John C. Small, 76, passed away Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at his home in Alliance.
He was born May 23, 1946 in Omaha, NE to Kenneth and Clara (Kenter) Small. John served in the U.S. Army from January 1965 until his honorable discharge in April, 1966. John worked as an iron worker in Omaha before hiring on with BNSF Railroad. He retired as a Carman after 17 years of service in 2011. While working at the railroad he also served as an EMT/First Responder. Following his retirement he enjoyed spending his summers at Spirit Lake, IA fishing.
On July 19, 1975 he was united in marriage to Vickie J. Cooklin.
He is survived by his wife, Vickie, his children, Kelli Erickson of Lincoln, Joni Peters (Rod Stettner) of Sidney and Zachary (Heidi) Small of Alliance, his grandchildren, Lindsey Erickson, Jacob Erickson, Conner Erickson, Brandon (Carley) Mundt, Shelby (Ty) Davis, Travis (Hannah) Garska, Benjamin Cassatt-Reina, Mia Reina, Jayden Cassett-Steele, Freya Small and Sawyer Small and his great-grandchildren, Liam Erickson, Avalon Mundt, Luna Mundt, Walker Davis, Wyatt Davis and Waivlyn Davis. He is also survived by his sister, Kathy Stegall of St. Joseph, MO, his brother, Kenneth (Lynn) Small of Omaha and his mother-in-law, Norma Cooklin of Spirit Lake, IA and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorial services will be Monday, January 23, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church with Reverend Richard C. Mueller officiating. Inurnment will be in the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery.