GenealogyBuff.com - Nebraska - Kimball County - Miscellaneous Obituaries - 9

Posted By: GenealogyBuff.com
Date: Thursday, 10 September 2009, at 1:47 p.m.

U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014

Donald Lester ‘Les’ Onigkeit
Donald Lester ‘Les’ Onigkeit, 86 of Kimball, passed away on Monday, November 3, 2003 at the Kimball County Manor. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 5, 2003 at the First English Lutheran Church of Kimball. Pastor Dwayne Hunzeker officiated. Cremation was preformed and a private family inurnment will be held at a later time. If friends wish, memorial gifts may be made to the charity of their choice. Cantrell Funeral Home is assisting with the arrangements.
Mr. Onigkeit was born on August 23, 1917 in Gretna, Neb. He had five brothers and six sisters. His family moved to Pine Bluffs, Wyo. in 1920. He married Orleatha (Lea) Heideman on February 14, 1942 in Kimball.
He served in the army from 1942 to 1945. He served as a guard for Douglas Aircraft in Long Beach, Calif. until he was sent to the Aleutian Islands in 1943. After his discharge, Lester and Orleatha settled one mile north of Kimball where they farmed until they moved to Racine, Wisc. in the spring of 1955. They lived in Ontario, Calif. from 1969 until 1979 when they moved back to Kimball to retire.
Mr. Onigkeit is survived by his sons Douglas Onigkeit of Potter Neb.; Wayne Onigkeit of Alpine Calif.; Donald and his wife Connie of Kimball; daughters Treva Jackson of Fayetteville, Ark. and Kathy Brekeller of Racine, Wisc.; his sister Bernice Krueger of Pine Bluffs, Wyo.; thirteen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Lester is joining his wife who passed away, May 20, 2000.

Dean LeRoy Scheele
Dean LeRoy Scheele, 83, long time resident of Dix, Neb., passed away October 25, 2003 at the Hospice Care Center in Loveland, Colo. Cremation has taken place and the family memorial service will be at a later date in celebration of his life.
Dean was born July 3, 1920 in Surprise, Neb. to Gustav Scheele and Marie Brandt Scheele. At the age of two his family moved to Kimball County to establish the family farm north of Dix. He graduated from Dix High School with the class of 1937 and attended the University of Nebraska in Lincoln before enlisting in the United States Coast Guard.
On February 12, 1942 Dean married his hometown sweetheart Elaine French. After the war he returned to the family farm where he and Elaine raised their children Deanna and Lonnie. As well as farming, Dean employed taking an active part in the community. At one time he was a member of Farm Bureau, Dix American Legion and for many years he was on the Panhandle Coop Board of Directors, Dix Board of Education, Educational Service Unit and the American National Bank Board of Directors. In 1988, after suffering a stroke, he and Elaine retired in Loveland, Colo. where he enjoyed many hobbies, music, travel and the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
He is sadly missed by his loving wife and caregiver Elaine, daughter Deanna Biesecker and husband Bob of Julesburg, Colo.; son Lonnie and wife Cathy of Littleton, Colo.; seven grandchildren: Aaron Scheele and wife Amy of Wildomar, Calif.; Michelle McCormick and husband Howard of Sedgwick Colo.; Mick Biesecker and wife Giselle of Spring Valley, Calif.; Amy Callan and husband Matt of Julesburg, Colo.; Ryan Biesecker and wife Sherry of Hudson, Wisc.; Jay Biesecker and wife Deanna of River Falls, Wisc.; Allyn Biesecker of Julesburg, Colo.; six great-children: Shantel and Dyan Evans; Kaleb and Shayla Biesecker; Josh and Erika Callan; two step-great-grandchildren Bridget and Vance McCormick; and numerous friends and relatives.
Please send cards to Elaine Scheele c/o Allnutt Funeral Service. Contributions can be made to the McKee Wellness/Nature Walk c/o McKee Medical Center Foundation, 2000 Boise Ave., Loveland, Colo. 80538.

Elvin Koch
Elvin Lee Koch, 71 of rural Kimball died unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, October 23, 2003. A memorial service was held Sunday, October 26 at the Cantrell Funeral Home of Kimball. The Rev. Roger Gillming officiated. Cremation took place and no visitation was scheduled.
He was born January 26, 1932 in Cherry County, Neb., a son of William and Bernice (Burr) Koch. He spent much of his childhood in Cherry County but had lived in various places including Whitman, Neb., Big Piney, Wyo., and Sterling, Colo. He had also lived for a time in Minnesota. He has lived south of Kimball since June of 1994.
Lee worked as a county road maintainer in Cherry and Grant counties and had also done some ranching. He also ran a landfill in Sublet County, Wyo. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He enjoyed carpentry, playing cards, and taking care of his animals.
He was married to Wanda McGrew in Gering on September 8, 1967. She survives along with one son Steven Koch of Kaycee, Wyo. and a stepson Michael Pettis of Texas. He is also survived by five brothers: Billy of Arizona; Kenneth and Lyle of Sterling, Colo.; Erwin of Loveland, Colo.; and William of Kimball; and three sisters: Harriet Foos and Juanita Stone both of Sterling, Colo. and Ethel Bunner of Grand Junction, Colo. He is also survived by three step granddaughters, one step great granddaughter, and a number of nieces and nephews.

Evelyn Rasmussen
Evelyn (Kannolt) Rasmussen, 84 of rural Potter, died peacefully at her home on Sunday, October 26, 2003 after a five year battle with cancer. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service is pending at press time to be at the Cantrell Funeral Home in Kimball. Pastor Dwayne Hunzeker will officiate. If friends wish, memorial gifts may be made to Home Health Care or First English Lutheran Church.
She was born to John and Carrie Kannolt in Chadron on July 30, 1919. She was orphaned at the age of seven and raised by her maternal grandparents John and Mary Smith in Chadron.
Evelyn graduated from Chadron High School and earned a bachelor of science in Elementary Education from Chadron State College in 1941. She lived to see three generations graduate from Chadron with teaching degrees. She taught for over 20 years in Crawford, Henry, and District 4, Dix and Lorenzo.
She and Elmer J. Rasmussen were married on September 6, 1941 in Gering. She was an active member of the Potter-Dix community. In addition to her teaching service she was a 4-H leader, Cub Scout leader, active in Extension garden and craft clubs, and a member of the VFW and American Legion Auxiliaries and a member of the Plains Historical Society.
She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Elmer; twin daughters, Donna R. Meyer and husband Jake of Torrington, Wyo., Texas, and Estes Park, Colo.; and Diana Chalupsky and husband John of Phoenix, Ore.; daughter Dorothy (Dottie) Jungck and husband Marty of Torrington, Wyo.; and a son John (Jack) Rasmussen and wife Linda of Dix. Other survivors include grandchildren Scott and wife Jami Jungck of Rapid City, S.D.; John Rasmussen of Dix; David Jungck of Torrington, Wyo.; Keri and husband Craig Deeds of Dix; Bodhi Rasmussen of Ashland, Ore.; Pam Jungck of Chadron; Shanti Rasmussen of Ashland, Ore.; and one great grandchild, McKenna Deeds of Dix; and a sister-in-law, Alice Jones of Kimball.
Evelyn lived most of her life on a farm southeast of Dix and she leaves behind many other relatives, students, and friends. Her family describes her as on amazing woman.

Ralph Spade
Funeral services for Ralph Spade, a 61-year-old Buffalo, Wyo. man who passed away Tuesday, October 14 at the Johnson County Health Care Center following a long illness, will be held Saturday, October 18 at 2 p.m. at the Adams Funeral Home Chapel with Bishop Sean Durrant officiating. Burial will be in Willow Grove Cemetery with graveside services to follow. Visitation will be at the funeral home chapel on Friday from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Friends may donate in Ralph’s memory to the Johnson County Health Care Center Oncology Unit in care of the Adams Funeral Home.
Ralph Anthony Spade was born on October 29, 1941 in Scottsbluff, Neb. to Eldon and Ellyn Spade of Kimball. He started school in Gering, Neb. and in 1952 they moved to Mills, Wyo. where Ralph graduated from Natrona County High School in 1960. After high school, he attended Casper College where he studied business management. He married Judy Davidson on June 23, 1962 in Casper and they made their home in various parts of Wyoming while Ralph worked on bridge construction. They moved to Buffalo in 1970. In 1974 Ralph went to work for Amax Coal in Gillette as a heavy equipment operator. He spent 27 years working for the coal mines when ill health forced him to retire.
Ralph was a member of the LDS Church and enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his family and grandchildren. He loved stock car racing and especially watching his son Gary race.
He is survived by his wife Judy of Buffalo; one son Gary Spade and his wife Perri of Buffalo; one daughter Shawna Studie and her husband Scott of Douglas, Wyo.; his mother Ellyn Spade of Buffalo; two brothers Steve Spade of Chamberlin, S.D. and Mike Spade of Gillette, Wyo.; and seven grandchildren: Sam, Tanner and Cameron Spade of Buffalo, and Vinnie, Jonnathon, Brian and Miracle Studie of Douglas, Wyo.; and uncle John Ferguson of Kimball. He was preceded in death by his father and one brother.

Scott A. Baluska
Scott Alan Baluska, 27, of Gering, formerly of Bushnell, died on Thursday, October 16, 2003 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, October 22, 2003 at the Cantrell Funeral Home in Kimball. Pastor Les Judge officiated. Burial was in the Kimball Cemetery. Visitation was held Tuesday, October 21 at the funeral home. The Cantrell Funeral Home of Kimball was in charge of funeral arrangements.
He was born on February 5, 1976 in Kimball to Jerry and Cathy (Edwards) Baluska. He grew up on his grandparent’s farm in Bushnell. He later attended and graduated from Mingo Job Corps in Missouri where he received his training in heavy equipment. He worked in the oil fields and in heavy equipment construction. Scott and Tonya Strader were married on October 23, 1996 in Mableton, Wyo. The couple had lived in Rock Springs, Wyo. for several years. Scott, Tonya and their three children have lived in Gering since July 2003. He was employed by Ames Construction and operated heavy equipment for the firm, mainly being a scraper and dozer operator, although he was skilled for all equipment in his line of work. He enjoyed fishing, riding motocross dirt bikes and being outdoors.
He is survived by his wife, Tonya of Gering; sons, Tristin and Jacob and daughter, Courtney all at home; his mother and step-father, Cathy and Gary Stoddard of Gering; his father, Jerry Baluska of Kimball; brother, Chad Baluska of Cheyenne, Wyo.; a half-sister, Amanda Howard of Kimball; and three step-sisters, Bethann, Kalene and Larissa; his grandparents, Jacob and Leona Baluska of Bushnell and Rolland “Buzz” and Carol Edwards of Morrill. He was preceded in death by his step-sister Jennifer Hort.

Barbara E. Staab
Barbara Elizabeth Staab, 76, of Kimball, died on Friday, October 17, 2003 at Memorial Health Extended Care Center in Sidney. Mass of Christian burial was held on Tuesday, October 21, 2003 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Kimball. The Reverend Robert Karnish was celebrant. Burial was in the Kimball Cemetery. Visitation was Monday, Oct. 20th at the funeral home. Recitation of the rosary was at 6 p.m. Monday evening. Memorial gifts can be made to the Alzheimers Association. Cantrell Funeral Home of Kimball was in charge of funeral arrangements.
She was born on April 15, 1927 to Valentine and Barbara (Schneider) Sanger in Sterling, Colo. She attended school in Sedgwick, Colo. and graduated from Sedgwick High School. Barbara and Leland “Shorty” Staab were married on July 27, 1945 in Julesburg, Colo. They lived and farmed in Crook, Colo. for a year before moving to Kimball in 1946. Barbara owned and operated H & R Block in Kimball for 25 years. She was an expert bookkeeper. She enjoyed working with the youth of Kimball and was very involved in the teen and youth community activities. Once a month she sponsored a teen dance at the local Moose Lodge. She was also involved, along with her husband Shorty, with the local Boy Scout Troup, always making sure the boys had dinner and snacks. She also loved flowers and working in her flower garden.
She was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, where she served as choir director for many years. She was an accomplished organist, piano player and vocalist. She was a member of the Rosary Altar Society, involved with the former Moose Lodge in Kimball, and a member of the Lioness Club and Eagles Lodge.
She is survived by her husband Leland “Shorty” Staab of Kimball; two brothers, John Sanger of Sterling, Colo., and Valentine Sanger of Ovid, Colo.; two sisters, Thelma Dunn of Montrose, Colo. and Shirley Zovha of Washington, D.C., and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother Jacob Sanger and one sister Helen Lauer.

Frank Darnall
Frank Darnall, 91 of Bushnell, died Saturday, October 11, 2003 at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff. Funeral services were Tuesday, October 14 at Dugan-Kramer Funeral Chapel in Scottsbluff, Neb. with Pastor Dick Young officiating. Interment was at Sunset Memorial Park in Scottsbluff with Pastor Donald Bloomberg officiating. Friends were able to call at the funeral chapel Monday. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association in honor of Frank and his great-granddaughter.
He was born September 13, 2003 at Bartley, Ill. to Arthur and Lyda (Johnstone) Darnall. He received his education in Banner County and graduated from Banner County High School in 1933. He married Harriet Ruth Corbet on November 20, 1935. The family moved to the Flowerfield area of Banner County and Frank began farming with his mother-in-law. He continued to operate and live on the farm the rest of his life. The farm is his legacy to his daughter and grandchildren. He was a member of the Albin Baptist Church.
He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Karyn and Jack Holt of Harrisburg, Neb.; granddaughters, Jacklyn (Jerry) Kwon of Colorado Springs, Colo.; Denelle (Mike) Klosterman of Harrisburg, Neb.; and Marianne Holt of Colorado Springs, Colo.; great-grandchildren, Jinni Kwon of Colorado Springs, Colo.; Hanna Klosterman of Harrisburg, Colo.; brother, Harvey Darnall of Harrisburg, Neb.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by wife, Harriet Ruth Darnall; his parents; sister, Nina Darnall Burnett; brothers, Glenn Darnall and Dave Darnall.

John Miller
John I. Miller, 86 of Kimball, died on Friday, October 10, 2003 at Heritage Health Care Center in Gering, Neb. Graveside funeral services were held on Monday, October 13, 2003 at the Dix Rural Cemetery in Dix. Pastor Mel Daves of the First Baptist Church of Kimball officiated. No visitation was scheduled. If friends wish, memorial gifts may be made to the John Miller Memorial Fund. The Cantrell Funeral Home of Kimball is in charge of arrangements.
He was born in Kinder, La. November 30, 1916 a son of Abraham N. and Mabel Olive (Keys) Miller. John and Elizabeth Eubanks Miller were married in Jennings, La. on January 21, 1946. From 1946 until 1967 they lived in Reeves, La. and then moved to Colorado. They came to Kimball in 1983 and in 2001 moved to Well Life in Scottsbluff.
Mr. Miller had served in the U.S. Army during WW II and had served overseas four years in North Africa, Italy and Germany. While living in Louisiana he owned and operated a rice farm and raised cattle. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Estes Park and had served as a Deacon. He particularly enjoyed traveling and reading. He was known to be able to “fix anything.”
He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth of Scottsbluff; one son, John Miller and his wife Jaclyn of Dix; and two daughters, Marie Searcy and her husband Charles of Silver Springs, Nev., and Sherry Strasburger and her husband Sid of Ellsworth, Neb. He is also survived by one brother, Alfred Ray Miller and his wife Jo Helen of Reeves, La., and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers.

Carl E. Reader
Carl “Buck” Reader, 90 of Kimball, died on Friday, October 10, 2003 at his home in Kimball. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, October 14, 2003 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Kimball. Reverend Roger Gillming officiated. Burial was in the Kimball Cemetery. Visitation was held Monday, October 13 from 1 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. If friends wish, memorial gifts may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church or a charity of the donor’s choice. The Cantrell Funeral Home of Kimball is in charge of arrangements.
He was born on February 1, 1913 in Kimball to Frank E. and Iris (Bickel) Reader. Buck graduated from Kimball County High School. He worked after graduation at the Bull Canyon Ranch for a few years. Buck and Winona Adams were married on June 12, 1935. She died on April 27, 1992. They were lifelong farmers in Kimball County, purchasing their farm south of Kimball in 1946.
He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and was active in the community. He played on the Town Team League baseball and basketball teams. He served on the REA Board, Kimball Volunteer Fire Department Rural Board, Soil Conservation Board, Kimball School Board and the Kimball Co-Op Boards for many years. Buck was an avid fisherman, hunter, snooker player, bowler and dancer. He enjoyed “solo” and always was ready for a game of cards.
He is survived by three sons, Thomas and his wife Janice of Las Cruces, N.M., Carl David and his wife JoAnn of Kimball, and Penrod Alan and his wife Bernadine of Kimball; one daughter, Carla Jean Kirby and her husband Rick of Kimball; three sisters, Alice Vahling of Denver, Barbara Joseph of Kimball and Bette Fritschel of Plover, Wisc.; sisters-in-law, Lois O’Hare of Kimball and brother and sister-in-law; Wayne and Thurma Bauerkemper of Sidney; 10 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Winona, sister Sara Frankie Switzer, brother Penrod “Lewis” Reader, daughter Sara Sue Reader and grandson Daniel Martin Reader.

Lola M. Mannon
Lola Mannon, 74 of Bushnell, died on Saturday, October 11, 2003 at Kimball Health Services. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, October 15, 2003 at the Cantrell Funeral Home Chapel. Errol Mannon officiated. Burial was in the Kimball Cemetery. The Cantrell Funeral Home of Kimball assisted with the arrangements.
Mrs. Mannon was born January 10, 1929 to Earl and Adla (Vickers) Mercer of Oconto, Neb. She graduated from Poudre Valley High School in Ft. Collins, Colo. She married Herman Mannon on May 8, 1948 in Ft. Collins. They lived in Cheyenne Wyo. before moving to Bushnell eight years ago. Mrs. Mannon was a homemaker who enjoyed crocheting, artifact hunting, doll collecting and sewing.
She is survived by her sons, Steve and wife Becky of Kimball; Errol and wife Gretchen of Albin, Wyo.; and Frank Mannon of Ft. Collins Colo.; 14 grandchildren and a number of great-grandchildren. Two brothers, Leonard and Leo Mercer, and two sisters June Mercer and Joyce Wiggin also survive. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Blaine.

Ronald Willoughby
Ronald Gene Willoughby, 67 of LaGrange, WY died on Thursday, October 2, 2003 at United Medical Center-West. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, October 10, 2003 at the Dix Bible Church in Dix, Neb. Pastor Virgil Johnson of the church and Pastor Don Mathis of LaGrange will officiate. Cremation has taken place and burial of the remains will be at the Potter Cemetery following the service. If friends wish, memorial gifts may be made to the Ronald Willoughby Memorial Fund in care of the family. The Cantrell Funeral Home in Kimball is in charge of arrangements.
He was born May 13, 1936 in Kimball, a son of Francis and Vivian (Herboldsheimer) Willoughby. Ronald had attended both the University of Nebraska and the University of Wyoming. He and Shirley Nelson were married June 7, 1959 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Kimball. He has lived in LaGrange for the past 29 years and had also lived in Albin, Sidney, Egbert, Potter and Jacinto. About a month ago he moved to Mountain Towers in Cheyenne due to his health. He was a manager for Point of Rocks Grain Elevators in Jacinto. He was a member of the Dix Bible Church and the Brotherhood of International Electrical Workers. He had served in the United States Marine Corp. Ronald will be remembered as a loving and caring, husband, father and grandfather.
He is survived by his wife Shirley; his mother Vivian Willoughby of Cheyenne, Wyo.; one son Mark Willoughby of LaGrange; two daughters, Debra Dorigatte of Las Vegas, Nev. and Shelly Flohr of Minatare. Also surviving is a brother, Donald Willoughby of Pine Bluffs and a sister Marjorie Duffus of Littleton, Colo., eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father and one grandson David Lee Flohr.

Dolores “Dee” (Bloome) Johnson
A funeral mass for Dolores "Dee" Mary Ann (Bloome) Johnson, 72, of Scottsbluff, who passed away Sunday, Sept. 21, 2003, at Regional West Medical Center, was held Thursday, Sept. 25, 11 a.m. at the St. Agnes Catholic Church in Scottsbluff with Father James O’Kane officiating. Interment was at the Fairview Cemetery in Scottsbluff. A vigil service was held Wednesday, Sept. 24, 7 p.m., at the church. A memorial has been established to the Dee Johnson Memorial Scholarship Fund.
She was born Dec. 13, 1930, in Atkinson, Ill., to Matilda (DeCrane) Bloome. Her father, John Bloome passed away before her birth. She grew up and attended school in Atkinson, graduating from high school in 1948. She then attended Business College in Moline, Ill. She moved to Colorado Springs, Colo., where she met her husband Klayton Johnson. After their marriage on Feb. 2, 1952, they moved to Banner County, where they farmed and ranched. Dee loved the outdoors, her children and life itself.
She lovingly raised their five children and enjoyed boating, snow skiing, travel, hiking and exploring National Parks with her family. Together, she and Klayton faithfully attended their children's school activities. After their retirement, Dee and Kay moved to Scottsbluff, where they enjoyed playing golf, traveling extensively and visits from children and grandchildren.
She was a member of the church, Wrights Extension Club and P.E.O. Chapter ET.
She will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 51 years, Klayton of Scottsbluff; children and their spouses, Vicki and Kirk Begley of Scottsbluff, Karen and Glen Sullivan of Colorado Springs, Colo; Cindy and Guy Steuart of Bethesda, Md., Mark and Anne Johnson of Potter and Carolyn and John Lightcap of Colorado Springs, Colo.; grandchildren, Lori and Michael Begley, Megan, Katherine, Ben and Kristin Sullivan, Anna, Guy, and Lauren Steuart, Luke, Jake and Mattie Johnson and Ellen Lightcap; siblings, Charles Bloome of Moline, Wilbur Bloome of Davenport, Iowa and Darlene Mishek of Parker, Colo.; mother-in-law Mildred Anderson of Scottsbluff; and many nieces and nephews.
Her father and mother, John and Matilda Bloome, preceded her in death.

Rev. Edward Keller
The Rev. Edward Keller, 95, Lincoln, died September 18, 2003. A Lutheran minister for 67 years, he was ordained into the Lutheran ministry May 21, 1936 after graduating from Wartburg Seminary ELCA. Pastor Keller served parishes in Jonesboro, Gifford, and Golden, Ill.; Oshkosh, Wis.; Kimball, Creighton, and Burr, Neb.
After retiring from the parish ministry and coming to Lincoln in 1973, he served as chaplain at Saint Elizabeth Hospital; served with Lutheran Family & Social Services; and for the past 25 years has served Sheridan Lutheran Church as visitation pastor, 1975-2000.
For 15 years his preaching was done in both German and English. He touched countless lives.
Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Anna; daughters, son-in-law Patricia Wanek, Estes Park, Colo., Nancy and Larry Forsberg, Lincoln, son, Dr. Eugene Rochester, Minn., sisters, Emma Dillon, Ida Bentz, both Lodi, Calif.; brother, Carl, Eugene, Ore., grandchildren, Pamela Wanek, Scott Wanek, Christine Broughton, Mark Keller, David Keller, Margaret "Maggie" Canup, Michael Forsberg, Michelle Forsberg; four great-grandchildren, Buster, Louie, Elsa, Emme.
Services were at Sheridan Lutheran Church in Lincoln.

Louis Miccuillo
Louis Miccuillo, 83 of Kimball died at Kimball Health Services on Monday, September 29, 2003. A funeral service was held on Wednesday, October 1, 2003 at the Cantrell Funeral Home. Pastor Andy Hergenreder of the First Church of the Nazarene officiated. Burial followed in the Kimball Cemetery.
He was born on June 14, 1920 in Revere, Mass., a son of Sebastian and Maria Miccuillo. He had lived for a time in Laredo, Texas and came to Kimball in 1984. He married Rosario Mendoza in Mexico in 1975.
Mr. Miccuillo was an accomplished musician and had played for many various occasions especially associated with his church. He played for many Lenten services and also at the annual Praise Gathering service held every year in Kimball. He had also played at Kimball County Manor and at the Senior Friendship Center. He was the pianist for the Nazarene Church Regional meeting that was held in Scottsbluff. He was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene of Kimball and had served on the church board.
He is survived by his wife Rosario of Kimball; one son, Louis Miccuillo, Jr. of Kimball; two brothers Carmine and Salvatore Miccuillo, and a sister Lucy Gulla, all of Revere, Mass.

Lawrence Lane
Lawrence V. (Larry) Lane, age 87, of Peru, Neb., formerly of Kimball, passed away Friday, June 4, 2004 at the Beverly Health Care Home in Nebraska City, Neb. Memorial Services were held Tuesday, June 8 at the Hall Funeral Chapel in Auburn, Neb. No viewing was scheduled. A private family inurnment was scheduled for a later date.
He is survived by beloved companion Ruth Simpson of Peru; daughters Mari Lane Gewecke and son-in-law John of Lincoln, Neb.; Mrs. Marlyn (Judy) Taylor of Cornville, Ariz.; brothers and sisters Mrs. Elmo (Milly) Lloyd of Wymore, Neb.; Robert Lane and wife Joyce of Boring, Ore.; and sister-in-law Mrs. Lorine Lane of Wymore, Neb.; and two grandchildren.
Hall Funeral Chapel in Auburn took charge of the arrangements for Lawrence Lane.

Velma Knoedler
Velma Mary Knoedler, 95, of Kimball passed away Monday, May 31, 2004, at the Kimball County Manor. A celebration of her life was held June 3 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Scottsbluff with Pastor Dwayne Hunzeker officiating. Interment was in Sunset Memorial Park, Scottsbluff. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her name to the First English Lutheran Church, Kimball, Calvary Lutheran Church, Scottsbluff, or to the donor's choice.
Tributes may be left at www.dugankramer.com
Velma was born Jan. 30, 1909, in Fremont, to John and Sine (Jorgensen) Stull. In June 1913, the family loaded their worldly possessions in a boxcar and headed for Potter. In December 1919, they moved to a farm 17 miles north of Kimball, where they had to build all the farm buildings.
Velma graduated from eighth grade at Twin Tree School and graduated from Banner County High School in 1927. She attended Chadron State College later, where she received her teaching certificate. On July 9, 1932, she married Paul Knoedler. To this union, two children were born, Melvin Eugene on July 8, 1933, and Margaret Kathleen on Oct. 18, 1935.
Paul and Velma retired from farming in 1961 and moved to Gering. After her husband's death in 1974, Velma continued to live in Gering until the last five years when she lived at the Kimball County Manor. She was a lifetime member of First English Lutheran Church in Kimball, where she was baptized, confirmed and married.
Velma will be lovingly remembered by her family and all who knew her.
She is survived by her daughter Kathy, and husband George Van Pelt, of Kimball; son, Melvin and wife LuVerne, of Gering; sister, Lorrine (Stull) Lockwood of Fort Collins, Colo.; grandchildren, Brad (Kenna) Van Pelt, Bruce (Sefrina) Van Pelt, Vicki (Roy) Howell, Linda (Jim) Moser, Brenda (Brian) Stott and Tami Van Pelt; and 12 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Paul; granddaughter Julie Ann Knoedler; brother Clifford; and sisters, Marguerite, Geraldine and Ila Marie (Bobbie).

Esther Novotny
Esther Novotny of Kimball died on Sunday, June 6, 2004 at the Kimball County Manor. Funeral services were held Wednesday, June 9, 2004 at the Kimball Presbyterian Church. Pastor Alan Foutz officiated. Burial followed in the Kimball Cemetery. Visitation was held Tuesday, June 8 at the funeral home. If friends wish, memorials may be made to the Kimball Presbyterian Church. Cantrell Funeral Home of Kimball assisted the family with arrangements.
Esther was born on August 8, 1918 in Broadwater, Neb. to German immigrants Henry and Anna (Honstein) Burback. Her family settled in Kimball where she attended District 4 schools. On March 8, 1941 she married William Novotny in Kimball. She spent over 25 years working with the Kimball Schools lunch program.
Mrs. Novotny was a member of the Kimball Presbyterian church where she taught Sunday School and was a member of the A.P.H. E. Extension Club for over 50 years.
Esther is survived by her husband of 63 years, William Novotny; daughters Sharon and husband Richard Gehrke of Kimball, and Peg Novotny of Pueblo, Colo.; a brother Harry and wife Beulah Burback of Kimball; and two sisters Irene Young of Scottsbluff and Elizabeth Strasheim of Kimball; grandchildren Michelle and husband Mike McKee, Jason Gehrke, Brenna and Tisha White, Toni and husband Brad Siedel and family; and one great-grandson Brandon McKee.
She was preceded in death by a grandson Brent Gehrke; a son-in-law Dale White; brothers Henry, Reuben, John, Conrad and Richard Burback; sisters Ann Strasheim, Lydia Talhelm, and Helen Evertson.
She will be remembered for her giving spirit, dedication to family, love and respect of nature and commitment to religious values. Esther will be greatly missed by those who shared her life.

Ruth Mueller
Ruth Philson Mueller died on Monday, June 7, 2004 at the home of her daughter in Gering, Neb. from the lingering effects of a massive stroke suffered on February 2, 2004. At her request, her body was cremated and there will be no visitation. A private inurnment has taken place at West Lawn Cemetery in Gering. A memorial service will be 1:30 P.M. Monday, June 14, 2004 at First United Methodist Church, 900 O Street, Gering, with fellowship following. Rev. Linda Battello and Rev. Ron Nuss-Warren will be officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the cancer patient fund established by Ruth and Dr. Packard with proceeds of Willard E. Philson’s memorials, to Prairie Haven Hospice, or to the donor’s choice.
Dugan-Kramer Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Tributes of sympathy may be left at www.dugankramer.com .
Ruth Elizabeth Hoff was born on October 10, 1923 at Scottsbluff, Neb. to Conrad C. and Pauline (Beisel) Hoff. While still a small child, she lived with her family in Minatare, Morrill, Mitchell, and then Gering where Ruth graduated from high school. As the oldest daughter, Ruth lovingly helped care for her siblings.
Soon after graduation, Ruth went to San Diego, Calif. and was married to Willard E. Philson on September 16, 1942, at The Trinity Methodist Church. While Willard was in the U. S. Navy, Ruth worked at Consolidated Aircraft Co. in San Diego (Rosie the riveter).
After Williard was discharged, the couple moved to McCool Junction, Neb. for a year and then back to San Diego for several years before moving to Wheatland, Wyo., and finally to Gering, where Willard worked in the petroleum department and eventually became General Manager of Panhandle Co-Op. Ruth enjoyed traveling with Willard and friends on many Co-op trips. Willard died September 4, 1984.
For many years, Ruth and family attended First United Methodist Church in Gering. Later, Ruth and Willard were founding members of Trinity United Methodist Church in Gering.
Four children were born to the marriage: Willard Arlin, Ardis Ann, Mary Ruth, and Clark Allen, all of whom graduated from Gering High School.
Ruth held memberships in the VFW Auxiliary, Eagles Auxiliary and Does Drove #21 of Scottsbluff.
Ruth and Bob Mueller met at a dance class in Kimball on April 22, 1993. They were married June 10, 1994. Many remember Bob and Ruth’s bicycle ride around the dance floor to the tune of “Daisy, Daisy” at the wedding reception. Bob and Ruth enjoyed 10 years together dancing weekly at several nearby senior centers.
Ruth was an avid quilter and shared the results with many family members. She also enjoyed “antiquing” and was a collector of Blue Willoware. Throughout her life, Ruth loved to dance. Ruth dearly loved her family and her many friends.
Survivors include her daughters: Ardis (Herb) Grewing, Pocatello, Idaho, and Mary Haxby, Gering; son Clark (Susan) Philson, Gering; granddaughters: Kristin (Alex) Pollard, Pocatello, Idaho; Lorie Ehler, Gering; and Lisa Philson, Mitchell, Neb.; grandson Travis Philson, Torrington, Wyo.; step-granddaughter Kristine Harkins, Goodyear, Ariz.; husband Bob Mueller, Kimball; step-children: Jay Mueller, Denver, Colo., Amy Mueller, Quito, Ecuador, and Gale (Doug) Whitman, Ft. Collins, Colo.; step-grandchild Tyson Whitman; brothers: Russell W. (Tensie) Hoff, Florence, Ore., Roger E. (Emily) Hoff, Torrington, Wyo., Stanley (Jeannie) Hoff, Cheyenne, Wyo.; sister Betty (Bill) Reifler, Lincoln, Neb.; sister-in-law Judy Hoff, Gering, Neb., and many loving nephews and nieces.
She was preceded in death by her parents; son Willard “Bill” Arlin Philson, killed in Vietnam; husband Willard Emery Philson, and brother Larry Hoff.

Ralph Olsen
Ralph K. Olsen, 48, a longtime Sidney resident and present City Councilman, died at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff on Friday, June 4, 2004. Funeral services were scheduled for 10:00 Thurs. morning, June 10 at the First United Methodist Church in Sidney with Pastor Alan Davis officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. Friends were able to call at the funeral home from 8 am to 8 pm on Wed. The family has designated the First United Methodist Church, City of Sidney, and the National Guard as the memorials.
Ralph Kent Olsen was born Jan. 4, 1956 at Sidney, the son of Ralph Leo and E. Geraldine (Gosting) Olsen. He was raised and attended school in Sidney, graduating in 1974. He then attended Elkins Institute of Broadcasting in Denver, receiving his Broadcasting License in 1975.
On June 28, 1975 Ralph was married to Ragina Dimmick in Sidney. The couple moved to Kimball in 1975 where Ralph worked at KIMB Radio as a sports, news and sales director. In 1984, they moved to Sidney where he was employed as an insurance agent until 1997. In June, 1997 he became the publisher of the Sidney Telegraph. In 1999 he was employed by Security First Bank as an insurance agent. Ralph worked briefly at Charter Communications before hiring on at Cabela’s. In 2004 he worked part-time at Wal-Mart. Most recently he was employed by Credit Management Services in Grand Island as a marketing representative for the Neb. Panhandle area. He also continued working at MHC as a part time security guard.
Ralph was involved with many organizations. He was a lifetime Senator of the International Jaycees, belonging to both the Kimball Chapter, where he was a past president, and the Sidney Chapter, where he held several offices. He was active for many years in the Cheyenne County Chamber of Commerce, serving as a past president. He has been involved with the Toastmaster’s Club, Sidney Lions, Sidney Rotary, Lodgepole Valley Life Underwriters, an Honorary Admiral of the Navy of the Great State of Nebraska, was a commander in the Big Red Sub Club, an organization for those who have sailed on the USS Nebraska submarine.
Ralph has served as an announcer for Oktoberfest the last 10 years and announced for the Ft. Sidney Colonels for several years. He was a 4 yr. volunteer member of the Neb. State Committee for Employers Support of the Guard and Reserve, serving as liaison between guard and reserve troops and their employers. He has blown Taps for most military funerals over the last 25 years.
He received several awards through the years, including the Edna Anderson Award in 1999, BPOE Citizen of the Year Award for 1999-2000, and VFW Post #610 Volunteer of the year 2003. Ralph loved music and DJ’d for all types of events. He provided color commentary for the Sidney High Football games for several years. He loved to golf and spend time riding his motorcycle. He was devoted to his family and friends and to his community, currently serving as a City Councilman, his county and his country, which he loved so much. Ralph was always willing to lend a helping hand when needed.
Survivors include his wife Ragina of Sidney; his sons Christopher and Brian, both of Sidney; his mother Geraldine Olsen of Sidney; sisters and brother-in-law, Ellen Morledge of Grand Island, Neb., and Jeannie and Dennis Scamehorn of York, Neb.; brother and sister-in-law Craig and Jacqueline Olsen of Wichita, Kan.; mother and father-in-law, James and Jean Dimmick of Sidney; brothers-in-law, Raymond Dimmick of Sidney and Robert Dimmick of Tucson, Ariz.; 10 nieces and nephews, and one great nephew.
Gehrig Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

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