A memorial is to be determined.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614099904106.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Woodallen Gene Snyder was born on May 22, 1944 in Gordon, Nebraska, the second of three children of Woodrow L. and Charlyn G. Watson Snyder. He died February 12, 2021 at the age of 76 years in the Cheyenne, Wyoming hospital. He grew up on a ranch south of Rushville, NE on Pine Creek. He attended elementary school grades 1-8 at District 98, known as the Mill School. Gene graduated from Rushville High School in 1962. He played football in high school and college. He attended Chadron State College for 3 years and then received his Doctor of Dentistry degree in 1969 from the University of Missouri Dental School in Kansas City, MO. He met the love of his life, Carol Sue Ward, while in dental school and they were married on August 19, 1967 in Burlington, KS. Three children were born to this union, Brian Gene, Kevin Dean and Angela Lynn.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gene set up his first dental practice in 1969 in Bassett, NE. In 1970 he moved his practice to Rushville, NE. Carol worked with him in the Rushville office as secretary/bookkeeper until they both retired in 2011. He served patients from a large area surrounding Rushville. Former patients often remark about the size of his hands and how he would always ask you questions when he had his hands in your mouth. A toothache requiring attention after hours or on a weekend would most likely mean meeting him in his hunting or fishing clothes, if you were lucky enough to reach him.&nbsp;He loved his family, hunting, fishing and gardening. Gene aka Doc, Geno, Tinkerbell or Tooth Fairy, was a big man with a gruff voice disguising his teddy bear interior. He enjoyed following his grandsons’ activities. He liked even more taking them hunting or fishing. As Gene was telling of their accomplishments you might see a tear rolling down his cheek. He had a great time on hunting and fishing trips with friends. If the weather prevented going out on the lake the cards came out and the stories and laughter abounded. Gene raised a huge garden every year. It was his pride and joy and provided vegetables of every variety for family and friends.&nbsp;&nbsp;He is survived by his wife, Carol, sons Brian (Colette) of Rushville NE, Kevin (Angela) Topeka, KS, daughter Angela, Chadron, NE and 8 grandsons, Cole Witt, Riley Snyder, Tegan Snyder, Kazden Snyder, Talon Snyder, Slade Snyder, Hunter Townsend and Gunnar Townsend. Also surviving are brother-in-law Gerald Flaherty Thornton, CO, brother Ronnie (Jean) Rushville, NE, sisters-in-law Donna Schif, Bonner Springs, KS, Maxine Haverfield Shawnee, KS, uncle Donald Watson, Kalispell, MT, numerous nieces and nephews, and many friends.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow and Charlyn Snyder, son-in-law Roger Townsend, sister Twilyn Snyder Flaherty, brothers-in-law, Larry Schif and Ken Haverfield, one nephew and two nieces.&nbsp;&nbsp;A memorial service will be held later this spring. A memorial is to be determined.

Woodallen Gene Snyder (1944 - 2021)

Duane 'Deanie' Gene Jespersen, age 80, of Mesa, Arizona passed away Sunday, February 7, 2021,&nbsp;at the Banner Baywood Heart Hospital, Mesa, Arizona with his wife, Barbara, by his side.

Duane was born May 7, 1940 in Alliance, Nebraska to Elvin 'Pat' and Mabel (Jordan) Jespersen.&nbsp;

Duane grew up on the family farm southwest of Hemingford, Nebraska with his older sister,&nbsp;Devona, and older brother Darwin. He graduated from Hemingford High School, Class of 1958.

Duane attended college at Rapid City Business College in Rapid City, South Dakota for a short&nbsp;time when he realized his true feelings and wanted to follow his dream to farm.

On August 19, 1962, Duane was united in marriage to Barbara Boness at Saint John's United&nbsp;Lutheran Church, ELCA, in Alliance, Nebraska and blessed to have been married 58 years. He&nbsp;was a member of the St. John's United Lutheran Church, Alliance, Nebraska, and Victory&nbsp;Lutheran Church, Mesa, Arizona. They began their married life living in the house built in 1906 by Duane's grandfather, Jesper Jespersen on the Lone Tree Ranch homestead southwest of Hemingford where they farmed, raised cattle and later added pigs to their farm operation. In 1976, they built a larger home on the same place to raise their family.&nbsp; To this union six children were born&nbsp;Dawn, Dana, Danette, Darin born August 24, 1972 and died at four days, Darby, and Derrick.

In 2000 Duane and Barb began going to Mesa, Arizona for the winter months where they&nbsp;would return from Mesa every summer to help their sons with the farm work, attended the&nbsp;grandchildren's school activities, and visited with family and friends. Duane especially enjoyed operating the combine during the wheat and corn harvests.&nbsp; He served on the Hemingford Federal&nbsp;Credit Union Board, 1974-1985.

Those left to cherish and honor Duane's memory are his wife, Barbara, Mesa, Arizona, five&nbsp;children and their spouses, twelve grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Dawn and Will&nbsp;Fiscus, Cheyenne, Wyoming; children, Jessica Fiscus and Christopher Seid, Cheyenne,&nbsp; Wyoming, children Dameon Fiscus and Fionna Seid at home; Justin Fiscus and Breanne Ramirez, Torrington, Wyoming. Dana Jespersen, Alliance, Nebraska; son, Brennan Jespersen, Alliance, Nebraska. Danette and Henry Holguin, Gilbert, Arizona; her children, Danae Hefty, Chandler, Arizona, Devin Hefty and Draysen Hefty, Gilbert, Arizona. Darby and Autumn Jespersen, Hemingford, Nebraska; children, Tarin Jespersen, Hemingford, Nebraska; Kage Jespersen, Lincoln, Nebraksa; and Storm Jespersen, Chadron, Nebraska. Derrick and Cassie Jespersen, Hemingford, Nebraska; children, Rayne, Kyra and Rye Jespersen at home.&nbsp; Duane's sister and brother-in-law, Devona and George Tschacher, Cheyenne, Wyoming.&nbsp; Also, many nieces, nephews and friends.&nbsp;

Duane was preceded in death by their infant son, Darin Jesper Jespersen, grandson Dayne Jakob Hefty at 19 months and born still, granddaughter, Jennica Mariah Jespersen.&nbsp; His parents, Elvin 'Pat' and Mabel (Jordan) Jespersen, brother, Darwin Jespersen, sister-in-law Shirley Jespersen,&nbsp; and sister-in-law Carol Jespersen. His wife's parents, Allen Boness and Rosezella (Boness)&nbsp;Langmacher, brother-in-law Jerry Boness, and sister-in-law Twila Boness.

A memorial celebration of Duane's life and living will be held in the summer at the family farm.&nbsp;Cards may be mailed to Barbara Jespersen, 5028 E. Flossmoor Avenue, Mesa, Arizona, 85206.

Memorial donations may be sent to Legacy of the Plains Museum, 2930 Old Oregon Trail,&nbsp;Gering, Nebraska 69341, c/o Duane Jespersen.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614020841888.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Duane 'Deanie' Gene Jespersen, age 80, of Mesa, Arizona passed away Sunday, February 7, 2021,&nbsp;at the Banner Baywood Heart Hospital, Mesa, Arizona with his wife, Barbara, by his side.Duane was born May 7, 1940 in Alliance, Nebraska to Elvin 'Pat' and Mabel (Jordan) Jespersen.&nbsp;Duane grew up on the family farm southwest of Hemingford, Nebraska with his older sister,&nbsp;Devona, and older brother Darwin. He graduated from Hemingford High School, Class of 1958.Duane attended college at Rapid City Business College in Rapid City, South Dakota for a short&nbsp;time when he realized his true feelings and wanted to follow his dream to farm.On August 19, 1962, Duane was united in marriage to Barbara Boness at Saint John's United&nbsp;Lutheran Church, ELCA, in Alliance, Nebraska and blessed to have been married 58 years. He&nbsp;was a member of the St. John's United Lutheran Church, Alliance, Nebraska, and Victory&nbsp;Lutheran Church, Mesa, Arizona. They began their married life living in the house built in 1906 by Duane's grandfather, Jesper Jespersen on the Lone Tree Ranch homestead southwest of Hemingford where they farmed, raised cattle and later added pigs to their farm operation. In 1976, they built a larger home on the same place to raise their family.&nbsp; To this union six children were born&nbsp;Dawn, Dana, Danette, Darin born August 24, 1972 and died at four days, Darby, and Derrick.In 2000 Duane and Barb began going to Mesa, Arizona for the winter months where they&nbsp;would return from Mesa every summer to help their sons with the farm work, attended the&nbsp;grandchildren's school activities, and visited with family and friends. Duane especially enjoyed operating the combine during the wheat and corn harvests.&nbsp; He served on the Hemingford Federal&nbsp;Credit Union Board, 1974-1985.Those left to cherish and honor Duane's memory are his wife, Barbara, Mesa, Arizona, five&nbsp;children and their spouses, twelve grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Dawn and Will&nbsp;Fiscus, Cheyenne, Wyoming; children, Jessica Fiscus and Christopher Seid, Cheyenne,&nbsp; Wyoming, children Dameon Fiscus and Fionna Seid at home; Justin Fiscus and Breanne Ramirez, Torrington, Wyoming. Dana Jespersen, Alliance, Nebraska; son, Brennan Jespersen, Alliance, Nebraska. Danette and Henry Holguin, Gilbert, Arizona; her children, Danae Hefty, Chandler, Arizona, Devin Hefty and Draysen Hefty, Gilbert, Arizona. Darby and Autumn Jespersen, Hemingford, Nebraska; children, Tarin Jespersen, Hemingford, Nebraska; Kage Jespersen, Lincoln, Nebraksa; and Storm Jespersen, Chadron, Nebraska. Derrick and Cassie Jespersen, Hemingford, Nebraska; children, Rayne, Kyra and Rye Jespersen at home.&nbsp; Duane's sister and brother-in-law, Devona and George Tschacher, Cheyenne, Wyoming.&nbsp; Also, many nieces, nephews and friends.&nbsp;Duane was preceded in death by their infant son, Darin Jesper Jespersen, grandson Dayne Jakob Hefty at 19 months and born still, granddaughter, Jennica Mariah Jespersen.&nbsp; His parents, Elvin 'Pat' and Mabel (Jordan) Jespersen, brother, Darwin Jespersen, sister-in-law Shirley Jespersen,&nbsp; and sister-in-law Carol Jespersen. His wife's parents, Allen Boness and Rosezella (Boness)&nbsp;Langmacher, brother-in-law Jerry Boness, and sister-in-law Twila Boness. A memorial celebration of Duane's life and living will be held in the summer at the family farm.&nbsp;Cards may be mailed to Barbara Jespersen, 5028 E. Flossmoor Avenue, Mesa, Arizona, 85206.Memorial donations may be sent to Legacy of the Plains Museum, 2930 Old Oregon Trail,&nbsp;Gering, Nebraska 69341, c/o Duane Jespersen.

Duane 'Deanie' Gene Jespersen (1940 - 2021)

Helen Young, 94 of Alliance, Nebraska passed away on February 12, 2021 at Highland Park Care Center. She was born to Thomas and Nell Patton on July 25, 1926. She was the youngest of 7 siblings. Helen grew up in the Sandhills around Ellsworth.

She married Walter Young on January 1, 1943. They were married 75 years when Walter passed away. They lived south of Bingham on a ranch until 1979. They then retired and moved to Alliance, Nebraska.

Helen enjoyed her family. She cherished her children. She enjoyed her flowers and gardening, spending time with family and playing cards. Her nieces and nephews were special to her.

She is survived by a son, Gale (Lynda) Young of Torrington, Wyoming, two grandchildren: Michelle (Dan) Okamoto of Kearney, Nebraska and Galen (Laralee) Young of Alliance, Nebraska; two step grandchildren: Dawn (John) Nordin of Camano Island, Washington and Bill (Yvonne) Bargeron of Worland, Wyoming; and 6 great grandsons: Dalton and Dillon Okamoto; step-great grandsons: Kyle and Derrick Coleman and Logan and Magnus Nordin as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, Helen was preceded in death by her husband Walter, her daughter Connie and her brothers and sisters.

Funeral services for Helen will be held at 10:30, February 19, 2021 at Bates Gould Chapel in Alliance, Nebraska.&nbsp; The Rev. Gary Belk will officiate with burial in Alliance Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to a charity of the donor’s choice.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613425318259.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Helen Young, 94 of Alliance, Nebraska passed away on February 12, 2021 at Highland Park Care Center. She was born to Thomas and Nell Patton on July 25, 1926. She was the youngest of 7 siblings. Helen grew up in the Sandhills around Ellsworth.She married Walter Young on January 1, 1943. They were married 75 years when Walter passed away. They lived south of Bingham on a ranch until 1979. They then retired and moved to Alliance, Nebraska.Helen enjoyed her family. She cherished her children. She enjoyed her flowers and gardening, spending time with family and playing cards. Her nieces and nephews were special to her.She is survived by a son, Gale (Lynda) Young of Torrington, Wyoming, two grandchildren: Michelle (Dan) Okamoto of Kearney, Nebraska and Galen (Laralee) Young of Alliance, Nebraska; two step grandchildren: Dawn (John) Nordin of Camano Island, Washington and Bill (Yvonne) Bargeron of Worland, Wyoming; and 6 great grandsons: Dalton and Dillon Okamoto; step-great grandsons: Kyle and Derrick Coleman and Logan and Magnus Nordin as well as numerous nieces and nephews.Besides her parents, Helen was preceded in death by her husband Walter, her daughter Connie and her brothers and sisters.Funeral services for Helen will be held at 10:30, February 19, 2021 at Bates Gould Chapel in Alliance, Nebraska.&nbsp; The Rev. Gary Belk will officiate with burial in Alliance Cemetery.Memorials may be given to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Helen Young (1926 - 2021)

Richard LeRoy Furley, 89, passed away Saturday, February 13, 2021 at his home in Alliance, NE.

He was born November 15, 1931 in Ewing, NE to James Roy and Beulah Marie (Angus) Furley. He attended schools in Ewing, Ord and Madison, NE graduating in May, 1950. He was the recipient of a football scholarship to the University of Nebraska.

On December 1, 1952 he was united in marriage to Neldagene Knapp in Madison, NE. Three children were born to this union, Debra Jo, Gina Rae and Douglas Scott.

Richard served in the U.S. Army from May 15, 1952 to May 15, 1954.&nbsp; His tour of duty included serving as an Infantry Platoon Sargent in Korea.&nbsp; He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star for Valor and Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service.&nbsp;

Richard began his career in law enforcement serving as a Nebraska State Patrol Trooper from 1955 to 1957 stationed in Hastings, NE.&nbsp; He then became a Nebraska Game and Parks Conservation Officer stationed in Ponca from 1958 to 1961.&nbsp; He was promoted to District 1 Law Enforcement Supervisor in Alliance on September 1, 1961 and retired from that position in 1997. &nbsp;He was a life member of the American Legion, Nebraska Conservation Officers Association and Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Richard is survived by his wife, Neldagene, his children, Debra (Bill) Smith, Gina (Russ) Anders and Douglas Furley, his grandchildren, Greg (Shana) Brown, Lacey (Adam) Herring, Levi (Jess) Anders, Candice (Justin) Gibson, Melissa Smith, Chance (Hannah) Smith, Kyle (Lindsay) Furley, Kohl (Shaylee)&nbsp; and Maison (Colleen) Furley and 19 great-grandchildren.&nbsp; He is also survived by his brother, Jerry (Sandy) Furley and sister-in-law, Barbara Furley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Beulah, his brothers, Earl, Paul and Jim, his sisters, Betty and Lois, his brother-in-law, Arland Knapp, his sister-in-law, Beulah Knapp, his father and mother-in-law, Clarence and Gertrude Knapp.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.&nbsp;

Memorials may be given to Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran School Tree Fund or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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/2021/2/1613408832892.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Richard LeRoy Furley, 89, passed away Saturday, February 13, 2021 at his home in Alliance, NE.He was born November 15, 1931 in Ewing, NE to James Roy and Beulah Marie (Angus) Furley. He attended schools in Ewing, Ord and Madison, NE graduating in May, 1950. He was the recipient of a football scholarship to the University of Nebraska.On December 1, 1952 he was united in marriage to Neldagene Knapp in Madison, NE. Three children were born to this union, Debra Jo, Gina Rae and Douglas Scott.Richard served in the U.S. Army from May 15, 1952 to May 15, 1954.&nbsp; His tour of duty included serving as an Infantry Platoon Sargent in Korea.&nbsp; He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star for Valor and Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service.&nbsp;Richard began his career in law enforcement serving as a Nebraska State Patrol Trooper from 1955 to 1957 stationed in Hastings, NE.&nbsp; He then became a Nebraska Game and Parks Conservation Officer stationed in Ponca from 1958 to 1961.&nbsp; He was promoted to District 1 Law Enforcement Supervisor in Alliance on September 1, 1961 and retired from that position in 1997. &nbsp;He was a life member of the American Legion, Nebraska Conservation Officers Association and Immanuel Lutheran Church.Richard is survived by his wife, Neldagene, his children, Debra (Bill) Smith, Gina (Russ) Anders and Douglas Furley, his grandchildren, Greg (Shana) Brown, Lacey (Adam) Herring, Levi (Jess) Anders, Candice (Justin) Gibson, Melissa Smith, Chance (Hannah) Smith, Kyle (Lindsay) Furley, Kohl (Shaylee)&nbsp; and Maison (Colleen) Furley and 19 great-grandchildren.&nbsp; He is also survived by his brother, Jerry (Sandy) Furley and sister-in-law, Barbara Furley.He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Beulah, his brothers, Earl, Paul and Jim, his sisters, Betty and Lois, his brother-in-law, Arland Knapp, his sister-in-law, Beulah Knapp, his father and mother-in-law, Clarence and Gertrude Knapp.Memorial services will be held at a later date.&nbsp;Memorials may be given to Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran School Tree Fund or to a charity of the donor’s choice.Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com with Bates-Gould Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Richard LeRoy Furley (1931 - 2021)

Dixie Lee Bartels passed away peacefully on December 29, 2020 in Sedona, Arizona. 

She was born on May 30, 1936 in Scottsbluff, Nebraska and was preceded in death by her husband and soul mate Lowell. 

Dixie is survived by her daughter Deena Bartels Anderson of Arcadia, California, sons Kent Bartels of Cottonwood, Arizona, Brian (Sally) Bartels of Glendora, California and Bruce (Erin) Bartels of Tujunga, California. She is also survived by five grandchildren and six great grandchildren.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dixie graduated from Alliance Nebraska High School in 1954 and soon moved to California with Lowell to raise their growing family. While in California she received two college degrees. Upon retirement, the couple moved to Cottonwood, Arizona where they were involved in the Arizona Flywheelers and Mile High Tractor Club, along with the American Truck Historical Society. Dixie also served as President of the Verde Village Home Owner's Association.&nbsp;

She will be interred with her husband at All Souls Cemetery in Cottonwood, Arizona.&nbsp; A celebration of life will be held at a future date.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613403834259.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Dixie Lee Bartels passed away peacefully on December 29, 2020 in Sedona, Arizona. She was born on May 30, 1936 in Scottsbluff, Nebraska and was preceded in death by her husband and soul mate Lowell. Dixie is survived by her daughter Deena Bartels Anderson of Arcadia, California, sons Kent Bartels of Cottonwood, Arizona, Brian (Sally) Bartels of Glendora, California and Bruce (Erin) Bartels of Tujunga, California. She is also survived by five grandchildren and six great grandchildren.&nbsp;&nbsp;Dixie graduated from Alliance Nebraska High School in 1954 and soon moved to California with Lowell to raise their growing family. While in California she received two college degrees. Upon retirement, the couple moved to Cottonwood, Arizona where they were involved in the Arizona Flywheelers and Mile High Tractor Club, along with the American Truck Historical Society. Dixie also served as President of the Verde Village Home Owner's Association.&nbsp;She will be interred with her husband at All Souls Cemetery in Cottonwood, Arizona.&nbsp; A celebration of life will be held at a future date.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dixie Lee Bartels (1936 - 2020)

Tamara "Tammi" Kay Barnes, age 59, of Goodland passed away February 3, 2021 after a long battle with breast cancer.

Tammi was born February 7, 1961 to James and Janice (Smith) 
McClelland in Goodland. She spent her childhood in Goodland, where her 
father and mother owned the local Yamaha dealership. She enjoyed time 
spent riding her horse and watching her brother race motorcycles.&nbsp;

On April 28, 1978 she married Roger Skrdlant. To this union three children were born, Christopher, Carla and Jill.

Tammi enjoyed gardening, crafting, traveling, dearly loved spending 
time with her family and friends, and had a special talent for making 
any and everything beautiful.

She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents; brother, Jimmy McClelland; and niece, Jenny McClelland.

Tammi is survived by her son, Christopher Skrdlant of Kearney, NE; 
daughter, Carla Sumner and her children Skylar, Clayton, and Caleb 
Sumner of Norton, KS; daughter, Jill (Jamie) Dole and her children Gage,
 Jace, and (baby due in March) of Norton, KS; sister, Rhonda (Dale) 
Skrdlant of Alliance, NE and their son Jeremy of Goodland, KS; nephew, 
Tyler McClelland of Goodland, KS; and special friend, Larry Hachmeister 
of Goodland, KS.

Memorials may be designated to the Tamara Kay Barnes Memorial Fund 
and may be left at the service or sent in care of Bateman Funeral Home, 
P.O. Box 278, Goodland, KS 67735. For information and condolences visit 
www.batemanfuneral.com.

Click <a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Tamara-Barnes">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613332789374.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Tamara "Tammi" Kay Barnes, age 59, of Goodland passed away February 3, 2021 after a long battle with breast cancer.Tammi was born February 7, 1961 to James and Janice (Smith) 
McClelland in Goodland. She spent her childhood in Goodland, where her 
father and mother owned the local Yamaha dealership. She enjoyed time 
spent riding her horse and watching her brother race motorcycles.&nbsp;On April 28, 1978 she married Roger Skrdlant. To this union three children were born, Christopher, Carla and Jill.Tammi enjoyed gardening, crafting, traveling, dearly loved spending 
time with her family and friends, and had a special talent for making 
any and everything beautiful.She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents; brother, Jimmy McClelland; and niece, Jenny McClelland.Tammi is survived by her son, Christopher Skrdlant of Kearney, NE; 
daughter, Carla Sumner and her children Skylar, Clayton, and Caleb 
Sumner of Norton, KS; daughter, Jill (Jamie) Dole and her children Gage,
 Jace, and (baby due in March) of Norton, KS; sister, Rhonda (Dale) 
Skrdlant of Alliance, NE and their son Jeremy of Goodland, KS; nephew, 
Tyler McClelland of Goodland, KS; and special friend, Larry Hachmeister 
of Goodland, KS.Memorials may be designated to the Tamara Kay Barnes Memorial Fund 
and may be left at the service or sent in care of Bateman Funeral Home, 
P.O. Box 278, Goodland, KS 67735. For information and condolences visit 
www.batemanfuneral.com.Click <a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Tamara-Barnes">HERE</a> for service details.

Tamara 'Tammi' Kay Barnes

Vickie R. McCune, 62, died Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at her home, one day shy of her 63rd&nbsp;birthday.

She was born February 10, 1958 in Gering, Nebraska to Niels R. and Leona A. (Lange) Rask.

Vickie's daughters would often say "Oh you'll love my Mom, she's a nice lady." Nice was an understatement. She was an incredible wife, mother and grandmother. She was incredibly kind, generous and supportive. She loved everyone with every part of herself. She was a sensitive soul and it wasn't uncommon for her to tear up in the middle of a story because she felt things so deeply and cared for others so much.

Vickie was her grandkids biggest cheerleader and she put up with all her kids shenanigans. She had a great sense of humor and was a good sport when they mocked her crocs or made fun of her complete lack of balance and coordination. She loved a good scratch ticket and was always up for a trip to Deadwood or Blackhawk. If you went for broke you could catch her slipping you a twenty in exchange for a promise that you'd go halfsies with her if you ended up winning big. She remembered tiny details about you that most people would forget and was a wonderful listener. She would talk to her daughters for hours on end about the most mundane things and offer words of encouragement for even simple things. She had a phrase to match every moment such as, "Not my monkeys, not my circus" or "Sew a button on a balloon and see how far you get." Vickie loved garage sales, Sam's Club and Ross' and she absolutely hated that billboard outside of town. Thank God they took that down. And when she was out and about she always made sure to ask how you and yours were when she passed you in the grocery store. If you live in Alliance you may find one of her hand painted rocks around town. If you do, she would love it if you could keep the kindness going and continue to spread love to one another. We all loved Vickie, so much, but really, she loved us more.

She is survived by her husband, Douglas McCune of Alliance; her daughters, Stephanie (John Kaiser) Schwaderer of Alliance, Jennifer Acosta of Alliance, Nicole McCune of Greeley, CO, and Natalie (Amy) Power of Greeley, CO.&nbsp; She is also survived by her grandchildren, Nick O’Neill, Chris O’Neill, Joseph Herrera, Steven Kaiser, Jaycee Acosta and Cali Acosta; her brothers, Michael Rask of Gordon and Marvin Rask of New Underwood, SD; her sister, Ronda (Robert) Leedham of Louisburg, KS; and her father and mother-in-law, Richard and Linda McCune of Alliance.&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her parents, her granddaughter, Alysya Acosta and her grandson, Sebastian Bockert.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, February 20, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at the Bates-Gould Chapel.&nbsp; Pastor Tim Stadem will officiate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613166548485.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Vickie R. McCune, 62, died Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at her home, one day shy of her 63rd&nbsp;birthday.She was born February 10, 1958 in Gering, Nebraska to Niels R. and Leona A. (Lange) Rask.Vickie's daughters would often say "Oh you'll love my Mom, she's a nice lady." Nice was an understatement. She was an incredible wife, mother and grandmother. She was incredibly kind, generous and supportive. She loved everyone with every part of herself. She was a sensitive soul and it wasn't uncommon for her to tear up in the middle of a story because she felt things so deeply and cared for others so much.Vickie was her grandkids biggest cheerleader and she put up with all her kids shenanigans. She had a great sense of humor and was a good sport when they mocked her crocs or made fun of her complete lack of balance and coordination. She loved a good scratch ticket and was always up for a trip to Deadwood or Blackhawk. If you went for broke you could catch her slipping you a twenty in exchange for a promise that you'd go halfsies with her if you ended up winning big. She remembered tiny details about you that most people would forget and was a wonderful listener. She would talk to her daughters for hours on end about the most mundane things and offer words of encouragement for even simple things. She had a phrase to match every moment such as, "Not my monkeys, not my circus" or "Sew a button on a balloon and see how far you get." Vickie loved garage sales, Sam's Club and Ross' and she absolutely hated that billboard outside of town. Thank God they took that down. And when she was out and about she always made sure to ask how you and yours were when she passed you in the grocery store. If you live in Alliance you may find one of her hand painted rocks around town. If you do, she would love it if you could keep the kindness going and continue to spread love to one another. We all loved Vickie, so much, but really, she loved us more.She is survived by her husband, Douglas McCune of Alliance; her daughters, Stephanie (John Kaiser) Schwaderer of Alliance, Jennifer Acosta of Alliance, Nicole McCune of Greeley, CO, and Natalie (Amy) Power of Greeley, CO.&nbsp; She is also survived by her grandchildren, Nick O’Neill, Chris O’Neill, Joseph Herrera, Steven Kaiser, Jaycee Acosta and Cali Acosta; her brothers, Michael Rask of Gordon and Marvin Rask of New Underwood, SD; her sister, Ronda (Robert) Leedham of Louisburg, KS; and her father and mother-in-law, Richard and Linda McCune of Alliance.&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her parents, her granddaughter, Alysya Acosta and her grandson, Sebastian Bockert.Memorial services will be held Saturday, February 20, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at the Bates-Gould Chapel.&nbsp; Pastor Tim Stadem will officiate.

Vickie R. McCune (1958 - 2021)

Mary Anne Sutton was born April 11, 1946 in Crawford, NE to Charles H. and Margaret G. (Piper) Anderson.&nbsp;

Mary Anne grew up on the family farm near Squaw Mound outside of Crawford, NE.&nbsp; Mary Anne grew up with 5 siblings.&nbsp; She attended country school and later graduated from Crawford High School.&nbsp; After high school Mary Anne attended nursing school in Alliance.&nbsp; She became a LPN where she felt she could get the most fulfillment in helping others.&nbsp; Mary Anne’s nursing career included assisting in surgery, pediatrics and maternity at St. Joseph’s Hospital until it closed in the 1980’s.&nbsp; Mary Anne then used her nursing training to provide private nursing care for several years until she worked as a charge nurse at Good Samaritan Village and later at Hemingford Community Care Center up to 2011.&nbsp; She then retired after 44 years of nursing.

After agreeing to a blind date that led to several fun-filled moments Mary Anne accepted the proposal from the love of her life, Peter John Sutton.&nbsp; They were married on December 30, 1967.&nbsp; Mary Anne and Pete were blessed with 3 daughters, Cynthia Sutton, Cassie Jo (Sutton) Warren and Christina (Sutton) Lotton.&nbsp; They also had 6 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.&nbsp;

In her free time Mary Anne would be a regular at Bingo whether it be at the Catholic Church, the Legion Hall, Eagles Club or VFW.&nbsp; Their weekends were spent watching Husker football on Saturday and cheering the Chicago Bears on Sundays.&nbsp; But her favorite time was spent with family, whether it was time at the house around the dining table or in the Black Hills of South Dakota.&nbsp; This included the annual Sturgis week with their grandkids.

In their retirement Mary Anne and Pete became well known patrons at the casinos in Deadwood, SD. After a joyful and fulfilling life of 51 years with her husband, Mary Anne passed away on February 8, 2021 in her home surrounded by her family.

Mary Anne was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her brother, James Anderson, her sister, Charlene Gasseling, her brother-in-law, Andrew Sutton, her sister-in-law, JoAnn Sutton, her son-in-law Leslie Warren, and her 2 great-grandsons, Austin and Aaron Sutton.

Survivors include her daughters, Cynthia (Carl Shaw) Sutton of Alliance, Cassie Jo (Will Fritzler) Warren of Alliance and Christina (Richard) Lotton of Sidney, NE, her six grandchildren, Rachelle (Bill) Sutton-Corbett, Gary Jr, Eric, Zachary, Jesse and Joelyann and her six great-grandchildren, Hailey, Jaxon, AnaBella, Jocelyn, Ainslee and Kru. She is also survived by her brother, Kenneth (Jeannette) Anderson of Chadron, her sisters, Kathleen (Paul) Wolvington of Chadron and Judith Anderson of Aurora, NE-, her sisters-in-law, Nancy (Robert) White Eyes, Susie (Sutton) Porcupine, Carol Sutton, brother-in-law Bill and (Sandy) Wounded Arrow and long-time friend, Tom Sherlock.

A wake service will be Thursday, Feb. 11 at 7:00 p.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church.&nbsp; A Memorial Mass will be Friday, February 12 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Church with Father Todd Philipsen officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Memorials may be given in Mary Anne’s name to the Wounded Warrior Project.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612901308248.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mary Anne Sutton was born April 11, 1946 in Crawford, NE to Charles H. and Margaret G. (Piper) Anderson.&nbsp;Mary Anne grew up on the family farm near Squaw Mound outside of Crawford, NE.&nbsp; Mary Anne grew up with 5 siblings.&nbsp; She attended country school and later graduated from Crawford High School.&nbsp; After high school Mary Anne attended nursing school in Alliance.&nbsp; She became a LPN where she felt she could get the most fulfillment in helping others.&nbsp; Mary Anne’s nursing career included assisting in surgery, pediatrics and maternity at St. Joseph’s Hospital until it closed in the 1980’s.&nbsp; Mary Anne then used her nursing training to provide private nursing care for several years until she worked as a charge nurse at Good Samaritan Village and later at Hemingford Community Care Center up to 2011.&nbsp; She then retired after 44 years of nursing.After agreeing to a blind date that led to several fun-filled moments Mary Anne accepted the proposal from the love of her life, Peter John Sutton.&nbsp; They were married on December 30, 1967.&nbsp; Mary Anne and Pete were blessed with 3 daughters, Cynthia Sutton, Cassie Jo (Sutton) Warren and Christina (Sutton) Lotton.&nbsp; They also had 6 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.&nbsp;In her free time Mary Anne would be a regular at Bingo whether it be at the Catholic Church, the Legion Hall, Eagles Club or VFW.&nbsp; Their weekends were spent watching Husker football on Saturday and cheering the Chicago Bears on Sundays.&nbsp; But her favorite time was spent with family, whether it was time at the house around the dining table or in the Black Hills of South Dakota.&nbsp; This included the annual Sturgis week with their grandkids.In their retirement Mary Anne and Pete became well known patrons at the casinos in Deadwood, SD. After a joyful and fulfilling life of 51 years with her husband, Mary Anne passed away on February 8, 2021 in her home surrounded by her family.Mary Anne was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her brother, James Anderson, her sister, Charlene Gasseling, her brother-in-law, Andrew Sutton, her sister-in-law, JoAnn Sutton, her son-in-law Leslie Warren, and her 2 great-grandsons, Austin and Aaron Sutton.Survivors include her daughters, Cynthia (Carl Shaw) Sutton of Alliance, Cassie Jo (Will Fritzler) Warren of Alliance and Christina (Richard) Lotton of Sidney, NE, her six grandchildren, Rachelle (Bill) Sutton-Corbett, Gary Jr, Eric, Zachary, Jesse and Joelyann and her six great-grandchildren, Hailey, Jaxon, AnaBella, Jocelyn, Ainslee and Kru. She is also survived by her brother, Kenneth (Jeannette) Anderson of Chadron, her sisters, Kathleen (Paul) Wolvington of Chadron and Judith Anderson of Aurora, NE-, her sisters-in-law, Nancy (Robert) White Eyes, Susie (Sutton) Porcupine, Carol Sutton, brother-in-law Bill and (Sandy) Wounded Arrow and long-time friend, Tom Sherlock.A wake service will be Thursday, Feb. 11 at 7:00 p.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church.&nbsp; A Memorial Mass will be Friday, February 12 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Church with Father Todd Philipsen officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be in Calvary Cemetery.Memorials may be given in Mary Anne’s name to the Wounded Warrior Project.Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.

Mary Anne Sutton (1946 - 2021)

A memorial service for Gene Kriz will be held on Saturday, July 24, 2021 at 10:00 AM at St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Chadron, Nebraska with Father Todd Philipsen officiating. A rosary will be held on Friday, July 23, 2021 at 7:00 PM at St Patrick’s Catholic Church. Burial will follow the memorial service at the Calvary Cemetery in Chadron, Nebraska.

Gene passed away on February 7, 2021 at the Chadron Community Hospital.

Mr. Kriz was born on July 26, 1934 in Hemingford, Nebraska.

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

Chamberlain Chapel of Chadron, Nebraska is in charge of arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612892481027.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A memorial service for Gene Kriz will be held on Saturday, July 24, 2021 at 10:00 AM at St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Chadron, Nebraska with Father Todd Philipsen officiating. A rosary will be held on Friday, July 23, 2021 at 7:00 PM at St Patrick’s Catholic Church. Burial will follow the memorial service at the Calvary Cemetery in Chadron, Nebraska.Gene passed away on February 7, 2021 at the Chadron Community Hospital.Mr. Kriz was born on July 26, 1934 in Hemingford, Nebraska.He was 86.A memorial has been established for the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department. Donations can be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE 69337.Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.comChamberlain Chapel of Chadron, Nebraska is in charge of arrangements.

Gene Kriz (1934 - 2021)

Wanda Lucille Pettipiece, 83, of Salem, Oregon passed away at the Rosewood Court in Salem, Oregon on Friday,&nbsp; February 5, 2021.

Wanda was born March 10, 1937 to Clarence and Vivian Pettipiece at their home in Diamond Springs, California.

&nbsp;In 1942 she moved with her family to Nebraska.&nbsp; The gold mine where her father, Clarence, worked was ordered closed by the government so the miners could be sent to essential mines such as copper and silver for the World War II war effort.&nbsp; The family moved to a farm which included Squaw Mound.&nbsp; They had purchased the farm and moved April 1943 as Clarence could transfer from mining to farming.&nbsp;

Wanda attended district #66 country school, but she did so well in school that she skipped a grade and ending up being in the same grade as her brother, Jerry.&nbsp; Wanda always wanted to be a teacher and she taught her two younger sisters before they started school.

She graduated from Crawford high school at the age of sixteen and started teaching in September after attending Chadron Teacher’s College for just one summer.&nbsp;

She eventually gave up teaching to help her brother, Clayton and family with their young children, Kim and Jay while Clayton finished medical school in Omaha, Nebraska.&nbsp; Wanda worked for Bell telephone in Omaha, Nebraska for five years and was able to help both Juanita and Mary Jane obtain temporary jobs there before they continued their career training.&nbsp; Later Wanda returned to teach with her mother, Vivian, in Marsland, Nebraska and afterward in Belmont, Nebraska for two years.&nbsp; After that she moved to California to help her brother Kenneth and his wife when Joel and Cynkay were young.&nbsp;

Wanda returned to Nebraska to help her mother, Vivian, after Vivian’s heart attack.&nbsp; After Vivian’s recovery, Wanda moved to Spokane, Washington where she ran a daycare center.&nbsp; It was there that she met Lana Kennedy and children.&nbsp; Wanda became foster mother to Lana’s children, Chris and Delilah Kennedy when Lana could not take care of them.&nbsp; Wanda and the Kennedys moved to Salem, Oregon where Wanda worked as a clerk at the Marion County animal rescue clinic until she retired.&nbsp; She took care of her mother, Vivian, from 1992-until Vivian’s death in March, 2002. Wanda provided loving care of her foster grandson, Jude after his birth in 2003.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wanda will be remembered for her love of children and pets and the importance she gave to relatives and friends.&nbsp; Wanda was a member of Northgate Wesleyan Methodist Church Salem, Oregon. She made her commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ when she was young and her faith was very important to her.&nbsp;

Wanda leaves to mourn her passing, foster daughter, Delilah Kennedy and foster son, Chris Kennedy as well as foster grandson, Jude.&nbsp; Her sisters, Juanita Voohees, Mary Jane (Tom) Augustine and brothers, Duane (Carrol) Pettipiece and Jerry (Edith) Pettipiece.&nbsp; Many nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends and former students.&nbsp; Wanda was preceded in death by her parents Clarence and Vivian Pettipiece and her two brothers, Clayton and Kenneth and one nephew, David Pettipiece and two great nephews David Betten and Casey Adams.&nbsp;

Celebration of life services will be held at Northgate Wesleyan Methodist Church 2405 Carleton Way NE Salem, Oregon on March12 at 11:00 am with Pastor Dane Gjesdal officiating.&nbsp;

Graveside services will be at Greenwood Cemetery Chadron, Nebraska so Wanda can be buried beside her parents, Clarence and Vivian Pettipiece. Planned graveside services are for Saturday, February 20 at 11:00 am.&nbsp;

Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or your favorite charity through Chamberlain Chapel Chadron, Nebraska or Virgil T. Golden Mortuary&nbsp;605 Commercial St SE Salem, Oregon 97301

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612818965645.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Wanda Lucille Pettipiece, 83, of Salem, Oregon passed away at the Rosewood Court in Salem, Oregon on Friday,&nbsp; February 5, 2021.Wanda was born March 10, 1937 to Clarence and Vivian Pettipiece at their home in Diamond Springs, California.&nbsp;In 1942 she moved with her family to Nebraska.&nbsp; The gold mine where her father, Clarence, worked was ordered closed by the government so the miners could be sent to essential mines such as copper and silver for the World War II war effort.&nbsp; The family moved to a farm which included Squaw Mound.&nbsp; They had purchased the farm and moved April 1943 as Clarence could transfer from mining to farming.&nbsp;Wanda attended district #66 country school, but she did so well in school that she skipped a grade and ending up being in the same grade as her brother, Jerry.&nbsp; Wanda always wanted to be a teacher and she taught her two younger sisters before they started school.She graduated from Crawford high school at the age of sixteen and started teaching in September after attending Chadron Teacher’s College for just one summer.&nbsp;She eventually gave up teaching to help her brother, Clayton and family with their young children, Kim and Jay while Clayton finished medical school in Omaha, Nebraska.&nbsp; Wanda worked for Bell telephone in Omaha, Nebraska for five years and was able to help both Juanita and Mary Jane obtain temporary jobs there before they continued their career training.&nbsp; Later Wanda returned to teach with her mother, Vivian, in Marsland, Nebraska and afterward in Belmont, Nebraska for two years.&nbsp; After that she moved to California to help her brother Kenneth and his wife when Joel and Cynkay were young.&nbsp;Wanda returned to Nebraska to help her mother, Vivian, after Vivian’s heart attack.&nbsp; After Vivian’s recovery, Wanda moved to Spokane, Washington where she ran a daycare center.&nbsp; It was there that she met Lana Kennedy and children.&nbsp; Wanda became foster mother to Lana’s children, Chris and Delilah Kennedy when Lana could not take care of them.&nbsp; Wanda and the Kennedys moved to Salem, Oregon where Wanda worked as a clerk at the Marion County animal rescue clinic until she retired.&nbsp; She took care of her mother, Vivian, from 1992-until Vivian’s death in March, 2002. Wanda provided loving care of her foster grandson, Jude after his birth in 2003.&nbsp;&nbsp;Wanda will be remembered for her love of children and pets and the importance she gave to relatives and friends.&nbsp; Wanda was a member of Northgate Wesleyan Methodist Church Salem, Oregon. She made her commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ when she was young and her faith was very important to her.&nbsp;Wanda leaves to mourn her passing, foster daughter, Delilah Kennedy and foster son, Chris Kennedy as well as foster grandson, Jude.&nbsp; Her sisters, Juanita Voohees, Mary Jane (Tom) Augustine and brothers, Duane (Carrol) Pettipiece and Jerry (Edith) Pettipiece.&nbsp; Many nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends and former students.&nbsp; Wanda was preceded in death by her parents Clarence and Vivian Pettipiece and her two brothers, Clayton and Kenneth and one nephew, David Pettipiece and two great nephews David Betten and Casey Adams.&nbsp;Celebration of life services will be held at Northgate Wesleyan Methodist Church 2405 Carleton Way NE Salem, Oregon on March12 at 11:00 am with Pastor Dane Gjesdal officiating.&nbsp;Graveside services will be at Greenwood Cemetery Chadron, Nebraska so Wanda can be buried beside her parents, Clarence and Vivian Pettipiece. Planned graveside services are for Saturday, February 20 at 11:00 am.&nbsp;Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or your favorite charity through Chamberlain Chapel Chadron, Nebraska or Virgil T. Golden Mortuary&nbsp;605 Commercial St SE Salem, Oregon 97301

Wanda Lucille Pettipiece (1937 - 2021)

Leon Christopher Ackerman, 87, passed away Friday, February 5, 2021 at his rural Alliance home.

He was born June 28, 1933 on the family farm northeast of Alliance to Christopher and Minnie (Fraedrich) Ackerman. Leon served in the U.S. Army from November 1953 to November 1955.&nbsp; Following his honorable discharge he returned to Alliance and continued in his lifelong career of farming.

On March 1, 1957 he was united in marriage to Mary Louise Moran.

He is survived by his children, Sue (Gary) Talkington of Harrisburg, Robert Ackerman and Allan (Alexia) Ackerman of Alliance, his grandchildren, Eric, Christopher, Kole, James, Tallan, Alex, Austin and Allanda, Tanya and Myrranda, and several great-grandchildre.&nbsp; He is also survived by his sister, Edna Mae Covalt of Angora and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his son, William, his granddaughter, Mynette, an infant daughter and his brothers, Dewayne, Harold and Bill Ackerman.&nbsp;

Funeral services will be Tuesday, February 9 at 10:00 a.m. at the Bates-Gould Chapel with Reverend Richard C. Mueller officiating.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be Monday, Feb. 8 from 1-6 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorials may be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital,&nbsp;501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612797268568.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Leon Christopher Ackerman, 87, passed away Friday, February 5, 2021 at his rural Alliance home.He was born June 28, 1933 on the family farm northeast of Alliance to Christopher and Minnie (Fraedrich) Ackerman. Leon served in the U.S. Army from November 1953 to November 1955.&nbsp; Following his honorable discharge he returned to Alliance and continued in his lifelong career of farming.On March 1, 1957 he was united in marriage to Mary Louise Moran.He is survived by his children, Sue (Gary) Talkington of Harrisburg, Robert Ackerman and Allan (Alexia) Ackerman of Alliance, his grandchildren, Eric, Christopher, Kole, James, Tallan, Alex, Austin and Allanda, Tanya and Myrranda, and several great-grandchildre.&nbsp; He is also survived by his sister, Edna Mae Covalt of Angora and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his son, William, his granddaughter, Mynette, an infant daughter and his brothers, Dewayne, Harold and Bill Ackerman.&nbsp;Funeral services will be Tuesday, February 9 at 10:00 a.m. at the Bates-Gould Chapel with Reverend Richard C. Mueller officiating.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be Monday, Feb. 8 from 1-6 p.m. at the funeral home.Memorials may be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital,&nbsp;501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.

Leon Christopher Ackerman (1933 - 2021)

Ramona Requejo, 93, passed away Sunday, January 31, 2021 at her home in Alliance.

She was born February 9, 1927 in St. Joseph, Missouri to Ysabel and Maria Anita (Suarez) Herrera.

On April 28, 1957 she was united in marriage to Manuel Requejo in Alliance, NE.

As a young woman, Ramona worked in the bean, beet and potato fields of Scottsbluff, NE and surrounding area as a farm worker with her family.&nbsp; After her marriage to Manuel she started raising her family.&nbsp; She later worked as a housekeeper and caregiver at St. Joseph’s Hospital and for the Sisters of St. Francis at Marian Residence, which was her favorite job.&nbsp; She also worked at Good Samaritan Village as well as in private residences. Ramona loved spending time with her family, her church and in daily prayer.&nbsp; She enjoyed gardening and took great pride in her embroidery.&nbsp; She was a simple lady with simple tastes.&nbsp; She loved God and her family.

Ramona is survived by her husband, Manuel, her children, Rudy Requejo of Bismarck, ND, Tom (Rhonda) Requejo of Alliance, Gloria Walton of Killian, TX, Angie Trimble of Alliance, Paula (Ken) Durham of Sheridan, WY, Cecilia Requejo and Mary (Mark) Gresens of Alliance, 20 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.&nbsp; She is also survived by her sisters and brothers, Ruth Guerra of Ft. Worth, TX, Areilio Herrera of San Jose, CA, Ebaristo Herrera of New York, Monica Flores of Tacoma, WA, Pete Herrera of Leoti, KS, Tillo Herrera of Martin, SD and Augustine Herrera of Cheyenne, WY and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers and sisters, Frank Herrera, Tony Herrera, Loretta Hernandez, Louie Herrera and Josephine Cano and her sons-in-law, Stan Walton and Kenny Trimble.

Funeral services will be Friday, February 5, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church with Father Todd Philipsen officiating.&nbsp; Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.&nbsp; A wake service will be Thursday, Feb. 4 at 7:00 p.m. at Holy Rosary Church.&nbsp; Visitation will be Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Bates-Gould Funeral Home and continue after 6:00 p.m. at the church.

Memorials may be given to Holy Rosary Catholic Church.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612279204739.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ramona Requejo, 93, passed away Sunday, January 31, 2021 at her home in Alliance.She was born February 9, 1927 in St. Joseph, Missouri to Ysabel and Maria Anita (Suarez) Herrera.On April 28, 1957 she was united in marriage to Manuel Requejo in Alliance, NE.As a young woman, Ramona worked in the bean, beet and potato fields of Scottsbluff, NE and surrounding area as a farm worker with her family.&nbsp; After her marriage to Manuel she started raising her family.&nbsp; She later worked as a housekeeper and caregiver at St. Joseph’s Hospital and for the Sisters of St. Francis at Marian Residence, which was her favorite job.&nbsp; She also worked at Good Samaritan Village as well as in private residences. Ramona loved spending time with her family, her church and in daily prayer.&nbsp; She enjoyed gardening and took great pride in her embroidery.&nbsp; She was a simple lady with simple tastes.&nbsp; She loved God and her family.Ramona is survived by her husband, Manuel, her children, Rudy Requejo of Bismarck, ND, Tom (Rhonda) Requejo of Alliance, Gloria Walton of Killian, TX, Angie Trimble of Alliance, Paula (Ken) Durham of Sheridan, WY, Cecilia Requejo and Mary (Mark) Gresens of Alliance, 20 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.&nbsp; She is also survived by her sisters and brothers, Ruth Guerra of Ft. Worth, TX, Areilio Herrera of San Jose, CA, Ebaristo Herrera of New York, Monica Flores of Tacoma, WA, Pete Herrera of Leoti, KS, Tillo Herrera of Martin, SD and Augustine Herrera of Cheyenne, WY and numerous nieces and nephews.In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers and sisters, Frank Herrera, Tony Herrera, Loretta Hernandez, Louie Herrera and Josephine Cano and her sons-in-law, Stan Walton and Kenny Trimble.Funeral services will be Friday, February 5, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church with Father Todd Philipsen officiating.&nbsp; Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.&nbsp; A wake service will be Thursday, Feb. 4 at 7:00 p.m. at Holy Rosary Church.&nbsp; Visitation will be Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Bates-Gould Funeral Home and continue after 6:00 p.m. at the church.Memorials may be given to Holy Rosary Catholic Church.Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.

Ramona Requejo (1927 - 2021)

The Angels came and took Darleen M. Vogel home on January 27, 2021.

She was born December 12, 1927 in Scottsbluff, NE to Conrad and Elizabeth (Dietrich) Steinbrecker.

She attended Roosevelt Grade School and Scottsbluff High School.&nbsp; She worked at the Swift Packing Company until she met Leonard Vogel and was married to him on April 28, 1946.

They lived in the Bayard and Minatare area and finally settled in the Alliance area in 1955 where they actively engaged in farming.&nbsp; Darleen raised a huge garden to feed their 6 children and various nephews throughout the years.&nbsp; Darleen was known for her homemade salsa and potato salad.&nbsp; She loved to read, loved garage sales and the casino, but Darleen’s greatest joy was when children and families gathered around her table.

She is survived by her 6 children, Vern and Marcia Vogel of Alliance, Vikki and Gary Bolek of Hemingford, Cheryl Neafus of Lincoln, Steve Vogel of Alliance, Keith and Jo Vogel of Lakeside and Lori Vogel of Lincoln.&nbsp; She is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.&nbsp; Survivors also include her brother, William (Bill) Steinbrecker of Junction City, KS and numerous sisters and brothers-in-law.&nbsp;

In addition to her parents, Darleen was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard Vogel, her step-father, Alex Meter and her sister, Esther Harimon.

Due to Covid concerns, private family services will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be given to Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran School,&nbsp;P.O. Box 715, Alliance, NE&nbsp; 69301.

Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611943482151.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Angels came and took Darleen M. Vogel home on January 27, 2021.She was born December 12, 1927 in Scottsbluff, NE to Conrad and Elizabeth (Dietrich) Steinbrecker.She attended Roosevelt Grade School and Scottsbluff High School.&nbsp; She worked at the Swift Packing Company until she met Leonard Vogel and was married to him on April 28, 1946.They lived in the Bayard and Minatare area and finally settled in the Alliance area in 1955 where they actively engaged in farming.&nbsp; Darleen raised a huge garden to feed their 6 children and various nephews throughout the years.&nbsp; Darleen was known for her homemade salsa and potato salad.&nbsp; She loved to read, loved garage sales and the casino, but Darleen’s greatest joy was when children and families gathered around her table.She is survived by her 6 children, Vern and Marcia Vogel of Alliance, Vikki and Gary Bolek of Hemingford, Cheryl Neafus of Lincoln, Steve Vogel of Alliance, Keith and Jo Vogel of Lakeside and Lori Vogel of Lincoln.&nbsp; She is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.&nbsp; Survivors also include her brother, William (Bill) Steinbrecker of Junction City, KS and numerous sisters and brothers-in-law.&nbsp;In addition to her parents, Darleen was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard Vogel, her step-father, Alex Meter and her sister, Esther Harimon.Due to Covid concerns, private family services will be held at a later date.Memorials may be given to Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran School,&nbsp;P.O. Box 715, Alliance, NE&nbsp; 69301.Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com

Darleen M. Vogel (1927 - 2021)

Daniel L. Knaub was born December 11, 1946 and passed away January 11, 2021 in Denver, CO.&nbsp; He is under the care of Gering Memorial Chapel.

 Memorial Service will be held on January 29, 2021 at 1:00 pm at Gering Memorial Chapel, 1755 11th Street, Gering, Nebraska.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611853352829.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Daniel L. Knaub was born December 11, 1946 and passed away January 11, 2021 in Denver, CO.&nbsp; He is under the care of Gering Memorial Chapel. Memorial Service will be held on January 29, 2021 at 1:00 pm at Gering Memorial Chapel, 1755 11th Street, Gering, Nebraska.

Daniel L. Knaub (1946 - 2021)

Mervin Whipple, age 69, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, passed away unexpectedly on January 21, 2021. His journey in life started in Rosebud, South Dakota, on November 6, 1951. He married the love of his life, Martha, in 1975. The couple settled in Weslaco, Texas, in the 1980’s, where they raised their two daughters, Christina and Cassandra. They later planted their roots back in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, in the mid 1990’s due to Mervin’s health condition.

Mervin was an enrolled member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe and took pride in his Native American Heritage. He grew up with a natural talent for fixing and creating things. Mervin was known as the “Master Mechanic;” there was not anything he couldn’t do with vehicles. He had a passion for working on vehicles and helping others in any way he could. Mervin was a generous and humble man with a servant’s heart. He felt privileged to take care of his wife to her last breath by exemplifying the full extent of his love and commitment. His pride and joy, above all else, was in his daughters and his grandchildren. He enjoyed every chance to spend time with them in any setting and at any given time.

Family and friends will gather on Friday, January 29th, from 4-7 p.m. to see him one last time before he is laid to rest at Dugan Kramer Funeral Home. A rosary service will proceed at 7 p.m. after the viewing period. Mervin’s funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 30, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. He will be laid to rest at the Fairview Cemetery immediately following his funeral service.

Mervin is survived by his beloved daughters: Christina (&amp; James) Gonzales and Cassandra Benitez; his treasured grandchildren: James Benitez III, Alexus Benitez, Josiah Gonzales, Christian Gonzales, Logan Benitez and Ace Benitez; his brothers, Schuyler (&amp; Shirley) Dawn, Lavern (&amp; Louise) Whipple; his beloved sister-Delores (&amp; Ignacio) Robles; his cherished cousin Rachel (&amp; Bill) McCloskey; his nieces, nephews and godchildren; and his favorite (four-legged) child, Lincoln.

He was greeted in Heaven by the love of his life, his wife, Martha Whipple and his mother (Delores Kills In Water), his father (Benjamin Kills In Water), and his beloved sisters (Belinda, Farris and Meredith Kills In Water).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611852906117.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mervin Whipple, age 69, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, passed away unexpectedly on January 21, 2021. His journey in life started in Rosebud, South Dakota, on November 6, 1951. He married the love of his life, Martha, in 1975. The couple settled in Weslaco, Texas, in the 1980’s, where they raised their two daughters, Christina and Cassandra. They later planted their roots back in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, in the mid 1990’s due to Mervin’s health condition.Mervin was an enrolled member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe and took pride in his Native American Heritage. He grew up with a natural talent for fixing and creating things. Mervin was known as the “Master Mechanic;” there was not anything he couldn’t do with vehicles. He had a passion for working on vehicles and helping others in any way he could. Mervin was a generous and humble man with a servant’s heart. He felt privileged to take care of his wife to her last breath by exemplifying the full extent of his love and commitment. His pride and joy, above all else, was in his daughters and his grandchildren. He enjoyed every chance to spend time with them in any setting and at any given time.Family and friends will gather on Friday, January 29th, from 4-7 p.m. to see him one last time before he is laid to rest at Dugan Kramer Funeral Home. A rosary service will proceed at 7 p.m. after the viewing period. Mervin’s funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 30, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. He will be laid to rest at the Fairview Cemetery immediately following his funeral service.Mervin is survived by his beloved daughters: Christina (&amp; James) Gonzales and Cassandra Benitez; his treasured grandchildren: James Benitez III, Alexus Benitez, Josiah Gonzales, Christian Gonzales, Logan Benitez and Ace Benitez; his brothers, Schuyler (&amp; Shirley) Dawn, Lavern (&amp; Louise) Whipple; his beloved sister-Delores (&amp; Ignacio) Robles; his cherished cousin Rachel (&amp; Bill) McCloskey; his nieces, nephews and godchildren; and his favorite (four-legged) child, Lincoln.He was greeted in Heaven by the love of his life, his wife, Martha Whipple and his mother (Delores Kills In Water), his father (Benjamin Kills In Water), and his beloved sisters (Belinda, Farris and Meredith Kills In Water).

Mervin Whipple (1951 - 2021)

&nbsp;Debra Herman Godboldt, 66, passed away suddenly Monday, January 25, 2021, at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff. Cremation has taken place and her memorial service will be held 10:00 a.m., Friday, January 29, 2021, at Calvary Memorial Church in Gering with Pastor Gary Hashley officiating. Online condolences may be made by visiting Debra’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Debbie was born October 3, 1954, in Denver, Colorado. She graduated from the Scottsbluff High School. She lived in Denver for several years and had moved back to Scottsbluff several years ago. She spent a lot of time putting recipes online and was always trying new recipes. She loved to cook. Debbie always had family dinners for special occasions and holidays. She was always going to garage sales and auctions. Her family meant everything to her. If anyone needed anything, she was the person to call, especially for a babysitter. The children in the family always had a special place in her heart. Survivors include her life partner, Bob Mowry; sons, Shane (Gina) Rajewich and Dennis Godboldt; grandson, Val Rajewich; mother, Tina Herman; sisters Melody Wiggs of Omaha and Cindy (Angel) Herman of Denver; brother, Troy (Denise) of Gering; special niece, McKenna Sullivan of Omaha; and special cousin, Ed Townsdin and family of Gering. She was preceded in death by her father, Tellford Herman; and special aunt, Leta Bauer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611852684324.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Debra Herman Godboldt, 66, passed away suddenly Monday, January 25, 2021, at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff. Cremation has taken place and her memorial service will be held 10:00 a.m., Friday, January 29, 2021, at Calvary Memorial Church in Gering with Pastor Gary Hashley officiating. Online condolences may be made by visiting Debra’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Debbie was born October 3, 1954, in Denver, Colorado. She graduated from the Scottsbluff High School. She lived in Denver for several years and had moved back to Scottsbluff several years ago. She spent a lot of time putting recipes online and was always trying new recipes. She loved to cook. Debbie always had family dinners for special occasions and holidays. She was always going to garage sales and auctions. Her family meant everything to her. If anyone needed anything, she was the person to call, especially for a babysitter. The children in the family always had a special place in her heart. Survivors include her life partner, Bob Mowry; sons, Shane (Gina) Rajewich and Dennis Godboldt; grandson, Val Rajewich; mother, Tina Herman; sisters Melody Wiggs of Omaha and Cindy (Angel) Herman of Denver; brother, Troy (Denise) of Gering; special niece, McKenna Sullivan of Omaha; and special cousin, Ed Townsdin and family of Gering. She was preceded in death by her father, Tellford Herman; and special aunt, Leta Bauer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Debra Herman Godboldt (1954 - 2021)

Bryan Lee Brost, 79, of Lusk died Dec. 14 from COVID-19.

He was born in Alliance, Neb. Feb. 2, 1941. The son of Christy Brost and Ruth Hutchinson Brost, Bryan was raised with his six brothers and two sisters in Lusk and Alliance, Neb. He graduated from Alliance High School in 1959 and joined the Peace Corps in 1964, where he traveled to Iran to assist with agricultural development.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611852072916.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Bryan Lee Brost, 79, of Lusk died Dec. 14 from COVID-19.He was born in Alliance, Neb. Feb. 2, 1941. The son of Christy Brost and Ruth Hutchinson Brost, Bryan was raised with his six brothers and two sisters in Lusk and Alliance, Neb. He graduated from Alliance High School in 1959 and joined the Peace Corps in 1964, where he traveled to Iran to assist with agricultural development.&nbsp;He graduated from Chadron State College in 1967 with a Bachelor Degree in Education. He then taught high school and middle school science and math in Bridgeport, Neb., and Sheridan. In 1970, he spent six months traveling and substitute teaching in Brazil. His greatest adventure during that time was traveling into the jungles by boat up the Amazon and the Rio Negro and its tributaries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bryan married Kate Peters in 1972 in Custer, S.D., and settled on the family farm near Alliance, Neb., where they raised wheat, cattle and seven children together. In 1979, Bryan, along with his father and three of his brothers, purchased the Box X ranch outside of Lusk, where the family had lived when he was born. Bryan and his family managed the Nebraska farm and the Wyoming ranch for more than 20 years. During that time, Bryan also enjoyed teaching math and science at Alliance Middle School. In 1999, Bryan and Kate moved to Lusk, where he continued ranching and she taught elementary school in Lance Creek.&nbsp;Bryan and Kate ranched, taught and enjoyed time with their seven children and 15 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Bryan loved his immediate and extended family immensely. He attended every event he could – not only for his children and grandchildren but also for his siblings, nieces and nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and countless cousins near and far.&nbsp;Bryan died from COVID-19 at Cheyenne Regional Hospital. He is survived by his wife, Kate, of Lusk; daughters, Heather Adams of Cheyenne, Calla Canaday of Lusk, Amanda Brost (Jim Barnes) of Douglas, Bridget Parker (Greg) of Fort Collins, Colo., Elizabeth Brost (Tony Rossi) of San Diego, Calif., and Gretchen Greer (Jim) of Cheyenne; son, Seth Brost (Ryan) of Laramie; grandchildren Sabrina, Lily, Gavin, Timber, Liberty, Tristan, Evelyn, Grayson, Piper, Calvin, Beckham, Hutchinson and Logan; great-grandchildren, Reyner and Ruby; one sister and two brothers. He is preceded in death by his parents, four brothers and one sister. A private cremation was provided in Cheyenne.&nbsp;A gathering of family and friends to honor Bryan will be held at a later date. Please follow or like the Facebook group “Bryan Brost Memorial” for more information on this event.

Obituaries