C3 - Obits

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, May 1987

Robert Kenneth Connett

Robert Kenneth Connett was born near Bird City, Kansas, to Roy and Etta Connett on July 22, 1923, and died at the Cheyenne County Hospital in St. Francis, Kansas, after a lengthy illness on May 13, 1987, at the age of 63.

Bob attended grade school in the country schools near Bird City and high school at St. Francis, Kansas. He was united in marriage to Ada Pugh November 30, 1942. To this union two daughters were born, Carolyn and Catherine.

Bob proudly served his country three years during World War II, serving part of his time in Germany, France and Belgium. He was on his way to the South Pacific when the war ended. After returning from the service, he established his home on a farm north of Bird City where he and his family lived until they moved to Bird City in 1963.

His love for beautiful horses became his favorite pastime. He spent many hours grooming and caring for them. His favorite passengers in his buggies and sleigh were his grandchildren, Sheila, Justin and Julie.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church and the American Legion Post 352. He served as a school board member at the Mount Hope District for several years.

Preceding him in death were his father and mother and one sister, Maxine Luckeroth.

Those who remain to mourn his passing are his wife, Ada; two daughters, Carolyn and husband, Roland Query, of Bird City and Catherine and husband, Darrell Busby, of Oakland, Iowa; three grandchildren, Sheila Query, Justin and Julie Busby; two brothers,Wbody Connett of Clark, Wyoming, and Harold Connett of Bird City; three sisters, Mildren
Lundin of St. Francis, Wilma Slater of Ogdensburg, New York, and Dorothy Cook of Winfield, Kansas, and a number of other relatives and friends.

Services were held May 16, 1987, at Kramer Chapel in St. Francis with the Rev. Dan Waters officiating.

Pall bearers were Lee Beeson, Ron LeValley, Jack Maring, Willard Moore, Lowell Query and Clint Munn.

Honor guards from Legion Post 352 were Hal Sager, Sam Beeson, Don Ayres, John DaPron, Harold Nelson, Tom Sawyer, Leo Wilkens, Norman Dorsch, Leonard Amsberry, J.C. Gleason, Fred Magley and Mike Waters who played taps.

Interment was in the St. Francis Cemetery.

BOB'S TALK WITH GOD
You gave me ground to grow the grain and raise my children dear.
I fought with others, side by side in a war so far from here.
The dearest woman shared my life and brightened every day.
Comfort her with loving friends when I must go away.
Keep my children smiling as each day comes along.
Keep my grandkids happy, too, with every day a song.
I sure liked Clyde and Bonnie, they were a perfect match.
They pulled the wagon with a will, so I fed them gingersnaps.
I guess you saw the tears I felt, when the ponies had to go.
But the harness got too heavy, and—well, Lord, I guess you know.
If ponies have a heaven, and if you've a place for me,
Then let me drive them once again, throughout eternity.

—written by Peggy Connett

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, January 1981

Lela Margaret (Pearson) Conrad

Lela Margaret Pearson, second daughter of Bessie Mae and Benjamin Franklin Pearson was born on Dec. 1, 1905 in Logan, KS and went to her eternal rest Jan. 23, 1981 at her home in Clarkston, WA after a brief illness.

As a child she moved with her family to Haigler, NE where she attended school.

She was married to Robert a Turoin June 6, 1924. One daughter, Helen May was
born to them. They were divorced in 1932.

On April 21, 1937, she was married to Lester B. Stump at Lexington, NE. They farmed north of Edison, NE until moving to Haigler, NE in 1940. Lester passed away July 25, 1950.

Lela clerked in various stores in Haigler. Benkelman and later at the Wray Community Hospital until her marriage to Laurence Conrad, Feb. 8, 1960. Laurence and Lela traveled throughout the country enjoying many days together. Lela joined the Methodist Church in Wray, CO during this time. While a resident of Wray, Lela was a member of Eastern Star.

After Laurence passed away in November, 1970, Lela purchased a home in Clarkston, WA to be near her family and especially her grandchildren who were very dear to her.

Lela was a loyal and faithful friend to many—spending long hours sitting with friends in the hospital, doing much to help ease their days.

Lela leaves to mourn, her devoted family; daughter Helen Mae and husband, Keith Campbell; two granddaughters, Patricia Martin and husband, Ben; Vona Litchfield and husband Don; three great grandchildren, Jeff, Jill and Kirk, all of Lewiston, ID. two sisters, Eloshia Schmutte of Haigler; Rossie Schuricht of Denver, two sisters-in-law, Viola Pearson of Haigler and Corinne Peterson of Wray, along with a host of relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by a brother, Thomas and a brother-in-law, Voland Schmutte.

Funeral services were held Jan. 29, 1981 at 2 p.m. at the Wray United Methodist Church with interment at the Haigler Cemetery.

Arrangements were made by Spellman-Schmidt Mori tuary, Wray, CO.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1942

Maul Elizabeth (Artist) Cooley

Dundy county people were deeply grieved to learn of the passing of Mrs. W. L. Cooley at her home in Haigler last Sunday, following a long illness which became acute on the previous Friday. Funeral services were held at the Methodist church in Benkelman Tuesday afternoon, being in charge of Rev, Dwight Smith, pastor of the Pleasant Valley church. Singers were R. D. Druliner, Glenn Druliner, Lloyd Boswell and Jacob Bauer with Mrs. D. L. Ough at the piano. Flower girls were Eunice Mosier, Frances and Pearl Williams,. Lila Turman and Nina Claire Artist.

Pallbearers were Wilber and Harry Cooley, Clifford Ham, Gay Bash, Clinton Bash and Elmer Artist. Interment was in the Benkelman cemetery.

One son, Edward Cooley, was unable to attend his mother's funeral. Edward was a national guardsman preceding the beginning of the war and was called to the service in the border patrol in the army and is subject to 24-hour call and could not get released.

Maul Elizabeth Artist was born near DeWitt, in Saline county, Nebraska, February 16, 1886, and departed this life May 31, 1942, at the age of 56 years,3 months and 15 days.

When she was one year old she came with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Artist to Dundy county to their new home near Hiawatha. Here with her parents, this daughter grew to young womanhood. As a student in school she was a diligent worker. She became a rural school teacher and followed this profession for several years.

On June 22, 1904, she was united In marriage to William Lee Cooley. To this union were born ten children, four of them dying in infancy. Also preceding her in death were her husband, her father and mother.

With her husband, Mrs. Cooley lived in the Hiawatha neighborhood where she was known as a friend and neighbor. She was an active member of the Friends church at Hiawatha until it was discontinued. In November, 1935, . she moved to Haigler where she resided until her death.

She leaves to mourn her passing her six children: Wilber of Benkelman, Mrs. Laura Ham of Benkelman, Edward of Reno, Nevada; Harry of Haigler, Mrs. Eva Ketler, of Benkelman and Mrs. Hollis Clegg of Haigler, four sisters, Mrs. Veda Coleman of Superior, Mrs. Flossie Bash of Benkelman, Mrs. Loa Williams of Haigler and Mrs. Clara Humphrey of Benkelman; two brothers, Ward Artist of Benkelman and Earl Artist of Imperial, and her mother-in-law, Mrs. Ella Lines of Imperial, as well as five grandchildren and many other relatives and friends.

Mrs. Cooley had been in ill health for several years. Frequently she had violent attacks but had always recovered. On May 29 her condition became critical, but In spite of all medical aid she passed away two days later.

This good woman leaves a place that can never be filled. Her many friends know the loss of a neighbor who was always willing to leave her own work to care for the sick and to help a friend in time of need. From her children a mother has been taken, a mother whose life was unselfishly devoted to their well being, one who worked long and hard to give them the advantages of life, one who placed herself last.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1979

Edward F. Cooley

Funeral services for Edward F. Cooley were held at the FitzHenry Funeral Home Chapel in Indio, CA, at 11 a.m. Thurs., Aug. 30, 1979. Dr. Leslie Zimmerman of the United Church of the Desert and Coachella Masonic Lodge No. 476 officiated. Interment was in the Coachella Valley Cemetery under the direction of the FitzHenry Funeral Home of Indio, CA.

Edward, the second son of Mr. and Mrs. William L. Cooley was born in Lutz precinct in Dundy county on Oct. 13, 1909 and passed away in Indio, CA, on Sun., Aug. 26, 1979. He was a graduate of the Benkelman High School with the Class of 1930. He served the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a meat inspector for many years before his retirement several years ago.

He is survived by his wife, Roberta, two sisters, Laura Ham of Benkelman and Eva Ketler of Greeley, CO; one brother, Harry of Albany, OR; two sisters-in-law, J. Louise Cooley of Lincoln, Alberta Cooley of Albany, OR; one brother-in-law, Merle Ketler of Greeley, CO and several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Laura Ham of Benkelman, nephews Wes Cooley of Lutz precinct and Claire of Lincoln and niece Mrs. Phyllis Gardner of Max were in attendance at the funeral services. The foursome utilized the scheduled airlines to fly from Denver to California on Wednesday and returned to their Dundy and Lancaster homes on Sunday evening.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February ????

Harry Elmer Cooley

Harry Elmer Cooley was born to William Lee and Laura (Artist) Cooley on September 10, 1911, near Benkelman, Nebraska, and died Sunday, February 24, in an Albany, Oregon, hospital after a short illness.

Harry grew up in Benkelman, Nebraska, and lived there until 1955, when he moved to Albany, Oregon, and lived there since. He had worked at Linn Plywood until 1959, when the plant burned and since then has worked at Wah Chang, retiring in 1976.

Harry was married to Alberta Matchett on September 2, 1924, in Benkelman.

Survivors include his wife, Alberta; children, Jim Cooley of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Ed Cooley, Nancy Corrick and Michael Cooley, all of Albany, Oregon; sister, Eva Ketler of Benkelman; and his grandchildren.

Services were conducted at the Fisher Funeral Home Thursday, February 28. Rev. Gary Pritchard officiated the service. Interment was in Williamette Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to the Oregon Heart Association.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1979

Wilber Earl Cooley

Wilber Earl Cooley was born near Imperial, NE, on Jan. 19, 1906, the son of Maude E. and William E. Cooley. The oldest of six children, he spent his childhood on the family farm and graduated from Benkelman High School in 1926.

On Nov. 2, 1929 Wilber was united in marriage to J. Louise Wright of Lincoln, NE. They resided on a farm near Imperial, NE, for 23 years. All five of their children were born during their stay in this area.

In 1953 the family moved to a farm east of Lincoln, NE, where Wilber spent 13 years in farming and cattle feeding. In 1966 Wilber and Louise moved to a home at 1820 Crestline in Lincoln, where they resided until the time of his death.

On Aug. 24, Wilber became violently ill and was rushed to Lincoln Hospital where he died a few hours later. Funeral services were held Aug 27, at the Rosemont Alliance Church in Lincoln. Among the pallbearers were Glen Lines and Wayne Berry of Benkelman.

Wilber was survived by his wife, Louise, five children: Vivian Johnson of Imperial, Beryl Renolett of Lyons, KS; and three sons, Burdette of Lincoln, Clair of Lincoln and Wesley of Benkelman. He was also survived by two sisters and two brothers, however, a younger brother, Edward, passed away in California on Sun., Aug. 26, only three days following the death, of Wilber. A sister, Mrs. Hollis B. Clegg preceded Wilber and Edward in death.

Also left to mourn the passing of Wilber are 13 grandchildren.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1938

William Lee Cooley

William L. Cooley departed from this life at near 8 o'clock Thursday evening, March 3rd, at his home in Haigler, following fatal injuries sustained in an automobile wreck near Wheeler on the Monday previously in which Elden Clegg, son-in-law, was also fatally injured. Mr. Cooley realized that he was so badly injured that the chances for recovery were very much against him but he made a courageous effort to recover and when it became evident that there was little hope for this, he resigned himself to his fate and gave assurance to loved ones that he was prepared to go. The same courage, kindliness of nature and magnanimity of spirit that had characterized his entire life and won for him the friendship of everybody, sustained him to the end.

The funeral was held at the Methodist Episcopal church in Benkelman at 2 p. m. Sunday being conducted by Rev. Frank Woodward, assisted by Rev. Grier, pastor of the Haigler M. E. church. It was one of the largest funerals ever held in the church and many were unable to get in the building at all, which fact testified to the popularity and kindly good will Mr. Cooley enjoyed in the community where he had spent the greater part of his life.

Burial was in the Benkelman cemetery.

William Lee Cooley was born at Red Oak, Iowa, June 24, 1885, and departed from this life March 3, 1938, at the age of 52 years, 8 months and 7 days. .

When he was fourteen years old he moved with his parents, Ella F. and Burdette T. Cooley to Chase county, Nebraska, where he grew to young manhood. At the time of his marriage he moved to the Hiawatha section of Dundy county and was engaged in farming.

On June 22, 19.14, he was united in marriage to Maude E. Artist. To this union ten children were born, four of them dying in infancy. Also preceding Mr. Cooley in death were his father who died at the age of 52; his two sisters, Cora, who died at the age of 16, and the other who died in infancy.

In addition to Mr. Cooley’s farming activities he was mail carrier on the star route from Hiawatha to Benkelman for twelve years. In this work he endeared himself to his patrons by his willingness to serve them in any way he could.

In November, 1935, Mr. Cooley moved to Haigler, Nebraska, where he had remained until his death. There, as in the Hiawatha community, he won many friends.

On February 28, 1938, Mr. Cooley was severely injured in an accident. In spite of expert medical care the fight for his life was a losing one and he passed away three days later.

He leaves to mourn his passing his loving wife, Mrs. Maude E. Cooley of Haigler; six children, Wilber E. of Benkelman; Mrs. Laura Ham of Benkelman; Edward F. of Jacksonville, Florida; Harry E. of Benkelman; Mrs. Eva Ketler of Benkelman and Mrs. Hollis Clegg of Haigler; his mother, Mrs. Ella Lines of Imperial; two grandchildren, Phyllis Ann Ketler and Vivian Cooley, besides many other relatives and a host of friends.

The shock of Mr. Cooley's untimely death has cast a sorrowful shadow over all who knew him. This beloved husband, father, son and friend who was taken from us just as he was reaching the fullness of life, has left an emptiness in all our hearts and marks the passing of one of our most respected citizens.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1980

Charlie William Cooper

Charlie William Cooper, son of John and Hattie Cooper was born in Blythedale, MO., Harrison County, September 21, 1895 and passed away in Grant, NE August 9, 1980 at the age of 84 years.

In 1901 Charlie, parents, brothers, and sisters moved to Leota, KS. and lived in a sod house built by his father and uncle. Poor crops and prairie fires caused them to move by covered wagons to a farm 15 miles north of Imperial October 5, 1905. This was his home the rest of his life.

Charlie did many things in his life, ranched most of it, but raced horses with his brothers with horses some of which they had raised themselves. In Omaha, setting records not broken for years, he was a cowboy, and also hunted big game, spent a lot of time fishing, and was known by many as “Catfish Charlie" because he caught so many of them. Those were happy times for him. He was a good friend to all and very dear to his family. He never married.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his two brothers, Wally and Oscar and sister, Hazel Tallman, two nephews, Chester Whitely and Elston Mayhew. Charlie is survived by his three sisters, Helen Whitely of Benkelman; Debbie Mayhew, Denver, CO.; and Bertha Fickes, Kimball, NE; five nephews and two nieces; also several great-nephews and nieces and many friends who will long remember him.

Funeral services were held August 12 at the Creveling Funeral Home in Imperial with Rev. Fred Amborn officiating.

Music selections were, "The Old Rugged Cross" and "In The Garden". Mrs. Willard Rouze was the organist.

Escorts were Donald Peterson, Harold Wright, Doyle Knapp, Frank Clements, Clinton Nordhausen and Errol Nordhausen.

Interment was at the Mount Hayes Cemetery at Imperial. Creveling Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1995

Opal L. (Potter) Copeland

ABILENE, Texas--Opal L. Copeland; 70, died Tuesday, June 27, 1995, in a Fort Worth hospital.

She was born in Max, Nebraska, where she attended school. She married Robert "Bob" Franklin Copeland in 1945 in Nebraska and moved to Abilene in 1951 from Stamford, Texas.

She was head of TG&Y's toy department for eight years and later worked in the Abilene school system in the food service department for about eight years.

She was a longtime Abilene resident and a member of the 50/50 Sunday school class at the First United Methodist Church.

Survivors include her husband of Fort Worth; a daughter, Carol (Copeland) Miller of Houston, Texas; 2 sons, Charles Robert Copeland of Fort Worth and Michael Dale Copeland of Guam: a sister, Gertrude McIntire of Levelland, Texas; 3 brothers, Dale Potter of Stratton, Nebraska, Max Potter of Denver, Colorado, and Vertis Potter of Loveland, Colorado; 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service was in Elmwood Memorial Park with the Revs. David McIntire and Charles R. Copeland officiating.

Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1996

Marguerite (Petersen) Corder

Marguerite Corder, 75, died Wednesday (July 31, 1996) at Hillcrest Nursing Home in McCook.

She was born Feb. 9, 1921, in Washington County, Colo., to Peter and Lillian (Warning) Petersen. She grew up at Benkelman where she attended high school.

On April 19, 1938, she married Gerald A. Corder at Atwood. Following their marriage, they made their home in McCook where she was a sales representative for Stanley Horne Products from 1948 to 1994.

She was a charter member of the Good Sam's Club and a member of the Royal Neighbors and the Eagles Auxiliary.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband, Gerald Corder on Feb. 12, 1995; two sisters, Cecelia Jefferson and Dessie Van Buskirk; an infant brother; and one grandson, Mike Diederich.

Survivors include her daughter, Caroline Miller and husband, Claude, of Colby, Kan.; her son, Jerry Corder and wife, Lil lie, of McCook; six grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Agnes Stamm and husband, Delmar, of Tucson, Ariz.

Services will be Saturday at 10:30 a.m. at Herrmann Memorial Chapel in McCook with the Rev, Dale Helmer officiating. Interment will follow at the Riverview Cemetery in McCook.

Memorials may he given in her name and left at Herrmann Funeral Home in McCook which is in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1981

J. Amos Corder

NAMPA, Idaho — J. Amos Corder was born Dec. 15, 1893 in Livingston, Iowa, and died March 26, 1981. He came with his family by covered wagon to Frontier County where he was reared and attended school. He attended high school at Orofino and became a licensed auto mechanic at the age of 16 years.

Corder was married to Cecil Coleman in 1915 and she preceded him in death in 1918. He ranched and farmed in Nebraska until he retired in 1965. In 1972 he moved to Nampa, Idaho and was married April 11, 1972 to Marie Corder. He was a member of the Nampa Church of the Brethren.

Corder is survived by his widow, Marie; one son, Jon Corder of Haigler; one stepson, Herb Corder of Nampa; three step-daughters, Mrs. Howard (Maxine) Lupton, Mrs. Ervin (Wanda) Kennel and Mrs. Lloyd (Sara) Markus, all of Nampa; three sisters, Grace Schmidt of Hastings, Minnie Albrecht of Lincoln, and Catherine Bean of Nampa; two grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; 16 step-grandchildren, and 34 step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one daughter and eight brothers and sister.

Funeral services were held March 26 in the Merest Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Robert C. Statler, pastor of the Nampa Church of the Brethren officiating.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1997

HAIGLER--John Cecil Corder

HAIGLER--John Cecil Corder was born Dec. 11, 1918, to John Amos and Cecil Ruth (Coleman) Corder in Cambridge, Neb. At the age of 78 years, he died on March 31, 1997, while at Rose Medical Center in Denver, Colo.

He attended school in Haigler, Neb., received his G.E.D. as an adult in 1982 and attended the Law Enforcement Academy at Grand Island, Neb.

He married Julia Lucile Phifer on Jan. 1, 1938, at St. Francis, Kan.

In 1945 he joined the Army and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II until his discharge in 1946.

John and Lucile started their life together farming. He worked for Dundy County, Neb., for many years, was the Pioneer Ditch rider to be sure irrigation water was properly controlled, sold seed corn, was the town marshal and finally served as the sheriff of Dundy County for eight years. In 1990 he retired his position as county sheriff, but continued to keep busy helping his community and county.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Haigler, Veterans of Foreign Wars in Wray, Colo., Haigler American Legion and the Nebraska Police Officers Association and was the treasurer of the Dundy County Veterans Aid Fund.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Paula Faye.

He is survived by his wife, Lucile, of Haigler; a son, John, and his wife, Bertha, of Rhome, Texas; a daughter, Leigh, and her husband, Terry Renzelman, of Aurora, Colo.; four granddaughters and seven great-grandchildren.

Final rites for John Corder were held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 3, 1997, at the United Methodist Church in Haigler with the Rev. Vernon Whetstone and Theta Dame officiating. Florence Daniels was the organist and Galena Webster and Dale Faylor sang "Home Sweet Home" and “The Old Rugged Cross."

Bearers were Dundy County Sheriff Rob Bellamy, Deputy Sheriff Terry McCune, Mike Cloe, Marlin Crouse, Craig Kamla and Craig Clark. Honorary bearers were Ward Wonder, Rex Daniels and LaVoine Collicott.

Military rites were conducted by the Haigler American Legion Post 134 and Haigler Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8990. Interment was in the Haigler Cemetery with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman, Neb.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, May 1991

Marjorie Fern (Walsh) Cordwell

BENKELMAN--Marjorie Fern Cordwell, age 66, died May 25, 1991, at her home in Benkelman, Nebraska.

Marjorie was born November 5, 1924, in Benkelman, the third child of Jesse and Hazel Walsh. She attended country schools until high school when she attended Benkelman High School. She graduated in 1942.

She married Ralph Cordwell on December 2, 1942, in Manhattan, Kansas. They had three children, Daniel, Richard and Kay. The couple later divorced.

Marjorie was a life-long resident of Benkelman, except during World War II when she traveled with Ralph who was in the Army.

When her sons were young, Marjorie was active with Cub Scouts and church activities. Later, failing health severely limited her activities. She always enjoyed sewing, cooking and needlework.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her step-father, Dick Jourdan, one brother, Glenn, and one sister, Irene.

She is survived by her two sons, Daniel of Poway, California, and Richard and wife, Janice, of Bassetterre, St. Kitts, West Indies; one daughter, Kay and husband, Seth, of Moville, Iowa, and five grandchildren, Evans, Vere, Kenneth, Holly and Jeffrey.

Services were held Tuesday, June 4, 1991, at 2 p.m. at Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with the Rev. Robert Sander officiating.

Mary Baney was the organist. Carol and Robert Sander sang "Day By Day" and "Because He Lives."

Bearers were Jerry Preston, Larry Wilson, Jack Kihlthau, Jerry Lambert, Dale Lambert and Byron Ham.

Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, July 1934

George Thomas Cordwell

George Thomas Cordwell was born November 28, 1868, in Doniphan county, Kansas. In 1876 he moved to Osborne county, Kansas, where he married Olive Pearl Conklin in 1895. Three children were born to this union, Thomas M., Arthur Jr., and Edith M. On October 5, 1900, his loving wife passed away, leaving he and the three children to mourn her passing. Ten years later, in 1910 he moved his family to Tipton, Kansas, where three years later he married Amanda E. B. Miller. In August, 1919 he moved to Max where he resided the rest of his days.

To the union of Amanda E. B. Miller nine children were born, Cecil A., Celia A., Ralph T., Ray 0., Roy T., Martha E., Sissy, Buddy and Matilda. The last three died in infancy. George Thomas Cordwell departed from this life July 9, 1934, at the family home at Max, Nebraska, at the age of sixty-five years, seven months and eleven days.

He was buried in the family plot in the Lelhi cemetery, Osborne county, Kansas, with services at the home in Max, Nebraska, in charge of the Woodman Camp of Benkelman, Nebraska, of which he was a member and final services were held at the home of his brother Wm. Cardwell, Hunter, Kansas, in charge of the Woodman Camp of that place.

He is survived by his wife and eight children, Arthur J., Edith M., Cecil A., Celia A., Ralph T., Ray 0., Roy T., and Martha E., and five brothers, William, John, Bert, Clarence and Edward and one sister, Jessie Wickizer.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, July 1999

Ralph Louis Cordwell

HUMBOLDT-- Ralph Louis Cordwell, son of George and Amanda (Miller) Cordwell, was born at Tipton, Kan., on Feb. 13, 1916. In August 1919, the Cordwell family moved to the Max, Neb., area to engage in farming.

Ralph served in the U.S. Army during World War II from Jan. 14, 1941, to June 25, 1945, as a construction foreman. He had served in the battles of Normandy, Rhineland, Northern France, Central Europe and Ardennes. He received the American Defense Service Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star Medal.

He was married to Marjorie Walsh of rural Benkelman, Neb., on Dec. 2, 1942, in Manhattan, Kan. Two sons and a daughter were born to this union. Following his discharge from the Army the couple settled in Benkelman where Ralph owned a bar/cafe before working on road construction, mainly in Nebraska. In the mid-1960s, he moved to southeastern Nebraska.

On Aug. 24, 1976, he was united in marriage to Bertha Mae Power at Humboldt, Neb. The couple established their home in Humboldt. Bertha died on March 27, 1992.

He was a member of the American Legion Post at Table Rock, Neb.

Ralph died at the Colonial Acres Nursing Home in Humboldt on Friday, July 16, 1999, having reached the age of 83 years, 5 months and 3 days.

He is survived by two sons: Daniel of Poway, Calif., and Richard of St. Kitts, West Indies; a daughter, Kay, and her husband, Seth Johannsen, of Harlan, Iowa; three grandchildren: Kenny Cordwell of St. Kitts, and Holly and Jeff Johannsen of Harlan, and a sister, Betty Fries, of Rock Springs, Wyo.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Bertha; five brothers; two sisters; two stepbrothers, and a step-sister.

A graveside service was held at the Humboldt Cemetery in Humboldt on Wednesday, July 21, 1999, with the Rev. Ronald Russell officiating.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1988

Roy T. Cordwell

Roy T. Cordwell, 65, of Satanta, Kansas, died Saturday, April 23, 1988, at Satanta District Hospital.

The son of George Thomas and Amanda (Miller) Cordwell, he was born September 13, 1922, at Max, Nebraska.

He and Pearl Gill were married at Clayton, New Mexico, December 11, 1951.

Roy loved his family very much and enjoyed the times they had all the family members together. He enjoyed the many friends he had and enjoyed being with them.

Raising a garden which always produced a plentiful supply and then giving it to friends was a delight for him. He loved his cats and dogs and enjoyed feeding them and seeing them grow.

He loved the outdoors and he liked to hunt and fish. His job he took very seriously and always enjoyed going to work and running the motor grader for the county.

Survivors include his wife, Pearl, of the home; two daughters, Shirley Poe of Fort Smith, Arkansas, and Janice Smith of Garden City, Kansas; two brothers, Ralph Cordwell of Humboldt, Nebraska, and Ray Cordwell of Chicago, Illinois; two sisters, Edith Blakesley of Binghamton, New York, and Betty Fries of Rock Springs, Wyoming; nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Art and Cecil Cordwell; a sister, Celia Reitz, and a grandson, Richard Roy Smith.

Funeral services were held April 26, 1988, at 2 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Satanta with the Rev. Kip Ryherd officiating. Burial was in the Dudley Township Cemetery, Satanta.

Services were under the direction of Haskell County Funeral Home of Sublette, Kansas.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1944

Charles H. Cormack

Charles H. Cormack was born May 7, 1846, at St. Louis. Missouri, and passed away March 30, 1944, at the Morehouse, hospital at Benkelman. Nebraska, at the age of 97 years, 10 months and 23 days.

At the age of two years, he, with his parents and sister, moved to Quincy, Illinois. With our country in Civil War, Mr. Cormack enlisted at La Grange, Missouri, April 8. 1865, and served the last seven months in the Fourteenth Missouri Cavalry, Company I. He received his honorable discharge November 17, 1865.

Going on to the years after the Civil War, we find Mr. Cormack serving under General Custer as an ambulance driver in headquarters company in 1868, and as a scout attached to General Custer's troops at Fort Hays in 1869. A member of the Sixth Cavalry, Mr. Cormack remained as a scout at Fort Hays through 1870 under Generals Curtis and Oakes who successfully took command.

From the fall of 1872 to the spring of 1875 he roamed the middle western plains hunting buffalo, then settled in Furnas County, Nebraska, and engaged in the cattle business there more than 25 years.

During that time and shortly before Custer's ill-fated last expedition to the Little Big Horn, he received a message from the famous "Buffalo Bill" Cody asking him to join him as a scout, but refused on account of his cattle.

A few days before Custer started on his fatal expedition, he likewise sent a message asking Mr. Cormack to join him as a scout, but this offer he likewise refused on account of his cattle business, and subsequent history proved this a lucky decision for him. While still active as a scout, Mr. Cormack was in the famous Beecher Island battle.

On April 21, 1880, he was united in marriage to Hanna Jane Thomas at Beaver City. Nebraska. To this union were born a daughter. Mary Alice, and four sons, Seth Joel, Lewis Milton, Clarence Harrison and Curtis Harvey.

In the fall of 1909 Mr. Cormack with his two sons, Clarence and Curtis, moved to Bird City where he and his sons operated a blacksmith shop. Mr. Cormack discontinued his work in the shop in 1921.

In recent years Dad Cormack made a trip to Gettysburg. Pennsylvania, to attend the reunion of the Blue and Grey of the Civil War, to Florida and two trips to Montana.

The deceased was familiarly known to the townspeople here as "Dad" Cormack.

Services were held Sunday afternoon at the Bird City Methodist Church with burial in the Bird City Cemetery.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1983

Sylvia (Freemyer) Covington

Sylvia Freemyer was born October 18, 1909, to Joshua B. and Jennie Alvereta Earl Freemyer and passed away April 28, 1983, at the Northwest Kansas Medical Center at the age of 73 years, 6 months.

Sylvia was born at the farm home southwest of Wheeler, and except for a few months in her childhood, her entire life was spent in Cheyenne County.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her stepmother, May Taylor Freemyer; a brother, Charles, and sister, Ethel Smith.

On November 10, 1939, Sylvia was united in marriage to Orville E. Carr. To this union, one daughter, Virginia Lee, was born. Orville passed away in 1966.

On September 16, 1975, she married William Walter Covington. Their time together may have been short, but they enjoyed it to the fullest. Sylvia's zest for life helped her make friends wherever she went.

Sylvia leaves to mourn her passing her devoted husband, Walt; her daughter, Virginia; son-in-law, Bill, and grandsons, Billy, Bobby and Marty Fiedler; one brother, Roy Freemyer of Greeley, Colorado, and a host of nieces, nephews and many friends.

Services were held on May 2, 1983, at the Christian Church in St. Francis, Kansas, with Rev. Loren Chapman officiating.

Helen Love accompanied Warren and Jeneva Northrup as they sang "In the Garden" and "Love lifted Me."

Bearers were Kenneth Miller, Elton Keller, Lee Mills, Walter Douthit, Dave Meyer and Roger Douthit. Interment was in the St. Francis Cemetery. Kramer Chapel in St. Francis, Kansas, was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 1979

Walter Guy Cowan

Walter Guy Cowan, aged 76, passed away, on Dec. 2, 1979 in St. Francis Hospital, Lynwood. CA,

He was the third son of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse who farmed many years west of Stratton. Guy attended Stratton High School and was a member of the Methodist Church.

A son Lawrence was born to him and his wife, the former Georgia Lawrence in Trenton, NE.

In 1942, Guy and his son moved to South Gate, CA. A year later he was married to Ruth Whalen, who preceded him in death six years ago.

Guy owned and operated the Atlantic Cycle Shop until his retirement.

Rev. Robert Ewing officiated at his service at the Biby and Belyea Mortuary Chapel and he was interred beside his wife, Ruth, in Inglewood Park Cemetery, Inglewood, CA.

Those who mourn his passing are his son, Lawrence and wife, Mozelle of Paramount, CA; three grandsons, one granddaughter, brother Glen and wife Mary of South Gate, nieces and nephews.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1982

Bessie Cordilia (Bennett) Cox

Bessie Cordilia Cox, daughter of Rev. Charles D. and Nannie 0. Bennett, was born April 29, 1898, at Capon Springs, W.Va., in Hampshire County.

Bessie came to Nebraska in 1909 and in the year 1941, she moved to California. On December 10, 1944, she was married to Richard W. Cox in Tijuana, Mexico, and happily welcomed his four children and grandchildren.

In 1971, she and her husband moved to Wauneta, Neb. After Richard's death in 1974, she moved to Benkelman in the Rainbow Fountain Park where she lived until disabled by a stroke and went to live at the Hester Memorial Home.

Bessie was a member of the United Methodist Church in Max, Neb., and also was a member of the Max United Methodist Women.

Bess, as she was better known, is survived by her sister, Julia, and husband, Wayne Crow, of Max, Neb.; step-children : Robert W. Cox of Sagle, Idaho, Wesley Cox of Campbell, Calif., Bertha and husband, Ernest Martii of Campbell, Calif., Betty and husband, R. Strand, of Bull Head City, Ariz., and niece and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents, husband, brothers: Medfor, Jack, Charles and a brother in infancy, Wilbur; sister Beulah and an infant of two years of age.

Services were held Wednesday, March 1982, at 10 a.m. in Jones Funeral Chapel Benkelman with Pastor Gary Karoly officiating.. Gwen Bauer was the organist and the soloist, Phyllis Kirkman, sang "Touched Me" and "Amazing Grace."

Bearers were Pete Crow, Jerry Roethemeyer, Wayne Bascue, Leslie Kirkman, Eugene Crow and Kenneth Gardner.

Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home Inc., of Benkelman.

Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, October 20, 2003

Madeline Cox
Monday, October 20, 2003

IMPERIAL -- Madeline Cox, 80, died Tuesday (Oct. 14, 2003) at her home in Imperial.

She was born Jan. 8, 1923, to Harry L. and Selma (Nelson) Dixon in rural Dundy County. She attended District No. 70 in rural Dundy County and she graduated from high school in Benkelman.
On Jan. 9, 1941, she married Donald Wayne Cox in St. Francis, Kan. The couple made their home in Max, until they moved to a farmstead in 1946. The couple remained on the farm until moving to Imperial in 1967.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Marvin, Maurice and Mardelle; and one sister, Mildred.

Survivors include her husband, Don of Imperial; one son, Jerry Cox of Parks; four sisters-in-law, Virginia Dixon of Benkelman, Dorothy Adams of Imperial, June Cox of Wauneta and Genevieve Tumblert of Lodi, Calif.; two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Services were Saturday, at the Wesleyan Church of Imperial. Interment was in Mount Hope Cemetery in Imperial.

A memorial has been established in her memory.

Liewer Funeral Home of Imperial was in charge of the arrangements.

Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, March 2, 2007

Vera Mae Cox

Friday, March 2, 2007
Aug. 2, 1922-Feb. 28, 2007

LONGMONT, Colo. -- Vera Mae Cox, 84, died (Feb. 28, 2007) at Applewood Living Center.

She was born Aug. 2, 1922, in Haigler to Sherman D. and Opal R. (Peterson) Phifer.

She graduated from Benkelman High School in 1941. She graduated from Community College in Boulder with a Licensed Practical Nurse Degree in 1972.

She married Lee Cox on March 16, 1943, in Benkelman.

She moved to Yuma, Colo., in 1949 from Benkelman and then to Longmont in 1955.

She worked at Yuma Community Hospital from 1949 -- 1955 and then as an LPN at Longmont Community Hospital for six years and at Foothills Care Center for 4 years.

She was a member of Longmont Church of the Nazarene and cared for foster children for 25 years. She will be remembered for taking care of children with special physical needs.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 1999; two brothers, George Phifer and Dellis Phifer and a sister, Julia Pearl Bailey.

She is survived by two sons, David Cox and his wife, Diane of Longmont and Dennis Cox and his wife, Marsha of Culbertson; a brother, Sherman Phifer, Jr. of Washburn, Tenn.; two sisters, Wauneta "Marie" Truedell of California and Edith Angeline Williams of Bakersfield, Calif.; two grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be at 2 p.m., Sunday at Longmont Community Church of the Nazarene with the Rev. Roger Freels officiating. Interment will be at the Haigler Cemetery in Haigler.

Memorial contributions may be made to Compassionate Ministry of the Church of the Nazarene and sent to Ahlberg Funeral Chapel, 326 Terry Street Longmont, CO 80501.

Condolences can be left online at www.ahlbergfuneralchapel.com.

Ahlberg Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1996

Virginia K. (Sis) Cox

PARKS--Virginia K. Cox was born Jan. 23, 1941, in Atwood, Kan., to Charles and Eleanora (Sramek) Sis, and died Thursday, Aug. 8, 1996, at her home in rural Parks, Neb., at the age of 55 years.

As a young girl she grew up and attended school in McDonald, Kan., where she graduated from McDonald High School in 1958. Virginia then began working at the First National Bank of McCook (Neb.) where she met Jerome W. Cox.

Virginia and Jerry were married April 20, 1963, at St. John's Catholic Church at Atwood. They settled in the Benkelman, Neb., area for several years before moving to the farm 17 1/2 miles south of Imperial, Neb., where they made their home from 1967 until the present.

Virginia was employed as a secretary and bookkeeper for Brown Chemical, Imperial Grain, Scoular Grain and Koch Agri Service. She was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Imperial, St. Patrick's Altar Society and the Eagles Auxiliary of Imperial.

Virginia enjoyed gardening and working in her yard and took special enjoyment in her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and an infant daughter, Christina.

She is survived by her husband; a son, Thomas, and his wife, Cindy, of Phoenix, Ariz.; a daughter, Kristine and her husband, Kurt Bernhardt. of Lamar, Neb.; grandchildren Preston and Alexa Bernhardt of Lamar; brothers Leo Sis and wife, Margaret, and families of Omaha, Neb., Chuck Sis and wife, Pat, and families of Craig, Colo., and Michael Sis and wife, Diane, and families of Atwood; sisters Verna and husband. Bob Dame, and families of McCook, Freda and husband, Don Menze, and families of Hutchinson, Kan., and Elaine and husband, John Murphy, and families of Madison, Wis., and a host of friends.

Rosary was recited Sunday, Aug. 11, at 7:30 p.m. and the funeral mass was held at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Imperial on Monday, Aug. 12, at 10 a.m., with Father Greg Pawloski officiating. Interment followed at Mount Hope Cemetery in Imperial. Liewer Funeral Home of Imperial was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1999

Albert Lee Cox

CULBERTSON--Albert Lee Cox departed this life on Wednesday, June 2, 1999, at the McCook (Neb.) Community Hospital. He was 79 years old.

Lee was born on Oct. 19, 1919, Wesley I. and Mary K. (Williams) Cox at McDonald, Kan. In 1941, he entered the U.S. Army and served during World War II. He was honorably discharged in 1945.

On March 16, 1943, he maried Vera Mae Phifer in Benkelman, Neb. They lived in Longmont, Colo., for 40 years. Albert worked as a farmhand and later drove a fuel tanker for 23 years. They have lived in the Culbertson, Neb., community for the past 1 1/2 years.

Lee was a member of the Church of Nazarene where he was very active in serving as Sunday school teacher and superintendent, was on the Church Board and Missions of the Church. He was also a member of the Longmont Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Preceding him in death were his parents and two brothers: James "Ivan" and Wesley "Ike."

Survivors include his wife, Vera, of Culbertson; two sons: David and wife, Diane, of Longmont and Dennis and wife, Marsha, of Culbertson; two brothers: Darrell and wife, Mary, of Haigler, Neb., and Donald and wife, Agnes, of Fullerton, Neb.; two sisters: Fern and husband, Lyle Hoffman, of Alma, Neb., and Evelyn and husband, Zene Hart, of Denver. Colo.; two granddaughters: Nancy and husband, Daniel Acton, and Amy and husband, Randy Honstein, and a great-granddaughter, Kylee Marie Honstein.

Funeral services for Albert Lee Cox were held at 1:30 p.m. at the Church of the Nazarene in McCook on Friday, June 4, 1999, with the Revs. Melvin L. Brown and Jim Means officiating. Music was by Virginia Brown, the organist, and Merlin Brown, the soloist. Selections included "In The Garden" and "Is This Then Not The Land Of Beulah." Casket bearers were Gary Parks, George Huff, Terry McCorkle, Paul Hoyt, Ray Rose and Bill Humbard. The 3 p.m. military rites were conducted by the Haigler Veterans Honor Guard with burial in the Haigler Cemetery. Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook was in charge of the arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, January 2007

Darrell Dee Cox

Darrell Dee Cox was born on March 15, 1929, to Wesley and Mary (Williams) Cox in Lebanon, Neb. At the age of 77 years, he died on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2007, at the Wray Community District Hospital in Wray, Colo.

He was the seventh of nine children. At the age of 1 1/2, the family moved to Dundy County, Nebraska, where Darrell attended school, graduating from Parks High School in Parks in 1947.

After high school graduation, Darrell worked with Dick Wheaton on the telegraph until May 28, 1951, when he enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country in the Korean conflict until May 22, 1953. He transferred to the Army Reserve on May 23, 1953, until he was honorably discharged on Nov. 2, 1956.

In November 1955, he married the love of his life, Mary Barnett Heaton, in Wray, Colo. They were blessed with two sons, Bill and Louis. Shortly after their marriage they moved to Commerce City, Colo., where he worked as a gas station attendant.

In 1963, he moved his family to McDonald, Kan., working for various farmers until 1967 when they moved to Goodland, Kan. Later in 1967, the family moved to Wray and Darrell began working for John Jacobson at the Phillips 66 gas station. He enjoyed working there, especially when he could visit with the customers and get to know them. He later decided to further his life choices by studying for and successfully obtaining his electrician's license. In 1973, he went to work for Brophy Electric.

In May 1980, Darrell and Mary decided to return to Darrell's Nebraska roots and bought a house in the village of Haigler. In 1982, Darrell decided to leave Brophy Electric and pursue his own electric shop business in Haigler. After suffering a heart attack at the age of 64, Darrell decided to cut back on his work, but he still kept busy with helping his many friends with their electric work. He also enjoyed very much his fishing and gardening.

Most people, though, will remember Darrell best for his many stories he liked to tell--and there were stories! He truly loved his family from his wife to his great-grandchildren. His youngest sister tells stories herself of all the mischief Darrell could get into and how he would love to tease.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Ira, Ike, Lee and Fay; a sister, Mary Joy, and a niece, Debra.

He is survived by his wife, Mary; sons Bill and wife, Patty (Matthews), and Louis; grandsons Matthew and Philip; granddaughters Jessica Way and husband, Erin, and Amanda; great-grandson Ean; great-granddaughter Ryann Lee Way; sisters Fern Hoffman and husband, Lyle, and Pearl Hart and husband, Zean; a brother, Don, and wife, Agnes; his sister-in-law, Vera Cox; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; and many friends.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 1, 2007, at the Assembly of God Church in Wray with the Rev. Harold Jackson officiating. Interment was in the Haigler Cemetery at Haigler. Spellman-Schmidt Funeral Home in Wray was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 2007

Donald Wayne Cox

Donald Wayne Cox was born on Jan. 3, 1922, in rural Chase County, Nebraska, to Vern and Hattie (Marvin) Cox. He attended rural grade school and graduated from Imperial (Neb.) High School in 1941. While a student, he participated in boxing, football, chorus and operetta. He was characterized by his peers as "devoted."

On Jan. 9, 1941, Don married Madeline Mae Dixon. They had one son, Jerome Wayne Cox.

Don farmed in Dundy County, Nebraska, until 1944 when he volunteered to serve in the United States Navy. He served in World War II aboard the USS Bergen, and completed his tour of duty as a Seaman First Class on Feb. 12, 1946. Don returned to Dundy County to resume farming and ranching, which he continued through the mid-1990s until his health forced him to retire.

Don enjoyed many hobbies, from arrowhead collecting, leather crafting to trapshooting. He loved to hunt and fish and play cribbage.

He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4688 of Imperial and a member of the Izaak Walton League.

Don passed away Sunday evening, Feb. 18, 2007. at the Heritage of Wauneta Nursing Home. He was 85 years, 1 month and 15 days of age.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; a brother, Robert; sisters Dorothy Adams and Genevieve Thumlert; and a daughter-in-law, Virginia (Sis) Cox.

Survivors include son Jerry Cox and special friend, Jane Talbot, of Imperial; granddaughter Kristi Bernhardt and husband, Kurt, of Lamar, Neb.; grandson Tom Cox and wife, Cindy, of Phoenix, Ariz.; great-grandchildren Preston, Alexa, Austin and Ryan; and sister-in-law June Cox of Wauneta. Neb.

Funeral services for Donald Cox were held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 23, 2007, at the Crossroads Wesleyan Church with Daniel Marshall officiating. Interment was in the Mount Hope Cemetery at Imperial. Liewer Funeral Home of Imperial was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, July 1974

Richard Wesley Cox

Richard Wesley Cox of Wauneta passed away at the Dundy County Hospital on Sunday at the age of 72 years. He was born April 12, 1902 at St. Michael, Nebraska, the son of Cora Urweller and William Cox. He was a farmer at Cairo, Nebraska, then in Illinois before going to San Diego, California to work in the Navy Yards where he retired.

He was a member of Cement Lodge No. 211, AF&AM at Wood River, Nebraska. He was married on December 10, 1944 at Tijuana, Mexico to Bess Cordelia Bennett.

He is survived by his wife, Bess; two sons, R. W. Cox, Jr., and wife Marvis of Campel, California and Bobby J. Cox and wife Mary of Hawthorn, California; two daughters, Bertha Martini and husband Ernest of San Jose, California and Betty Strand and husband Russ of Bullhead City, Arizona; sister, Ruth Hovey and husband Arthur of Torrington, Wyoming; brother LaVern Cox and wife Vera of Ravenna, Nebraska. There are 11 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Goldie.

Funeral services were conducted at the Jones Funeral Home on Wednesday morning with the Rev. Melvin Johnson and Rev. Allan Martin officiating. Gwen Bauer was the organist and Phyllis Kirkman the soloist. Casket bearers were Harley Howard, Tom Jones, Joe Haley, Jerry McDonald, Bob Bellamy and Derald Rickard. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery with Justice Lodge No. 180, AF&AM in charge of committal.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, July 1973

Bessie Mae (Bartlett) Crabtree

Bessie Mae Crabtree of Haigler expired at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman on Sunday at the age of 87 years. She was the wife of Frank Crabtree and a resident of the Haigler community for many years.

She is survived by her husband, Frank; one son, Lloyd of Haigler; three daughters, Floy Fisher of Laird, Colorado, Alice Gregory and Ethel Rath of Haigler; sisters, Pearl Caldwell, Ruth Wiley and Francis Woodward, Goodland; two brothers, Arthur. Bartlett and James K. Bartlett of Goodland; eight grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Lynn; brothers, Harry and Ray and sisters, Leah Carrol, Georgia Stafford, Maggie and Grace.

Bessie Mae Bartlet was born to Esther Hughes and George W. Bartlett on January 27, 1886 in Iowa. She was married to Frank Crabtree in Benkelman on September 6, 1913. She was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church.

Funeral services have been arranged for Wednesday morning at 10:00 a.m., at the United Methodist Church in Haigler with Pastor Don Dronen officiating. Interment will be in the Haigler Cemetery under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1982

Frank Crabtree

Frank Crabtree was born July 29, 1882, and died on Friday, November 5, 1982, at the age of 100 years.

He was born near Weeping Water, Nebraska, and moved to Haigler, Nebraska, on an immigrant train in the year 1890.

He came from a family of 11 brothers and sisters, all of whom lived around the Haigler area.

In September of 1912, he was united in marriage to Bessie Mae Bartlett who preceded him in death in 1973 at the age of 87.

Frank finished school in 1897 and taught school around this area for several years. After teaching school, he bought the homestead of his sister, Mary, and farmed for the rest of his life until he retired in his late 80s.

For the past two years, he has been a permanent resident of the Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman. For three years prior, he spent winters in the Hester Home and summers in his home in Haigler.

Frank and Mae Crabtree had five children, one of whom died as an infant.

Survivors include Alice Gregóry of Lamar, Colorado; Ethel Rath of Haigler; Lloyd Crabtree of Haigler; and Floy Fisher of Laird, Colorado. Also surviving are eight grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

Frank was a quiet, loving and soft-spoken man with a good sense of humor. He joined the Seventh-day Adventist Church in 1923 and has been very close to God for many years.

The Bible was his very favorite book and he read it faithfully every day up until the time he died.

When he was 87 years of age, skin cancer caused the surgical removal of his right eye, but that did not stop him from reading his Bible even though the vision in his left eye was very poor.

One comment he made when he lost his eye was "Oh, well, I see too much with two eyes anyway."

Frank was never a wealthy man as far as monetary value is concerned, but he was one of the wealthiest men on earth concerning peace of mind and family.

He was deeply respected and loved by all who knew him because he always lived by what he believed.

No cross words were ever spoken from his mouth. His love was deep for all mankind and nature.

One of his favorite hobbies was growing a huge field of watermelon and cantaloupe. If you happened to drive by his place in the summertime, you would see him in his melon patch hoeing weeds in above 100 degree weather. People drove from miles around to purchase the melons. He always grew enough for everyone.

He loved wildlife enough, so that he never set an animal trap in his melon patch. Instead, he made sure he grew enough melons for the coyotes, coons and skunks to have plenty to eat.

Sometimes the neighborhood children would raid his melon patch. What they didn't know was that many times he would be sitting in the dark watching them and laughing about it. He loved to share the melons with everyone.

Frank was always a health-conscious person. He believed it was healthier to abstain from eating meat and was a vegetarian for many years.

He always made sure he got plenty of physical exercise. Other than the skin cancer at the age of 87, he had never been sick. He suffered a mild heart problem at the age of 99 and never took medication at all until that time.

At the Hester Home, he was still able to care for himself until 1 1/2 weeks before his death.

On August 1, 1982, Frank's family held an open house honoring his 100th birthday. He had visitors on that day from as far away as California and New York. His mind was still alert and he enjoyed and appreciated all of the attention he received.

The local newspapers interviewed him on his birthday. When asked about his secret for longevity, he responded, "I had a good beginning and just took care of myself."

His advice to others who wish to live a long life was "Stay away from wickedness and evil. Take good care of yourself and believe in the Lord."

The most important thing he discussed for many years was the second coming of Jesus. He expressed numerous times how wonderful it would be to be in heaven with the one he loved most—Jesus Christ.

Written with love and admiration by
Eunice Richard
Granddaughter of Frank Crabtree

Services were held Tuesday, November 9, 1982, at 10:30 a.m. at Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with Pastor Gordon Herra officiating. Music was furnished by Eunice Richard, Melvin Fisher, Linda Fisher, Gary Fisher and Leone Beeson. Selections were "Waiting and Watching" and a selected duet.

Bearers were Brent Richard, Gary Fisher, Dwight Brewer, Melvin Fisher, Norman Beeson, Tad Harden and Dan Schorzman.

Interment was in the St. Francis Cemetery, St. Francis, Kansas, with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, January 1965

Kenneth Hurley Crabtree

Kenneth Hurley Crabtree was born to Hurley and Minnie Harvey Crabtree December 14, 1915, at the farm home of his parents in Cheyenne County, Kansas. He departed this life January 26, 1965, in the Presbyterian Hospital, Denver, Colo., after a lingering illness of six years, at the age of 49 years, one month and 12 days.

Casey, as he was always known, grew to manhood in the South Fork community.

On February 11, 1939, he was united in marriage to Adah Wall of Haigler, Nebr. To this union three children were born: Jerry of St. Francis, and twins, Larry and Laurene, of the home.

They resided in the South Fork community for many years, taking part in church and social activities. Casey could always be counted on to lend a hand to his neighbor in time of need. He was a member of the South Fork Friends Church, later transferring his membership to the St Francis First Christian Church

In 1952, the family moved to St. Francis and he became an employee of the Kansas State Highway Commission until ill health forced him to give up his work and activities. His neighbors and friends admired him for his patience and his ability to adjust to a whole new way of life without complaining. His exceptionally cheerful and kind personality won him many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

He leaves to mourn his passing his beloved wife and their three children; also his daughter-in-law, Judy; three grandchildren, Kathy, Mike and Kenny; two brothers, Harvey and his wife, Marie, of Robbins, California, and Albert and his wife Norma of St. Francis; two sisters, Almeda Langdon and husband Earl of Newport Beach, Calif., and Betty Holley and husband Vol of Cheyenne, Wyo.; ten nieces and nephews; six aunts and three uncles; and many other relatives and a host of friends. God in his infinite mercy relieved him of the pain and suffering and he entered quietly into the Kingdom of Eternal Rest.

Services were held on Saturday, January 30, at 2 p.m. at the Christian Church with Rev. Harwerh in charge. Interment was in the St. Francis cemetery.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1999

Lloyd E. Crabtree

HAIGLER — Lloyd E. Crabtree, 79, died Saturday (June 12, 1999) at Renotta Health Care Center in Wray, Colo.

He was born Oct. 7, 1919, in Cheyenne County, Kan., to Frank and Mae (Bartlett) Crabtree. He attended country school at St. Francis and then Cherry Creek School.

In 1939, he enlisted in the U. S. Army and served during World War II, receiving an honorable discharge in 1945. He then moved to Haigler where he was employed as a mechanic for Stasser Ford Lincoln Mercury for many years. He later opened his own shop which he operated for 12 years, then retiring.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Herbert.

Survivors include three sisters, Alice Gregory of Tucson, Ariz., Ethel Rath of Haigler, and Floy Fisher, also of Haigler.

Services will be Thursday, 10 a.m., (MDT) at the United Methodist Church in Haigler. Interment will be at the Haigler Cemetery.

Visitation will be Wednesday, 1-6 p.m. MDT at Forch Funeral Chapel at Benkelman .

Memorials are being accepted.

Forch Funeral Home of Benkelman is in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, January 1994

John R. "Jack" Crandon

BENKELMAN--John R. "Jack" Crandon was born December 27, 1927, in Walnut, Kansas, to Richard C. and Mayme (Shively) Crandon. He died Thursday, January 27, 1994, at Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Nebraska, at the age of 66 years and 1 month.

He married R Joyce Ellis July 5, 1952, in Wichita, Kansas. To this union two sons, Monty and Jeff, were born.

Crandon served in the United States Navy and was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Benkelman. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Veterans of Foreign Wars of Benkelman, the Benkelman Area Chamber of Commerce and the Benkelman Country Club and the Elks Club in McCook, Nebraska.

He and his wife owned and operated JC's Cafe and Jack's Supper Club in Benkelman.

Crandon was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Sally, and three brothers, Richard, George and Ted.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce, of Benkelman; two sons, Monty and his wife, Sharon, of Canton, Ohio, and Jeff of 0maha, Nebraska; a granddaughter, Angie, of Canton; two sisters, Lois and her husband, Curly Westoff, of Coffeyville, Kansas, and Loretta Norris of Coffeyville, and a brother, Joe, and his wife, Hazel, of Parsons, Kansas.

Rosary was recited Sunday, January 30, at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Benkelman.

Mass of the Resurrection was Monday, January 31, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church. Co-celebrants were the Revs. Mark Pfeiffer and Richard Deonise.

Organist was Marjorie Redfield, singers were St. Joseph's Choir and Monty Crandon was the soloist. Selections were "Love Divine, All Love Excelling," "Be Not Afraid," "On Eagle's Wings" and "Prayer Of St. Francis." The solo was “The Lord's Prayer."

Bearers were Mark (Ellis) Yonkers, Gary Buettgenbach, Mike Buettgenbach, Ron Ham, Shawn Jones and Jerry Preston. Honorary bearers were Walt Barenberg, Emerson Schwenk, Jim Powell, Kenneth Kelly, Carl Reining and Ray Riley.

Military committal was by the American Legion Post No. 65 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4178 with interment in the Benkelman Cemetery. Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1990

Boyd H. Crane

BENKELMAN--Boyd H. Crane was born December 8, 1904, in Blanchard, Iowa, to Frank and Inez Crane. He died Tuesday, November 13, 1990, at the Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman, Nebraska, at the age of 85.

Boyd grew up and was educated in Dundy County, Nebraska, on a farm near Doane. Boyd graduated from Benkelman High School in 1921. He attended and graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln, Nebraska, in 1926.

Boyd was a teacher, actor, director, producer and make-up man most of his life.

After service in the United States Army, Boyd worked for many years as an instructor and later as the director of education with the Patricia Stevens Finishing School. Boyd retired in 1971 and returned to Benkelman, where he has resided and operated an antique shop since that time.

Boyd was a member of the Martin F. Bowles Legion Post #65 and Beta Kappa Fraternity.

He was preceded in death by his parents and left no close relatives surviving him but will be missed by a great number of friends in the Benkelman community.

Services were held at the Jones Funeral Chapel on Thursday, November 15, 1990, in Benkelman with the Rev. Vernon Whetstone officiating. The organist was Gwen Bauer.

Bearers included James Owens, Everett Stamm, Torn Maranville, Wes Draper. Glen Osborn and Eldon Hardwick.

Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery with a committal service by the American Legion Post #65 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #4178.

Arrangements were by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, October 1959

Frank Wilbur Crane

Frank W. Crane passed away suddenly at his home near Doane early Friday morning of a heart attack. He was 79 years of age, His demise was discovered by his wife.

Mr. Crane was well known the Benkelman community as progressive farmer altho in late years he was forced to a life of retirement due to a physical handicap which made it difficult for him to walk. He and Mrs. Crane have traveled extensively in the past several years as the result of this condition.

Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. Otto W. Michel at the Methodist church in Benkelman on Sunday afternoon. Norman Huber was the soloist and was accompanied at the organ by Mrs. Robert Rath. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery. Laughlin's Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Frank Wilbur Crane, son of John C. and Elizabeth Crane, was born at Shenandoah, Iowa, January 16, 1880.

On October 25, 1902, he was united in marriage to Inez R. Heffner at Maryville, Missouri. To this union one son was born.

Mr. and Mrs. Crane engaged in the hardware business in Iowa for about three years. Then in 1910 they came to Dundy county, Nebraska, and made their home on a farm north of Doane where they lived for almost 60 years.

Mr. Crane was a highly respected citizen. He was a member of the Methodist Church in Benkelman and contributed generously to it and to many other worthy causes.

He was seriously injured some years ago and was unable to walk for about four years, but later improved and was unusually active for a man with his handicaps. He bore his affliction well and made it contribute to the enrichment of life.

Death came suddenly and unexpectedly on the morning of October 9, 1959, at the age of 79 years, 8 months and 23 days.

He leaves to mourn his passing his wife, Mrs. Inez Crane of Benkelman, Nebraska; son Boyd of Houston, Texas; two brothers, Troy Crane of Bedford, Iowa, and Bert Crane of Aurora, Nebraska; one sister, Mrs. Everyne Berndt of Los Angeles, California; other relatives and many friends.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1964

Inez Crane

Mrs. Inez Crane succumbed to a heart attack at the McClearyThornton-Minor Hospital in Excelsior Springs, Missouri, on Thursday after an illness of some ten days. She had been stricken with a heart attack and was rushed to the hospital where she seemed to have recovered after several days and was making plans to return to her home when she suffered a relapse and passed away within a few minutes. Her son, Boyd, who had been with her during the critical stage of her illness, had been assured that his mother was well on the way to recovery and had returned to his home at Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Mrs. Crane was 80 years of age and had been a resident of the Doane community since coming there with her husband, the late Frank Crane, in 1910. They established Clearview Ranch, just north of Doane, and for many years were active in social and civic affairs of the area and had the respect and friendship of a wide circle of neighbors and acquaintances. The ranch always held a place of affection with Mrs. Crane and she and her husband always kept it bright and friendly. In late years she and her late husband spent much of their time traveling as his health became a prime consideration and they stayed in the warmer climates as much as possible.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 2003

G.B. "Jiggs" Crapson

G.B. "Jiggs" Crapson was born on Oct. 10, 1938, in Wauneta, Neb., to Roy L. and Edith W. (French) Crapson.

As a youngster he attended school in Wauneta and country school District 14 of Hayes County, Neb., northeast of Palisade. He continued his education in Wauneta, graduating from Wauneta High School in 1956. As a young man, Jiggs worked at The Wauneta Breeze as a printer's devil for Dwayne Hodges who owned the newspaper from 1948 through 1955. After graduation, Jiggs moved to Franklin, Neb., where he was employed by The Franklin Sentinel.

Jiggs worked in Denver, Colo., for a short time before moving to Chadron, Neb., where he was employed by The Chadron Record newspaper for two years.

While in Chadron, Jiggs met and married Patricia L. Waltman on June 7, 1958. The couple settled in Chadron for a brief time before moving to Grant, Neb., where Jiggs was employed at The Grant Tribune for several years.

In 1965, Jiggs and his brother Bill purchased The Wauneta Breeze from publisher Stan Smith, launching their publishing careers. They ran the paper until 1969 when Jiggs became the sole owner. He ran the Wauneta newspaper until selling it to Johnson Publications in 1982.

During his ownership of The Breeze, Jiggs also purchased The Benkelman Post and News-Chronicle in Benkelman, Neb., and The Hayes Center Times-Republican in Hayes Center, Neb. He sold The Post in June 1981. At the time of his death he still owned The Times-Republican as well as The Hitchcock County News in Trenton, Neb.

As the publisher of The Breeze, Jiggs is well remembered for his lively column "Jottings by Jiggs." He was known for his quick wit, strong community boosterism, devotion to his family and love for all things Irish. He loved to sing and visit with friends. His work as a publisher and editor was his life.

Jiggs passed away early Tuesday morning, April 8, 2003, at Presbyterian St. Luke's Hospital in Denver. He was 64 years of age.

Jiggs was a member of the United Methodist Church of Wauneta and the Masons. He was a former member of the Wauneta Jaycees and the Wauneta Volunteer Fire Department.

Jiggs is survived by his wife, Pat, of Wauneta; their children: Connie Hamilton and husband, Marty, of Champion, Neb., Patricia Moellman and husband, Jon, of New Knoxville, Ohio, and Michael Crapson and wife, Trina, Denise Hoover and DiAnne Brown, all of Imperial, Neb.; 15 grandchildren including JoAnn Hoover, who resided with her grandparents; four great-grandchildren; brothers Frank Crapson and wife, Maria, of Alta Loma, Calif., and Bill Crapson and wife, Alta, of Kearney, Neb., and a sister, Jane Molter, of Bull Head City, Ariz.

Jiggs was preceded in death by his parents, infant daughter Ginger Beth, brothers Roy, Tom and Jim and infant sister Susan.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 12, 2003, at the United Methodist Church in Wauneta with the Rev. Michael Laing officiating. Lucille McBride was the organist. Sharon Walgren sang “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" and "My Wild Irish Rose." Congregational hymns were "In The Garden" and "Amazing Grace."

Casket bearers were Charlie Barnes, Andrew Crapson, Kenny Roth, Tucker Bodeman, Michael Leischer, Gabe Bodeman and Wade Bodeman. Honorary bearers were Dale Bischoff, Bill Bischoff, Lloyd Sinner, Marvin Hamilton and Cliff Shackelford.

Burial was in the Riverside Cemetery at Wauneta with Masonic rites by the Palisade Masonic Lodge 218 A.F. & A.M.

Liewer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, April 10, 2003

G.B. Crapson

Thursday, April 10, 2003

G.B. Crapson was born Oct. 10, 1930, in Wauneta, to Roy L. and Edith W. (French) Crapson. As a youngster, he attended school in Wauneta and country school District No. 14 in Hayes County, northeast of Palisade. Jiggs continued his education in Wauneta, graduating from Wauneta High School in 1956. As a young man, Jiggs worked at the Wauneta Breeze as a printer's devil under Dwayne Hodges, who owned the Breeze from 1948 through 1955. After graduation, Jiggs moved to Franklin, where he was employed by the Franklin Sentinel. Jiggs worked in Denver for a short time before moving to Chadron where he was employed by the Chadron Record newspaper for two years. While he was in Chadron, Jiggs met and married Patricia L. Waltman on June 7, 1958. The couple settled in Chadron for a brief time before moving to Grant, where Jiggs was employed by the Grant Tribune for several years. In 1965, Jiggs and his brother, Bill Crapson, purchased the Wauneta Breeze from former publisher, Stan Smith, launching their publishing careers. They ran the paper together until 1969, when Jiggs became the sole owner. He ran the Wauneta newspaper until selling it to Johnson Publications in 1982.

During his ownership of the Breeze, Crapson also purchased the Benkelman Post., which he later sold, and the Hayes Center Times Republican, which he still owned at the time of his death, along with the Hitchcock County News. As the publisher of the Breeze, Crapson was well remembered for his lively column, "Jottings by Jiggs." He was known for his quick wit, strong community boosterism, devotion to his family and love for all things Irish. He loved to sing and visit with friends. His work as a publisher and editor was his life.

Jiggs passed away early Tuesday morning, April 8, 2003, at Presbyterian St. Luke's Hospital in Denver, Colo. He was 64 years of age.

Jiggs was a member of the United Methodist Church of Wauneta and the Masons. He was also a former member of the Wauneta Jaycees and the Wauneta Volunteer Fire Department.

Jiggs is survived by his wife, Pat of Wauneta; daughter, Connie and husband, Marty Hamilton of Champion, daughter, Patricia and husband, Jon Moellman of New Knoxville, Ohio, son, Michael Crapson and wife, Trina, daughter, DeNise Hoover and daughter, DiAnne Brown all of Imperial; 15 grandchildren, including JoAnn Hoover who lived with her grandparents; four great-grandchildren; brother, Frank Crapson and wife, Maria of Alta Loma, Calif., brother, Bill Crapson and wife, Alta of Kearney; and sister, Jane Molter of Bull Head City, Ariz.

Jiggs was preceded in death by his parents; infant daughter, Ginger Beth; brothers, Roy, Tom and Jim; and infant sister, Susan.

Funeral services will be Saturday, 2 p.m. (MST) at the United Methodist Church in Wauneta with the Rev. Michael Laing officiating. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery of rural Wauneta.

Visitation will be Friday afternoon from 2-6 p.m. (MST) at the funeral home in Wauneta.

A memorial has been established in Jiggs' memory.

Liewer Funeral Home of Wauneta is in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, October 1995

Arthur Miller Craw

STRATTON--Arthur Miller Craw died Saturday, Oct. 21, 1995, at 1:12 p.m. at the Henderson (Neb.) Community Hospital, at the age of 68 years, 1 month and 23 days. He was born Aug. 28, 1927, in Stratton, Neb., to Paul E. and Laura (Miller) Craw.

"Art" grew up in Stratton and graduated from Stratton High School in 1945. He was baptized and confirmed in the Methodist Church in Stratton in 1954.

On May 28, 1950, he married AnnaBell Kentopp in Benkelman, Neb. To this marriage four children were born: Ron, Deb, Lori and Kent.

Craw was a lifelong resident of Stratton. Farming and ranching, with the help of his sons and his wife, played a large part in the life he loved. He enjoyed sports, whether it was participating, watching his children compete or coaching softball and baseball which he did for many years.

Craw was preceded in death by his father. Survivors include his mother and wife of Stratton; their children: Ron and his wife, Susan, of Stratton, Deb and her husband, Rod Gerdes, of Horton, Kan., Lori and her husband, John Steingard, of Henderson
and Kent and his wife, Sue, of McCook, Neb.; two brothers: Paul E. Craw and his wife Eve, of Wichita, Kan., and Bob Craw and his wife, Sharon, of Grand Terrace, Calif., and nine grandchildren: Stacy and Jeremy Gerdes, David and Kristin Craw, Whitney and Tanner Steingard and Sarah, Kyle and Emily Craw.

Final rites for Arthur Miller Craw were held Wednesday, Oct. 25, 1995, at 2 p.m. at the Community United Methodist Church in Stratton with the Rev. Dr. Douglas Delp and Pastor John Yoder-Schrock officiating. Laura Steingard was the pianist and Marjorie Redfield the organist. Carl Philo sang "One Day At A Time," "Beyond The Sunset" and “The Lord's Prayer."

Bearers were Dan Sandberg, Bruce McKain, Kelly Egle, Tom Faimon, Todd Latta and Gene Mohr. Honorary bearers were Bud Jesch, John Diehl, Roy League, Earl Bailey, Richard Faimon, Wallace Gummere and Gene Kleinschmidt. Interment was in the Rose Hill Cemetery at Stratton with Jones Funeral Home Inc. of Stratton in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, October 2000

Ralph A. Crawford

ATWOOD, Kan.--Ralph A. Crawford was born July 18, 1905, in Osborne County, Kan. In 1908, the family moved to Cheyenne County where Ralph attended High School No. 66. Due to a period of drought, the family moved back to Osborne County in 1913 where Ralph attended Riverside and Osborne City schools. They later moved back to Cheyenne County, where Ralph graduated from the eighth grade at St. Francis Grade School in 1920.

Early in his career, Ralph worked as a car repair helper and painter for the Rock Island Railroad in Goodland, Kan. In February 1926, Ralph married Minnie Martin in Visalia, Calif. After a brief stay in California, they moved to Benkelman, Neb., where Ralph had his own car repair shop. The early years of the 1930s found them making their home in St. Francis, where their four children were raised.

During the 1930s, Ralph owned and operated Crawford Fuel & Lumber Yard, hauling the rough lumber from his sawmill near Gardner, Colo. In the 1940s, he took up his father's trade of water well drilling. Ralph was instrumental in bringing irrigation to northwest Kansas.

Being a pioneer in aviation in Cheyenne County, Ralph had many interesting trips by air. He flew solo to Alaska, flew his Mooney Ranger to San Jose, Costa Rica, on a mission trip with United Methodist friends and flew solo to the Bahamas. He also served for several years as Captain in the Civil Air Patrol. He was a member of the Mooney Airplanes International, Flying Farmers of America and the Waco OX5 Aviation Pioneers. Ralph and other pilots of the area spent many hours donating time and airplane fuel to make "Penny a Pound" flights for donations to The Capper Foundation. Being a gyrocopter enthusiast, he even built and demonstrated a couple. Ralph also built the first hangar at the St. Francis airport. It was a very simple structure
made of logs and just big enough to hold his plane.

Ralph's other interests included motorcycles, racing stock cars and midget racers (he built his own), and restoring antiques, especially cars, trucks and tractors. He was a charter member of the Tri-State Antique Engine and Threshers Association and the Tri-State Antique Auto Club.

The Crawfords spent several winters in Arizona working at Baptist mission projects.

Ralph died on Thursday. Oct. 26, 2000, in the Rawlins County Hospital at Atwood, Kan. He had been a resident of the Atwood Good Samaritan Center since January 1999.

Preceding him in death were an infant son, Edward; his parents, Ella and W.L. Crawford; a brother, Everett; a son-in-law, J.C. Gleason, and Minnie, his wife of nearly 70 years.

His survivors include a sister, Mildred Young of Bladensburg, Md.; two daughters, Leila Gleason, of Bird City, Kan., and Norma Jean Molle, of Mission, Kan.; two sons, Loyd Crawford and wife, Patricia, of Overland Park, Kan., and Raymond Crawford and wife, Janet, of Lee's Summit, Mo. Other survivors include 12 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren. 1 great-great-granddaughter. nieces, nephews and many friends.

A memorial service was held at the Church of Christ in St. Francis on Oct. 30 with the Rev. Norman Marrow officiating.

Casket bearers were Dale Henderson, Fred Magley, Robert Grace, Ken Beougher. Richard Grace and Ron Schlittenhardt.

Honorary pallbearers were Marion Woods, Norman Dorsch, Terry Burns, Gene Siegfried, Glenn Neitzel, Wes Herdt, Tom Sawyer, Raymond Armknecht, Leonard Richard, Gib Schoenrogge, Willard Peter and Dale Leydig.

Interment was in the Goodland Cemetery at Goodland.

Arrangements were by Knodel Funeral Home of St. Francis.

Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, March 25, 2002

Evelyn Faye (Myer) Creach-Friesen

Monday, March 25, 2002

BENKELMAN -- Evelyn Faye (Myer) Creach-Friesen, 94, died Wednesday (March 20, 2002) at Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman.

She was born Dec. 23, 1907, on a ranch north of Callaway. She graduated from Franklin High School in 1926 and graduated with Magna Cum Laude honors from Chadron State College in 1957, earning her bachelor of science degree in education. She taught for 41 years in Nebraska, Wyoming, Maryland, Missouri and Kansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James Laird Myer and Bertha Lureen (Martin) Myer; both husbands, Oscar Creach and Abraham Friesen; two brothers, Everett Ross and James Wendell; one sister, Loretta Maxine; and one brother-in-law, Wilbur Adams.

Survivors include three sisters, Velma and husband, Francis Neville, Opal and husband, LaVoine Collicott, and Grace Adams all of Haigler: one brother, Gerald and wife, Betty Myer of Haigler; and one sister-in-law, Grace Myer of Wray.

Services will be Monday, 2 p.m. MST, at Haigler United Methodist Church in Haigler with the Rev. Inez Foster officiating. Interment will be at the Haigler Cemetery.

Visitation is Sunday, 1 -- 6 p.m. MST, at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman.

Memorials may be made to the Haigler United Methodist Church or Sarah Ann Hester Home in Benkelman.

Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman is in charge of the arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June? 1982

Sam D. Creasman

Sam D. Creasman of McCook, age 73, died Monday in the Community Hospital of McCook.

Mr. Creasman was born Feb. 8, 1908 at Danbury to the late Harvey and Lucretia Creasman. He grew up at Danbury and graduated from Danbury High School in 1924. He was a graduate of the Omaha Business College.

He was married May 8, 1929 at McCook to Virena Welborn. They lived at Danbury until 1941 and then moved to Colorado where they lived in the Leadville and Climax communities until coming to McCook in 1944.

Mr. Creasman was a member of the following: First Congregational Church of McCook; McCook Masonic Lodge No. 135, A.F.&A.M.; Hastings Consistory; Tehama Shrine; Eureka Chapter No. 86, Order of Eastern Star; McCook Elks Lodge; and Burlington Veterans.

Survivors include his wife, Rene of McCook; one son, Gary Creasman of Boone, Iowa; one daughter, Mrs. Gerald (Lee-Ellen) Matzke of Sidney; and seven grandchildren.

Services will be Thursday at 2 p.m. in the First Congregational Church of McCook with the Rev. Richard Lindvall officiating. Masonic graveside interment will be in the Danbury-Marion Cemetery under the direction of the Herrmann Funeral Home of McCook.

Memorials may be given in his name and left at the funeral home. Friends may call at the Herrmann Funeral Chapel in McCook.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, May 1965

Lois Eileen (Johnson) Cress

Lois Eileen Cress, the eldest daughter of Asa Leonard and Dorothy (Seitz) Johnson, was born on a farm north of Bird City, Kansas, on August 8, 1936, and departed this life after a long illness on May 17, 1965, at the age of 28 years, nine months and nine days.

She was married to William Warren Cress on May 23, 1954. They were blessed with five lovely girls: Carol Eileen, Donna Lyn, Rhonda Jean, Mary Joann and Vicki Jane; and one son, who died in infancy.

They lived on a farm south of Edson, Kansas, until last December, when they moved into Edson. She spent her entire life in Sherman and Cheyenne counties. She was a loving wife, mother, daughter and sister. She was always cheerful and a great comfort to all of us even in her illness. All who knew her came to love her.

She will be greatly missed by her loving husband, Bill, and her five girls; her mother and father and two sisters, Mrs. Gay Garner and husband. Francis of Bird City and Mrs. Linda Black and husband, Darrell, of Commerce City, Colorado; two nephews and four nieces; her mother-in-law, Mrs. Emma Cress of Bird City; ten brothers-and sisters-in-law ; and a host of other relatives and friends.

She gave her heart to the Lord and Savior and was baptized in the Methodist Church. She looked to Him for comfort. All that loving hands and prayers could do were done for her, but God needed her and He released her from her pain and suffering.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, one brother, Leonard G. Johnson. and her father-in-law, Clarence Cress.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 2004

Donald Ray Cress

Donald Ray Cress died Wednesday, April 14, 2004, at his home in McCook, Neb., at the age of 71. He was born on Oct. 16, 1932, in Cheyenne County, Kan., the son of Clarence and Emma (Peter) Cress. Donald grew up in Cheyenne County and graduated from the Bird City High School at Bird City, Kan., with the Class of 1950.

On Dec. 8, 1950, Donald entered the United States Navy, serving during the Korean conflict. Following his honorable discharge from the service on Sept. 23, 1954, he returned to Cheyenne County.

On June 18, 1955, Donald married Rachel Frost at Goodland, Kan. They made their home at Wichita, Kan., before moving to Colorado Springs, Colo. In 1960 they moved to Bird City where he was employed by the U.S. Postal Service. He became a postmaster in 1972 and retired in 1986. He was a member of the American Legion at Bird City. They moved to McCook in 2003.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Melveta Van Artsdalen, on May 4, 2000; three brothers: Charley, Bill and Denny Cress, and a sister, Loraine Amsberry.

Donald is survived by his wife, Rachel Cress, and a daughter, Renita Peter, both of McCook; four sons: Vernon Cress and wife, Penny, of Garden City, Kan., Rick Cress and wife, Wendy, of Lexington, Neb., Gary Cress and wife, Pat, of Topeka, Kan., and Kip Cress and wife, Tammy, of Oscaloosa, Kan.; 25 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; three brothers: Clarence Cress Jr. and wife, Jerry, of Bird City, Lee Cress and wife, Lois, of Bellflower, Calif., and Jim Cress (who died on Sunday, April 18, 2004) and wife, Betty, of Goodland, Kan.; a special friend, Frances Hoyt, and other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 24, at the Herrmann Memorial Chapel in McCook with Pastor Terry Glasco officiating. A private inurnment will be at a later date.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1990

William W. "Bill" Cress

LOVELL, Wyo.—William W. "Bill" Cress, 54, a former Goodland, Kansas, resident of Lovell, Wyoming, died February 3,. 1990, at St. Vincent's Hospital in Billings, Montana, after a long illness.

He was born on May 23, 1935, in Bird City, Kansas, to Clarence and Emma Cress. He grew up and attended school in Bird City, graduating in 1954. While in high school, he participated in football. During his senior year, the Bird City team was undefeated and unscored upon— a school record that still stands.

After graduation, he married Lois Johnson in 1954. They farmed in the Edson, Kansas, area for about 10 years. Lois preceded him in death in 1965. At that time, Bill began driving a mail truck to and from Denver until 1968.

He married Vera M. Andrew on August 20, 1968, in Goodland. He then worked for Great Western Sugar in Goodland from 1968 to 1985. He served the company first in the original building construction, then as a repair mechanic. In 1985, they moved to Lovell to continue with Great Western Sugar. While there, he became a member of the Lovell Methodist Church.

Bill greatly enjoyed gardening and many other outdoor activities.

He was preceded in death by daughter, Linda Stansberry; grandson, Bobby Joe Stansberry; an infant son; father, Clarence; and brothers, Charles and Bobby Dennis.

He is survived by his wife, Vera of the home; eight daughters, Eileen Harkenreader and her husband, Roy, of Conkleton, Pennsylvania, Donna Taub and her husband, Doug, of Greeley, Colorado, Rhonda Bird and her husband, Rex, of Mansfield, Missouri, Mary Joann Gunn of Santa Barbara, California, Vicki Scheider and her husband, Don, of Natoma, Kansas, Bonnie and Susan Cress of Hayes, Kansas, and Patty Casida of Hill City, Kansas; two sons, John Pasman and his wife, Erna, of Oxford, Kansas, and Tom Pasman of Montana; 11 grandchildren; mother, Emma of the Hester Home in Benkelman, Nebraska; sister, Lohrene Amsberry of Bird City; four brothers, Lee, Junior, Don and Jim Cress; a host of other relatives and friends.

Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, February 14, 2002

Doyle D. Criger

Thursday, February 14, 2002

BENKELMAN -- Doyle D. Criger, 59, died Tuesday (Feb.12, 2002) at Benkelman.

He was born July 12, 1942, to George Lester and Edna Leila (Sylvia) Criger at Parks, Nebraska. He attended school in Parks and graduated from Parks High School in 1960. On Dec. 20, 1964, he married Arlene G. Edwards in Benkelman. They made Benkelman their home.

He was preceded in death by his father, George; and an infant sister, Leila Mae.

Survivors include his wife, Arlene of Benkelman; mother, Edna Criger of Benkelman; two sons, Jimmy Criger and Todd Criger and wife, Steffany of McCook; two sisters, Ila Jean and husband, Leonard Lewis of Seeley Lake, Mont., Cindy and husband, Jason Preston of Benkelman; and four brothers, Dale Criger of Clinton, Mont., Delbert Criger of Lake Havasu City, Ariz., Kenneth and wife, Marilyn Criger of Stratton, Charlie and wife, Dodie Criger of Westerville, Ohio.

Services will be Friday, 10 a.m., at Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman with the Rev. George Matthews officiating. Interment will be in the Benkelman Cemetery.

Visitation will be today until 7 p.m. at Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman.

Memorials may be given in his name.

Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman is in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1987

George Lester Criger

George Lester Criger, son of Charles and Calley (Medley) Criger, was born March 6, 1907, at Fordland, Missouri, and died at his home in Benkelman, Nebraska, July 30, 1987, at the age of 80 years, four months and 24 days.

Les, as he was better known, spent his earlier years at Fordland, Missouri, and at the age of 16 he moved, along with his sister, Effie Burkes, to the Benkelman area where he worked as a farm laborer for several years.

On July 16, 1934, Les was united in marriage to Edna Ferguson at Wray, Colorado, and to this union eight children were born: Ila Jean, Dale, Delbert, Doyle, Kenneth, Charles and Cindy, along with one child who died in infancy.

Following their marriage they worked for several farmers in the area along with doing some work on the railroad. He also helped build the Rock Creek dam.

The moved to Parks, Nebraska, in 1939 so the children could go to school. They lived there until 1969 when they moved to Benkelman where they were living at the time of his passing. Les started painting in the 1950's and for many years painted all summer and picked corn all winter. He continued in this profession until retiring.

Les was an avid sportsman. His greatest enjoyment was hunting and fishing. He had a beautiful gun collection which he loved to show to everyone who came along.

He also enjoyed spending time and eating at the Senior Citizen's Center.

Les gave his heart and life to the Lord Jesus Christ about three years ago and was baptized in the Rock Creek State Lake. He attended the Benkelman Friends Church.

Les was preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter; two sisters and one granddaughter.

He is survived by his wife, Edna of Benkelman; two daughters, Ila Jean and husband, Leonard Lewis, of Montana and Cindy and husband, Jay Preston, of Benkelman; five sons: Dale of Montana, Delbert and wife, Shela, of Arizona; Doyle and wife, Arlene, of Benkelman, Kenneth and wife, Marilyn, of Stratton, Nebraska, and Charles and wife, Delores, of Ohio; one sister, Eva Templeton of Ozark, Missouri; 20 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Les will long be remembered by all who knew him, a kind and friendly person who loved to visit with everyone.

Services were held Tuesday, August 4, 1987, at 2 p.m. at Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, with the Rev. Robert Sander officiating.

Organist was Jackie Wilson. Mary Baney and Donna Baney sang the selections "Amazing Grace" and "Beyond The Sunset."

Bearers were Robert Kier, Mearl Richard, Jerry Preston, Rex Roundtree, Sam Jones and Dudley Blank.

Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery at Benkelman. The funeral was conducted by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 2005

Maxine Viola (Randall) Crocker

Maxine Viola Crocker, 84, died on Thursday, Feb. 10, 2005, at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Neb.

She was born on Oct. 7, 1920, at Stratton, Neb., to John and Edith (Ward) Randall and attended Stratton Public Schools. After graduating from Stratton High School, Maxine attended Kearney Teachers College where she earned her teaching certificate.

Maxine taught school for many years at several country schools and then at Indianola, Grand Island and Lincoln.

She was united in marriage to Everett Crocker at Lincoln, Neb., and retired from teaching to be a homemaker. In 1965, Maxine moved with her family to Stratton, where she made their home and baby-sat for several families in her home. She was also a care-giver for Mary Lorens.

Maxine enjoyed working in her yard and garden, cooking and sewing. Her hobbies included collecting bells and woodworking, with a special talent for making wooden toys. In earlier years she very much enjoyed fishing on the Muddy Creek with her family. She was a member of the Community United Methodist Church in Stratton, the United Methodist Women and the American Legion Auxiliary. She was known as a great mother, grandmother, stepmother, sister, aunt and friend.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband; Fay, and several brothers and sisters-in-law.

She is survived by a daughter, Christine Ochoa, and husband, Julian, of North Platte, Neb.; grandchildren Corinne and Gabriel Ochoa and her adopted granddaughter, Cassandra Horn; sisters Marjorie Randall of Trenton, Neb., and Jeannine Pierce and husband, Ted, of Stratton; sisters-in-law Cecile Dochling of Grand Island, Neb., and Ruth Crocker of Maine; stepchildren Tom Crocker and wife, Trish, of Ft. Madison, Iowa, Susan Majerus and Nancy Richter and husband, Ralph, of Des Moines, Iowa, Patrick Crocker of Washington and Sarah Sottile of Connecticut, and all of their children; as well as nieces, nephews, great- and great-great-nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

A memorial service was held at 10:30 am. on Monday, Feb. 14, 2005, at the United Methodist Church in Stratton with the Rev. Brian Fong officiating. Beth Kollmorgen was the pianist. Musical selections included the congregational hymn "In The Garden," "Summer Dream" and "Friends" performed by Corrine Ochoa and "Happy Trails for Maxine" by John Pierce and Janice Jillson. Inurnment was in the Rose Hill Cemetery near Stratton. Arrangements were by Forch Funeral Chapel of Stratton.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1990

Everett Crocker

GRAND ISLAND, Nebr.-Everett Crocker died Friday, November 16, 1990, at the Nebraska Veterans Home in Grand Island, Nebraska, at the age of 70.

He was born September 23, 1920, in David City, Nebraska, to Albert and Ida (Tabler) Crocker.

He lived at Stratton, Nebraska, before moving to the Grand Island Veterans Home.

He served in the Navy from 1942 to 1945.

Preceding him in death were his parents; two brothers, Donald and Robert; two sisters, Dorothy Hunt and Doris Ostrander, and two half-sisters, Elsie McElravy and Edna Bergman.

Survivors are his wife, Maxine, of Stratton; two sons, Tom of Fort Madison, Iowa, and Patrick of Kelso, Washington; four daughters, Susan Smith and Nancy Richter, both of Des Moines, Iowa, Sarah Sottile of New Hartford, Connecticut, and Christine Ochoa of Omaha, Nebraska; two sisters, Cecile Doehling of Grand Island and Estella Winscot of Imperial, Nebraska, and 11 grandchildren.

Military services were held Monday. November 19, 1990, at 10 a. m. at the United Methodist Church in David City with the Rev. Ralph Ford of the Methodist Church in Grand Island officiating. Burial was November 19 at the David City Cemetery.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, July 1999

Marjory (Newth) Croft

GRANT-Marjory Croft was born at Giltner, Neb., on Feb. 14, 1916, the fourth of seven children born to David and Myrtle (Chaney) Newth.

The family moved to Perkins County, Neb., when Marjory was a young girl and settled on a farm southeast of Venango. She graduated from Venango High School in 1933. After high school she attended Kearney (Neb.) State Teachers College for one year and then returned to teach country schools the Grant and Venango area.

Marjory was married to Kenneth Weible in 1938. He was killed in action during World War II. Marjory worked in Grant, Neb., and later moved to Omaha, Neb. On Sept. 26, 1947, she was married to Willard Croft in McCook, Neb. They farmed northwest of Benkelman, Neb., until 1967 when they moved into town. Marjory continued to maintain her home in Benkelman after Willard's death in 1988 until 1995 when she moved to the Westview Retirement in Grant where she could be closer to her family. Marjory had been failing in health this past year and was moved to the Golden Ours Convalescent Home in Grant in June. She died there Friday night, July 2, 1999, at the age of 83.

While in Benkelman, Marjory was an active member of the Zion Lutheran Church. She also served as the city librarian and was on the library board. When she moved to Grant she took part in many activities at Westview and attended the Grant Zion Lutheran Church.

Marjory was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Virginia Olsen, and three brothers: Clifton. Harold, and an infant, Gordon.

She is survived by a sister, Ilva Jean, and her husband, Ned Powers, of Silver Creek, Neb.. and a brother, Burle Newth, and his wife, Erma, of Venango; several nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held on Monday, July 5, 1999, at 10:30 a.m. at the Grant Zion Lutheran Church with the Rev. David Sewing officiating. Burial was in the Benkelman Cemetery. Bullock-Long Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, October 1988

Willard George Croft

Willard George Croft died Friday, September 30, 1988, at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Nebraska, at the age of 81. He was born February 16, 1907, at Clay Center, Nebraska, to Eli and Emma (Robare) Croft.

He moved with his parents and family to near Imperial, Nebraska, and later to the Hiawatha area. At an early age he began working out for others, farming and picking corn.

He farmed near Lamar, and later in Dundy County. In 1946 he bought a farm nine miles northwest of Benkelman.

In 1947 he married Marjory Newth, and they enjoyed 41 years of married life. They farmed and raised Angus cattle and Hampshire hogs until 1968, when they retired and moved into Benkelman, where he spent his time gardening, fishing and hunting.

He was confirmed in the Zion American Lutheran Church in 1954, served on the church council and faithfully attended services until 1986 when his health failed.

The last two years he liked to ride in the country to watch the crops grow. He enjoyed visiting with friends about farming in the "old days," about old cars and machinery and participating in corn-picking contests.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers: Alvin and Cleo, and two sisters: Alberta and Jayne.

He is survived by his wife, Marjory of Benkelman; one nephew, Leon Miller and his
wife, Donna; two great-nephews and one great-niece, all of Norwalk, California, and many other relatives and friends.

Services were held Monday, October 3, 1988, at 2:30 p.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman with Pastor Earl Martell officiating. Jackie Wilson was the organist and Richard Bartholomew and Steven Stroup sang "One Day At A Time" and "Amazing Grace." The congregation sang "What A Friend."

Bearers were David Olsen, Doug Powers, Kevin Newth, Don Newth, Richard Newth, Gary Newth, Bob Newth, Michael Newth and Lynn Newth.

Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, July 1979

Alvin E. Crook

Services and interment were July 27, 1979 at Howe Chapel Hill for Alvin E. Crook, 3960 S. Grant St., Englewood, CO. Officiating minister was the Rev. Frank Dawson of Englewood United Methodist Church.

Alvin died July 24, 1979 at the Porter Memorial Hospital after an illness of several months.

He was born Oct. 14, 1908, to Roy C. and Pearl Crook in Nelson, NE. He attended school in Dndy County and graduated from the Benkelman High School in 1926.

On Dec. 18, 1941, he married Virginia Bukacek in Benkelman.

During World War II he served with the Army in the Aleutian Islands.

Mr. and Mrs. Crook moved to Englewood in 1946. He was associated in business with a cousin, George Killough in a tree trimming service. Later he worked 13 years with the Postal Service in Denver.

His hobbies were gardening and reading. He was active in Boy Scout Troop 333 in Englewood when his son was a member.

Surviving are the wife, Virginia; a son, Alan Crook of Frisco, CO; two daughters, Ann Toni Cleveringa of Holland, Michigan, and Jean Marie Goodrich of Englewood; a brother, Basil Crook of McCook, NE and two sisters, Norma Hardwick of Benkelman, and Verna Boyd of Santa Clara, CA.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, January 1984

Basil Leroy Crook

Basil Leroy Crook passed away Tuesday, January 3, 1984, in Mission, Texas, at the age of 72 years, four months and 13 days.

He was born August 21, 1911, at Nelson, Nebraska, to Roy and Pearl Crook. He moved to Dundy County in 1918 where he grew up and attended school.

In August of 1934, he was united in marriage to Bernice Humphreys in St. Francis, Kansas.

He served in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. He moved to McCook, Nebraska, in 1951, joined the McCook Police Department and was a police officer for 23 years , until his retirement in 1974.

He was a Member of the Nebraska Peace Officers Association, the McCook Elks and a longtime member of the Methodist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Bernice; two sons, Keith and wife, Bernice, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Larry and wife, Jan, of Lakewood, Colorado; two daughters, Janet and husband, John O'Brien of Shelby, Nebraska, and Betty and husband, Deane Thomson of Kent, Washington; two sisters, Mrs. Norma Hardwick of Benkelman, Nebraska, and Mrs. Verna Boyd of Santa Clara, California; seven grandsons and three granddaughters; nieces and nephews and a host of many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Alvin, and infant sister, Hazel.

Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery on Friday, January 6, 1984.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1946

Roy Chandler Crook

The community was shocked and saddened on Friday to learn of the sudden passing of Roy C. Crook, who passed away at his farm suddenly of a heart attack that morning. The fatal attack came when Mr. Crook was inspecting a load of corn in the Crook farm yard and he was alone at the time. When he was discovered a few moments later by family members he was beyond this world.

Roy Crook was a highly respected member of the Benkelman community of many years standing and had the reputation of being a generous and thoughtful father, a good neighbor, a fine friend and a thoroughly honest man. He built up one of the finest farms in this community and devoted most of his years to the soil, a work that he thoroughly enjoyed. Several years ago he was forced to suspend most of his agricultural activities when ill health beset him and the family moved to Benkelman and in the years following Mr. Crook consulted with specialists to correct health irregularities which had made him unable to contine his life's work. Altho his residence was in Benkelman, Mr. Crook never lost interest in his farm, for his love of the soil and his farm was great and altho he had succeeded in disciplining himself to observe his doctor's orders, he nevertheless pursued his purposes in thoughts and managed many of the affairs of the farm. The sudden attack which took his life did not occur during manual labor, however, but seemed to be simply the answering to a divine call in death.

Funeral services were conducted at the Methodist church on Sunday afternoon with Rev. Paul Boyles officiating. Singers were Mrs. T. E. Maranville. Mrs. Wilbur Borchert. R. D. Druliner and Lloyd Boswell, with Mrs. D. L. Ough at the piano. Casket bearers were Magnus Fries. Frank Walsh. Reece Hardwick. Albert Blecha, C. J. Toler and August Schrader. Interment was in the Benkelman cemetery and arrangements were by the Laughlin Funeral Home.

Roy Chandler Crook, son of Benjamin and Alzada Crook, was born December 10, 1882 in Richardson county, Nebraska. He died at Benkelman. Nebraska, on August 9, 1946, at the age of 63 years, 7 months and 29 days. He was the oldest of eleven children who lived to reach maturity.

He lived in Richardson county until he was 21. then he moved to Nuckolls county. In 1917 he moved to Dundy county where he has lived ever since.

On January 1, 1908 he was united in marriage to Miss Pearl Huffman. To this union five children were born. He was a member of the Methodist church, having joined the church here in Benkelman in 1927.

One child, Hazel E., preceded him in death. She died in infancy.

He leaves his wife, Mrs. Pearl Crook and four children, Alvin E.. of Englewood, Colorado; Basil L. of Benkelman; Mrs. Francis Hardwick of Benkelman and Mrs. Richard Toler of Benkelman; also five sisters and three brothers; six grandchildren and a number of nephews and nieces.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 1954

Chester W. Crosby

Chester W. Crosby, one-time Dundy county sheriff, passed away at 11:30 o'clock Sunday morning at his home in Denver from a coronary thrombosis. Death came while he was sitting in a favorite chair resting after an attack earlier in the morning from which he felt he had recovered. He would have reached his 61st birthday in January.

He is survived by his wife. and one son, Harold Loyd Crosby, a master sergeant in the Air Force. Harold arrived in Denver Monday night from Hickam Field, Hawaii, where he and his wife and one child reside.

Mr. Crosby was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Crosby, who resided on a farm on the Ough Divide north of Benkelman. He served his country well in World War I, having been among the first to go to France and among the last to return. He participated in all the great battles in which the AEF had a part and had a fine war record.

In 1930 Mr. Crosby won the Democratic nomination in the primary election for county sheriff and was endorsed by the voters for the position in the general election in November. During his term he served the county well in the performance of the duties of his office and was known as a courageous and fearless officer.

Before World War II began, Mr. Crosby sold his local business interests and moved to Denver to enter defense work and remained in that city where the Crosby family had established their home and had made many friends.

Funeral services were conducted at the Laughlin Funeral Home chapel on Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock with Rev. Raymond Sandsted in charge. Mrs. Dorothy Woodworth was the soloist with Mrs. JoAnne Rath at the organ. Pallbearers were Frank Wendland, Tom Ballard, Elmer Barger, Frank Walsh, Russell Uphouse and Robert Ewing. The Martin F. Bowles Post No. 65 of the American Legion, of which Mr. Crosby was a member, attended in a group to accord their departed comrade full military honors at the graveside. Interment was in the Benkelman cemetery.

Chester W. Crosby, son of Elmer W. Crosby and Callie Howell Crosby, was born in Hayes county, Nebraska, on January 8, 1894, and passed away at his home at 584 South Bryant Street, Denver, Colorado, on Sunday morning, Dec. 19, of a heart attack. He was baptized in the Methodist church in infancy.

He moved to Dundy county with his parents as a child of eight years and resided here until November, 1941. At the time of his death he was employed in the Veterans' Administration Federal Center where he had been employed since March, 1946.

On October 3, 1917 he entered the service of his country in World War I, serving with distinction with Company B, 355th Infantry in the 90th Division until his honorable discharge on. June 3„ 1919. Previous to his war service he was associated with his parents in farming and upon his return to civilian life he returned to farming which occupation he followed until 1928 when he moved to Benkelman. In 1930 he was elected sheriff of Dundy county and served in that capacity until January, 1935.

He was united in marriage to Ura Grace Rorabough on October 11, 1919 and to this union was born one son, Harold Loyd Crosby, now a Master Sergeant in the Air Force and stationed at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii. He is survived by his wife, son, daughter-in-law, one grandchild and a sister, Mrs. Bessie Knight.

He was a dutiful, loving husband and father and will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, September 1980

Cristine P. Crosby

Cristine P. Crosby, age 29 of Truckee, CA formerly of Victorville, CA died on Sept. 6, 198 0 at Truckee, CA following a pedestrian-auto accident.

She was a native of Sacramento, CA and a resident of Truckee, CA for four years.

She was employed as a carpenter for the Rusty Gun Contractors of Truckee, CA at the time of her death.

She was a graduate of Victor Valley Senior High School, Victorville, CA with the class of 1968 and a graduate of the College of the Redwoods, Eureka, CA.

Survivors are her mother, Eileen R. Grant of Victorville, CA; Elsie Grant, grandmother of Baltimore, MD; Alice Kasten, an aunt of Baltimore, MD and Elsie Richardson, also an aunt of Abilene, KS.

She was the granddaughter of the late Emmett (Stub) and Cloe Vera Reynolds of Benkelman, NE.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Wed., Sept. 10, 1980 at the Chapel of the Dudley Mortuary with the Rev. Dr. G. Russell Shaw, pastor of the United Methodist Church of Victorville officiating. Interment was in the Victor Valley Memorial Park, Victorville with Dudley Mortuary in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 2005

Douglas Paul Crose

Douglas Paul Crose, 61, of Loveland, Colo., formerly of Denver, Colo., died on Thursday, Feb. 17, 2005, at McKee Medical Center in Loveland.

He was born on Sept. 13, 1943, the only adopted child of George Crose and Josephine Pyle in Denver. He was raised in Wheatridge on an acreage that backed up to Clear Creek. His youth was spent walking or riding his bike, then his motorcycle along that river. Where his house was situated and the area he roamed have now become a park. He graduated from St. John's Military Academy in 1962 in Salina, Kan., where he excelled in leadership.

Doug married Rita Ann Brown in 1971.

He sold sports cars in the early 1970s. His passion for cars extended to racing in the form of auto-crossing a '64 Jaguar XKE (which was also the car he courted Rita in for 2 1/2 years). He served as the president of the Mini Stock Association and did the promotion of those cars racing on the oval tracks in Denver.

A belated honeymoon to Hawaii turned the couple onto the mysteries of the ocean and they moved there and became certified S.C.U.B.A. instructors. They managed stores in Denver, Hawaii and San Diego.

They moved to Loveland in 1989 and after eight years decided they had settled down and bought their first home.

Doug is survived by his wife, Rita; mother-in-law and stepfather Norma and Robert Thomas, of Stratton, Neb.; brother-in-law and wife Michael and Vicki Brown, of North Platte, Neb., and his grandmother-in-law, Helen Lorance, of Benkelman, Neb.

There was no funeral.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, ????

Mary Lee (Ferguson) Cross

Mary Lee (Ferguson) Cross daughter of Lemual and Elizabeth Ferguson was born May 5, 1889 in Junction City, KS. She spent most of her young life in and around Junction City, KS.

She was united in marriage to Clarence C. Cross on May 3, 1908 at Milford, KS. To this union four children were born: namely, Dorothy, Albert and Charlotte and one son who died in infancy.

In 1916 they moved to Utica, KS where they lived the rest of their lives.

She was a member of the Christian Church of which she served on the board some 16 years. She also taught Sunday School for many years.

She was a member of the Rebecca Lodge of which she was a loyal worker:

She leaves to mourn her passing Dorothy Elting of Lebanon, Oregon; Albert Cross and wife Fern of Benkelrnan, Nebr.; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; one sister, Elsie McDonald of Riley, KS; and one brother, Elmer Ferguson of Mesa, Arizona; many nieces and nephews.

Her husband and one daughter, Charlotte ConKright, two brothers and one sister preceded her in death.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1990

Albert C. Cross

BENKELMAN — Albert C. Cross died Monday (Nov. 26, 1990) at the Chase County Hospital in Imperial at the age of 78. He was born Aug. 2, 1912 at Milford, Kan., to Clarence and Mary (Ferguson) Cross.

He married Rosa (Kauffman) Hansen and she preceded him in death in 1967.

He married Fern (Gerdes) Wood at St. John Lutheran Church in Bird City in 1968.

He was a farmer in the area his entire life.

He was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman and the McCook Elks Lodge.

He served in Germany during World War II.

Also preceding him in death were his parents; an infant brother; and one sister, Charlotte.

Survivors include his wife, Fern of Benkelman; one sister, Dorothy Elting of Lebanon, Ore.; one step-son, Marlin Hansen; and one step-granddaughter.

Services are tentatively set for Thursday at the Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman with the Rev. Douglas Allen officiating. Interment will be in the Benkelman Cemetery with military committal. Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman is in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1981

Ralph Ray Cross

Ralph Ray Cross was born in Akron, Colorado, on May 22, 1951, the son of Harold and Jennie Ridpath Cross. He died on November 18, 1981, in a traffic accident.

Ralph grew up in Akron. He attended Akron Grade School and High School.

As a young boy, Ralph attended the services of the First Baptist Church, Akron.

Ralph admired and enjoyed horses, and was employed as a horse trainer at the time of his death.

On July 1, 1977, Ralph and Susan McCollough were united in marriage

Those left to mourn his absence are his parents, Harold and Jennie Cross, his wife, Susan, his children, Jennifer Kay Cross and Wendy Lee Cross, both of Yuma, Colo., his brothers, Stanley Cross of Canon City, Colo., John Cross of Copeland, Kansas, and Roland Cross, of Otis, Colorado. His sisters, Jeanetta Holiday, Ruth Everest and
Virginia Madden, all of Riverton, Wyoming, his step-daughters, Maxine Bothwell, of Ft. Morgan, and Kathy Stewart and Deanna Stewart of Akron, and his step-son, Loyal Jackson of Denver.

Also surviving are aunts, uncles, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, Nov. 21, 1981, at 2:30 p.m. from the Yeamans and Gordon Memorial Chapel, with Pastor Tim Dobson officiating, assisted by Robert Travis, officiating.

Mrs. Kathy Williams was organist, and she accompanied Pastor Dobson, as he sang, "The Old Rugged Cross", and "Face to Face"

Serving as casket bearers were: Richard McFarlin, Dennis Stewart, Charles Everest, W Willard Davisson, Johnnie Krien and Vern Burkhardt. Burial was in the Akron Cemetery.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, October 1981

Waldo (Snooks) Cordon Cross

Waldo (Snooks) Cordon Cross was born August 17, 1912, at Trenton, Neb. He entered into rest October 2, 1981, enroute to St. Joseph's Hospital in Omaha.

Snooks' parents were Frank and Effie (Gillaspie) Cross of Trenton. He had one brother, Glen, and two sisters, Inez and Edna. His childhood days were spent at Trenton where he graduated from high school in 1931. He entered into marriage to Helen Elizabeth Wall May 22, 1938, in Colby, Kan. To this marriage were born three children: Rex Eugene, Roger Alan, and Teresa Lynn. In January, 1969, Helen passed away. Snooks entered into marriage to Olga Sobotka Halama October 9, 1971, in Geneva, Neb. Snooks spent most of his life in Trenton.

His sense of humor, sharp wit and unique personality marked him as one to never be forgotten even by those who encountered him for only a brief moment in time. He thrived on work, was a man of his word and overcame many hardships and obstacles during his lifetime. His greatest talent was his carpentry skill and the pride of his life was his children. Undoubtedly, Snooks received the most enjoyment from creating laughter among his relatives and friends.

Snooks was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Helen, his wife Olga, and his brother, Glen, of Bartley, Neb. His survivors include three children and their families: Dr. Rex Cross, Paula, Kimberly Lee, and Melissa Louise of Key West, Fla.; Roger Cross, Roberta, Kelly Ann, and Douglas Alan of Columbus, Neb.; Terry Burge, Clint, Carmen Elizabeth, Crystal Dawn, and Nicholas Eugene of Blue Hill, Neb.; two sisters: Mrs. Willis Hartzer of Wauneta, Neb., and Mrs. Ed Friehe of Culbertson, Neb.; and two step-children: Dick Halama of Lincoln, Neb., and Mrs. Erma Volkmer of Waco, Neb. He leaves eight step-grandchildren, three step-great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and countless friends.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, Oct. 6, 1981, at 2 p.m. in the Trenton Church of God with the Reverend Millard Knapp officiating. Mrs. Roxie Hidy was the organist. Mrs. Leah Hidy accompanied Mrs. Jackie Knapp, Mrs. Roxie Hidy, Lloyd Nealeigh and Roy Hidy on the piano as they sang "The Old Rugged Cross," "Beyond The Sunset" and "Going Down The Valley."

Honorary bearers were Joe Bedlan, Bryan Leggott, Bert Shillington, Art Carmody, Lester Powers and Roy Cole. Bearers were Harold Upton, E.D. Jones, T.K. Emry, Archie Bowman, Ralph Gummere, and Ross Hawkins.

Interment was in the Trenton Cemetery.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1978

Erna Elsa (Spilker) Crosson

Erna Elsa Crosson, the daughter of Henry and Lena Spilker, was born October 21, 1908 near Rosemont, Ne. and passed away February 14, 1978 at the Chase County Hospital, in Imperial, Ne. at the age of 69 years, 3 months, and 24 days. She was confirmed on June 25, 1922 in the Evangelical Lutheran Salem Church in Rosemont, Ne.

Erna was united in marriage to Fred N. Crosson of Wauneta, Ne. on Sept. 12, 1930 at Holyoke, Colo. They lived on the Crosson Homestead farm south of Wauneta, Neb. After 36 years on the farm, they moved to their new home in Wauneta in 1966.

Erna was preceded in death by her parents, her twin brother Ernest, William, Carl and one sister Reka Benker.

She is survived by her husband Fred, a step-daughter Bonnie Jean Majors and husband Donald of Imperial, Ne., three grandchildren and their spouses: James M. and Joyce F. Majors of Wauneta, Ne.; Deborah J. and James C. Kunkel of Lamar, Ne., and Paula Rene Majors of Imperial, Ne., one great-grandson Brian Michael Majors, a sister Marie Doughman of Guide Rock, Ne. and a sister-in-law Jessie Crampton of Palisade, Ne. and a number of nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Services were held Thursday, February 16, 1978 at 11:00 o'clock at the United Methodist Church, Wauneta, with the Rev. Don Rollstin officiating.

Orangist Betty Maxfield accompanied Sharon Walgren as she sang "How Great Thou Art."

Escorts were Robert McBride, Sr., Dale Krausnick, William Buffington, Cecil Steckman, Ted Thompson and Henry Brunkhorst.

Interment was at the Wauneta Riverside Cemetery with the Creveling Funeral Home Ltd. in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1981

Fred Nelson Crosson

Fred Nelson Crosson, son of Milton and Emma Wisdon Crosson, was born in a sod house on the family homestead in Ough precinct of Dundy County Nebraska on March 28, 1906. He was a lifetime resident of the Wauneta area. He was one of nine children born to Milton and Emma Crosson. Fred passed from this life at St. Joseph's hospital in Denver, Colorado on February 23, 1981, at the age of 74 years, 10 months, and 26 days. He received his education at the country school District 64, rural Wauneta.

On April 14, 1928 Fred married Frieda Bartels, daughter of Carl arid Doris Bartels. This union was blessed with a daughter Bonnie Jean. Frieda passed away 2 weeks after giving birth on Dec. 16, 1928. On Sept. 12, 1930, Fred married Erna Elsa Spilker of Guiderock, Nebr. They moved to the family farm which was homesteaded in 1885 by Fred's Grandmother Delilah Crosson. Fred and Erna lived on the family farm until 1965 when they retired and moved to their new home in Wauneta. Fred remained very interested and attentive to his life endeavor of farming, even upon retirement. He was always happy over any progress large or small in the family farm, now operated by his grandson Mick. His daughter Bonnie Jean and her husband Don, grandchildren and great grandchildren were very dear and special to him.

Fred entered Dundy County hospital on Monday, January 26th. He was transferred to St. Joseph's on February 1, undergoing surgery February 4th. After a most successful major surgery and anticipation of going home, complications developed making a second major surgery necessary Saturday morning, Feb. 21st. For a time he rallied but the Lord chose to take him from his loved ones.

Fred was preceded in death by his wife Erna in 1978, his mother in 1909, his father in 1929, brothers James and John and Sisters Reba, Lucy and Laura. He will be greatly missed by his daughter Bonnie Jean and her husband Donald Majors of Imperial, their children James M. Majors and wife Joyce of Wauneta, Deborah Jean Kunkel and husband James of Lamar, Nebr. and Paula Rene Allen and husband Donn of Wauneta, Nebr., great grandchildren Brian Michael and Leigh Michelle Majors and Jason Michael Kunkel, a sister Mrs. Jessie Crampton of Palisade, Nebr. and many nieces and nephews and host of friends.

Services were held February 26, 1981 at 11:00 a.m. from the United Methodist Church, Wauneta, with the Rev. Don Rollstin officiating. Music was furnished by Mrs. Raymond Maxfield, organist and Mr. Alfred McCrumb, soloist. Selections were "The Lord's Prayer" and "How Great Thou Art". Escorts were Cecil Steckman, Clark McMinn, Robert McBride, Kent Buffington, George Blobaum and Burdette Wilson. Interment was at the Riverside Cemetery, Wauneta, with Creveling Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1982

Agnes Florence (Jensen) Croston

Agnes Florence Jensen Croston was born the fifth child of eight children to James Peter and Ada Florence Bear Jensen on December 30, 1917, on a farm north of Orleans, Neb. She departed this life on Thursday morning, June 3, 1982, at the home of her son in Campbell, Neb., at the age of 64 years, 5 months and 3 days.

Agnes grew up north of Orleans, where she attended rural school at District No. 19. In 1938, she moved to Cheyenne, Wyo., where she met Harry Treadway who was stationed there as an army guard at a P.O.W. camp.

On June 8, 1945, Agnes and Harry were united in marriage at St. Francis, Kan. The union was blessed by one son, Jack.

They made their home near Beckley, W. Va., until they came to Nebraska in 1958, residing at Kearney.

On July 10, 1972, Harry passed away. Agnes continued to reside at Kearney where she was united in marriage to Thomas Croston on January 2, 1974, at Kearney.

Agnes moved to Alma in 1977, to Franklin in 1978, to Lexington in 1979, to Alvord, Tex., in 1980, back to Lexington in 1981 and to Campbell in February of 1982.

Agnes was a member of the Community Foursquare Church at Kearney.

She was preceded in death by her parents, "Pete" and Ada Jensen, her first husband, Harry Treadway, and two brothers, William Earl and Walter Ray Jensen.

She leaves to mourn her passing her son, Jack Treadway and wife, Abby, of Campbell, with whom Agnes has resided since 1975, and two sisters, Leila Dixon of Alma and Margaret Jensen of Holdrege; three brothers, Floyd and Geneva Jensen of Dallas, Tex., Dean and Deloris Jensen of Laird, Colo., and Harold and Daisy Jensen of Parks, Neb.; three grandchildren, Christina Louise, Sheila Marie and Necole Lynn Treadway of Campbell, other relatives and many friends.

Agnes loved children and was known as `Grandma' by many children besides her own grandchildren. She was loved by all and will long be fondly remembered by all those who knew her.

Memorial services were held on Monday, June 7, at 2 p.m. at the Banta-Torrey Funeral Chapel in Alma with Rev. Warren Spellman officiating. The soloist, Mr. Del Wolfe, was accompanied by the organist, Mrs. Jack Hardin.

Pall bearers were Dan Carr, Bernard Jameson, LaVern Livingston, Edwin Dixon, LeRoy Dixon and Ray Dixon. Burial was in the Orleans Cemetery, Orleans, Neb., with Banta-Torrey Funeral Home of Alma and Wilcox in charge of arrangements.

The relatives who attended the funeral were: Jack and Abby Treadway and Christina and Sheila (Necole was unable to attend), Leila Dixon and June, Jane Stickney and Richard, Roy and Jeanne Jo, LeRoy Dixon, Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Marble and Kaylyn, Edwin Dixon and Rosemarie, Ray and Stewart, Virginia Jensen, Mr. and Mrs. Elwin Jensen and Lauri and Keith, Margaret Jensen Mr. and Mrs. George Ransdell and Carol, Duane and Bruce, Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Jensen, Mr. and Mrs. Dean Jensen, Mr. and Mrs. David Jensen and Derek, Frances Jensen, Linda Sutton and twins, Ivy and Abby, Edith Graham, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Jensen and Jim, John and Susan, Florence Priddy, Nellie Snyder, Loretta Snyder, Alice Stephens and Charles, Goldean Stephens and Neil, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Bear and their friends, Carl and June, and her grandson, a lady friend, Gertie, Abby's mother and step-father, Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Jameson, and her two sisters and families.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1976

Lucille Lorene (Semler) Crouse

Lucille Lorene Crouse was born near St. Francis, Kans., on May 22, 1926 to David and Sophia Semler. She was baptized in early infancy and renewed her baptismal vow in Confirmation on November 3, 1940.

She spent her early life attending school and teaching school in Cheyenne County, Kans. On October 30, 1948 she was united in marriage to Melvin J. Crouse. To this union were born four children. They settled in the community of Haigler, Nebraska in 1957.

We remember Lucille as a faithful and loving wife and mother, and a sincere friend. She was a faithful member of her church and active in the community.

In the fall of 1975, she became ill and was taken to Denver for surgery. During the last months, she was at home where she was cared for by her family. During the last week her condition became critical and she was taken to the hospital in Wray, Colo. On Saturday morning, July 31, 1976, she entered her eternal rest at the age of 50 years, 2 months and 9 days. She was preceded in death by her father.

Mourning her departure are husband Melvin; two daughters, Ardis Franklin and Lee of Boulder, Colo., and Sherrie and Alan Lautenschlager of Kearney, Neb.; two sons, Marlin and Steven; her mother Sophia Semler; three sisters, Hulda Raile and Albert of St., Francis. Kans., Tillie and Harry Schlepp of St. Francis, Kans., and Marie Schultze and husband Clarence of St. Francis, Kans.; one brother, Carl Semler and wife Esther of St. Francis, Kans.; and one grandchild, Christian Franklin of Boulder, Colo. She is also missed by nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral services were conducted at Zion Lutheran Church in Haigler on August 3, 1976 with Pastor O.L. Zeilinger officiating. A trio including Linda Samler, Debby Webster and Cindy Erdman sang, "The Sound of Music," "He," and "I Believe," accompanied by Kay Kamla at the organ. Casket bearers were nephews Clinton Schlepp, Calvin Semler, Delbert Raile and Clifford Semler and her cousin's sons, Roger Samler and Billy Samler. Interment was in the Haigler Cemetery with arrangements by Lockwood—Spellman Mortuary of Wray. Colo.

When all the bitter tears are dried,
Sometimes when we're alone,
We find a calm to those denied
Who never grief have known.
We miss her gentle ways today,
We know the loss is great;
But what if we should go away
With no one there to wait?
And oh, how lonely heaven would be
If all we loved were here,
And there was none we longed to see
To welcome us, my dear.
For heaven is made of those we love.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, January 2001

Melvin J. Crouse

HAIGLER—Melvin J. Crouse, 76, passed away Thursday, Jan. 25, 2001, at the Wray (Colo.) Community District Hospital.

Melvin was born at the farm home near Vernon, Colo., on Oct. 27, 1924, to Harve and Ethel (Barker) Crouse. He attended school in Yuma County and later moved to Washington state. Before enlisting into the U.S. Navy in 1943, he was a welder in the Lake, Washington shipyards. While in the Navy, he served in the Pacific as a radar operator and gunner aboard ship. He was subsequently land-based in the Gilbert Islands, training pilots to use radar. He was honorably discharged from the service in 1946.

On Oct. 30, 1948, Melvin married Lucille Lorene Samler and to this union four children were born. During the early years of their marriage they farmed near Vernon, St. Francis, Kan., and Champion, Neb. He also was a welder for United Steel and Timpte Bros. in the Denver area.

In 1958 they settled in Haigler, Neb. He first worked for Victor Stasser as an auto mechanic, then again took up farming north of Haigler which he continued until he retired. After retirement, Melvin was still active in farming and ranching with his son.

In addition, through the years he had several part-time occupations including exterior house painting, custom farming, school bus driving and riding the Pioneer Irrigation Ditch. Within the community he gave many hours of service to the Haigler Public School and served as president of the school board.

On Nov. 26, 1977, Melvin was united in marriage to Lovena Harms.

Melvin was well-known for his quick wit and sense of humor. He enjoyed playing cards, telling jokes, riding horses, going to dances and playing his guitar. He also enjoyed hours of fun and laughter with his grandchildren. Melvin was very proud of his family and their accomplishments.

Melvin was preceded in death by his wife Lucille; twin sister Melvine Crouse, sisters Eunice Fitchue and Christina Cook and brothers Bernie, Fred “Ted", Floyd "Bus", Paul and Jack.

He is survived by his wife, Lovena; daughters and sons-in-law Ardis and Rod Snyder and Sherrie and Dick Smith; sons Marlin and Steven and wife, Jody; grandchildren Christian Franklin and wife Kristen, John Snyder, Jordan Crouse, and Alicia, Angela
Shirley and husband Lewis Dirks, Sandra and husband Ron Blank, Keith Harms, Lyndell Harms and Angie Giberal, and Kathryn and husband Doug Davis; 10 step grandchildren: 3 step-great-grand children; sisters Arlene and husband Paul Durand, Earlene Vanhorn and Nona and husband Dick Piha; sisters-in-law Hulda Raffle, Bernice Crews, Esther Semler and Marie and husband Clarence Schultze, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 29, 2001, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Haigler with the Rev. Chris Farmer officiating. Interment was in the Haigler Cemetery. Spellman-Schmidt Funeral Home of Wray was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, January 15, 2004

Mabel L. Crow

Thursday, January 15, 2004

BENKELMAN -- Mabel L. Crow, 94, formerly of Max, died Monday (Jan. 12, 2004) at Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman.

She was born July 9, 1909, south of Stratton to George and Ora (Wood) Clark. She attended school in Stratton where she graduated from Stratton High School in 1928.
On Dec. 11, 1930, she married Eugene Budd Crow in Wray, Colo. The couple lived in San Diego, Calif., during the 1940s, where she worked in a factory and helped support the war effort. The couple moved to to a farm near Haigler. They retired and moved to Max.

She was a member of the Max United Methodist Church, the Max Women's Club and Sheba Rebekah Lodge No. 321 of Benkelman.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Eugene; son, Donald Crow; sisters, Ruby Brouse, Ruth Russell and Becky Felker; and brother, Ross Clark.

Survivors include his sister, Wynona Austin of Fair Oaks, Calif.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services are Friday, 1:30 p.m., at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with the Rev. Norman Prather officiating. Interment will be in Benkelman Cemetery.

Visitation is Friday, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given in her name to Grandview Retirement Center in Stratton or Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman.

Cards or letters can reach the family at Forch Funeral Chapel, PO Box 683, Benkelman, NE 69021.

Forch Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1997

Eunice M. (Lorance) Crow

MAX--Eunice M. (Lorance) Crow, of rural Max, Neb., was born Feb. 2, 1916, in Dundy County, Neb., the daughter of Cloyd A. and Edith (Burk) Lorance. At the age of 81, she died on Wednesday, June 4, 1997, at the Heritage of Wauneta in Wauneta, Neb., where she resided for a short time.

She married Budd L. Crow Nov. 2, 1940, at Yuma, Colo., and they made their home in San Diego, Calif., where Budd was employed at the Consolidated Air Force Co. To this union two children were born: Barbara Jean and Rodger Lee.

As a child Eunice attended the Ash Grove Country Rural School and graduated from Wauneta High School with the Class of 1934. She also attended the Ash Grove Community Church.

She enjoyed children and taught six terms of school--three in the rural schools and three in Max Grade School.

She loved music and played the violin. At the age of 14 she started playing for barn dances at the neighbors close by and later at the halls in the nearby towns.

When her husband was discharged from the service during World War II, the family moved back to Nebraska and took up farming on the homestead where Eunice was born.

She loved farm life and helped her husband with the farm work. She enjoyed tilling the soil, planting the crops and watching them grow. She also planted large gardens and canned the vegetables.

In August of 1995, Budd and Eunice received the Ak-Sar-Ben Award for family farm ownership for 100 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents and by her husband in 1995.

She is survived by her daughter, Barbara Jean Bartels, of Max; her son, Rodger Lee and his wife, Ruth, of Wauneta; a grandson; two granddaughters; four great-grandchildren; three sisters: Erma Kitt and Margie Kitt, both of Wauneta, and Lois West of Stratton, Neb.; other relatives and friends.

Services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, June 9, 1997, at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Neb., with the Rev. Michael Davis officiating. Betty Erdman was the organist and Richard Bartholomew, with guitar accompaniment, sang “The Old Rugged Cross," "In The Garden" and "Peace In The Valley." The organ recessional was "Going Down The Valley."

Bearers were Frank West, Robert Kitt, John Lemon, Garth West, Larry Peetz and Ted Pflum. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 2001

Georgia M. (Mills) Crow

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.--Georgia M. Crow, the daughter of George and Civila (Boyles) Mills was born on April 6, 1914, in Scribner, Neb., and died on Sunday, Aug. 12, 2001, in Colorado Springs.

Georgia grew up in Max, Neb., where she completed high school, graduating with the Class of 1932. She married Jack Crow in 1932. They moved to Benkelman, Neb., in 1946 where she lived until 1970 then she moved to Manitou Springs, Colo. In the early 1950s, she was employed at the Jackson Variety Store in Benkelman. In 1954 she obtained her nursing degree and worked many years at the Morehouse Hospital in Benkelman. After her move to Colorado she continued her career in nursing until the late 1980s.

Georgia was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Raymond Mills, and four sisters: Irene Barker, Irma Rickard, Wilma Smith and Mazie Burnside.

Those who survive her include her daughter, Karyl, and son-in-law, David Vasquez, of Colorado Springs; granddaughters Hilary Vasquez of Colorado Springs and Alison and her husband, Michael Gerbig, of Denver, Colo.; a sister, Maxine Shafer, of Benkelman; sisters-in-law Mabel Crow and Julia Crow; several nephews and nieces, and her dear friends Bonnie Grant Higbee of Loveland, Colo., and Jennie Vasquez of Trinidad, Colo.

Ironically, Jennie also died on Aug. 12, six hours after Georgia. Jennie was the mother of David Vasquez, Georgia's son-in-law.

Per Georgia's request, no services were held. A celebration of life will be held at a later date for family and friends. Burial of cremains was in the Evergreen Cemetery in Colorado Springs.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, July 1985

Evelyn (Tenant) Crow

Evelyn Crow, age 69, died Wednesday at the Bryan Memorial Hospital in Lincoln.

She was born August 20, 1915, in Hayes County to Ross and Elizabeth (Wiggett) Tenant.

She married her first husband, Raymond Lincoln, in 1938 and he preceded her in death.

She married Howard (Pete) Crow on February 20, 1969, at Max.

Preceding her in death were her parents and one daughter, Marcia Rae Lincoln.

Survivors include her husband of Max; one daughter, Penny Grace of Minneapolis, Minnesota; two sisters, Ruth McGinley of Nyssa, Oregon, and Elsie Johnson of Scottsbluff; and three grandchildren.

She was a member of the Max United Methodist Church and the Rebekah Lodge of Benkelman.

Services were held Saturday, July 27, at the Jones Funeral Chapel of Benkelman. Father Conrad Marrama and Rev. John Kilgore officiated.

Gwen Bauer accompanied Monty Crandon with the selections "If I Can Help Somebody" and "When The Saints Go Marching In."

Bearers were Kenneth Gardner, Bob Bellamy, Gary Powell, Robin Bellamy, Steve Danielski and Verle Raichart.

Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 1911

Anson Crow

The community was pained to learn Friday last the death of Anson Crow, who passed away Thursday evening, November 24, 1911, at the home of his mother, about 7 miles southeast of Max, cardiac dropsy of the heart being the immediate cause of death.

Mr. Crow has been in poor health for six months, but not until about six weeks ago did his condition cause apprehension, when he failed rapidly. However, for a couple of weeks preceding the day of death, he had exhibited symptoms of recovery, but last Thursday his heart action became weaker and at 7:00 in the evening he passed to the great beyond.

Anson Crow was one of the early settlers of the county and was about 50 years of age. He had always lived alone since attaining his majority, his latter life being passed on his homestead south of Max. Always a hard worker, and careless of his health, he contracted the disease which caused his death. He was universally respected as a man of honor, who attended strictly to his own affairs, and his presence will be missed.

At this writing the News-Chronicle is not able to accurately state the number of near relatives he leaves behind, except these here named, besides his mother: Bud and N.C. Crow of Route 1, Field Crow east of Benkelman, and James and George Crow of Peoria, Illinois.

Interment was made Saturday afternoon in the cemetery at Stratton, Nebraska.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December1948

Budd Garfield Crow

Funeral services for Budd G. Crow, pioneer resident of Max, who died so suddenly on Tuesday, December 8th, while driving to his home in his car, were held at the H. E. church in Benkelman last Thursday afternoon at one o'clock. Rev. Orville Hunt was in charge and a Church of Christ quartette from Wauneta, along with the pianist, furnished the music and the six sons, Howard, Budd, Jr., Eugene, Wayne, Glenn and Stewart Crow served as pall bearers. The Laughlin Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements and interment was in the Benkelman cemetery.

Budd Garfield Crow, son of Anson D. and Ellen Crow, was .born in Peoria, Illinois, August 30, 1877, and departed this life Dec. 7, 1948, in Max, Nebr. at the age of 71.. years, 3 months and 7 days.

He came to Dundy county, Nebraska, with his parents in the spring of 1886, where he grew to manhood. He homesteaded five miles south of Max in 1900.

He was united in marriage to Laura Jane Schwartz at Benkelman, Nebraska, Dec. 3, 1902. To this union eight children were born, Mrs. Ivil Pursley and Mrs. Cleon Plum of Parks, Nebr., Eugene of Haigler, Wayne of Holdrege, Nebr., Stewart of Benkelman, Howard of Max, Budd, Jr., of Wauneta, Nebr., and Glenn of San Diego, California.

In 1939 he purchased the J. B. Foster farm adjoining Max where he was living at the time of his death. A cerebral hemorrhage was the cause of his sudden demise.

He united with the Church of Christ at Max in June, 1924, and was a faithful member thereafter. He was a loving husband and father and will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Besides his loving wife, children, nine grandchildren and one great grandchild, he is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Tom Wilkens and Mrs. Kitty Wiley, both of Max, Nebr., a number of nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1995

Budd L. Crow

Budd L. Crow was born October 25, 1921, at rural Stratton, Nebraska, to Budd G. and Laura (Swartz) Crow, the youngest of their six sons and two daughters. He died Wednesday, August 23, 1995, at the Chase County Community Hospital in Imperial, Nebraska, at the age of 73.

He attended school and graduated from Max (Nebraska) High School.

On November 2, 1940, he married Eunice Lorance at Yuma, Colorado. To this union two children were born: Rodger Lee and Barbara Jean. They made their home in San Diego, California, where Budd was employed at the aircraft plant during World War II.

In 1944 he joined in the service to his country and was a tail gunner on a B-24 during the war. He was stationed on the island of Okinawa until 1946 when the war ended and he was discharged.

After his discharge, the family moved back to Eunice's family's home place in Dundy County, Nebraska. This was the farm where Eunice was born and where Budd and Eunice were residing at the time of his death. In August 1995 they were the recipients of the Ak-Sar-Ben Award presented for retaining family ownership of land for 100 years
or more.

He was a member of the Church of Christ, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.

He was preceded in death by his parents, both of his sisters: Kitty Pursley and Bette Plum, and all of his brothers: Eugene, Glen, Wayne, Stewart "Jack" and Howard "Pete."

Survivors include his wife, Eunice, of Wauneta, Nebraska; their son, Rodger L. Crow, and his wife, Ruth, of Wauneta; their daughter, Barbara Jean Bartels, of Aurora, Colorado; two granddaughters, Kandi Sue Lambertsen, of Denver, Colorado, and Krisii Kay Prenger of Aurora; a grandson, Roddy L. Crow, of Aurora; four great-grandchildren: Philip and Rylan Lambertson and John and Laura Crow; other relatives and friends.

A memorial service was held Monday, August 28, 1995, at 2 p.m. at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Nebraska, with the Rev. Art Phillips officiating. Organist was Betty Erdman and Richard Bartholomew sang "In The Garden" and "Peace In The Valley." The American flag presentation was conducted by the Martin F. Bowles American Legion Post Number 65.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 1983

Eugene Bus Crow

Eugene Bus Crow, son of Budd and Laura Schwartz Crow, was born south of Max, Nebraska, August 28, 1905. Eugene was a farmer until he retired to Max in September of 1972.

He and Mable Clark from Stratton, Nebraska, were united in marriage December 11, 1930, in Wray, Colorado. They were fortunate to have celebrated their 50th anniversary in 1980.

Preceding Eugene in death was their only child in 1947, Donald Eugene; brothers, Wayne, Glenn and Jack; and parents.

Survivors are his wife, Mable, of Max, Nebraska; sisters, Mrs. Kittye Pursley, and husband, Ivil, of El Cajon, California; Bette Plum of Grand Island, Nebraska;
brothers, Howard (Pete), and wife, Evelyn, of Max; Budd and wife, Eunice, of Wauneta; nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

Services were held on Thursday, December 8, 1983, at 10:30 a.m. in Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Nebraska. The Rev. Terry Douglass and Rev. John Lover officiated.

Kelly Hayward sang "In The Garden" and "Going Down the Valley" accompanied by Betty Erdman playing the organ.

Pallbearers were Jim Sis, Loren Humphreys, Ron Janicke, Edgar Powell, Verle Raichart and Kenneth Gardner. Interment was in Benkelman Cemetery in Benkelman, Nebraska. Jones Funeral Home, Inc. was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1978

Glenn R. Crow

Glenn R. Crow, a maintenance foreman at an Air Force base for many years, died Fri., March 17, 1978 in a San Diego, Calif. hospital. He was 67.

Mr. Crow of 5001 Genesee Ave. was born in Max, Nebr., and came to the San Diego area 43 years ago. During World War II, he was an assembler for General Dynamics Convair Division. Later for 17 years, he was maintenance foreman for Norton Air Force Base in San Bernardino. In 1973, he retired as custodian for the San Diego City schools, a job held for ten years. He was a member of the Building Services Union Local 202.

Surviving are his wife, the former Mary Seasons; two sisters, Mrs. Kittye Pursley, San Diego and Mrs. Bette Plum, Gering, Nebr.; and five brothers_ Howard (Pete) Crow, Eugene and Wayne, all of Max,Nebr., Jack of Silver Creek, Nebr. and Budd of Wauneta, Nebr.; a step-son, Gordon Graves of San Diego and three grandchildren.

Services were held March 20 at El Camino Mortuary followed by private family burial in El Camino Memorial Park.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, ?? 1978?

Stewart (Jack) Crow

Funeral services for Stewart (Jack) Crow will be held at McKown Funeral Home in Silver Creek at 2 p.m. Saturday with burial in Silver Creek Cemetery. Rev. John H. Mikkelsen will officiate. Mr. Crow, 67, died at his home in Silver Creek following an extended illness.

Visitation is after 4 p.m. today at the funeral home in Silver Creek.

He was born at Max, NE, on April 30, 1911, to Budd and Laura Crow. He attended high school and married Marcia Tschantre on May 25, 1966, at Pierce, NE. He was a retired construction worker.

He was a member of the Methodist Church at Max, NE.

Survivors include his wife, Marcia; two daughters, Jackie Crow, Silver Creek, Mrs. David (Karyl) Vasquez, Colorado Springs, CO; two granddaughters, Hilary and Allison, of Colorado Springs, CO; two step-sons, David and Daryl Tschantre, Silver Creek; two sisters, Bette Plum, Scottsbluff, and Kittye Pursley, San Diego, CA; four brothers, Wayne, Eugene, Howard, all of Max, NE; and Budd of Wauneta, NE.

His parents and one brother, Glenn, preceded him in death.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1982

Wayne Garfield, Crow

BENKELMAN — Wayne Garfield Crow died Saturday morning at the Hester Home in Benkelman. He was born Nov. 24, 1907 to Budd and Laura (Schwartz) Crow in Dundy County.

He was a retired Bureau of Reclamation inspection engineer and a member of the Max United Methodist Church.

He married Julia M. Bennett on April 29, 1934 in Trenton.

Preceding him in death were his parents and brothers, Glenn and Jack.

Suvivors include his wife, Julia of Benkelman; two sons, Eugene and Howard (Pete) Crow, both of Max; a brother, Budd Crow of Wauneta, and two sisters, Kittye, (Mrs. Ivil) Pursley, El Cajon, Calif., and Bette Plum, Lake St. Charles, Mo.

Funeral services will be Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. MDT at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with the Rev. Bob Sander officiating. Interment will be in the Benkelman Cemetery under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. Memorials are being accepted for the Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, October 1948

Frederick H. Crowe

Frederick H. Crowe was born in Peoria county, Illinois, October 31, 1886 and departed this life at the Stewart Hospital, Stratton, Nebr., October 29, 1948 at the age of 61 years, 11 months and 28 days.

He came to Nebraska with his parents in 1887 and spent most of his life in this immediate community.

He was baptized in the Episcopal Church when a child. He was a member of the Odd Fellow Lodge at Eustis, Nebraska. Mr. Crowe was known as a straightforward and upright citizen who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He spent the latter years of his life working on the farm.

Mr. Crowe was stricken by a cerebral hemorrhage on Sunday, October 24, and passed away five days later. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister. He leaves to mourn his death eight brothers: Earl, Frank, Dan and Edens, all of Denver, Colorado; Ira, Golden, Colorado; Oscar, Benkelman, Nebraska; Aaron in California and Leon in Washington state; three sisters: Martha Crowe, California; Nellie Tabor, Grand Junction, Colorado; Margaret Scott, Max, Nebraska; two aunts, Mrs. Carrie Wiley and Mrs. Nellie Wilkins, both of Max, Nebraska; one uncle, Budd Crowe, Max, Nebraska.

Funeral services were conducted by Rev. H. T. Slagg in the Methodist Church, Max, Nebr., Monday at 9:30 a. m. The services were in charge of the Laughlin Funeral Home and burial was in the Eustis, Nebraska, cemetery. The pall bearers were Fred Gerdes, Ward Artist, Miles Calkins, Anson Walters, Will Powell and A. C. Hoff, all I.O.O.F. brothers of the deceased. Interment services at the cemetery were in charge of the I.O.O.F. A male trio composed of Lloyd Boswell, Ross Druliner, Sr., and D. E. Gallatin, sang three numbers, accompanied by Mrs. Joe Laughlin at the piano.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, September 1971?

Ralph R. Culton

Funeral services for Ralph R. Culton, one time Benkelman resident, was held at St. Mark's Lutheran Church of the Narrows in Tacoma, Washington on Saturday, September 4th. Burial was in Tacoma.

He was born in Seattle, Washington on October 28, 1919 and died at his home on Tuesday, August 31st after a years illness with cancer. He was 51 years, eight months and three days of age at the time of his death.

Mr. Culton was a veteran of World War Two and was married to Miss Beulah Jean Ham in Denver on January 18, 1946. After his separation from the military, he and his wife returned to Benkelman to make their home for several years before returning to Tacoma, Washington to make their home in 1950. He was a member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church and the operating engineers in Tacoma.

He is survived by his wife, Beulah Jean, two daughters, Kathy Oliver and Rene Russell and two granddaughters, all of Tacoma, Washington; a mother-in-law, Mrs. Mayme Ham of Benkelman; three brothers-in-law, Vaughn Ham of Denver, Arden E. Ham of Benkelman and Norlin Ham of Winter Park, Florida, and one sister-in-law, Mrs. Gerald Russell of Henry, Nebraska, and several nieces and nephews.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1991

Isabelle Elizabeth (Bartlett) Cunningham

BENKELMAN—Isabelle Elizabeth (Bartlett) Cunningham was born in Gage County. Nebraska, to Edward and Martha (Lamb) Bartlett on July 2, 1887. She was one of 12 children. Two died in infancy.

Her brothers included Arthur, William, George, Henry and Frank. Sisters included Charlotte, Emma, Blanche and Nellie. The family lived on a homestead, which was very near the Freeman Homestead, the first homestead in Nebraska.

She attended school in a rural one-room school and attained an eighth-grade education, but the school of life added much to her academic learning.

She married George Henry Zimmerman in 1909, and to this union were born two girls, Meredith Lucille and Helen Magdalene.

On June 13, 1922, she married Frank Cunningham and they farmed south of Max, Nebraska, until hard times, grasshoppers, drought and the dust bowl drove them to sell the farm and move to town.

Isabelle accepted Christ as her savior at an early age. This influenced her zeal for her love of the church and she was a willing worker wherever she was needed.

A few years ago, she received her 50-year pin at the Methodist Church and was a faithful member of her Sunday school. Few people today can rival her in memorization of favorite Bible chapters.

She and Frank moved to the Rainbow Housing where they lived happily until Frank's death. She continued to live alone and availed herself of the Senior Center where she volunteered her services as long as she was able.

On her 102nd birthday, she fell in her apartment and decided that the Hester Home was a fitting solution. She was happy there and found it to be a real home.

She continued to help with the mending, sewing on many name tags for other residents. She enjoyed the ceramics and all the other activities. She especially enjoyed her embroidery work. She kept up her daily devotionals and last year had read the Bible in its entirety.

After her fall, resulting in a leg fracture, she was in and out of the hospital, but until the last her mind was alert.

Isabelle died on Wednesday, February 20, 1991, at the Dundy County Hospital Benkelman.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her two husbands, her daughter, Meredith, son-in-law, Leslie Johnson, and their daughter, Joan; her brothers, sisters and their spouses, and two stepsons, Donald and Cecil Cunningham.

Isabelle will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her daughter, Helen, and her husband, Victor Pigg; 5 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; 8 great-great-grandchildren; 2 stepdaughters-in-law, Sara Cunningham Bloomenkemp of Phoenix, Arizona, and Muriel Cunningham of Benkelman, as well as their families which include 8 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and 17 great-great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; 1 sister-in-law, 1 brother-in-law and his wife, and a host of friends.

Services were held Saturday, February 23, 1991, at the United Methodist Church In Benkelman with the Rev. Dr. John Kilgore officiating.

Gwen Bauer was the organist and Betty Erdman the pianist. The United Methodist Church choir sang "Amazing grace" and "How Great Thou Art."

Bearers were William Griffith, Gary Cunningham, Ron Cunningham, Keith Powell, Brett Cunningham, Jerry Van Natter, Randy Bartlett and James Smith.

Honorary bearers were all of her friends.

Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery with Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman in charge of the arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 2007

Muriel Catherine (Johnson) Cunningham

Muriel Catherine Cunningham, formerly of Benkelman, Nebraska, died Sunday, November 4, 2007 in her home in McCook, Nebraska, at the age of 90 years.

She was born August 27, 1917 in rural Dundy County, near Max, Nebraska to George and Catherine (Burkett) Johnson, the second of four daughters. She attended school at District 51 and later Max Public Schools.

On March 9, 1935 Muriel was united in marriage to Cecil A. Cunningham, and to this union five children were born, Robert, Gary, Ronald, Patty, and Janet.

Muriel and Cecil spent the majority of their married life in rural Dundy County. Muriel also worked several years at Skogmos Department Store in Benkelman. She was a member of the United Methodist Church, and was active in the United Methodist Women. In later years, she joined the Order of Eastern Star.

The last 10 years of her life were spent in McCook. She enjoyed handy-work, loved reading, and completed her crossword puzzle everyday, using her own self-made dictionary.

Preceding her in death are her parents, George and Catherine Johnson; her husband, Cecil Cunningham; and one sister, Margaret.

Survivors include her children, Robert Cunningham and wife, June of Las Vegas, NV, Gary Cunningham of Englewood, CO, Ronald Cunningham and wife, Linda of Benkelman, NE, Patty Kier of Oxford, NE, Janet Manning and husband, Randy of St. George, UT; twelve grandchildren; twenty-one great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter. Other survivors include two sisters, Dorothy and Georgia; and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Memorial services will be Friday, November 9, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Nebraska with Rev. Brian Fong officiating. Service will conclude at the chapel. A private inurnment will take place at a later time.

There will be no viewing or visitation.

In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that memorials be given to the Benkelman Library or to a charity of choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman and Carpenter-Breland of McCook.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1978

Cecil Cunningham

Cecil Cunningham, 65, son of Frank D. Cunningham and Jesse Pearl Carpenter, born July 22, 1912 at Harbine, Nebr., died June 9, 1978 at Dundy County Hospital. He attended schools in Jefferson County, Nebr., and graduated from Max Rural High School in 1933. On March 9, 1935 he was united in marriage with Muriel Catherine Johnson at Beatrice, Nebr. To this union five children were born.

Cecil was baptized into the Methodist Church at Max, Nebr. as a young man and was a member there until transferring to Benkelman United Methodist.

Cecil served for many years on various school boards and was honored to present diplomas to his children while he served as Board President.

He served on the ASCS Board for 12 years and was Performance Supervisor for many years. He also farmed near Max until health forced his retirement and he moved to Benkelman in 1977.

He was preceded in death by his mother, brothers Donald V. and Robert N., stepsister Meredith. He is survived by his father and stepmother; his wife; three sons:, Robert and wife June of Honolulu, Hawaii; Gary and wife Susan of Broomfield, Colo.; Ronald and wife Linda of Omaha, Nebr.; two daughters, Patricia and husband Jerry Kier of Oxford, Nebr.; Janet and husband Randy Manning of Holdrege; and one stepsister Helen Pigg of Bridgeport, Nebr. He is also survived by eleven grandchildren who gave him unbounded joy, and by aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Services were held Mon., June 12, 1978 at the Jones Funeral Chapel, Benkelman, Nebr. with Rev. Allan Martin officiating. Organist was Gwen Bauer. Phyllis Kirkman sang two sections, "The Old Rugged Cross" and "Beyond The Sunset."

Bearers were Ronald Cunningham, Gary Cunningham, Robert Cunningham, Mark Cunningham, Jerry Kier, Glen Lemon, Frank Lutz, and Randall Manning.

Honorary Bearers were Harley Howard, Richard Gardner, Clyde Daniels, Buster Louch, and Walter Pflum.

Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery, Benkelman, Nebr., under the direction of Jones Funeral Home, Benkelman, Nebr.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1960

Earl Cunningham

Last rites for Earl Cunningham was held at the Jones Funeral Home in Stratton, Nebraska, on Wednesday morning, February 24th. Mr . Cunningham passed away at his home in Benkelman on Sunday evening, February 21st, as a result of a heart attack.

The services were in charge of Rev. Floyd Kelley, pastor of the Pilgrim Holiness church in Stratton. Mrs. Robert Nowling of Stratton was the solist, accompanied ton was the soloist, accompanied ????? casket bearers were H. L. and Harold Anderson, Clifford Chipperfield, Bill Gooder, Orlie Kauffman and Dale Osborn. Interment was in the Bartley, Nebraska, cemetery.

Earl Cunningham, son of Wilford and Clara Cunningham, was born June 11, 1890, at Moline, Kansas. As a young man Earl was engaged in the buying and selling of cattle. He also did some farming.

During World War I, he answered the call to serve his country and did so from September 18, 1917 to May 13, 1919. He served in the 89th Division of the Army. He received an honorable discharge in 1919 having obtained the rank of sergeant.

After returning home he continued with his previous line of work until he moved to Cambridge, Nebr., in 1920. In the year 1921 he married Nora E. Winters at Holyoke, Colo., and to this union was born Lula Earlene, who has been living in Benkelman, Nebr., now for a number of years,.

He passed away on Sunday, February 21, 1960 at the age of 69 years, 8 months,10 days. His wife passed away in 1924, dying of cancer.

Others who preceded him in death were his father and mother, and nine of his brothers and sisters.

He leaves to mourn his passing his daughter, Lula Earlene Cunningham of Benkelman, Nebr.; two stepsons, three brothers: Harvey Cunningham of Benkelman, Nebr.; George Cunningham of Montrose, Colo.; Orville Cunningham of Arkansas; four sisters: Mrs. Neal Huilenburg of Wichita, Kansas, Mrs. Elma Snyder of Oxford, Kansas, Mrs. Ruth Holcomb of Kentucky, Mrs. Elva Neighbarger of Hutchinson, Kansas; one sister-in-law, Mrs . Fred Winters, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, Decenber 1979

Frank Donald Cunningham

BENKELMAN — Frank Donald Cunningham died Monday at the Hester Home in Benkelman at the age of 87 years.

His parents were Grant Cunningham and Della Bilderback Cunningham. He was married June 13, 1922 at Lincoln to Isabelle E. Bartlett. He was a 50 year member of the United Methodist Church and served as custodian for many years.

He is survived by his wife, Isabelle, of BenkelMan; one step-daughter, Mrs. Helen (Victor) Pigg, Bridgeport; one sister, Mrs. Bertha (Fuller) Fenton of Ruppert, Idaho; one brother, Charlie Cunningham of Wallace; 14 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his parents, three sons, Donald, Robert and Cecil; one step-daughter, Meredith and two brothers. Edgar and Earl.

Services will be Thursday at 11 a.m. MST at the Jones Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Allan Martin officiating. Interment will be the Benkelman cemetery.

(Researcher note: Benkelman cemetery burial book shows a birth date of 8-14-1892 and a death date of 12-6-1979.)

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 1979

Frank Donald Cunningham

Funeral services were conducted on Thursday, Dec. 6 for Frank D. Cunningham, a long-time Benkelman resident. Frank was a guest at the Hester Memorial Home at the time of his demise.

Rev. Allan Martin, pastor of the United Methodist Church, conducted the service, with Mrs. Gwen Bauer as organist. Elmer Case, soloist, sang "How Great Thou Art" and a trio, John Baer, Ray Balderson and Wilbur Case sang "Amazing Grace."

Active bearers were Ronald Cunningham, Keith Powell, Jerry Cunningham, Donnelly Johnson, Robert Bartlett, Randall Manning and Gary Cunningham.

Honorary bearers were Guy Powell, Edward Louch, W.C. Bradley, Bill Neemann, Otis Rickard, Richard Gardner, Verle Raichart, Fred Scott and Harley Howard.

Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery with Jones Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Frank Donald Cunningham, son of Adella Bilderback and Grant Cunningham was born at Beatrice, Gage County, Nebraska, August 14, 1892 and passed away at the Hester Home Dec. 3, 1979 at the age of 87 years, 3 months and 19 days.

On June 13, 1922 he was married to Isabelle Zimmerman at Lincoln, NE. They farmed south of Beatrice until the year 1929 when they moved to a farm southeast of Max, NE. They resided there until 1945 when they retired and moved to Benkelman.

Frank worked for Miller Electric for five years. Later he went to work for John Deere Implement and for the State Highway Dept. Then he was custodian for the United Methodist Church for several years until his health failed.

In 1977 they moved to the Rainbow Fountain Park apartments where he spent many happy hours with friends.

In 1922 he was baptized into the Christian Church at Beatrice, NE. When he moved to Max he transferred into the United Methodist Church, later transferring to Benkelman Methodist Church where he was a faithful member until his health failed.

With his passing he leaves his beloved wife Isabelle, a stepdaughter Helen and husband Victor Pigg of Bridgeport, NE; two daughters-in-law Sara Cunningham, Bloomenkamp of Phoenix, AZ and Muriel Cunningham, of Benkelman; 14 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren, one brother, Charlie Cunningham and wife Ellen of Wallace, NE; one sister, Bertha Fenton and husband Fuller of Rupert, Idaho; a sister-in-law Stella Cunningham of North Platte, NE, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his three sons Donald, Cecil, and Robert, a stepdaughter Meredith and her husband Leslie Johnson and two brothers Edgar and Earl.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1971

Harvey Cunningham

Harvey Cunningham passed away at the Dundy County Hospital on Tuesday, April 20th, after a long illness, at the age of 70 years, 11 months and 12 days.

Mr. Cunningham was born to Wilford Cunningham and Clara Ross in Marshall, Oklahoma, on May 8, 1900. He was married to Ina D. Munday in Sedan, Kansas on February 9, 1933 and moved to Benkelman in the early 1940's from Cedar Vale, Kansas. Two sons were born to this union, Harvey Lee of Colby, Kansas and Larry L. of Denver, Colo.

Mr. Cunningham was baptized on March 17, 1971 and received membership in the Benkelman, United Methodist Church by confession of faith.

He is survived by his wife, Ina D. Cunningham; sons Harvey Lee and Larry; five grandchildren; two brothers. George of Montrose, Colorado and Orville of Arkansas; three sisters, Elma Snyder of Winfield. Kansas; Elva Nibregar of Hutchinson, Kansas and Ruth Holcomb of Wichita, Kansas. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Linnie, and three brothers, Fred, Earl and Floyd.

Funeral services were held at the Jones Funeral Chapel on Friday morning, April 23rd, at ten o'clock with the Rev. Allan Martin officiating. Bill Leach was the soloist accompanied by Mrs. Ruby Holliman at the organ.

Pallbearers were Alfred Kaufman, Joe Kaufman, Charles Morrison. Merle Wallace, Elmo Beard and Walter Barenberg. Interment was in the Benkelman cemetery under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1997

Marie Amanda (Walker) Curran

Marie Amanda (Walker) Curran was born Aug. 26, 1899, at her parents' sod house south of Palisade, Neb., to George E. and Jessie M. (Lawe) Walker. She died Monday, June 16, 1997, at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Neb., at the age of 97.

She attended country school through the ninth grade and then stayed at home to help her family on the farm.

On April 17, 1921, she married Thomas Cloyd Curran at McCook, Neb. To this union one daughter, Bonnie, was born. Bonnie married Howard Hollon and they had two daughters, Lynette and Karen.

Marie and Cloyd operated the Texaco Station in Trenton, Neb., for more than 40 years and continued to farm the Curran homestead.

After Cloyd's death in 1979, Marie lived in Trenton until she moved to the Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman in 1993.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband and their daughter; five brothers: Cecil, Fred, Martin, Lawrence and Raymond Walker, and two sisters: Bell Eryeart and Rachel Walker.

Survivors include her two granddaughters: Karen Hollon-Struss of Denver, Colo., and Lynette Hollon of Austin, Texas; a sister, Nellie Hagan, of Washington, and other relatives and friends.

Final rites for Marie Curran were held at 2 p.m. on Friday, June 20, 1997, at the United Methodist Church in Trenton with the Rev. George Kilmer officiating. The organist was Jan Williams and the soloist was Kenneth Hazel. Selections were "Shall We Gather At The River" and "Amazing Grace."

Bearers were Wayne Hovey, Jim McConnell, Wayne Madsen, Marvin Zimbelman, Melvin Smith and Dale Lambert. Interment was in the Trenton Cemetery with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home of Stratton and Benkelman.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, May 2003

Lillian Marie (Ballard) Curry

Lillian Marie (Ballard) Curry was born on Sept. 6, 1902, and at the age of 100 years. she passed away on Monday, May 19, 2003, at the Regents Park Nursing Home in Winter Park, Fla.

Marie was the last surviving member of the Orin and Fannie Ballard family, pioneers of Ives. now Parks, Neb.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Sidney Curry; three brothers: Earl, George and Tom, and two sisters: Hazel and Ethel.

Surviving members are daughter Donna and husband, Jack Manley. of Winter Park; grandchildren Linda and James Manley of Winter Park. and a sister-in-law, Carrie Ballard, of Denver, Colo.

Marie was cremated at the American Family Funeral Center in Winter Park.

"I Love Nebraska"
Composed by Marie Curry

I love Nebraska, the state where
I was born
With its hills and fertile valleys,
fields and fields of corn.
When I wake up in the morning
until the day is done
I know God made Nebraska
because it's Number One.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1978

Sidney Phillip Curry

Sidney Phillip Curry, a resident of the Rock Creek recreational area near Parks for the last decade, passed away at the Memorial hospital in Winter Park, Fla. on Saturday morning.

Mr. Curry underwent surgery at the hospital on Mon., Nov. 13 and succumbed to complications on Saturday morning, Nov. 18.

He and his wife, the former Marie Ballard, left Dundy county on Oct. 16 to spend the autumn months with her daughter, Mrs. Donna Manley and family in nearby Maitland, Fla., a custom they had followed for several years.

Mr. Curry, a retired electrician and plumber, and his wife, Marie, had made their retirement home in a cottage adjacent to Rock Creek lake north of Parks.

Funeral services were held Tues., Nov. 21, 1978 at 10:30 a.m. in Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Nebr. for Sidney Curry, 73.

Mr. Curry was born on Sept. 16, 1905 in Joplin, Mo

Rev. Allan Martin officiated the services with Anna Benge as organist. Soloist was Kelly Hayward singing the selections, "When Day Is Done" and "One Day At Calvary."

Bearers were Delbert Barker, Gary Krutsinger, Hal Tecker, Wayne Lutz, Max Cline and Leon Merklin.

Interment was held in Benkelman Memorial Cemetery in Benkelman, Nebr.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1974

Art Curtis

Funeral services for Art Curtis of Grand Junction, Colorado were held on Saturday at the Jones Funeral Chapel. Mr. Curtis, 86, had been a resident of a rest home in Grand Junction since February and passed away on November 6th. The Rev. Allan Martin officiated at the service, Betty Erdman was the organist and Genereva Schrader and Shirley Adkinson were the singers. Casket bearers were relatives. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery.

Mr. Curtis was a highway maintenance specialist and spent many years in the employ of the State of Nebraska and later the City of Benkelman. He lived in California for several years and in 1953 moved to Fort Morgan, Colorado where he lived until 1971 when he moved to Denver to reside until 1974 when he moved to Grand Junction.

Art Curtis was born on May 14, 1888 in Pawnee County, Nebraska to Garland and Sadie Burkhart Curtis. He was married to Velma Onetia Williams at Trenton, Nebraska in November, 1916 and to this union five children were born. He was baptized by a minister of the First Presbyterian Church in Denver. While he lived in Benkelman he was a member of the IOOF Lodge. He was a good husband and father and will be missed by family and friends.

He is survived by daughters, Pearl and husband Clayton Baker of Riverside, California, Hazel and husband Thursten Cobb of Grand Junction, Colo., and Gladys Denny of Santa Ana, California; son, Glen Curtis and wife Ida of Holland, Michigan; 15
grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Mrs. Ulah Grose, Benkelman, Vera Damrow, Torrington, Wyoming and Zedia Lambert of Wheatland, Wyoming. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and infant son, a sister Stella and a half-brother Charlie Burkhart.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, October 1970

John Alvin Curtis

John Alvin Curtis, 76, passed away at his home at 1031 Sherman Street in Fort Morgan, Colorado with a heart attack about 1:30 p.m. Saturday, October 10th.

Mr. Curtis suffered his first heart attack on March 17th. He was visiting with his wife, Velma, and his cousin, Art Curtis, in his home at the time. He was rushed to the hospital. Ten days later he suffered his second attack. At the time he was able to set up, had been visiting with his wife, who had just departed for home, and with his daughter, Lucille and daughter who had just arrived for a visit. After a long hospital stay he returned home and in the last few days before his death could walk about by himself. His grandson, Bobby, joined him to watch the National baseball league playoffs on television and they looked forward to enjoying a big afternoon, while his wife and daughter, Joyce, went grocery shopping. Bobby called his grandfather's attention to something and John didn't answer. He tried his best to bring him back but John quietly passed on to his heavenly home leaving many heart broken loved ones and friends as he was a friend to everyone he met.

Mr. Curtis was born in Pawnee City, Nebraska, on March 7, 1894. He was a veteran of World War One. He was married to Velma Walker in St. Francis, Kansas, on July 9, 1928. They lived in the South Fork community and in St. Francis until moving to Fort Morgan in June 1935.

In addition to his beloved wife, Velma, he is also survived by three daughters, Mrs. Lucille Wilhelmson of Fort Morgan, Colorado, Mrs. Joyce Hendrickson of Wiggins, Colorado, and Mrs. Marjorie Cobe of Denver, and two sons, Jim of Spokane, Washington and Merlin of Fort Morgan; two sisters, Mrs: Leda Byerly, Lamar, Missouri and Mrs. Lois Gordon of Stockton, Missouri; twelve grandchildren and one great grandchild. He loved his grandchildren and spent many hours with his little great grandchild. His parents, one sister, one brother, Jake, and one son, Mr. and Mrs. Curtis reared since a small baby, preceeded him in death.

God called him home where there is no more suffering, no more pain and no more sorrow. John was ready to go and said all was well with his soul. He leaves his loved ones, many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, October 13th at 2:00 p.m., in the Culter-Jallabbe Chapel with the Rev. Harrison Johns officiating. Burial was in Riverside cemetery in Fort Morgan, Colorado.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, May 1986

Grace Margaret (Burks) Cushing

Grace Margaret Cushing, the daughter of Ulysses and Lula Conner Burks, was born September 23, 1907, in Rawlins County, Kansas. She departed this life May 25, 1986, at the age of 78 years, 8 months and 2 days.

At a young age, she moved with her family to Colorado. After a few years they moved to the Stratton vicinity.

She was graduated from the Stratton High School in 1923 and attended the University of Nebraska. She also was a rural school teacher in Hitchcock County.

On August 13, 1928, she was united in marriage to Floyd A. Cushing in Atwood, Kansas. They lived on a farm north of Stratton until they moved into town in 1974.

To this union were born two daughters, Zelpha and Karen, and three sons, Wilbur, Ulysses and Kent.

One foster son, Larry Ide, spent several years in their home.

Grace was a member of the Christian Union Church, the Women's Missionary Society and the Busy Bee Club. She enjoyed her neighborhood Bible studies in her home for several years.

Here to mourn her passing are her daughters and their husbands, Zelpha and Burdette Golding of Stratton and Karen and Ray Yant of Minden, Nebraska.

Others surviving are five grandchildren, Jane Dadey of Marquette, Nebraska, Bob Golding, Scott Golding and Ann Sutton, all of Stratton, and Kim Yant of Minden, Nebraska.

She also leaves four foster grandchildren, Clinton Ide of Greeley, Colorado, Kathy Ream of Wyoming, Curtis Ide of California and Christine Ide of Greeley, Colorado, and 11 great-grandchildren.

She is survived by five sisters and one brother: Gladys Pierce of Stratton, Nebraska, Lillie Jones of Cambridge, Idaho, Lulu Bailey of Phoenix, Arizona, Jean Carse of Palisade, Nebraska, and Ruby Rains and Paul Burks of Stratton, Nebraska, and a host of other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd, her son, Kent, and two sons who died in infancy, Wilbur and Ulysses; her parents, Ulysses and Lulu Burks; and brothers John S. Burks and Willis and Stanley who died at a young age.

Services were held Wednesday, May 28, 1986, at 3 p.m. at the Christian Union Church in Stratton with Rev. Robert Sander officiating. The organist was Beverly Henderson, Tally Case was the pianist and Johnny Walker sang "How Great Thou Art" and "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus."

Bearers were Elmer Case, Morrison Sutton, Kerry Krutsinger, Bill Latta, Brent Wearne and Richard Stahly.

Interment was in the Rose Hill Cemetery at Stratton with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home, Inc. of Stratton.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1995

Thelma F. (Irelan) Cushing

STRATTON--Thelma F. (Irelan) Cushing died Tuesday, June 13, 1995, in the Dundy County Hospital at Benkelman, Nebraska, at the age of 89 years, 9 months and 17 days. She was born September 30, 1905, to Samuel A. and Amelia Ann (Mann) Irelan in Cambridge, Nebraska.

At the age of one year, she moved with her family to the Stratton, Nebraska, community where she received her formal education.

On October 23, 1924, in Atwood, Kansas, Thelma was united in marriage to Harry U. Cushing. They made their home north of Stratton where to this union four children: Elnora, Harold, Erwin and Willis, were born and raised. In 1974 after farming many years, they moved into Stratton to retire.

Thelma reaffirmed her faith by joining the Christian Union Church in January 1955 and was baptized in August that same year.

During their golden years, Thelma and Harry became members of two campers' clubs where they met and enjoyed many friends. Numerous winters found them traveling to Arizona to be near friends and their son, Harold, and his family.

Thelma was blessed to have a very special close friend in Nova Dailey for all her life. As young girls in school they met and carefully nurtured this bond of fellowship all through the years.

Last winter a close-knit circle of residents welcomed her to the Grandview Senior Center in Stratton which remained her home until her recent hospitalization. Preceding her in death were her husband, Harry, five sisters and three brothers.

Great joy was brought into her life by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her love for fun found delight in them.

Survivors include her 4 children: Elnora and her husband, Paul, of Wauneta, Nebraska, Harold and his wife, Oleta, of Yuma, Arizona; Erwin and his wife, Joyce, of Stratton and Willis and his wife, Jamie, of Las Cruces, New Mexico; 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

Services were held Friday, June 16, 1995, at 2 p.m. at the Christian Union Church in Stratton with the Rev. Daniel Marshall officiating. Pianist was Craig Kitt and organist was Beverly Henderson. The musical selection was "Amazing Grace."

Bearers were Loren Cushing, Kent Kitt, Craig Kitt, Don Harrison, Keith Busking and Steve Bauler. Honorary bearers were Nova Dailey, Margaret Merrill, Vera Wray, Frank and Beata Vrbas, Freda Sramek, Vera Altig, Clara Burks and Florence Mc-Main.

Jones Funeral Home Inc. of Stratton was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, May 1977

Floyd Alex Cushing

Floyd Alex Cushing, son of Ulysses L. and Grace Jackson Cushing was born April 19, 1903, in Clay County, Neb. The following spring he moved with his parents to southwest Nebraska. He was married Aug. 13, 1928, to Grace Burks in Atwood, Ks. He farmed north of Stratton, Neb., until ill health forced him to retire into Stratton in 1974.

The death of his son in 1952 brought him to a realization of his need of a personal relationship with Christ. He united with the Christian Union Church in Stratton and had continued to serve there faithfully. He passed from this life May 24, 1977, at the Chase County Hospital, Imperial, Neb., at the age of 74 years, one month and five days.

He is survived by his widow, Grace, two daughters, Mrs. Burdette (Zelpha) Golding of Stratton, Mrs. Ray (Karen) Yant of Minden, a foster son Larry Ide, two brothers, Harry of Stratton and Wayne of Palisade, one sister Mrs. Esther Wilkinson of Stratton, nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one son Kent and two infant sons, a brother Ira and two sisters Avis Djureen and Bell Pierce.

Funeral services were conducted Fri., May 27, at the Christian Union Church at Stratton with Rev. Bob Sander of Benkelman officiating. Interment was in the Rose Hill cemetery with the Jones Funeral Home in charge. The organist was Pamela Penner accompanying Johnnie Walker as soloist. Escorts were Morrison Sutton, Robert Forch, Jr., Kerry Krutsinger, William Latta, Maurice Miller and Lyle Williamson.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, January 1991

MAX—G. Wayne Cushing

MAX—G. Wayne Cushing was born October 7, 1913, in Hitchcock County, Nebraska, to Ulysses L. and Grace (Jackson) Cushing. He died Saturday, January 19, 1991, at the Great Plains Medical Center in North Platte, Nebraska, at the age of 77.

He married Thelma Wilkinson and farmed northeast of Stratton, Nebraska, before retiring and moving to Max, Nebraska, in 1979.

He was baptized in the Christian Union Church in Stratton.

Preceding him in death were his parents, three sisters, Avis, Belle and Esther, and three brothers, William, Harry and Floyd.

Survivors include his wife, Thelma, of Max: two sons, Roy of Bridgeport, Nebraska, and Gary of Manistee, Michigan, and six grandchildren.

Services were held Wednesday, January 23, 1991, at 11 a.m. at the Christian Union Church in Stratton with the Rev. Phil Sorenson officiating.

Organist was Beverly Henderson. Rich Stahly, Johnny Walker, Elmer Case and Scott Golding made up the quartet. Selections included "Beautiful Isle Of Somewhere" and “The Old Rugged Cross."

Bearers were Reg Stahly, Kenneth Reiman, Vince Reiman, John Doetker, Wayne Rath and John Mohr.

Interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery at Stratton with Jones Funeral Home, Inc., of Stratton in charge of the arrangements.