Gerald Lee Schnell passed away November 8, 2020, at Box Butte General Hospital in Alliance, Nebraska.
Jerry was born December 16, 1938 in Bayard, Nebraska to Dave and Edna (Bauer) Schnell.
He was united in marriage to Rita Grau on July 3, 1960 at the United Methodist Church in Alliance. This past July 3, they celebrated 60 years of marriage.
Jerry farmed his entire life, retiring (as much as any farmer retires) in 2005. He enjoyed spending time with his family. This often included a trip to a nearby casino or a sneaky trick to put you to work. He loved to keep his grandkids busy with his projects.
He served with the Nebraska National Guard; served two terms on the West co Board of Directors; was a member of the Eagles Club; a former member of the Route 385 Cruisers Car Club; and was a member of the United Methodist Church.
He is survived by his wife, Rita, sons Brad (Joan) Schnell of Alliance, and Tim (Margo) Schnell of Lincoln, his grandchildren Courtney and Travis Turner, Conor and Kayla Schnell, Carly Schnell, Austin Schnell, and his fiancé-Chelsea Dean, Zachary Schnell, Michael Schnell and Elizabeth Schnell. He is also survived by his sisters, Joyce Galyen and Marilyn Schoeneman of Alliance, and brother-in-law Dean Varilek of Fremont, Nebraska, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, as well as his faithful companion Mitzi.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Shirley Varilek.
Memorials may be given to the ALS Foundation, The Panhandle Blocks Quilts of Valor, or the donor's choice.
Services will be held at a later date, with burial to be at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance.