Memorial service for Jason Patrick Cisneros will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2020 at 10:00 AM at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Chadron, Nebraska. Jason passed away on September 18, 2020 at his home in Chadron, Nebraska.

Jason was born on January 23, 1974 in Chadron Nebraska. He graduated from Chadron High School and received an Associates Degree in Architectural Engineering in Omaha-Lincoln, Nebraska. His career allowed him to travel in and out of the United States.

Jason is survived by his four sisters: AnJanette Victoria, Lisa Kathleen, Alisha Marie, and Karissa Antoinette; numerous nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, maternal grandmother Betty Fletcher, and his mother Wanda M. Cisneros.

Jason is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents John and Mary Cisneros, his maternal grandfather Erwin “Bud” E. Fletcher, niece Brianna Faith Fisher, and his brother Brian Philip Cisneros.

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.com

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601910325445.jpeg" alt="Jason Cisneros.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Jason Cisneros.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Memorial service for Jason Patrick Cisneros will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2020 at 10:00 AM at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Chadron, Nebraska. Jason passed away on September 18, 2020 at his home in Chadron, Nebraska.Jason was born on January 23, 1974 in Chadron Nebraska. He graduated from Chadron High School and received an Associates Degree in Architectural Engineering in Omaha-Lincoln, Nebraska. His career allowed him to travel in and out of the United States.Jason is survived by his four sisters: AnJanette Victoria, Lisa Kathleen, Alisha Marie, and Karissa Antoinette; numerous nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, maternal grandmother Betty Fletcher, and his mother Wanda M. Cisneros.Jason is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents John and Mary Cisneros, his maternal grandfather Erwin “Bud” E. Fletcher, niece Brianna Faith Fisher, and his brother Brian Philip Cisneros.Safe journey my son!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, NE is in charge of arrangements.

Jason Patrick Cisneros (1974 - 2020)

Clyde Merle Hayward, 94, of Hyannis Nebraska departed this life on September 30, 2020 in Alliance Nebraska.

Merle was born in Hyannis on June 18th, 1926 to Clyde Chester Ole and Myrtle Ester Matilda (Thorson) Hayward. Merle attended school in Hyannis through his Junior year and attended his Senior year and graduated high school from the Nebraska School of Agriculture in Curtis, Nebraska in 1944.&nbsp; Merle returned home to work the family ranch. He met and married Lucille Ruth (Burton) in 1947 and raised three children: Susan, Bob and Carol. They divorced and he later met and married Della Joan (Jansen/Wakely) in 1968 raising her three children: Lori, Chuck and Stephanie.&nbsp; Together they added a daughter, Holly to the blended family.

In addition to operating a successful cattle ranch and the Hayward TV electronics business Merle lived a life of service and leadership.&nbsp; He was recognized for his various leadership positions in the Nebraska Episcopal Diocese. Merle served many terms on the Boards of Directors for Nebraska School Districts #1, #11 and the Education Service Unit (ESU) District #13.&nbsp; Merle served as Director of the Nebraska Stockgrowers Association/Nebraska Cattlemen’s Association and the Cattlemen’s Research and Education.&nbsp; Merle was a charter member and President of the Grant County Historical Society, and an active member of the Sandhills Chamber of Commerce.

Merle had a great love of the Sandhills and Hyannis community.&nbsp; He provided the audio equipment for local rodeos and parades and maintained the airport lighting throughout the years. He and wife Della were instrumental in building and maintaining the community pool. Merle was regarded as the living archive of Sandhills history. He had a generous heart providing care for his parents, extended family and others in need. Merle was known as a master storyteller with an unending sense of humor.

Merle is survived by his sister Kay (Jim) Soliday of Portland OR; sister-in-law Carol Hayward of Fort Collins, CO and daughters: Holly (Ron) Westemeier of Alliance NE; Susan Hayward of Littleton, CO; Carol Chatfield of Kansas City, MO; step-daughters: Lori McDonald of Fort Collins, CO; Stephanie (Paul) Stroup of Chadron NE and step-son Charles (Pam) Wakely of Palmdale, CA. He is also survived by nine grandchildren: Laura, Jonathan, Natalie, Caitlin, Logan, Reece, Mason, Megan and Willa.&nbsp; Six great-grandchildren: Mitch, Ryan, Trinity, Kinlee, Kavery, and Aviia, and one great-great grandson Dreyden.

Merle was preceded in death by his parents, brother Carl Hayward, brother-in-law Mike Fullan, first wife Lucille and wife Della. Also predeceased by his son Robert N. Hayward, son-in-law Randy Chatfield and granddaughter Sheila Reynders.

The family shares in Merle’s gratitude for everyone’s friendship and role in making his life full and happy.

Funeral service for the family will be held at Calvary Episcopal Church in Hyannis on Friday, October 9th at 2pm. The public is invited to a visitation at Bates-Gould Funeral Chapel in Alliance on Thursday, Oct 8th from 4-7pm. Face covering and no-contact social distancing will be observed. Graveside service is also open to the public at the Hyannis Cemetery on Friday, Oct 8th at 3pm.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Calvary Episcopal Church,&nbsp;P.O. Box 80, Hyannis, NE, 69350&nbsp;in Merle’s honor.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601906808435.jpeg" alt="Merle Hayward.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Merle Hayward.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Clyde Merle Hayward, 94, of Hyannis Nebraska departed this life on September 30, 2020 in Alliance Nebraska.Merle was born in Hyannis on June 18th, 1926 to Clyde Chester Ole and Myrtle Ester Matilda (Thorson) Hayward. Merle attended school in Hyannis through his Junior year and attended his Senior year and graduated high school from the Nebraska School of Agriculture in Curtis, Nebraska in 1944.&nbsp; Merle returned home to work the family ranch. He met and married Lucille Ruth (Burton) in 1947 and raised three children: Susan, Bob and Carol. They divorced and he later met and married Della Joan (Jansen/Wakely) in 1968 raising her three children: Lori, Chuck and Stephanie.&nbsp; Together they added a daughter, Holly to the blended family.In addition to operating a successful cattle ranch and the Hayward TV electronics business Merle lived a life of service and leadership.&nbsp; He was recognized for his various leadership positions in the Nebraska Episcopal Diocese. Merle served many terms on the Boards of Directors for Nebraska School Districts #1, #11 and the Education Service Unit (ESU) District #13.&nbsp; Merle served as Director of the Nebraska Stockgrowers Association/Nebraska Cattlemen’s Association and the Cattlemen’s Research and Education.&nbsp; Merle was a charter member and President of the Grant County Historical Society, and an active member of the Sandhills Chamber of Commerce.Merle had a great love of the Sandhills and Hyannis community.&nbsp; He provided the audio equipment for local rodeos and parades and maintained the airport lighting throughout the years. He and wife Della were instrumental in building and maintaining the community pool. Merle was regarded as the living archive of Sandhills history. He had a generous heart providing care for his parents, extended family and others in need. Merle was known as a master storyteller with an unending sense of humor.Merle is survived by his sister Kay (Jim) Soliday of Portland OR; sister-in-law Carol Hayward of Fort Collins, CO and daughters: Holly (Ron) Westemeier of Alliance NE; Susan Hayward of Littleton, CO; Carol Chatfield of Kansas City, MO; step-daughters: Lori McDonald of Fort Collins, CO; Stephanie (Paul) Stroup of Chadron NE and step-son Charles (Pam) Wakely of Palmdale, CA. He is also survived by nine grandchildren: Laura, Jonathan, Natalie, Caitlin, Logan, Reece, Mason, Megan and Willa.&nbsp; Six great-grandchildren: Mitch, Ryan, Trinity, Kinlee, Kavery, and Aviia, and one great-great grandson Dreyden.Merle was preceded in death by his parents, brother Carl Hayward, brother-in-law Mike Fullan, first wife Lucille and wife Della. Also predeceased by his son Robert N. Hayward, son-in-law Randy Chatfield and granddaughter Sheila Reynders.The family shares in Merle’s gratitude for everyone’s friendship and role in making his life full and happy.Funeral service for the family will be held at Calvary Episcopal Church in Hyannis on Friday, October 9th at 2pm. The public is invited to a visitation at Bates-Gould Funeral Chapel in Alliance on Thursday, Oct 8th from 4-7pm. Face covering and no-contact social distancing will be observed. Graveside service is also open to the public at the Hyannis Cemetery on Friday, Oct 8th at 3pm.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Calvary Episcopal Church,&nbsp;P.O. Box 80, Hyannis, NE, 69350&nbsp;in Merle’s honor.&nbsp;

Clyde Merle Hayward (1926 - 2020)

Robert Johns, 69, passed away Monday, September 28, 2020 at his rural Alliance home with his family by his side.

Robert Dean Johns was born on July 27, 1951 in Scottsbluff, NE to Walter Howard and Sue Grace (Horner) Johns. He graduated from Melbeta High School, where he found his love of football and basketball. He married June Ellen Lewis in Keenesburg, Colorado July 27, 1969. They were married for 21 years. Later in life, he married Lisa Ann Fisher in Alliance Nebraska on February 14, 1993.

Robert was a carpenter, carpet layer, and builder. Always using his hands, he worked for Magnolia Homes Mobile Home Company in the finishing department in Scottsbluff Nebraska and Fort Morgan Colorado. He eventually hired on the railroad and retired as a carman.

He was known by many as having the biggest heart a person can have. If he believed in something, he was committed and invested. He enjoyed a good game of pool, ping pong, chess, cribbage, and the long form table top game of Axis and Allies. He was an avid basketball player, fan, and teacher of the sport. He was a lover of nature and enjoyed hunting, planting trees, and bird watching. Robert also liked to express his love of music by singing and playing guitar. Everything he did, he did at 110%. He even accomplished building his own house by hand, and hand digging a basement to pour the concrete for his indoor basketball court. He was very kind and utilized his favorite catch phrases, such as; “You blow me away,” “ Yo cocoa Mo,” “ Am I right or am I right?” and, “Hello, is this the rich and famous.” His personality always shined and showed charisma, and he would ask everywhere he went, “Can I get a bag of Ben Franklins with that?” He will be well missed by all who loved and cared for him.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Howard and Sue Grace (Horner) Johns.

He is also survived by his brothers, Leroy (Karen) Johns of Keenesburg, CO and Rodney Johns of Alliance.

He is survived by his children, Tracy Lynn (Johns) Pate of Moyock, NC, Sandi Renay (Johns) Blankenship of Alliance and Tanner Johns of Rapid City, SD, his grandchildren, Kindra Moore, Saige Benton, Tasia Sanderson, Hunter Sanderson, Brigitte Blankenship, Wyatt Blankenship, Kobee Blankenship, Taven Pate, Adrian Pate and Amanda Anderson and his great-granddaughter, Willow Bowman. .

Graveside services will be Thursday, October 1 at 2:00 p.m. at Creighton Valley Cemetery near Melbeta, NE. The Reverend Walter Cline will officiate. Following, there will be a luncheon at Melbeta City Park. All are welcome to come.

Memorials may be sent in care of the family for a later designation.&nbsp; They may be sent to Sandi Blankenship,&nbsp;1203 Arthur Lane, Alliance, NE&nbsp; 69301.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601480400051.jpeg" alt="Bob Johns.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Bob Johns.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Robert Johns, 69, passed away Monday, September 28, 2020 at his rural Alliance home with his family by his side.Robert Dean Johns was born on July 27, 1951 in Scottsbluff, NE to Walter Howard and Sue Grace (Horner) Johns. He graduated from Melbeta High School, where he found his love of football and basketball. He married June Ellen Lewis in Keenesburg, Colorado July 27, 1969. They were married for 21 years. Later in life, he married Lisa Ann Fisher in Alliance Nebraska on February 14, 1993.Robert was a carpenter, carpet layer, and builder. Always using his hands, he worked for Magnolia Homes Mobile Home Company in the finishing department in Scottsbluff Nebraska and Fort Morgan Colorado. He eventually hired on the railroad and retired as a carman.He was known by many as having the biggest heart a person can have. If he believed in something, he was committed and invested. He enjoyed a good game of pool, ping pong, chess, cribbage, and the long form table top game of Axis and Allies. He was an avid basketball player, fan, and teacher of the sport. He was a lover of nature and enjoyed hunting, planting trees, and bird watching. Robert also liked to express his love of music by singing and playing guitar. Everything he did, he did at 110%. He even accomplished building his own house by hand, and hand digging a basement to pour the concrete for his indoor basketball court. He was very kind and utilized his favorite catch phrases, such as; “You blow me away,” “ Yo cocoa Mo,” “ Am I right or am I right?” and, “Hello, is this the rich and famous.” His personality always shined and showed charisma, and he would ask everywhere he went, “Can I get a bag of Ben Franklins with that?” He will be well missed by all who loved and cared for him.Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Howard and Sue Grace (Horner) Johns.He is also survived by his brothers, Leroy (Karen) Johns of Keenesburg, CO and Rodney Johns of Alliance.He is survived by his children, Tracy Lynn (Johns) Pate of Moyock, NC, Sandi Renay (Johns) Blankenship of Alliance and Tanner Johns of Rapid City, SD, his grandchildren, Kindra Moore, Saige Benton, Tasia Sanderson, Hunter Sanderson, Brigitte Blankenship, Wyatt Blankenship, Kobee Blankenship, Taven Pate, Adrian Pate and Amanda Anderson and his great-granddaughter, Willow Bowman. .Graveside services will be Thursday, October 1 at 2:00 p.m. at Creighton Valley Cemetery near Melbeta, NE. The Reverend Walter Cline will officiate. Following, there will be a luncheon at Melbeta City Park. All are welcome to come.Memorials may be sent in care of the family for a later designation.&nbsp; They may be sent to Sandi Blankenship,&nbsp;1203 Arthur Lane, Alliance, NE&nbsp; 69301.Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com with Bates-Gould Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Robert Johns (1951 - 2020)

A celebration of the life of 99-year old Edith Iola Geary, a life-long resident of Crawford, will take place in the summer of 2021 on one of her favorite holidays, Independence Day.

Online condolences may be made at chamberlainchapel.com.

Edith Iola Geary was the second of eight children born to Raymond and Erva Crile on February 15, 1921, and passed away quietly at her home on September 20, 2020. She.&nbsp;

Edith grew up six miles south of Crawford in a log cabin.

Married twice, she raised seven children on her own and was dedicated to supporting her family, so she worked many jobs. She was a longtime and loyal employee to community member Lloyd Pipher, working at the Frontier Bar and then at his bowling alley.&nbsp;

At these jobs, she may have been known to hustle some pool players. She also stopped an attempted robbery single-handedly, so locals knew not to try anything while she was working.

Edith was active and enjoyed hunting; when she was 55, she took down a bull elk with one shot in Wyoming and proudly displayed the antlers in her home for years.&nbsp;

She also was an avid bowler. Her league team, which included her daughter Vida, even qualified for the state tournament and for National tournaments in Nevada.

Edith was extremely happy volunteering, especially with the VFW Auxiliary, American Legion, and the RSVP. For 44 years she placed a wreath at Crawford Cemetery during the Memorial Day services.

&nbsp;Many hours were spent with her dear friends Opal Hanley and Frances Olbricht at the Hot Springs VA.

Raising seven children on her own, sewing became a necessity. After the children were grown, she utilized those sewing skills making many quilts for her loved ones. She was also skilled in needlepoint embroidering many tea towels and pillow cases.

Edith worked hard in her yard and flower beds, taking considerable pride in her work. She was able to transform her yard from rock and debris into one of the most presentable yards in Crawford. Twice her hard work paid off and she received the Yard Award.

Even into her seventies she wouldn’t slow down and happily worked as a greeter at the Chadron Wal-Mart for over five years.

She was always ready for an adventure and could pack a bag fast if needed. She often enjoyed her son Garry taking her to visit her grandchildren in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and her daughter Billie taking her to Utah.

She was known for her delicious cinnamon rolls, but if you ever stayed overnight with her she would make sure that you were always fed an early hearty breakfast of bacon, eggs, and toast.

In her final years, you could always count on her having her nails done and then playing cards at the Senior Center or Ponderosa Villa, but most importantly, she loved showing off her Christmas tree which stayed decorated year-round.

Edith was preceded in death by her parents Raymond and Erva, siblings, John, Ethel, Dora, Thelma, and George, her husbands Warren Riggs and PFC William Geary, children Vida (Riggs) Anderson, Garry Riggs, and Frank Riggs, grandchildren Terry O’Donnell, Shawn Riggs, and Cindy Kubo and great grandchildren Shandi Cuttlers, and Angelica Cuttlers.

Left to celebrate her life are her sisters Alice (Crile) Richardson and Eva (Crile) Dickman, children Billie Hamar, Betty Calder, Danniece Stull, and Mary Sample, 14 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren, and 22 great-great grandchildren.

Edith was a small lady who left a big imprint on the world. She was a woman who loved her children and grandchildren more than anything.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601474211092.png" alt="Edith-Geary.png" />
 <figcaption>Edith-Geary.png</figcaption>
 </figure>A celebration of the life of 99-year old Edith Iola Geary, a life-long resident of Crawford, will take place in the summer of 2021 on one of her favorite holidays, Independence Day.Online condolences may be made at chamberlainchapel.com.Edith Iola Geary was the second of eight children born to Raymond and Erva Crile on February 15, 1921, and passed away quietly at her home on September 20, 2020. She.&nbsp;Edith grew up six miles south of Crawford in a log cabin.Married twice, she raised seven children on her own and was dedicated to supporting her family, so she worked many jobs. She was a longtime and loyal employee to community member Lloyd Pipher, working at the Frontier Bar and then at his bowling alley.&nbsp;At these jobs, she may have been known to hustle some pool players. She also stopped an attempted robbery single-handedly, so locals knew not to try anything while she was working.Edith was active and enjoyed hunting; when she was 55, she took down a bull elk with one shot in Wyoming and proudly displayed the antlers in her home for years.&nbsp;She also was an avid bowler. Her league team, which included her daughter Vida, even qualified for the state tournament and for National tournaments in Nevada.Edith was extremely happy volunteering, especially with the VFW Auxiliary, American Legion, and the RSVP. For 44 years she placed a wreath at Crawford Cemetery during the Memorial Day services.&nbsp;Many hours were spent with her dear friends Opal Hanley and Frances Olbricht at the Hot Springs VA.Raising seven children on her own, sewing became a necessity. After the children were grown, she utilized those sewing skills making many quilts for her loved ones. She was also skilled in needlepoint embroidering many tea towels and pillow cases.Edith worked hard in her yard and flower beds, taking considerable pride in her work. She was able to transform her yard from rock and debris into one of the most presentable yards in Crawford. Twice her hard work paid off and she received the Yard Award.Even into her seventies she wouldn’t slow down and happily worked as a greeter at the Chadron Wal-Mart for over five years.She was always ready for an adventure and could pack a bag fast if needed. She often enjoyed her son Garry taking her to visit her grandchildren in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and her daughter Billie taking her to Utah.She was known for her delicious cinnamon rolls, but if you ever stayed overnight with her she would make sure that you were always fed an early hearty breakfast of bacon, eggs, and toast.In her final years, you could always count on her having her nails done and then playing cards at the Senior Center or Ponderosa Villa, but most importantly, she loved showing off her Christmas tree which stayed decorated year-round.Edith was preceded in death by her parents Raymond and Erva, siblings, John, Ethel, Dora, Thelma, and George, her husbands Warren Riggs and PFC William Geary, children Vida (Riggs) Anderson, Garry Riggs, and Frank Riggs, grandchildren Terry O’Donnell, Shawn Riggs, and Cindy Kubo and great grandchildren Shandi Cuttlers, and Angelica Cuttlers.Left to celebrate her life are her sisters Alice (Crile) Richardson and Eva (Crile) Dickman, children Billie Hamar, Betty Calder, Danniece Stull, and Mary Sample, 14 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren, and 22 great-great grandchildren.Edith was a small lady who left a big imprint on the world. She was a woman who loved her children and grandchildren more than anything.&nbsp;

Edith Iola Geary (1921 - 2020)



Leona “Onie” Wilkins, age 89, of O’Neill, NE formerly of Hemingford, NE, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Friday, September 25, 2020 at Avera St. Anthony’s Hospital in O’Neill.&nbsp; Onie was born February 4, 1931 in Alliance, Nebraska to Mike and Mary Walters. She attended elementary school at District #40 east of Hemingford near her family’s farm and graduated valedictorian from St. Agnes Academy in Alliance. Following graduation, Onie attended Chadron State College receiving teacher certification. She taught for 9 years in various rural schools in Box Butte County and served on the State Teachers Association Board.

In 1959, she married Wayne Wilkins at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church and they had three daughters, Annette, Mary Pat, and Molly. Onie worked many years for the Superintendent at Hemingford High School. She later worked as the Administrative Assistant to the Dean of Liberal Arts at Chadron State College retiring in 2004.

Onie was a lifelong member of Hemingford St. Bridget’s parish and Altar Society. She served on the Parish Council and taught catechism classes. Her faith was a source of strength and joy. She was an example of Christ’s love and mercy. As leader of the Kute Kookies 4-H Club and member of the Box Butte County 4-H Council, Onie was active in many community service projects. She served as Executive Administrator of the Mari Sandoz Society while employed at CSC. Onie spent her final years in O’Neill, Nebraska, close to her family and grandchildren. Onie enjoyed cooking for her family, travel, gardening, and spending time outdoors in her yard. She will be fondly remembered as a loyal friend and a loving, supportive and caring mother and grandmother.

Onie is survived by her three daughters; Annette (Larry) Mitchell and their son, Michael Mitchell, all of Lincoln, NE, Mary Wilkins and Galen Houseman and their children, Ellen Houseman and Adam Houseman, all of Kalamazoo, MI, Molly (William) Jennings of O’Neill, NE, and their children, Nathaniel Jennings of Albion, MI and Chistopher Jennings of O’Neill; numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Mike and Mary Walters, her siblings Floyd Walters, Edward (Marian Lee) Walters, Alma (Patrick) Walsh, Mary Pat Walters, and John (Carol) Walters.

A Celebration of Life Mass will be held at a later time at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in Hemingford with interment following at the Hemingford Cemetery. Memorials suggested to the Chadron State College Foundation. Biglin’s Mortuary of O’Neill is in charge of arrangements.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601307420282.jpeg" alt="Onie Wilkins.jpeg" />
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Leona “Onie” Wilkins, age 89, of O’Neill, NE formerly of Hemingford, NE, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Friday, September 25, 2020 at Avera St. Anthony’s Hospital in O’Neill.&nbsp; Onie was born February 4, 1931 in Alliance, Nebraska to Mike and Mary Walters. She attended elementary school at District #40 east of Hemingford near her family’s farm and graduated valedictorian from St. Agnes Academy in Alliance. Following graduation, Onie attended Chadron State College receiving teacher certification. She taught for 9 years in various rural schools in Box Butte County and served on the State Teachers Association Board.In 1959, she married Wayne Wilkins at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church and they had three daughters, Annette, Mary Pat, and Molly. Onie worked many years for the Superintendent at Hemingford High School. She later worked as the Administrative Assistant to the Dean of Liberal Arts at Chadron State College retiring in 2004.Onie was a lifelong member of Hemingford St. Bridget’s parish and Altar Society. She served on the Parish Council and taught catechism classes. Her faith was a source of strength and joy. She was an example of Christ’s love and mercy. As leader of the Kute Kookies 4-H Club and member of the Box Butte County 4-H Council, Onie was active in many community service projects. She served as Executive Administrator of the Mari Sandoz Society while employed at CSC. Onie spent her final years in O’Neill, Nebraska, close to her family and grandchildren. Onie enjoyed cooking for her family, travel, gardening, and spending time outdoors in her yard. She will be fondly remembered as a loyal friend and a loving, supportive and caring mother and grandmother.Onie is survived by her three daughters; Annette (Larry) Mitchell and their son, Michael Mitchell, all of Lincoln, NE, Mary Wilkins and Galen Houseman and their children, Ellen Houseman and Adam Houseman, all of Kalamazoo, MI, Molly (William) Jennings of O’Neill, NE, and their children, Nathaniel Jennings of Albion, MI and Chistopher Jennings of O’Neill; numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.She was preceded in death by her parents Mike and Mary Walters, her siblings Floyd Walters, Edward (Marian Lee) Walters, Alma (Patrick) Walsh, Mary Pat Walters, and John (Carol) Walters.A Celebration of Life Mass will be held at a later time at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in Hemingford with interment following at the Hemingford Cemetery. Memorials suggested to the Chadron State College Foundation. Biglin’s Mortuary of O’Neill is in charge of arrangements.

Leona “Onie” Wilkins (1931 - 2020)

Evan Slack, hall of fame farm broadcaster, has died at the age of 86. He passed away on Saturday, September 19, 2020.&nbsp;

His radio career spanned 68 years including most recently as owner of the Evan Slack Network based in Denver, Colo. During that time, he broadcasted from 45 states, 4 Canadian Provinces and Australia.&nbsp;

Evan’s story begins on a livestock farm in southwest Missouri where his dreams were in the clouds and on the air. As a young boy, he had two goals: to become a radio broadcaster, and to fly his own plane. His radio career began in June 1952 at KWTO in Springfield, and he has “slept, ate and breathed” radio ever since. Early on, he even worked at a radio station in Hollywood - Florida, that is - while he was stationed there during a two-year stint in the Marines.

Evan returned to Missouri to receive a degree in Agriculture with a minor in Journalism from the University of Missouri. After that, he moved westward, into the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, establishing Farm and Ranch departments at two different radio stations.

Once he got his pilot’s license in 1967, he literally took off and he has been flying the friendly skies of this country ever since bringing his own brand of personal charm to the airwaves via the airways. The freedom of flight helped Evan become an agricultural radio network pioneer in the west, working to establish network programming specifically targeted for the farmers and ranchers of that region in the early 1970s.

He was been a strong leader in the farm broadcast industry, serving as president of the National Association of Farm Broadcasters, and has won recognition from several agricultural organizations for his service.

A celebration of life for Evan Slack will be announced at a later date. If you would like to send your condolences to Carolyn and the family, please send them to:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600877414849.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Evan Slack, hall of fame farm broadcaster, has died at the age of 86. He passed away on Saturday, September 19, 2020.&nbsp;His radio career spanned 68 years including most recently as owner of the Evan Slack Network based in Denver, Colo. During that time, he broadcasted from 45 states, 4 Canadian Provinces and Australia.&nbsp;Evan’s story begins on a livestock farm in southwest Missouri where his dreams were in the clouds and on the air. As a young boy, he had two goals: to become a radio broadcaster, and to fly his own plane. His radio career began in June 1952 at KWTO in Springfield, and he has “slept, ate and breathed” radio ever since. Early on, he even worked at a radio station in Hollywood - Florida, that is - while he was stationed there during a two-year stint in the Marines.Evan returned to Missouri to receive a degree in Agriculture with a minor in Journalism from the University of Missouri. After that, he moved westward, into the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, establishing Farm and Ranch departments at two different radio stations.Once he got his pilot’s license in 1967, he literally took off and he has been flying the friendly skies of this country ever since bringing his own brand of personal charm to the airwaves via the airways. The freedom of flight helped Evan become an agricultural radio network pioneer in the west, working to establish network programming specifically targeted for the farmers and ranchers of that region in the early 1970s.He was been a strong leader in the farm broadcast industry, serving as president of the National Association of Farm Broadcasters, and has won recognition from several agricultural organizations for his service.A celebration of life for Evan Slack will be announced at a later date. If you would like to send your condolences to Carolyn and the family, please send them to:Carolyn Browne41329 N. Laurel Valley CtAnthem, AZ 85086Source: Western Ag Network

Farm Broadcaster Evan Slack passes away 

Terry Lee Correll, 62, of Tryon, Ne. took his last breath in his home lovingly surrounded by his immediate family, at 10:30pm on Saturday, September 19, 2020, but was given September 20, 2020 as an official date of death. His body was worn out from a courageous battle with cancer.

Terry was born December 31, 1957 in Alliance, NE to Lenard “Rusty” Correll and Rita (Dobbins) Correll. He attended Elementary School in Chappell, Ne through 4th&nbsp;grade. The family then moved to Tryon, NE where he attended school at McPherson County through his sophomore year. He finished his junior and senior year at Stapleton Public School, where he graduated with the class of 1976.

He furthered his education by attending Chadron State College where he rodeoed collegiately and professionally, earning his pro-card early on, and winning 2 College Regional Championships. He completed college with a degree in Accounting.

After a period of managing the Crawford, NE sale barn and continuing to rodeo professionally, he moved home from Texas at the height of his rodeo career to help on the family ranch during his father’s illness. Around 1986 Terry partnered with Tom Wiplinger to own and operate T &amp; T Rodeo Company for several years. They held nightly rodeos in North Platte, Ne and supplied stock for high school and amateur rodeos in the area. Fun fact: right before Terry “hung up his chaps” as a pro rodeo competitor, he rode all 3 of the barebacks he drew and won the Stapleton, Arthur and Hyannis rodeos - ending on a winning streak. It was around this time that Terry also “hung his shingle” at Ringgold, Ne as a professional horse trainer where he trained horses in all disciplines and held training clinics, but later on the ranch he would specialize in training cutting horses. He served as an officer for the Western Nebraska Cutting Horse Association and the Cutting Horse Association of Nebraska.

In 1997 Terry met Julie on a blind date, set up through a mutual friend, Dave Kapperman. They quickly discovered they shared the “love of a good horse” and she moved from Lincoln, Ne to the Sandhills, with a teaching job, so they could be together more easily. Terry purchased a ranch at that time where they resided, marrying Julie on June 5, 1999. In the last 20 some years, Terry fulfilled his dreams of training &amp; showing the best horses and raising a family. Anyone who visited with Terry would soon learn that some of his fondest memories included traveling the world with his family building their Xyngular business, hunting the best buck, ranching &amp; rodeo life, supporting his daughter’s activities, including teaching them how to ride and play basketball and hauling them many miles up &amp; down the road to cutting shows. He was always so proud of their accomplishments.

Terry’s faith in God’s “perfect plan” was important to him as he witnessed to everyone he met through his actions and his words. He and Julie were in fact “re-baptized” in the Dismal River early in their marriage. He was always very warm and genuine; ‘never met a stranger’ and never had an enemy. He was generous with his abilities &amp; talents, time, resources, compliments and friendship. He was a true cowboy, Godly family man, and his advice and opinions were sought after and highly respected by others.

Survivors include his wife Julie, daughters Gracie, Faith and Hope Correll, all of Tryon, Ne. his mother Rita Correll Tryon, siblings: brother Kent (Cindy) Correll, Forth Worth, TX, sisters: Shelly (Mark) Lovitt, Tryon and Deanne (Brad) Jenkins, Omaha, Ne. brother in laws: Rod (Linda) Goes Wymore, NE; Stan Goes, Lincoln, Ne; Bruce Goes, Wymore, Ne; Mark (Patricia) Goes, Odell, NE and Scott (Stacy) Goes, Cortland, NE along with numerous aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, and cousins whom he loved very much.

He was preceded in death by his father Rusty, and Grandparents Ray and Margaret Dobbins, Frank and Eva Correll, and Father-in-law and Mother-in-law Bernard and Velda Goes.

Funeral Service will be held Saturday, September 26, 2020 at 2:00pm at McPherson County High School Tryon, NE with Rev. Jim Streicker, Bethel E-Free Church and Pastor Jon Parsons, Ringgold Free Methodist church officiating. Visitation and book signing will be from noon to 8:00pm with card reading and memory sharing from 6:00 -8:00pm on Friday, September 25 at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home North Platte, Ne. A Memorial has been established to support the children’s’ educational funding or a donation may be made for family’s choice to be determined at a later date.

The service will also be livestreamed via Adams and Swanson Funeral Home Facebook page for those unable to attend in person. Online condolences and sharing of memories can be made at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.adamsswanson.com/">www.adamsswanson.com</a>&nbsp;Adams and Swanson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

The family has selected Prairie Friends and Flowers to handle the floral arrangements.

CDC Covid 19 guidelines will be respected and therefore social distancing and wearing a mask is suggested but not required.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600875675408.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Terry Lee Correll, 62, of Tryon, Ne. took his last breath in his home lovingly surrounded by his immediate family, at 10:30pm on Saturday, September 19, 2020, but was given September 20, 2020 as an official date of death. His body was worn out from a courageous battle with cancer.Terry was born December 31, 1957 in Alliance, NE to Lenard “Rusty” Correll and Rita (Dobbins) Correll. He attended Elementary School in Chappell, Ne through 4th&nbsp;grade. The family then moved to Tryon, NE where he attended school at McPherson County through his sophomore year. He finished his junior and senior year at Stapleton Public School, where he graduated with the class of 1976.He furthered his education by attending Chadron State College where he rodeoed collegiately and professionally, earning his pro-card early on, and winning 2 College Regional Championships. He completed college with a degree in Accounting.After a period of managing the Crawford, NE sale barn and continuing to rodeo professionally, he moved home from Texas at the height of his rodeo career to help on the family ranch during his father’s illness. Around 1986 Terry partnered with Tom Wiplinger to own and operate T &amp; T Rodeo Company for several years. They held nightly rodeos in North Platte, Ne and supplied stock for high school and amateur rodeos in the area. Fun fact: right before Terry “hung up his chaps” as a pro rodeo competitor, he rode all 3 of the barebacks he drew and won the Stapleton, Arthur and Hyannis rodeos - ending on a winning streak. It was around this time that Terry also “hung his shingle” at Ringgold, Ne as a professional horse trainer where he trained horses in all disciplines and held training clinics, but later on the ranch he would specialize in training cutting horses. He served as an officer for the Western Nebraska Cutting Horse Association and the Cutting Horse Association of Nebraska.In 1997 Terry met Julie on a blind date, set up through a mutual friend, Dave Kapperman. They quickly discovered they shared the “love of a good horse” and she moved from Lincoln, Ne to the Sandhills, with a teaching job, so they could be together more easily. Terry purchased a ranch at that time where they resided, marrying Julie on June 5, 1999. In the last 20 some years, Terry fulfilled his dreams of training &amp; showing the best horses and raising a family. Anyone who visited with Terry would soon learn that some of his fondest memories included traveling the world with his family building their Xyngular business, hunting the best buck, ranching &amp; rodeo life, supporting his daughter’s activities, including teaching them how to ride and play basketball and hauling them many miles up &amp; down the road to cutting shows. He was always so proud of their accomplishments.Terry’s faith in God’s “perfect plan” was important to him as he witnessed to everyone he met through his actions and his words. He and Julie were in fact “re-baptized” in the Dismal River early in their marriage. He was always very warm and genuine; ‘never met a stranger’ and never had an enemy. He was generous with his abilities &amp; talents, time, resources, compliments and friendship. He was a true cowboy, Godly family man, and his advice and opinions were sought after and highly respected by others.Survivors include his wife Julie, daughters Gracie, Faith and Hope Correll, all of Tryon, Ne. his mother Rita Correll Tryon, siblings: brother Kent (Cindy) Correll, Forth Worth, TX, sisters: Shelly (Mark) Lovitt, Tryon and Deanne (Brad) Jenkins, Omaha, Ne. brother in laws: Rod (Linda) Goes Wymore, NE; Stan Goes, Lincoln, Ne; Bruce Goes, Wymore, Ne; Mark (Patricia) Goes, Odell, NE and Scott (Stacy) Goes, Cortland, NE along with numerous aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, and cousins whom he loved very much.He was preceded in death by his father Rusty, and Grandparents Ray and Margaret Dobbins, Frank and Eva Correll, and Father-in-law and Mother-in-law Bernard and Velda Goes.Funeral Service will be held Saturday, September 26, 2020 at 2:00pm at McPherson County High School Tryon, NE with Rev. Jim Streicker, Bethel E-Free Church and Pastor Jon Parsons, Ringgold Free Methodist church officiating. Visitation and book signing will be from noon to 8:00pm with card reading and memory sharing from 6:00 -8:00pm on Friday, September 25 at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home North Platte, Ne. A Memorial has been established to support the children’s’ educational funding or a donation may be made for family’s choice to be determined at a later date.The service will also be livestreamed via Adams and Swanson Funeral Home Facebook page for those unable to attend in person. Online condolences and sharing of memories can be made at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.adamsswanson.com/">www.adamsswanson.com</a>&nbsp;Adams and Swanson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.The family has selected Prairie Friends and Flowers to handle the floral arrangements.CDC Covid 19 guidelines will be respected and therefore social distancing and wearing a mask is suggested but not required.

Terry Lee Correll (1957 - 2020)

&nbsp; Bonnie Jo Fraedrich, 65 of Scottsbluff, Nebraska passed away Tuesday, September 22, 2020 at her home surrounded by family. 

Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 25, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. at Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel with Pastor Ben Cross officiating. Cremation will follow services. 

The funeral service will be live streamed on Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel’s Facebook page. 

Visitation will be Thursday from 2-7 pm at the chapel. A private interment will be at the Forest Lawn Cemetery in Morrill. 

Memorials may given to Festival of Hope. Online condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dugankramer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.dugankramer.com</a>.

 Bonnie Jo was born on January 11, 1955 in Alliance, Nebraska to Walter William and Elise Lena (Prelle) Fraedrich. She received her early education in Alliance schools, graduating from Bridgeport High School. She moved to Scottsbluff in 1990. She worked at the Department of Health and Human Services for 8 years. Bonnie Jo enjoyed gardening, taking care of animals, love to build things for the home and spending time with her nieces, nephews and great niece and nephews.

 Survivors include William Lee Fraedrich(Carol), Ronald Gene Fraedrich, Sharon Kay Sanchez (Tomas), Gerald Dean Fraedrich, Walter Leon Fraedrich, Jr. (Janet) and numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Walter and Elise Fraedrich, sister Donna Fraedrich and brother Robert Ray Fraedrich.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600872853543.jpeg" alt="bonnie-fraedrich-scottsbluff-ne-obituary.jpg" />
 <figcaption>bonnie-fraedrich-scottsbluff-ne-obituary.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Bonnie Jo Fraedrich, 65 of Scottsbluff, Nebraska passed away Tuesday, September 22, 2020 at her home surrounded by family. Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 25, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. at Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel with Pastor Ben Cross officiating. Cremation will follow services. The funeral service will be live streamed on Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel’s Facebook page. Visitation will be Thursday from 2-7 pm at the chapel. A private interment will be at the Forest Lawn Cemetery in Morrill. Memorials may given to Festival of Hope. Online condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dugankramer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.dugankramer.com</a>. Bonnie Jo was born on January 11, 1955 in Alliance, Nebraska to Walter William and Elise Lena (Prelle) Fraedrich. She received her early education in Alliance schools, graduating from Bridgeport High School. She moved to Scottsbluff in 1990. She worked at the Department of Health and Human Services for 8 years. Bonnie Jo enjoyed gardening, taking care of animals, love to build things for the home and spending time with her nieces, nephews and great niece and nephews. Survivors include William Lee Fraedrich(Carol), Ronald Gene Fraedrich, Sharon Kay Sanchez (Tomas), Gerald Dean Fraedrich, Walter Leon Fraedrich, Jr. (Janet) and numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Walter and Elise Fraedrich, sister Donna Fraedrich and brother Robert Ray Fraedrich.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bonnie Jo Fraedrich (1955 - 2020)

Wayne Lee McLaughlin, 56, passed away Sunday, September 20, 2020 at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.

He was born on December 24, 1963 in Scottsbluff to Martin Dale and Bonnie Lee (Koozer) McLaughlin.

On August 8, 2008 he was united in marriage to Patricia Ann Mack.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia, his daughter, Desirae McLaughlin and grandson Vale Martin of Gordon, NE, his step-children, Jon Mack of Grant, NE and Bill Mack of Kansas City, KS and his step-grandchildren, Taylor Mack, Aydin Mack, Oliver Mack and Lauren Mack.&nbsp; He is also survived by his sister, Shawn (Robert) Shimp and his brother, Marty (Terri) McLaughlin of Alliance and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 23 from 3-6 p.m. at the Bates-Gould Funeral Home.&nbsp; He will be laid to rest at the Alliance Cemetery with a private family graveside on Thursday.&nbsp; A public Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to Providing Animals With Shelter (PAWS)&nbsp;P.O. Box 117, Alliance, NE&nbsp; 69301.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600786271650.jpeg" alt="McLaughlin.jpg" />
 <figcaption>McLaughlin.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Wayne Lee McLaughlin, 56, passed away Sunday, September 20, 2020 at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.He was born on December 24, 1963 in Scottsbluff to Martin Dale and Bonnie Lee (Koozer) McLaughlin.On August 8, 2008 he was united in marriage to Patricia Ann Mack.He is survived by his wife, Patricia, his daughter, Desirae McLaughlin and grandson Vale Martin of Gordon, NE, his step-children, Jon Mack of Grant, NE and Bill Mack of Kansas City, KS and his step-grandchildren, Taylor Mack, Aydin Mack, Oliver Mack and Lauren Mack.&nbsp; He is also survived by his sister, Shawn (Robert) Shimp and his brother, Marty (Terri) McLaughlin of Alliance and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.Visitation will be Wednesday, September 23 from 3-6 p.m. at the Bates-Gould Funeral Home.&nbsp; He will be laid to rest at the Alliance Cemetery with a private family graveside on Thursday.&nbsp; A public Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.Memorials are suggested to Providing Animals With Shelter (PAWS)&nbsp;P.O. Box 117, Alliance, NE&nbsp; 69301.Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.

Wayne Lee McLaughlin (1963 - 2020)



Darci Eileen (Jurgens) Dvorak, 47, of Alliance, NE, passed away on Monday, September 14th, 2020 in Denver, CO, where she was receiving treatment after a brave, three year long battle with cancer.

Darci was born on January 4th, 1973 to her loving parents, Melvin “Ike” and Jeanne (Teague) Jurgens. Darci grew up in the Panhandle of Nebraska where she spent the majority of her life surrounded by friends and family. Darci's whole world would change when she welcomed her oldest son, Jacob Jurgens, into the world on January 4th, 1994. Being a mother was Darci’s single greatest joy on earth and was always her number one priority. On March 3rd, 2000, Darci said "I do" to her dedicated husband Bart Dvorak. Bart and Darci had two more beautiful children during their 20 years of marriage, Jayci and Jaden Dvorak. Darci was a dedicated, selfless mother and never stopped fighting for her children. In addition to being a faithful and attentive wife and mother, Darci was always a loving and intentional sister. She was extremely close with her older brother Aaron Jurgens, who always lightened her mood and found a way to make her laugh. She was a doting aunt and loved spoiling her nine great nephews and niece. In addition to loving her family, Darci also loved her dogs, Hazel, Jax and Sissy, and never missed an opportunity to spoil her grand-puppy Zeus. Darci was a sweet friend to many and took much comfort from her expansive support system in her hometown of Alliance.

Darci is survived by her husband Bart and three children, Jacob, Jayci, and Jaden; her older brother Aaron Jurgens and his family, as well as numerous friends and family near and far who will miss her dearly. Darci is preceded in death by her Father, Melvin “Ike” Jurgens and Mother, Jeanne Jurgens. Darci was strong in her faith and her family and friends take great solace knowing that her spirit and body are at peace and reunited with her parents who she loved and missed dearly.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 23rd at Gehrig-Stitt Chapel, Sidney, NE from 1:00 – 6:00 p.m. A small private family funeral will be held at Sullivan Hills in Lodgepole, NE. A memorial celebration will be held in Alliance, NE, Saturday, September 26th, from 1:00 – 4:00 at the Eagles. Donations to Darci’s children’s college funds can be made at First National Bank in Alliance, NE.

Gehrig-Stitt Chapel &amp; Cremation Service, LLC in Sidney is in charge of Darci’s care and funeral arrangements. You may view Darci’s Book of Memories, leave condolences, photos and memories at www.gehrigstittchapel.com.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600455649084.jpeg" alt="Darci Dvorek.jpg" />
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 </figure>

Darci Eileen (Jurgens) Dvorak, 47, of Alliance, NE, passed away on Monday, September 14th, 2020 in Denver, CO, where she was receiving treatment after a brave, three year long battle with cancer.Darci was born on January 4th, 1973 to her loving parents, Melvin “Ike” and Jeanne (Teague) Jurgens. Darci grew up in the Panhandle of Nebraska where she spent the majority of her life surrounded by friends and family. Darci's whole world would change when she welcomed her oldest son, Jacob Jurgens, into the world on January 4th, 1994. Being a mother was Darci’s single greatest joy on earth and was always her number one priority. On March 3rd, 2000, Darci said "I do" to her dedicated husband Bart Dvorak. Bart and Darci had two more beautiful children during their 20 years of marriage, Jayci and Jaden Dvorak. Darci was a dedicated, selfless mother and never stopped fighting for her children. In addition to being a faithful and attentive wife and mother, Darci was always a loving and intentional sister. She was extremely close with her older brother Aaron Jurgens, who always lightened her mood and found a way to make her laugh. She was a doting aunt and loved spoiling her nine great nephews and niece. In addition to loving her family, Darci also loved her dogs, Hazel, Jax and Sissy, and never missed an opportunity to spoil her grand-puppy Zeus. Darci was a sweet friend to many and took much comfort from her expansive support system in her hometown of Alliance.Darci is survived by her husband Bart and three children, Jacob, Jayci, and Jaden; her older brother Aaron Jurgens and his family, as well as numerous friends and family near and far who will miss her dearly. Darci is preceded in death by her Father, Melvin “Ike” Jurgens and Mother, Jeanne Jurgens. Darci was strong in her faith and her family and friends take great solace knowing that her spirit and body are at peace and reunited with her parents who she loved and missed dearly.Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 23rd at Gehrig-Stitt Chapel, Sidney, NE from 1:00 – 6:00 p.m. A small private family funeral will be held at Sullivan Hills in Lodgepole, NE. A memorial celebration will be held in Alliance, NE, Saturday, September 26th, from 1:00 – 4:00 at the Eagles. Donations to Darci’s children’s college funds can be made at First National Bank in Alliance, NE.Gehrig-Stitt Chapel &amp; Cremation Service, LLC in Sidney is in charge of Darci’s care and funeral arrangements. You may view Darci’s Book of Memories, leave condolences, photos and memories at www.gehrigstittchapel.com.

Darci E. Dvorak (1973 - 2020)

Cynthia Ann Thies, 90, died Monday, September 14, 2020 at Mountain Lodge Assisted Living in Douglas Wyoming.

She was born December 23, 1929 in Omaha, Nebraska to Fredrick and Maude (Tompkins) Reetz.

She was raised on the family farm north of Potter, Nebraska and graduated from Potter High School in 1947.&nbsp; She attended college in Greeley, Colorado and was a member of Beta Sigma Phi.

In August of 1949, Cynthia married Walter Hammond. The couple resided in Potter and had three children: Christy, Nancy, and Dallas. The couple divorced in 1959.

On September 16, 1960 Cynthia was united in marriage to Donald O Thies in Valentine, Nebraska. They had three children: Tod, Tracy, and Timothy. They resided in Alliance, Nebraska for 29 years. Upon their retirement, they built a home at Lake McConaughy in the Cedar View area and lived there for 28 years.

Cynthia was employed as a teacher’s aide at the Alliance Public Schools and continued as a teacher aide in the Lewellen Schools after their move. Cynthia enjoyed the time she spent in the public schools with the students, as teaching and the relationships developed were especially important to her.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Alliance and served as the choir director for both the adult and children’s choirs for many years. She later attended the Presbyterian Church of Lemoyne and served as the pianist and organist for more than 20 years.

Her hobbies included sewing, crafts, canning and reading novels. Cynthia played the piano and organ and participated in the community choir.&nbsp; She was a member of the Keep Nebraska Beautiful committee, and an Ambassador for Weight Watchers. Cynthia served as a Leader in the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and the Job’s Daughters programs. She volunteered on the Election Board in both communities. In 2019, Cynthia was recognized for 70 years of membership and service in Eastern Star. Most of her time was involved in community service, and she loved every minute of it.

Cynthia is survived by her children, Christy (Gerald) McAndrew of Douglas, WY, Nancy (James) Hardee of Douglas WY, Tod (Teresa) Thies of Alliance, NE, Tracy (Whitney) Loucks of Omaha, NE, Jeanine (Robert) Niemoller of Laramie, WY and Deanne (Sam) Rolls of Sammamish Island, WA; her daughter-in-law, Dawn Thies of Westminster, CO; 14 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and 7 great great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Don, two sons, Dallas Thies in 1976 and Tim Thies in 2013, and her only brother, Doug Reetz.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Cynthia’s life will take place at a later date.

Memorials may be given in care of her son, Tod Thies,&nbsp;6151 Logan Road, Alliance, Nebraska, 69301, for a memorial to be designated later.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600449326146.jpeg" alt="Thies.JPG" />
 <figcaption>Thies.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>Cynthia Ann Thies, 90, died Monday, September 14, 2020 at Mountain Lodge Assisted Living in Douglas Wyoming.She was born December 23, 1929 in Omaha, Nebraska to Fredrick and Maude (Tompkins) Reetz.She was raised on the family farm north of Potter, Nebraska and graduated from Potter High School in 1947.&nbsp; She attended college in Greeley, Colorado and was a member of Beta Sigma Phi.In August of 1949, Cynthia married Walter Hammond. The couple resided in Potter and had three children: Christy, Nancy, and Dallas. The couple divorced in 1959.On September 16, 1960 Cynthia was united in marriage to Donald O Thies in Valentine, Nebraska. They had three children: Tod, Tracy, and Timothy. They resided in Alliance, Nebraska for 29 years. Upon their retirement, they built a home at Lake McConaughy in the Cedar View area and lived there for 28 years.Cynthia was employed as a teacher’s aide at the Alliance Public Schools and continued as a teacher aide in the Lewellen Schools after their move. Cynthia enjoyed the time she spent in the public schools with the students, as teaching and the relationships developed were especially important to her.She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Alliance and served as the choir director for both the adult and children’s choirs for many years. She later attended the Presbyterian Church of Lemoyne and served as the pianist and organist for more than 20 years.Her hobbies included sewing, crafts, canning and reading novels. Cynthia played the piano and organ and participated in the community choir.&nbsp; She was a member of the Keep Nebraska Beautiful committee, and an Ambassador for Weight Watchers. Cynthia served as a Leader in the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and the Job’s Daughters programs. She volunteered on the Election Board in both communities. In 2019, Cynthia was recognized for 70 years of membership and service in Eastern Star. Most of her time was involved in community service, and she loved every minute of it.Cynthia is survived by her children, Christy (Gerald) McAndrew of Douglas, WY, Nancy (James) Hardee of Douglas WY, Tod (Teresa) Thies of Alliance, NE, Tracy (Whitney) Loucks of Omaha, NE, Jeanine (Robert) Niemoller of Laramie, WY and Deanne (Sam) Rolls of Sammamish Island, WA; her daughter-in-law, Dawn Thies of Westminster, CO; 14 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and 7 great great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Don, two sons, Dallas Thies in 1976 and Tim Thies in 2013, and her only brother, Doug Reetz.Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Cynthia’s life will take place at a later date.Memorials may be given in care of her son, Tod Thies,&nbsp;6151 Logan Road, Alliance, Nebraska, 69301, for a memorial to be designated later.Online condolences may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.batesgould.com/" target="_blank">www.batesgould.com</a>

Cynthia Ann Thies (1929 - 2020)

Helen Irene King, 96 of Scott City, Missouri, formally from Ashby, Nebraska, died Sunday, August 30, 2020 at Hunter Acres Care Center in Sikeston, Missouri. She was born June 13, 1924 in Hyannis, Nebraska to Chloe and Lola I. Ridgeway Keller. She married Arthur Keith King on January 15, 1944 in Hyannis. He preceded her in death on July 31, 1994.

Helen grew up in the Sandhills of Nebraska, attending one room country schools. Most students at that time rode their horses to school and she had many stories about their adventures of going to school. Helen then attended Hyannis High School and graduated at 16 years old. She took classes in the summer at Chadron State College so that she could teach. Starting that fall she began her teaching career and taught several years in country schools until children were born to Keith and Helen. Besides being a mother, Helen was a homemaker, ranch hand, gardener, 4-H leader, friend to everyone, and good neighbor. Keith and Helen owned a ranch in Cherry County and it has been said that it was in the middle of nowhere with the closest town being an hour drive away. But, both enjoyed the beautiful sandhills. That is where she lived until she reached 80 years old when she moved to Missouri to be closer to her daughter Marjorie and family.

She is survived by a son, Milton (Marcy) King of Eden, Georgia; two daughters, Ardith (Glen) Piihl of Lakeside, Nebraska, and Marjorie (Rennie) Phillips of Scott City, Missouri; a son-in-law, Garry Vargason of Bassett, Nebraska; a sister, Delores (Jerry) Jones of Springfield, Missouri; five grandchildren, Desmond (Dawn) Piihl, Denys (Kevin) Gilman, Amanda (Jeremy) Fox, Victor (Jeanne) Phillips and Tait Phillips and nine great grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by two daughters, Rosemary Vargason and Rhonda Smith; two brothers; two sisters and a son-in-law.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600182028867.jpeg" alt="Helen King.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Helen King.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Helen Irene King, 96 of Scott City, Missouri, formally from Ashby, Nebraska, died Sunday, August 30, 2020 at Hunter Acres Care Center in Sikeston, Missouri. She was born June 13, 1924 in Hyannis, Nebraska to Chloe and Lola I. Ridgeway Keller. She married Arthur Keith King on January 15, 1944 in Hyannis. He preceded her in death on July 31, 1994.Helen grew up in the Sandhills of Nebraska, attending one room country schools. Most students at that time rode their horses to school and she had many stories about their adventures of going to school. Helen then attended Hyannis High School and graduated at 16 years old. She took classes in the summer at Chadron State College so that she could teach. Starting that fall she began her teaching career and taught several years in country schools until children were born to Keith and Helen. Besides being a mother, Helen was a homemaker, ranch hand, gardener, 4-H leader, friend to everyone, and good neighbor. Keith and Helen owned a ranch in Cherry County and it has been said that it was in the middle of nowhere with the closest town being an hour drive away. But, both enjoyed the beautiful sandhills. That is where she lived until she reached 80 years old when she moved to Missouri to be closer to her daughter Marjorie and family.She is survived by a son, Milton (Marcy) King of Eden, Georgia; two daughters, Ardith (Glen) Piihl of Lakeside, Nebraska, and Marjorie (Rennie) Phillips of Scott City, Missouri; a son-in-law, Garry Vargason of Bassett, Nebraska; a sister, Delores (Jerry) Jones of Springfield, Missouri; five grandchildren, Desmond (Dawn) Piihl, Denys (Kevin) Gilman, Amanda (Jeremy) Fox, Victor (Jeanne) Phillips and Tait Phillips and nine great grandchildren.She was also preceded in death by two daughters, Rosemary Vargason and Rhonda Smith; two brothers; two sisters and a son-in-law.No services are scheduled at this time.

Helen Irene King (1924 - 2020)

Sharon K. Smith, 78, passed away Sunday, September 13, 2020 at Box Butte General Hospital in Alliance.

She was born April 22, 1942 in Mapleton, Iowa to Ervin and Beatrice (Ehlers) Naab.&nbsp;

On June 4, 1961 she was married to Dale R. Hopp in Ute, Iowa.&nbsp; To this union three children, Brenda, Bridget and Steven were born.&nbsp; The family moved to Alliance in 1977.

In July of 2005 Sharon married Roger D. Smith. He passed away April 29, 2020.

Sharon worked at Western Heritage Credit Union from 1979 to 2004 retiring after 25 years of service. After retirement Sharon and Roger married July of 2005. They spent their time traveling in their motorhome and spending winters in Texas and Arizona, meeting new people and playing rounds of golf. She enjoyed watching, going and supporting her Husker Football no matter what the circumstances. Overall her favorite hobby to do with friends and family was play cards; her all-time favorite card game was Euchre. Sharon always looked forward to going on annual trips with her loving group of friends. Family was everything to Sharon; she was a loving Mother and Grandmother.&nbsp;

She is survived by her children and their spouses, Brenda and Tommy Abdelnour of Palm Desert, CA, Bridget and Mark Vaughn of Alliance and Steven and Trista Hopp of Columbus, NE. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Ashton Hanson, Tavyn Hanson, Bryce Vaughn, Brooke Vaughn, Alex Hopp, Taylor Hopp and Jordan Hopp, her great-grandson, Alexander Jordan Hopp and her niece and three nephews. Survivors also include her step-children, Stephen and wife Jennifer Smith of Severance, CO and Philip Smith of San Antonio, TX.

In addition to her husband, Roger, she was preceded in death by her parents Ervin and Beatrice (Ehlers) Naab, and her brothers, Sherman Naab and Sheldon Naab.&nbsp;

A combined memorial service for Sharon and her husband Roger will be Friday, September 18 at 10:00 a.m. at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church with Reverend Richard C. Mueller officiating.&nbsp; Burial will be at a later date at the St. Clair Cemetery in Ute, Iowa.

Memorials may be given to Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran School in Alliance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600179929827.jpeg" alt="Smith obit photo.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Smith obit photo.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Sharon K. Smith, 78, passed away Sunday, September 13, 2020 at Box Butte General Hospital in Alliance.She was born April 22, 1942 in Mapleton, Iowa to Ervin and Beatrice (Ehlers) Naab.&nbsp;On June 4, 1961 she was married to Dale R. Hopp in Ute, Iowa.&nbsp; To this union three children, Brenda, Bridget and Steven were born.&nbsp; The family moved to Alliance in 1977.In July of 2005 Sharon married Roger D. Smith. He passed away April 29, 2020.Sharon worked at Western Heritage Credit Union from 1979 to 2004 retiring after 25 years of service. After retirement Sharon and Roger married July of 2005. They spent their time traveling in their motorhome and spending winters in Texas and Arizona, meeting new people and playing rounds of golf. She enjoyed watching, going and supporting her Husker Football no matter what the circumstances. Overall her favorite hobby to do with friends and family was play cards; her all-time favorite card game was Euchre. Sharon always looked forward to going on annual trips with her loving group of friends. Family was everything to Sharon; she was a loving Mother and Grandmother.&nbsp;She is survived by her children and their spouses, Brenda and Tommy Abdelnour of Palm Desert, CA, Bridget and Mark Vaughn of Alliance and Steven and Trista Hopp of Columbus, NE. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Ashton Hanson, Tavyn Hanson, Bryce Vaughn, Brooke Vaughn, Alex Hopp, Taylor Hopp and Jordan Hopp, her great-grandson, Alexander Jordan Hopp and her niece and three nephews. Survivors also include her step-children, Stephen and wife Jennifer Smith of Severance, CO and Philip Smith of San Antonio, TX.In addition to her husband, Roger, she was preceded in death by her parents Ervin and Beatrice (Ehlers) Naab, and her brothers, Sherman Naab and Sheldon Naab.&nbsp;A combined memorial service for Sharon and her husband Roger will be Friday, September 18 at 10:00 a.m. at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church with Reverend Richard C. Mueller officiating.&nbsp; Burial will be at a later date at the St. Clair Cemetery in Ute, Iowa.Memorials may be given to Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran School in Alliance.

Sharon K. Smith (1942 - 2020)

Michael Martin Trumble (Straw) passed away suddenly on September 13, 2020. He was 68.

He was born October 9, 1951 to Robert and Veronica Trumble in Alliance. Mike attended St. Agnes Academy, and then the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He returned to Alliance and hired on to the railroad, where he started working on the track, and ended his career with 40 years as a conductor and a lifelong conversationalist. He retired from the railroad in 2011.

He is survived by his wife and best friend of 45 years, Sharon (Collins) Trumble, his three children and four grandchildren, Bethany (Trumble) Beers (Matt, Clare, Avery), Anthony Trumble (Carmela, Mason, Emerson), and Maura Trumble (Matt Armentrout), whom he loved with all his soul, as well as his siblings Joseph Trumble and Jane (Trumble) Goldrick. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Veronica Trumble, and his sister, Barbara (Trumble) Roether, and his mother-in-law Lois Collins.

Mike had an unending curiosity, and spent his life pursuing new knowledge and adventures. He spent his retirement finding endless projects to begin. There wasn’t a person or a problem that he couldn’t find an answer for. He was kind and full of joy, and always looked for and found the best in others. He filled our lives with music and dancing, laughter and conversations. He loved his family and gave all of himself to us.

He was a damn fine man, and we should all live our lives a little more like Mike. Be curious. Look up at the stars. Strike up a conversation with a stranger.

Due to the current circumstances, small family services will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, with a Rosary and Wake on Thursday evening and Mass on Friday. We request that all attending wear a mask. Plans are in process for an outdoor Celebration of Life, for his extended family and many friends.

Memorials may be given to St. Agnes Academy Foundation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600179112826.jpeg" alt="Trumble.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Trumble.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Michael Martin Trumble (Straw) passed away suddenly on September 13, 2020. He was 68.He was born October 9, 1951 to Robert and Veronica Trumble in Alliance. Mike attended St. Agnes Academy, and then the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He returned to Alliance and hired on to the railroad, where he started working on the track, and ended his career with 40 years as a conductor and a lifelong conversationalist. He retired from the railroad in 2011.He is survived by his wife and best friend of 45 years, Sharon (Collins) Trumble, his three children and four grandchildren, Bethany (Trumble) Beers (Matt, Clare, Avery), Anthony Trumble (Carmela, Mason, Emerson), and Maura Trumble (Matt Armentrout), whom he loved with all his soul, as well as his siblings Joseph Trumble and Jane (Trumble) Goldrick. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Veronica Trumble, and his sister, Barbara (Trumble) Roether, and his mother-in-law Lois Collins.Mike had an unending curiosity, and spent his life pursuing new knowledge and adventures. He spent his retirement finding endless projects to begin. There wasn’t a person or a problem that he couldn’t find an answer for. He was kind and full of joy, and always looked for and found the best in others. He filled our lives with music and dancing, laughter and conversations. He loved his family and gave all of himself to us.He was a damn fine man, and we should all live our lives a little more like Mike. Be curious. Look up at the stars. Strike up a conversation with a stranger.Due to the current circumstances, small family services will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, with a Rosary and Wake on Thursday evening and Mass on Friday. We request that all attending wear a mask. Plans are in process for an outdoor Celebration of Life, for his extended family and many friends.Memorials may be given to St. Agnes Academy Foundation.

Michael Martin Trumble (Straw) (1951 - 2020)

Troy Lee Lyons died unexpectedly at his home in Hay Springs, Nebraska, on August 23, 2020, at the age 30.

Troy Lyons is survived by his parents Rhonda Lyons (Alan Carter) and Troy Williams, his daughter who he claimed adoption to Emery, his main companion was his dog Chopper, whom he loved more than anything, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Troy also had a bonus family he spent many summers with. Patents: Matthew and Patrica Whidby and brothers Joshua King, Landon, and Chris Whidby. He also spent time with Teresa, Jim Lewis and Family, as well as Robbin, Monte, and Cody Bullington. Troy is preceded in death by Grandparents; Jim and Sue Lyons. Uncles: Wess Lyons, Marvin Crider Thomas, and Roy Skinner. Aunts: Sherrie Skinner, Elaine Skinner, and Azalia Watson.

Troy was born on May 31, 1990, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska to Rhonda T. Lyons and Troy L. Williams. He graduated from Pine Ridge Job Corp in 2008. After moving to Oshkosh, he began working for the feedlot. In 2010 he moved to Hay Springs where he had many jobs and settled into Westco. Many know him as a little wild, fun, and VERY LOVING.

Troy enjoyed snowboarding, canoeing, hunting, computers, and skating. But nothing was more important than spending time with his grandfather Jim. Troy was a fun-loving individual who loved horses and who was passionate about snakes. He was a boy scout and did 4H, wrestling, track, and football.

A funeral is scheduled for September 19, 2020 at 10:00 AM at the Methodist Church in Hay Springs, with a graveside service to follow in Bayard, Nebraska. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Troy’s life.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599143712080.jpeg" alt="Troy Lyons.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Troy Lyons.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Troy Lee Lyons died unexpectedly at his home in Hay Springs, Nebraska, on August 23, 2020, at the age 30.Troy Lyons is survived by his parents Rhonda Lyons (Alan Carter) and Troy Williams, his daughter who he claimed adoption to Emery, his main companion was his dog Chopper, whom he loved more than anything, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Troy also had a bonus family he spent many summers with. Patents: Matthew and Patrica Whidby and brothers Joshua King, Landon, and Chris Whidby. He also spent time with Teresa, Jim Lewis and Family, as well as Robbin, Monte, and Cody Bullington. Troy is preceded in death by Grandparents; Jim and Sue Lyons. Uncles: Wess Lyons, Marvin Crider Thomas, and Roy Skinner. Aunts: Sherrie Skinner, Elaine Skinner, and Azalia Watson.Troy was born on May 31, 1990, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska to Rhonda T. Lyons and Troy L. Williams. He graduated from Pine Ridge Job Corp in 2008. After moving to Oshkosh, he began working for the feedlot. In 2010 he moved to Hay Springs where he had many jobs and settled into Westco. Many know him as a little wild, fun, and VERY LOVING.Troy enjoyed snowboarding, canoeing, hunting, computers, and skating. But nothing was more important than spending time with his grandfather Jim. Troy was a fun-loving individual who loved horses and who was passionate about snakes. He was a boy scout and did 4H, wrestling, track, and football.A funeral is scheduled for September 19, 2020 at 10:00 AM at the Methodist Church in Hay Springs, with a graveside service to follow in Bayard, Nebraska. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Troy’s life.

Troy Lee Lyons (1990 - 2020)

Lane Matthew Troester, from Marsland, Nebraska was born on November 20, 1987 and passed away on August 27, 2020.

Lane was born in Chadron, Nebraska, the middle son to Bruce and Vicki Troester. He, along with his brothers were homeschooled for most of their school career, but Lane finished his high school career by graduating from Crawford High School. He attended Chadron State College where he earned his bachelor’s degree majoring in music and minoring in chemistry.

While Lane loved music and enjoyed playing classical piano, he also loved a good science conversation with a fellow student or friend. He enjoyed college and hanging out with friends and was involved in campus clubs such as NOCS (Night of Country Swing), ROTC, and Campus Crusade. He also liked hunting, hiking the mountains in Colorado, snowboarding, and water skiing with friends and family. Lane enjoyed doing physical labor and worked in construction with a cement company in Alliance, NE for 8 years before moving back home to help his parents on their ranch.

Anyone who knew Lane, knew that he had the kindest heart. He was the first to lend a helping hand to a friend and enjoyed serving others and working alongside friends. He enjoyed family gatherings and spending time with cousins, especially paying the traditional family football game after Thanksgiving dinner!

He is survived by his parents, Bruce and Vicki Troester of Marsland, NE; his brothers, Will (Sarah) Troester of Alliance, NE and Kelly (Lacy) Troester, his two nephews, Lee and Grant of Chadron, NE; his grandmother Veda Raben of Crawford, NE; among numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Lane was preceded in death by his grandfather Jim Raben and grandparents Paul and Marlene Troester.

A memorial Service will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2020 at 2:00 PM at Ridgeview Bible Church, 919 E 10th St, Chadron, NE 69337.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in care of the family for a later designation to 3143 River Road, Marsland, NE 69354 or given to a charity of the donor’s choice.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1598992785070.png" alt="Wheat2.png" />
 <figcaption>Wheat2.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Lane Matthew Troester, from Marsland, Nebraska was born on November 20, 1987 and passed away on August 27, 2020.Lane was born in Chadron, Nebraska, the middle son to Bruce and Vicki Troester. He, along with his brothers were homeschooled for most of their school career, but Lane finished his high school career by graduating from Crawford High School. He attended Chadron State College where he earned his bachelor’s degree majoring in music and minoring in chemistry.While Lane loved music and enjoyed playing classical piano, he also loved a good science conversation with a fellow student or friend. He enjoyed college and hanging out with friends and was involved in campus clubs such as NOCS (Night of Country Swing), ROTC, and Campus Crusade. He also liked hunting, hiking the mountains in Colorado, snowboarding, and water skiing with friends and family. Lane enjoyed doing physical labor and worked in construction with a cement company in Alliance, NE for 8 years before moving back home to help his parents on their ranch.Anyone who knew Lane, knew that he had the kindest heart. He was the first to lend a helping hand to a friend and enjoyed serving others and working alongside friends. He enjoyed family gatherings and spending time with cousins, especially paying the traditional family football game after Thanksgiving dinner!He is survived by his parents, Bruce and Vicki Troester of Marsland, NE; his brothers, Will (Sarah) Troester of Alliance, NE and Kelly (Lacy) Troester, his two nephews, Lee and Grant of Chadron, NE; his grandmother Veda Raben of Crawford, NE; among numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.Lane was preceded in death by his grandfather Jim Raben and grandparents Paul and Marlene Troester.A memorial Service will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2020 at 2:00 PM at Ridgeview Bible Church, 919 E 10th St, Chadron, NE 69337.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in care of the family for a later designation to 3143 River Road, Marsland, NE 69354 or given to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Lane Matthew Troester (1987 - 2020)

&nbsp; Memorial grave side services for NICHOLE MARIE SWANSON ESPINOSA, 30, will be held at 10:45am Friday, September 4, 2020 at the Valley View Cemetery with Reverend Scott Firminhac officiating. Nichole died at her home in Fort Laramie surrounded by her family after a three year battle with cancer. Cremation has taken place. Memorials may be given to the family for a memorial to be decided later. Arrangements are by the Colyer Funeral Home and condolences may be sent to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colyerfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank">www.colyerfuneralhome.com</a>. Nichole was born December 2, 1989 in Torrington, Wyoming the daughter of Mike and Susan (Simpson) Swanson. She grew up and received her education in Torrington graduating Torrington High School in 2008. She then attended EWC where she received her associate degree before graduating Chadron State College with her Bachelor Degree. She taught and coached for one year in Burlington, Colorado and two years in Alliance, Nebraska before she started teaching at the Wyoming Youth Challenge Academy in Guernsey, Wyoming. She married Tyler Espinosa on May 20, 2017 in Torrington. Nichole enjoyed doing puzzles of any kind, working out, playing sports, fishing and coaching. Nichole is survived by her husband Tyler Espinosa of Fort Laramie, Wyoming; her parents Mike and Susan Swanson of Torrington, Wyoming; her sister Courtney (Gordon) Kautz of Chadron, Nebraska; her mother-in-law Cymbra (Dave) Buzzard of Wheatland, Wyoming; her father-in-law Jim Espinosa of Torrington; niece Karsen Kautz; nephew Bridger Kautz; and her maternal grandmother Mirriam (Ron) Clayborn of Torrington. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents; her maternal grandfather; and her aunt Sheila Kearns.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1598991144246.jpeg" alt="Nichole-Espinosa-1598956651.jpeg" />
 <figcaption>Nichole-Espinosa-1598956651.jpeg</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Memorial grave side services for NICHOLE MARIE SWANSON ESPINOSA, 30, will be held at 10:45am Friday, September 4, 2020 at the Valley View Cemetery with Reverend Scott Firminhac officiating. Nichole died at her home in Fort Laramie surrounded by her family after a three year battle with cancer. Cremation has taken place. Memorials may be given to the family for a memorial to be decided later. Arrangements are by the Colyer Funeral Home and condolences may be sent to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colyerfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank">www.colyerfuneralhome.com</a>. Nichole was born December 2, 1989 in Torrington, Wyoming the daughter of Mike and Susan (Simpson) Swanson. She grew up and received her education in Torrington graduating Torrington High School in 2008. She then attended EWC where she received her associate degree before graduating Chadron State College with her Bachelor Degree. She taught and coached for one year in Burlington, Colorado and two years in Alliance, Nebraska before she started teaching at the Wyoming Youth Challenge Academy in Guernsey, Wyoming. She married Tyler Espinosa on May 20, 2017 in Torrington. Nichole enjoyed doing puzzles of any kind, working out, playing sports, fishing and coaching. Nichole is survived by her husband Tyler Espinosa of Fort Laramie, Wyoming; her parents Mike and Susan Swanson of Torrington, Wyoming; her sister Courtney (Gordon) Kautz of Chadron, Nebraska; her mother-in-law Cymbra (Dave) Buzzard of Wheatland, Wyoming; her father-in-law Jim Espinosa of Torrington; niece Karsen Kautz; nephew Bridger Kautz; and her maternal grandmother Mirriam (Ron) Clayborn of Torrington. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents; her maternal grandfather; and her aunt Sheila Kearns.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nichole Marie Swanson Espinosa (1989 - 2020)

Willard Dean Wellnitz was born on the last day of Spring in 1930 at his parent’s, Herbert and Caroline (Jungck) Wellnitz, home south of Rushville and passed away on August 31st at Gordon Memorial Hospital after 90 years of living life to the fullest.

Willard attended grade school at District #78, high school in Rushville, and attended for 1 ½ years at Chadron State College.&nbsp; He was active in music, playing bass horn and singing in men’s groups, and played football during high school; and ran track in college.&nbsp; When Willard, who normally ran the short sprints, got in trouble with the track coach, he was told he would be running the half mile that day.&nbsp; The coach told Willard to follow his teammate to pace himself, but when Willard decided the pace was too slow, he passed him up and ended up earning second place! Throughout his life he showed this strength and perseverance in every aspect.

Willard served for 2 years in the U. S. Army, stationed in North Carolina.&nbsp; He was supposed to be shipped overseas for the Korean War, but his papers were lost and never reached him, so he never left the states. He told stories about the men he met, including one man who took him home, and said he loved bringing company home because his mother would make gravy to go with the bread when company came.&nbsp; When his brother was getting married in Colorado, Willard flew back on a transport plane, getting a flying lesson in the process, then hitchhiked from Denver to Fort Collins, getting there just in time for the reception.

Willard settled on the farm and in the late 50’s went to the local Farm Services office, where he saw a lovely brunette working, who would end up being the love of his life.&nbsp; In 1963 he married that woman, Joyce Sager, and she said she thought there were probably hearts breaking all over Sheridan County when she took him off the market.&nbsp; Their family grew through the years with children Kim, Joan, Carol, Linda, and Fred filling their home with laughter, love, and shenanigans.&nbsp; Willard’s love for his family and for young people carried over into so many lives throughout the years, as many loved him as a surrogate father and grandfather.

In the precious few moments when he took time to indulge in his favorite hobbies, Willard could be found playing cards with friends or at the poker table, including playing in the World Series of Poker tournament in Las Vegas twice. Those, hearty enough to battle the cold, would often find him out ice fishing in the dead of winter. Music played an important role throughout Willard’s life, and he had the natural gift of being able to pick up almost any instrument to play.&nbsp; Besides playing the bass horn in high school, he also played at playing the guitar, banjo, accordion, ukulele, fiddle, and piano.&nbsp; Many in the community enjoyed his singing and playing including at weddings, anniversary celebrations, and family gatherings.

For all of his 90 years, Willard gave his heart and soul to the land and his livelihood on the farm.&nbsp; He got up, went outside, and worked hard for what he loved every single day. He taught his family so much about the value of hard work, appreciation for what you have, and responsibility.&nbsp; He was an astute businessman, but those he interacted with always knew he would treat them fairly.&nbsp; Good luck followed him, but he once said, “It’s funny, but the harder I work, the luckier I get.”

Willard was a man of strong faith and spent many of his later years enjoying studying the scriptures, attending church and Bible study.

Willard is survived by his loving wife, Joyce; his five children – Kim (Ed Abold), Joan, Carol, Linda (Wayde Graham), and Fred (Paige); 16 grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren,&nbsp; 13 great-grandchildren, brother Warren, sister Alma (Bill Baldwin),sister-in-law, Mary Ann Wellnitz; mother-in-law Mary Sager; Joyce’s sisters, brother and their spouses, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, his father-in-law Harry Sager, brother Jim, and grandson Joe.

A memorial to be determined has been set up in Willard’s name and can be sent in care of Chamberlain-Pier Funeral Home, PO Box 366, Gordon, NE 69343.&nbsp; Thursday, September 3rd there will be a viewing from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the mortuary in Gordon, and services will be held Friday, September 4th at Fairview Cemetery in Rushville at 10:00 a.m. Please bring your lawn chair to the service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1598990699853.png" alt="fisherman.png" />
 <figcaption>fisherman.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Willard Dean Wellnitz was born on the last day of Spring in 1930 at his parent’s, Herbert and Caroline (Jungck) Wellnitz, home south of Rushville and passed away on August 31st at Gordon Memorial Hospital after 90 years of living life to the fullest.Willard attended grade school at District #78, high school in Rushville, and attended for 1 ½ years at Chadron State College.&nbsp; He was active in music, playing bass horn and singing in men’s groups, and played football during high school; and ran track in college.&nbsp; When Willard, who normally ran the short sprints, got in trouble with the track coach, he was told he would be running the half mile that day.&nbsp; The coach told Willard to follow his teammate to pace himself, but when Willard decided the pace was too slow, he passed him up and ended up earning second place! Throughout his life he showed this strength and perseverance in every aspect.Willard served for 2 years in the U. S. Army, stationed in North Carolina.&nbsp; He was supposed to be shipped overseas for the Korean War, but his papers were lost and never reached him, so he never left the states. He told stories about the men he met, including one man who took him home, and said he loved bringing company home because his mother would make gravy to go with the bread when company came.&nbsp; When his brother was getting married in Colorado, Willard flew back on a transport plane, getting a flying lesson in the process, then hitchhiked from Denver to Fort Collins, getting there just in time for the reception.Willard settled on the farm and in the late 50’s went to the local Farm Services office, where he saw a lovely brunette working, who would end up being the love of his life.&nbsp; In 1963 he married that woman, Joyce Sager, and she said she thought there were probably hearts breaking all over Sheridan County when she took him off the market.&nbsp; Their family grew through the years with children Kim, Joan, Carol, Linda, and Fred filling their home with laughter, love, and shenanigans.&nbsp; Willard’s love for his family and for young people carried over into so many lives throughout the years, as many loved him as a surrogate father and grandfather.In the precious few moments when he took time to indulge in his favorite hobbies, Willard could be found playing cards with friends or at the poker table, including playing in the World Series of Poker tournament in Las Vegas twice. Those, hearty enough to battle the cold, would often find him out ice fishing in the dead of winter. Music played an important role throughout Willard’s life, and he had the natural gift of being able to pick up almost any instrument to play.&nbsp; Besides playing the bass horn in high school, he also played at playing the guitar, banjo, accordion, ukulele, fiddle, and piano.&nbsp; Many in the community enjoyed his singing and playing including at weddings, anniversary celebrations, and family gatherings.For all of his 90 years, Willard gave his heart and soul to the land and his livelihood on the farm.&nbsp; He got up, went outside, and worked hard for what he loved every single day. He taught his family so much about the value of hard work, appreciation for what you have, and responsibility.&nbsp; He was an astute businessman, but those he interacted with always knew he would treat them fairly.&nbsp; Good luck followed him, but he once said, “It’s funny, but the harder I work, the luckier I get.”Willard was a man of strong faith and spent many of his later years enjoying studying the scriptures, attending church and Bible study.Willard is survived by his loving wife, Joyce; his five children – Kim (Ed Abold), Joan, Carol, Linda (Wayde Graham), and Fred (Paige); 16 grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren,&nbsp; 13 great-grandchildren, brother Warren, sister Alma (Bill Baldwin),sister-in-law, Mary Ann Wellnitz; mother-in-law Mary Sager; Joyce’s sisters, brother and their spouses, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, his father-in-law Harry Sager, brother Jim, and grandson Joe.A memorial to be determined has been set up in Willard’s name and can be sent in care of Chamberlain-Pier Funeral Home, PO Box 366, Gordon, NE 69343.&nbsp; Thursday, September 3rd there will be a viewing from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the mortuary in Gordon, and services will be held Friday, September 4th at Fairview Cemetery in Rushville at 10:00 a.m. Please bring your lawn chair to the service.

Willard Dean Wellnitz (1930 - 2020)

Charles Edwin Esmeier, 83, passed away Friday, August 28, 2020 at Chimney Rock Villa in Bayard, Nebraska.

He was born August 25, 1937 in Evansville, IN to Hubert Edwin and Lutie (Howard) Esmeier.&nbsp; He graduated from Winslow High School in Winslow, IN in 1955.&nbsp; He entered the U.S. Air Force in 1956 where he received weather training and served until 1968.&nbsp; His assignments with the Air Force Air Weather Service included observing and forecasting in Washington, D.C., Chaumont, France, Manheim, Germany, Las Vegas, NV and Hampton, VA.&nbsp; In 1969 he joined the National Weather Service and served in Cincinnati, OH office until 1986 when he moved to Alliance, Nebraska.&nbsp; Here he served as the official-in-charge of the weather radar facility at the Alliance Airport until his retirement in 1992.

He married Elda Jane Ryan in Washington, D.C. on June 6, 1962 and she accompanied him on all his assignments for the next 51 years until her death in 2013.&nbsp;

Charles was member of the Alliance Eagles Aerie #136 and he served as Aerie Secretary from 1988 to 1998.&nbsp; He was also a member of the Nebraska Post #500 of the American Legion.&nbsp;

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Jane and 2 brothers.&nbsp; He is survived by his sons, Kevin of Lakeside Park, KY and Charles A. (Michelle) of Lincoln, NE, 8 grandchildren and his sister, Margaret Wagner of Jasper, IN.

Due to the Covid-19 guidelines, a private family graveside service will be held at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance, Nebraska.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1598990377037.jpeg" alt="Esmeier.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Esmeier.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Charles Edwin Esmeier, 83, passed away Friday, August 28, 2020 at Chimney Rock Villa in Bayard, Nebraska.He was born August 25, 1937 in Evansville, IN to Hubert Edwin and Lutie (Howard) Esmeier.&nbsp; He graduated from Winslow High School in Winslow, IN in 1955.&nbsp; He entered the U.S. Air Force in 1956 where he received weather training and served until 1968.&nbsp; His assignments with the Air Force Air Weather Service included observing and forecasting in Washington, D.C., Chaumont, France, Manheim, Germany, Las Vegas, NV and Hampton, VA.&nbsp; In 1969 he joined the National Weather Service and served in Cincinnati, OH office until 1986 when he moved to Alliance, Nebraska.&nbsp; Here he served as the official-in-charge of the weather radar facility at the Alliance Airport until his retirement in 1992.He married Elda Jane Ryan in Washington, D.C. on June 6, 1962 and she accompanied him on all his assignments for the next 51 years until her death in 2013.&nbsp;Charles was member of the Alliance Eagles Aerie #136 and he served as Aerie Secretary from 1988 to 1998.&nbsp; He was also a member of the Nebraska Post #500 of the American Legion.&nbsp;He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Jane and 2 brothers.&nbsp; He is survived by his sons, Kevin of Lakeside Park, KY and Charles A. (Michelle) of Lincoln, NE, 8 grandchildren and his sister, Margaret Wagner of Jasper, IN.Due to the Covid-19 guidelines, a private family graveside service will be held at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance, Nebraska.

Charles Edwin Esmeier (1937 - 2020)

Carol L. Mundt passed away Thursday, August 27, 2020 at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.

Carol was born November 11, 1943 in Alliance to Lawrence “Blackie” and Mary (Granger) Shimp.

On April 21, 1963 she was united in marriage to Billy L. Mundt.

She is survived by her children, Scott and wife Kimberly Mundt of Alliance, Steve and wife Shelly A. Mundt of Alliance, Sandi Mundt of Highlands Ranch, CO and Shelly R. Mundt of Council Bluffs, IA.&nbsp; She is also survived by her grandchildren, Brandon, Storm, Kiefer, Hunter, Austin, Jordan, Taylor, Kaitlyn and Jace, 9 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Billy, and her brothers, Donald and Chuck Shimp.

Funeral services will be Monday, August 31, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church. Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be Sunday, August 30 from 1-5 p.m. at the Bates-Gould Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in care of the family for a later designation and sent in care of Scott Mundt, 1691 CR 65, Alliance, NE&nbsp; 69301 or given to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598647775122.jpeg" alt="Carol Mundt.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Carol Mundt.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Carol L. Mundt passed away Thursday, August 27, 2020 at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.Carol was born November 11, 1943 in Alliance to Lawrence “Blackie” and Mary (Granger) Shimp.On April 21, 1963 she was united in marriage to Billy L. Mundt.She is survived by her children, Scott and wife Kimberly Mundt of Alliance, Steve and wife Shelly A. Mundt of Alliance, Sandi Mundt of Highlands Ranch, CO and Shelly R. Mundt of Council Bluffs, IA.&nbsp; She is also survived by her grandchildren, Brandon, Storm, Kiefer, Hunter, Austin, Jordan, Taylor, Kaitlyn and Jace, 9 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Billy, and her brothers, Donald and Chuck Shimp.Funeral services will be Monday, August 31, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church. Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be Sunday, August 30 from 1-5 p.m. at the Bates-Gould Funeral Home.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in care of the family for a later designation and sent in care of Scott Mundt, 1691 CR 65, Alliance, NE&nbsp; 69301 or given to a charity of the donor’s choice.Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.

Carol L. Mundt (1943-2020)

Christine Prawel, 58 lost her battle with cancer on Wednesday, August 12th, 2020 in Alliance, NE.

She had an enduring faith and love for God as one of Jehovah's Witnesses and found comfort in the Bible's promise of the time when all things will be made new and "he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore." Rev 21:4

She is survived by her mother, Delores Butler, and brother, Bruce (Laura) Crumpacker along with uncles, aunts and cousins. Christine was preceded in death by her father, Charles Crumpacker.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598623882766.jpeg" alt="Christine_Prawel.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Christine_Prawel.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Christine Prawel, 58 lost her battle with cancer on Wednesday, August 12th, 2020 in Alliance, NE.She had an enduring faith and love for God as one of Jehovah's Witnesses and found comfort in the Bible's promise of the time when all things will be made new and "he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore." Rev 21:4She is survived by her mother, Delores Butler, and brother, Bruce (Laura) Crumpacker along with uncles, aunts and cousins. Christine was preceded in death by her father, Charles Crumpacker.Twice married and divorced, she had no children but she was thought of as “Auntie" by many and enjoyed a rapport with children and teenagers.Her interests, abilities and work were diverse. She was an accomplished seamstress and tailor, bus driver and mechanic. She also worked for the Colorado State Parks as a Park Ranger and Wildlife Tech for the Colorado Division of Wildlife. She held other positions as well through the years but most recently, was a caregiver for her mother.She loved nature, fishing, hiking, hunting, camping, photography, gardening, sewing and many crafts.We will keep her tucked safely in our hearts as we long for the time we will see her again in vibrant health.As per her request, they will be no services. Condolences may be sent to the family in c/o Bruce Crumpacker&nbsp;1011 W. 3rd Alliance, NE 69301.Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.

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