Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, May 15, 2007

Lloyd Benjamin Foster

Tuesday, May 15, 2007

Sept. 15, 1925 - May 13, 2007

BENKELMAN -- Lloyd Benjamin Foster, 81, formerly of Max, died Sunday (May 13, 2007) at Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman.

He was born Sept. 15, 1925, to John Benjamin and Carrie Hansena (Hoff) Foster on the family farm near Max and graduated from Max High School in 1942.

He served his country in the U.S. Army as a medic in a hospital during the Korean War from Sept. 22, 1950 to Sept. 23, 1952. He was stationed at Fort Sam Houston in Texas for a time but served most of his time at Fort Carson in Colorado.

On Nov. 6, 1955, he married Marjorie Ann Dicke. They lived in the Benkelman area for several years before moving to Wallace in 1964, where he worked for the Nebraska Department of Roads.

In 1973, he and his family moved to the Anders Hoff home near Benkelman where his grandfather, Hans Hoff lived. He worked the farm for many years before retiring and moving to Benkelman.

He was a member of the Max United Methodist Church, the Odd Fellows Lodge, and the American Legion in both Wallace and Benkelman.

Preceding him in death are his parents, John and Carrie Foster; his wife, Marjorie; daughter, Carrie Ann; sister, Dorothy; and brothers, Harry, Donald, Leonard, James, Kristian and one infant brother.

Survivors include his sisters, Bernice Jensen of Benkelman and Carolyn Pearson and husband, Willard of Brady; son-in-law, Art Gallington of Benkelman; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, 2 p.m. at Forch Funeral Home Chapel in Benkelman with Rev. Brian Fong officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery near Stratton.

Visitation will be Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the funeral home.

Arrangements are under the direction of Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, ?? 1977?

Ralph R. Foster

Ralph R. Foster, 224 Avery St., died Tuesday at St. Mary Community Hospital at the age of 66.

Funeral services will be in Colonial DeWitt Funeral Home Friday at 11 a.m. With Bishop David, Hafen of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints conducting. Vault interment will be in Blue Mountain Memorial Gardens.

Foster was born in Max, Nebr., June 14, 1911, the son of Edwin S. and Cora Foster. He attended Max schools and was married there June 16, 1934, to Avis M. Pearson. The couple farmed in Max, and came to this area 37 years ago. He was a retired employee of Rogers Walla Walla, Inc.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church and Teamsters Union Local 556.

He is survived by his widow, Avis M. Foster, at the home; his daughters, Shirley_ June Pond of Walla Walla, and Sharon Joan Kralman of Seattle; his sons, Duane Foster and Daryl Foster, both of Walla Walla; his sisters, Ethel McDermott of Pocatello and Ella Baumfalk of Paonia, Colo.; his brother Clyde Foster of Lancaster Calif.; six grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews.

Printed in the Benkelman Post in August, 1944

Steven Lyman Foster

Funeral services for Steve Foster were held at the Max M. E. Church on Thursday afternoon August 10th, being conducted by Rev. Leslie Scott. Singers were Lloyd Boswell, R. D. Druliner and D. E. Gallatin, with Mrs. Hazel Sutton at the piano. Pallbearers were William Brown, Clyde Pursley, Frank Cunningham, George Johnson, Boyd Raichart and William Hunter. Funeral direction was in charge of Joe Laughlin and interment was in the Benkelman cemetery.

Stephen Lyman Foster was born August 18, 1876 in Buda, Illinois. He passed away August 8, 1944 at the Mercy Hospital in Denver, Colorado. He moved with his parents when a small boy to Weldon, Iowa, where he grew to manhood. He graduated from the Weldon high school in 1893. He then worked for the Phoenix Nursery Co. for some time at Bloomington, Illinois. Later he accepted a position as foreman on his uncle's ranch in Colorado. When the family moved to Max, Nebraska, he took a homestead north of Max.

He was united in marriage September 3, 1905 to Frances Hardwick. To this union were born five children: Mrs. Anderson Meguire, Stratton; Glen L. Foster, at home; Mrs. Ray Trupp, of McCook, and Mrs. Don Eller of Stratton. A daughter, Frances, preceded him in death August 14, 1928.

In 1909 with two small children they moved to Alberta, Canada, where they lived for eleven years. They returned to Nebraska to be with their parents in their reclining years. Since that time he had resided in this community.

He was a loving husband, wonderful father and a good neighbor. He was liked by all who knew him and was a special friend of little children. His passing leaves a vacancy in the home which can never be filled. He is survived by his wife, four children, seven grandchildren, four brothers, three sisters and a host of relatives and friends.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, May 1966

William Alden Foster

Funeral services for William Alden Foster, 74, were conducted at the Max Methodist Church on Saturday afternoon, May 14. Mr. Foster, a Dundy county resident since the early 1900's, passed away at the Stratton hospital last Wednesday morning. He had been in ill health for several years. A native of Iowa, he accompanied his parents and family to Dundy county and spent all of his life farming in the Max community.

Rev. John W. Grant, Jr., of Stratton officiated at the funeral services on Saturday afternoon. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home of Stratton.

William Alden Foster was born July 31, 1891, to Charles and Josephine Foster at Weldon, Iowa, and died May 12, 1966, at the Hitchcock County Hospital at Stratton, Nebraska.

He was married November 11, 1914, to Edith E. Baughman. To this union was born one son, Stephen.

He is survived by his wife, Edith; two brothers, Chesney and Ben Foster, Benkelman; two sisters, May Parsons, Pawnee Rock, Kansas, and Nellie Ham, Benkelman; several nieces and nephews. A son preceded him in death in March of 1929.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1983

Vera. Mae (Harrison) Francis

Vera Mae Francis was born to Jack and Millie Harrison on June 10, 1902, in Dundy County, Nebraska. She passed away on February 7, 1983, at the Dundy County Hospital.

Vera was married to Claude Francis on March 4, 1919, in Benkelman, Nebraska. They made their home on a farm 12 miles south of Wauneta. To this union five children were born, two of whom died in infancy.

In 1957 they moved to Max, Nebraska, when Claude began having heart trouble. He passed away in June of 1958.

Vera continued to make her home in Max. She was the head cook at the Max School for many years. She was active in PTA, the Max Woman's Club and the American Legion. Her talent for drawing and for her many crafts brought joy to many people.

In April of 1981, Vera moved into the Hester Home in Benkelman, Nebraska. She continued her drawing and crafts and won several ribbons at the Dundy County Fair.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband; two sisters, Rosa Hayward and Louella Donze; two infant sons; a granddaughter, Kathy, and two half brothers, Bill and Albert Evans.

Survivors include three children: Verle of McCook, Lyle of Denver, and Virginia Donze of Max; three brothers, James Harrison of Wauneta, Elmer Harrison of Imperial and Roy Harrison of McCook; seven grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

Funeral Services were held Thursday, February 10, 1983, at 10:30 a.m. in the chapel at Jones Funeral Home in Benkelman, Nebraska, with the Reverend Bob Sander officiating.

Phyllis Kirkman, organist, accompanied Carol and Robert Sander who sang "One Day at a Time" and "How Great Thou Art."

Pallbearers were Jerry Donze, Kenneth Bracelin, Dean Thornton, Rick McCollum, Leland Francis and Craig Francis.

Vera was laid to rest in the Ash Grove Cemetery, at Max, Nebraska, one-fourth of a mile from where she was born 80 years ago.

Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 2005

Bruce Owen Francis

Bruce Owen Francis, 55 died Monday, Nov. 28, 2005, in Bethesda, Md. He was born on May 19, 1950, in Fort Scott Kan., the son of Horace D. and Emma E. (Ricker) Francis. He grew up in Garden City and received his primary and secondary education there. Bruce then attended the University of Kansas, where he received a degree in Electrical Engineering.

On June 16. 1972, he married Nancy Loraine McCartney. They relocated to Austin, Texas, where, after attending the University of Texas in graduate studies, he became in 1973 a vice president of engineering for Austron, Inc. His department was involved in time and frequency products. In December 1980, he and his partners relocated their computer business to the Washington. D.C., area, founding Advanced Navigation, Inc. This company applied the technology previously developed to navigational applications, including aviation, ground transportation, ocean navigation and, of note, provided navigational devices for the presidential helicopter fleet. B.F. Goodrich acquired the business in 1989 and Bruce then became a consultant for B.F. Goodrich. He was also a consultant for Circuit City. He was cofounder of Comfort Technology, which manufactured a heat pump controller for heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. More recently, he designed and managed web sites.

A lifelong passion was tennis, which filled his evenings daily for years. He was engaged in many projects involving tennis associations, including the Mid-Atlantic Tennis Association', for whom he was the webmaster and served on the grievance committee. He was the webmaster and chaired the nominating committee for the Maryland District Tennis Association. He was the webmaster, a member of the board of directors and a member of the executive committee of the Montgomery County Tennis Association. His activities in the sport included the organization of tournaments, the development of local rules and guidelines and promoting community outreach of tennis for children and minority communities. He was recognized as the "go-to guy" for rules and court etiquette, providing training for captains, a unique tracking and scoring system and a financial system to monitor accounts. About three weeks prior to his death he shared with the volunteers of the Montgomery County Tennis Association in receiving the Pam Shriver Award for Outstanding Contributions to Tennis in Maryland, presented by the United States Tennis Association.

Mr. Francis is survived by his wife, Nancy; brothers Frank (Dawnnel) Francis of Garden City, Kan., and Brian Francis of Tucson, Ariz.; a half-brother, Evan R "Bud" Francis of Maryland; sisters-in-law Beatrice Francis of San Francisco, Calif., and Natalie Francis of Gahanna, Ohio; his mother-in-law, Loraine McCartney, of Thornton, Colo.; a brother-in-law, Dr. Robert (Bonnie) McCartney, of Denver, Colo., and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Mr. Francis was preceded in death by his parents and half-brothers Horace D. "Dee" Francis, Jr., and Robert "Bob" Francis.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Dec. 2, 2005, at the First Baptist Church of Gaithersburg. Pall bearers were David Wolfe, John Reinhard John Raaf, Gordon Mikkelson, Kyle Herring, Steve Brozinick, John McCartney, James McCartney and Jason Ochs. Burial was in the Valley View Cemetery in Garden City,

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1999

Robert "Bob" Francis

OBERLIN, Kan.--Robert "Bob" Francis was born April 1, 1959, at Moab, Utah, to Leonard J. and Pauline (Eliker) Francis. He died at his home in Oberlin, Kan., on Sunday, March 28, 1999.

He was raised at Wilsonville, Neb., graduating from Wilsonville High School. He served in the United States Army and was a member of the Baptist Church.

He resided at Marion, Oberlin and Cedar Bluffs, Kan., and worked as a farmer.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife, Charolette Cole; two sons, Vike and Max Francis, of Benkelman, Neb.; a stepson, Dustin Cole, of Oberlin; three brothers and their wives, Chester and Kathy Francis of Wilsonville, Tim and Sharon Tillotson of Wilsonville and Dave and Joyce Tillotson of Blackwell, Okla., and four sisters and their husbands, Judy and Danny Elwood of Oberlin, Mary and Ron Karash of Grant, Neb., Lenora and Mike Schilz of Abingdon, Va., and Dottie and Jim French of Longmont, Colo.

A memorial service was held Monday, April 5, 1999, at Paul's Funeral Home in Oberlin with the Rev. David Randall officiating.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1000

C. Maun (Adams) Frank

TRENTON--C. Maun Frank, 82, died Sunday, June 13, 1999, at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Neb.

She was born April 1, 1917, in Hitchcock County, Neb., to Claude and Daisy (Harrison) Adams. She grew up in the Cornell community south of Trenton, Neb., and attended school there through the 10th grade. She graduated from Brock (Neb.) High School in 1934 and attended the University of Nebraska.

On May 5, 1936, she married Leo "Bud" Frank at the St. James Church in Trenton. They farmed and ranched south of Trenton and in 1964 moved to Trenton. She worked at Farmers Grocery in Stratton, Neb., for several years. In 1972, the couple moved to Benkelman where they owned and operated the Western Keg. After Bud's death on April 12, 1985, she returned to Trenton.

She was a member of St. James Catholic Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two brothers, Aubrey and Ethan Adams; a sister, Loree Gibson, and a great-granddaughter, Adrienne Kier.

Survivors include four daughters: Francita and husband, Harlan Drain, of Sidney, Neb., Claudia and husband, Noel Schnabel, of Trenton, Marla and husband, Dennis Reiners, of Trenton and Cindy and husband, Bill Weidner, of Highland, Ill.; a brother, Robert L. Adams and wife, Cecelia, of Trenton; 15 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren.

Services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 17, at St. James Catholic Church in Trenton with the Rev. Philip Luther officiating. Interment was in St. James Cemetery at Trenton. Pallbearers were Wayne Merrill, Pat Lewis, Leon Schnabel, Matt and Adam Weidner and Terry Bloedorn.

Herrmann Funeral Home of McCook, Neb., was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1986

Charles H. Frank

Dr. Charles H. Frank, 88, brother of Mrs. E. F. Ham, passed away in Dallas, Texas, on June 17, 1986.

Dr. Frank was a native of Minden, Nebraska, and his lifetime was spent in medical services including 15 years in government service and 17 years as head of the radiology department in the Texarkana Hospital in Texarkana, Texas. Following that he was in charge of the x-ray and radium department of the Sanitorium Clinic in Paris, Texas.

Upon retirement, he and his wife, Aubrey, entered the Presbyterian Village in Dallas, Texas. Aubrey died there in 1982.

Survivors include a son, Henry of Dallas; a sister, Hazel Ham of Benkelman, Nebraska, and two stepsisters, Luella Holthaus of Hastings, Nebraska, and Doris Olsen of Minden, Nebraska.

Dr. Frank donated his body to the Southwest Medical College to be used in science.

Memorial services are pending.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1985

Leo "Bud" Frank

Leo "Bud" Frank was born to Blasius and Christina (Schnieder) Frank on August 21, 1913, and passed away at the Dundy County Hospital April 12, 1985, at the age of 71.

He graduated from Trenton High School in 1931 and taught rural school for two years.

On May 5, 1936, Bud and C. Maun Adams were united in marriage at St. James Catholic Church in Trenton.

Bud knew many, many people and treasured all those friendships.

He enjoyed many sports and was an avid baseball player and rifle marksman. He enjoyed music and was a vocal soloist on many occasions. He played country music with many groups, the latest being Country Music-Benkelman.

Bud was also a member of the McCook Elks and the Eagles Lodge at Imperial.

His occupations included farming and ranching, welding and operating a retail business.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Anthony and Joseph; and a sister, Anna Baker.

He is survived by his wife, Maun; daughters, Mrs. Harlan (Francita) Drain, Mrs. Noel (Claudia) Schnabel, Mrs. Dennis (Marla) Reiners and Mrs. C. William (Cynthia) Weidner; 15 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; sisters, Sophia Rentzel and Chris Craite; nieces and nephews.

Services were held Monday, April 15, at St. Joseph Catholic Church of Benkelman. Fathers Conrad Marrama and Peter Naughton officiated. Tom Baker was lector.

Betty Erdman accompanied Kelly and Casey Hayward with selections "One Day At A Time" and "How Great Thou Art."

Bearers were Tony Williams, Terry Bloedorn, Roger Smith, Kim Kier, Pat Lewis and Bobby Adams.

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

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1980

Alma C. (Bernard) Frasier

Alma C. (Bernard) Frasier was born Feb. 26, 1889 to Hiram and Elizabeth Bernard in the Ough community. She came to the end of life's journey Jan. 25, 1980 at the Imperial Community Hospital at the age of 90 years, 11 months.

Having grown to womanhood she married a neighbor boy, Claude 0. Frasier on Oct 19,1907. To this union was born six children, Wilbur W., deceased; Ena Pauline Phipps, Kenneth L., Merle 0., Virginia Elizabeth Dixon and C.O. Frasier, Jr.

Alma being one of the few remaining daughters of the Pioneer Homestead families that saw this community change from the endless miles of virgin grasslands to the highly developed irrigation age of today.

Having walked the three miles to the sod schoolhouse with feet wrapped in gunny sacks in lieu of overshoes, herding cows in the winter, when there was no school, to keep them out of the 40 acres or so of the neighbor homesteaders cornfields, milking the some odd 20 head of cows with the aide of her mother and other members of the family to help support the family of six as her father was stricken down with a paralyzing ailment, marrying the neighbor boy she went to school with and making her home these 72+ years 21/2 miles from the place she was born.

Having witnessed the beauty of God's creations in the grasses, in the growing crops along with the flowers of the prairies left an indelible desire to preserve and promote more of His beauty with the flowers she grew at her home, maintaining these until a year ago. She was a member of Benkelman United Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Claude 0., son Wilbur Wayne, parents, two brothers, Loyd and George Bernard.

Leaving to mourn her passing: one sister Zella Stamm, Benkelman, NE; daughters Ena Phipps, Haigler, NE and Virginia Dixon and husband Maurice, Benkelman; daughter-in-law Mrs. Wilbur Frasier, Parks, NE; sons Kenneth L. and wife Lela Mae, Benkelman; Merle 0., Benkelman and C.O. Jr. and wife Elaine, Imperial, NE; 13 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild; and many other relatives and friends.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1992

Elaine (Howard) Frasier

CHAMPION, Neb.--Elaine (Howard) Frasier was born November 19, 1928, and died Thursday, November 5, 1992, a few days before her 64th birthday. Although she had remained active much of the time, she had been battling cancer for 14 years.

After graduating from Benkelman High School with the Class of 1946, she attended McCook Community College and taught in a rural Dundy County school one year.

On June 1, 1947, she was united in marriage to C.O. Frasier Jr. That was the start of a very active life of ranching and farming in the area near the Chase/ Dundy County line.

Her friends described Elaine as a special classy lady with a lot of talent. She was a skilled seamstress. Not only did she make many of the clothes for herself and her daughter, Debra, but for many others as well. She also designed some of the shirts and jackets worn by her husband. On occasion she designed matching dresses for bridal attendants of weddings.

However, her first love was taking an active part in the family farm and ranch operation. The entire family was skilled with horses. She, her daughter, Deb, and her husband, C.O. Jr., competed on the professional rodeo circuit, traveling throughout the country.

Because of her love and skill with livestock she took an active part in the actual ranching operations and also kept books for the farm.

Although she suffered the ravages of cancer for 14 years, those close to her said she always remained optimistic and never complained of pain.

Her genuine smile served as a positive support for all with whom she had association. She spoke often about progress in the treatment of cancer. In fact, less than a week before her death, she optimistically spoke of how "a cure for the disease might be discovered tomorrow."

She is survived by her husband, C.O. Frasier Jr.; her daughter, Debra Frasier-Mack; a granddaughter, Shelby Lynn Frasier-Mack; her son-in-law, Russell Mack of Granbury, Texas; her mother, Maude Howard, who resides near the Frasier home; a sister, Merrella Martin, and her husband, Harry, of Benkelman, Nebraska, and many other relatives and friends.

Private committal services were held Saturday, November 7.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 1991

Edith Belle (Sims) Frasier

WAUNETA--Edith Belle Frasier was born June 22, 1916, in rural Wauneta, Nebraska, to Arthur and Myrtle (Oliver) Sims.

As a young girl she attended school in Wauneta and was valedictorian of her graduating class at Wauneta High School.

Belle married Wilber Wayne Frasier on April 2, 1936, at McCook, Nebraska, and they settled on a ranch south of Champion, Nebraska.

Later, Belle and Wilber moved to Colorado where they ranched for several years at what is now known as Vail. They returned to Southwest Nebraska where they made their home for many, many years.

Belle and Wilber enjoyed square dancing and helped in forming square dance clubs in Southwest Nebraska.

Wilber died in 1975 and Belle continued managing, and was actively involved in, the family corporation ranch south of Champion. Her ranch became the summer home for all of her grandchildren; to them the ranch meant great fun and a new learning environment.

Belle sewed, read and taught her grandchildren about pioneer life. She loved to travel, visiting locations like Alaska, the Bahamas and the Caribbean and made annual visits to her children and grandchildren located throughout the United States.

Belle was a member of the V.F.W. Auxiliary, Federated Women's Club of Champion, Chase County Historical Society, Dundy County Historical Society and the Nebraska Historical Society. Her interests also included quilting, needlework and genealogy.

Belle died Sunday, December 1, 1991, at the Presbyterian Hospital in Denver, Colorado, at the age of 75.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Wilber; one daughter, Marilyn Kilpatrick; a sister, Alice Beth Frasier, and a brother, Delbert Clair Sims.

Survivors include her son, Gary Frasier, and his wife, Jo, of Loveland, Colorado; her grandchildren, Donna Jo Chitla of Temecula, California, Clay Frasier of Niceville, Florida, Wendy Frasier of Scottsdale, Arizona, Renee Hamilton of Chico, California, Michele Kilpatrick of Simi Valley, California, and Darren Kilpatrick of Champion, and her great-grandchildren, Dawn Bennett of Temecula, Christopher Chitla of Temecula, Saratt Frasier of Niceville, Kelley Frasier of Niceville and Ryan Hamilton of Chico.

Services were held Thursday, December 5, 1991, at 2 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Imperial, Nebraska, with the Rev. Karl Lent officiating. Interment was at the Riverside Cemetery in Wauneta. Creveling Funeral Home, Ltd. was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1987

Kenneth L. Frasier Sr.

Kenneth L. Frasier Sr. was born May 21, 1914, to Claude and Alma (Bernard) Frasier. His boyhood days were spent on a ranch northwest of Benkelman, Nebraska, in the Hiawatha community. Kenneth graduated from the Wauneta (Nebraska) High School in 1932.

On April 3, 1935, he married his high school sweetheart, Lela Mae Oliver, at the Methodist Parsonage in McCook, Nebraska. Three children were born to this union: Kenneth Junior, Judy, and Jeanne. In 1939 he moved his wife and small son to the ranch northwest of Benkelman where he resided until his death on October 24, 1987. Those years were hard years, but with his management, they were happy years and with the hardships the closeness of the family developed that many people never knew.

He loved his home and family and the ranch work and farm work. Kenneth was a loving and thoughtful husband, father and grandfather.

On April 3, 1985, a Golden Anniversary was celebrated at an open house at the Methodist Church in Benkelman, and he experienced happiness that cannot be expressed. Kenneth was a member of the United Methodist Church, Past Master of Justice Lodge #180 A. F. & A.M. and Past Worthy Patron of the Order of Eastern Star Chapter #233. Down through the years, he was active as a 4-H leader, Pink Prairie District No. 14 School Board, Extension Board member and various other organizations. Kenneth received the Dundy County Soil and Water Conservation District Award in 1966. He shared this award with his son, Kenneth Jr.

Survivors include his wife, Lela Mae; children Kenneth Jr. and wife, Elaine, of Max, Judy and husband, Martin Gutschenritter, of North Platte, Nebraska, Jeanne and husband, John Lambert, of Ogallala, Nebraska; nine grandchildren: Marshall and wife, Kathi, Kelli, Shawn, Mike, Cami, Jennifer, Todd, Jennifer and Kendra; and one great- granddaughter, Brenda; two sisters: Ena Phipps of Haigler, Nebraska, and Virginia and husband, Maurice Dixon, of Benkelman; two brothers: Merle of Wickenburg, Arizona, and C.O. and wife, Elaine, of Champion, Nebraska; two aunts: Mabel Bernard of Enders, Nebraska, and Zella Stamm of Benkelman, and many loving cousins and friends.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Alma Frasier, and his brother, Wilber.

Services were held Tuesday, October 27, 1987, at 1 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Benkelman with the Rev. Dr. John Kilgore officiating. Organist was Gwen Bauer and pianist was Betty Erdman. The Methodist Men's Choir sang "Just A Closer Walk With Thee" and "One Day At A Time."

Bearers were Floyd Parman, Boyd Adkinson, Doran Jessee, Gary Stamm, Bob Stamm and Dick Parman. Interment was in Riverside Cemetery at Wauneta, Nebraska with committal by Justice Lodge #180 A.F. & A.M. Arrangements were by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, July 2001

Claude O. Frasier

Claude O. Frasier was born Oct. 16, 1926, in Dundy County on the family ranch between Benkelman and Imperial, Neb., to Claude Oliver and Alma Charity (Bernard) Frasier. He passed away Sunday, July 22, 2001, at the Great Plains Regional Medical Center in North Platte, Neb., at the age of 74.

A cowboy is what C.O. wanted to be and was. His talent for training animals was noticed at an early age when he took one of his dad's cows and broke it to ride like a horse, but he was a disappointed boy, at age 10, when his dad sold it with the rest of the cattle he shipped to market. He then trained a team of dogs to pull his wagon full of cane to feed horses.

His real desire was to train horses and rodeo, which he did all of his life. He was a member of the RCA, later known as the PRCA, for more than 50 years, holding card No. 110. He rode bulls early in his rodeo endeavors but changed to roping calves and steer wrestling after his daughter was born. His special wins were champion calf roper in 1955 at Greeley, Colo., and North Platte in 1968.

Later he enjoyed watching his daughter excel on two horses he had raised. It gave him great pride to watch these two horses win the title of NHSRA All-Around cowgirl and barrel racing champion.

Another great moment was watching Baldy, the son of his good calf-roping mare, compete in the barrel race at the NFR two consecutive years.

His most recent source of pride was watching his granddaughter learning to enjoy the art of training, riding and competing on well-bred horses as he and his daughter had done. On May 26 just days before he was airlifted to Denver, Colo., he watched her win four belt buckles in one weekend.

The other part of being a true cowboy was managing and expanding the ranch and farm ground that has been in the Frasier holdings since 1886. All of his 74 years he was actively involved in the day-to-day working and management of the ranch. Working by his side and contributing to the success of the ranch for 45 years was his friend, companion and wife, Elaine.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, D. Elaine (Howard) Frasier, his parents and two brothers, Wilber and Kenneth. He is survived by his daughter, Debra C. Frasier, and husband, Russell H. Mack; a granddaughter, Shelby Frasier-Mack; two sisters: Virginia Dixon and Ena Phipps; a brother, Merle Frasier; a sister-in-law Merrella (Howard) and her husband. Harry Martin, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graveside service was held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 26, 2001, at the Union Cemetery (Sleepy Hollow) in rural Dundy County with Kelly Hayward officiating.

Casket bearers were Bob Kluender, Pat Kelly, Darty Schilke, Lex Thompson, Lloyd Hazard and Lowell Ferrel. Liewer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1976

Elmer W. Frasier

Funeral services for Elmer W. Frasier were held Tuesday, Nov. 9 at 1 p.m. in Mountain View Methodist Church with Dr. Ben F. Christner and the Rev. D. Warren Dirks officiating.

Frasier, 83, lived at Fasier Meadows Manor and died Saturday in Boulder Community Hospital after a short illness.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Frasier Meadow's Manor Health Unit. Crist Mortuary in charge of arrangements.

Born June 23, 1893, on the prairie homestead of his parents, Cynthia and William Frasier, in Dundy County, Neb., Frasier married Mayme Pribbeno on Sept. 15, 1915.

In 1920, the couple moved to Wallace County, Kan., and in 1942 he expanded his farming and ranching interests into Washington and Yuma Counties.

Mr. and Mrs. Frasier moved to Boulder in 1945. He was a member of the Mountain View Methodist Church, Colorado Cattlemen's Association, Boulder Noon Lions Club, Elks Lodge No. 566 and the Colorado Buff Club.

Frasier was also Director of the National State Bank of Boulder for 20 years, and served as trustee of the Rocky Mountain Methodist Homes, Incl. He was one of four to be elected to the Methodist Hall of Fame in Philanthropy in 1964.

In 1956, Frasier started the housing development project which bears his name, and in that year donated the land on which the Mountain View Methodist Church and Frasier Meadows Manor have been built.

Survivors are his wife: sons Harold, Sharon Springs, Kan., Melvin Boulder, and Marshall, Woodrow; daughter Helen Eicher of Arvada; 10 grand children and 2 great grandchildren.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, July 2008

Merle 0. Frasier

Merle 0. Frasier, rancher and cowboy of Dundy County, peacefully passed away on July 5, 2008 at his ”home”, Lemay Avenue Health and Rehabilitation Center, Fort Collins, Colorado, at the age of 87 years.

Merle was born July 21, 1920 to Claude Oliver and Alma Charity (Bernard) Frasier and lived with his parents and five siblings on the Frasier Ranch twenty-two miles north of Benkelman, Nebraska. He loved the feeling of the "wide-open-spaces” and had the strong desire at even an early age to be a rancher.

He was a right-hand man to his father, for whom he highly respected and patterned his ranching life. He has always been proud of his family heritage. Merle's grade school was Ash Grove, a one-room school located two miles from the ranch. He attended Wauneta High School for several years. Because of the deep love for his family, he chose to return home and become truly dedicated to ranch life in the Sandhills of Southwest Nebraska.

On April 7, 1939, his young sweetheart, Alice Beth Sims of Wauneta, Nebraska, and he were married at McCook, Nebraska. The young couple moved onto his grandparents Wm. and Cynthia Frasier's ranch, homesteaded in 1885, located a couple of miles south of his parent's ranch. To this marriage were born three daughters, Merlue Bethe, Dianne Claudette. and Jacqueline Lynn.

Merle and Beth put in hard work from sunrise to sunset. To provide for their three young daughters, there was farming. haying, feeding cattle, raising chickens and milking cows.

His early years of working with horses inspired in him a life-time love of breeding and raising "good" quarter horses. The foundation bloodlines of the Spear Lazy F horses began in 1946 with Merle's first stud, Flint, purchased from the Coke T. Roberds' ranch, Hayden, Colorado. The pedigrees that were established produced top rope, barrel, ranch and race horses. A number of horses were TAAA. and one outstanding race mare was Mclt Twist who produced Frasier Bar, a World Champion running quarter horse.

He had a very unique, soft way of breaking, handling and training horses. His philosophy was: "A horse has to have a purpose in his life, something to do, a job. Wet saddle blankets and many miles of riding make a solid, good usin' horse."

Merle's interest in "rodeoing" began when he and his young friends would slip a rope around the family's milk cow and bet who could stay aboard the longest, which his parents strongly disapproved. At an early age, Merle began roping cattle for doctoring in the pastures. Later, he took calf roping seriously, and joined the professional Rodeo Cowboys Association with Number 906. He was very proud of his lifetime membership as a Gold Card member of the RCA.

With a horse trailer in tow, Merle, Beth, and the girls would rodeo as much as possible when they could get a break from the many chores at the ranch. At one time, the three daughters, riding their "first" barrel horse, Beetle Bomb, would enter the barrel races, and most often there would be a "Win, Place and Show."

Merle was a natural in calf roping and usually fared well at the rodeos. He had a number of tough calf horses through the years, but one topped them all, and that was 0l' Billy. He was a phenomenal horse that took Merle to the pay window almost every run.

Merle continued on with rodeoing through high school, college at Arizona State University and Colorado State University on the rodeo teams, and the Womens Professional Rodeo Association, often competing on horses that were raised and broke by Merle.

Merle was not one that followed in someone else's footsteps; he blazed his own trails. He often bought hundreds of southern cattle from Texas, Arizona and Mexico. He, Beth, the girls, as well as his brothers, friends and neighbors would pitch in when it came to branding, dehorning. and vaccinating.

Merle made many lifelong friends through rodeoing, buying and selling cattle, raising and training performance and race horses. He never met a stranger. He strongly believed in the Code of the West: "that a man's handshake was as good as his word on any deal". He always instilled in his daughters to "Never give up: you can succeed in whatever you do if you set your heart to it." This steadfast philosophy was with him until the day he passed from this Life.

Merle was baptized at the First United Baptist Church in Miami, Texas, and often reached out to the Lord for His uplifting and guidance.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Claude and Alma Frasier, his daughters' mother, Beth Frasier; his three brothers, Wilbur, Kenneth and C.O. Frasier; and one sister, Eva Phipps.

Survivors include his daughters, Merlue Davies and husband, Dennis of Fort Collins, Colorado, Dianne Anderson of Drumright, Oklahoma and Jacqueline Herrick and husband, Roger of Stapleton, Nebraska, and sister, Virginia Dixon, Benkelman, Nebraska. Also five grandchildren, Galen Anderson and Glenna Villarreal, Tyler and Jason Herrick and Cody Bear Killer. Six great-grandchildren; Amanda and Dusti Thompson, Justin Villarreal, Beau and Kason Herrick and Chloe Bear Killer; and a host of nieces. nephews, other family members and friends.

Merle left an everlasting touch on so many lives as a father, mentor, and friend. Merle, you are loved and missed beyond measure.

Funeral services will be Thursday, July 10, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with Rev. Brian Fong officiating. Interment will follow services at the Benkelman Cemetery. Memorials may be given in his name.

Arrangements are under the direction of Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1975

Wilber Wayne Frasier

Wilber W. Frasier, one of Dundy County's progressive ranchers and community builders, passed away at the Chase County Hospital on Thursday of a heart attack following smoke inhalation while fighting a grass fire at his ranch Tuesday afternoon. Mr. Frasier, who was 64 years of age, had suffered from asthma for several years. The fire, which destroyed some 2,000 acres of grass on the ranch, is said to have started while workmen were installing an irrigation system.

Funeral services were held at the United Methodist Church in Imperial on Saturday. Interment was at the cemetery at Wauneta.

Wilber Wayne Frasier was born August 20, 1910 to Claude Frasier and Alma Bernard Frasier on his father's ranch near the original Dundy County Frasier and Bernard homesteads. He attended Wauneta High School and played center on the Frenchman Valley Championship team. He graduated in 1928 and began in earnest the ranch work he loved.

On April 2, 1936 he was united in marriage to Belle Sims. To this union were born two children, Gary Wayne and Marilyn Elaine.

He developed a successful ranch operation in southwest Nebraska where he lived all his life except for two years in the Colorado mountains in the Gore Creek Valley where the Vail Ski Resort was later developed.

He was a supporter of any community and youth activities and actually participated in working with all. He was very active in 4-H and F.F .A. and was so proud to see his son become an F.F.A. State Farmer while in high school and both his children exhibited many top 4-H calves.

He enjoyed many recreational activities and competed as a member of the National Rodeo Association. He was a leader in the revival of square dancing in the 1950's, organizing clubs and becoming one of the best callers in southwest Nebraska.

In his later years he became an accomplished oil painter, depicting a wide variety of scenes from the Arizona desert to the Colorado mountains and many of ranch life in the high plains. His unique Christmas cards of these scenes are treasured by many who have received them.

He was a considerate and loving husband, a wonderful pal to his children and an adored and adoring grandfather to his grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Claude Frasier. He leaves to mourn his loss the wife he adored, Belle; his mother, Alma; one son, Gary Wayne and wife Jo of Tempe, Arizona; one daughter, Mrs. Marilyn Kilpatrick and husband Darrell of Simi Valley, California; two grandsons, four granddaughters and one great-granddaughter.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, October 1961

Frank Frazell

Benkelman friends learned of the death of Frank Frazell, long-time Dundy County resident, in Imperial on Tuesday morning of this week.

Mr. Frazell and his sister, Ida, accompanied their parents to Dundy County in the early settlement days in the last part of the last century, and helped his parents prove up on their homestead.

Later he proved up on his own homestead in Lutz precinct, where he made his home until about 20 years ago, when he and his sister moved to Imperial to make their home.

Mr. Frazell was in his late '80s at the time of his death.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, ?? 1980?

Mary Jane Freburg

Miss Mary Jane Freburg, age 22, passed away Thursday morning at her home in Benkelman, NE. She was born June 16, 1958 at Holdrege, NE. and resided at Loomis where she attended a public school until moving to Alma in 1968. She graduated there with the class of 1977.

Miss Freburg attended Midland College at Fremont for 1 year and later studied at the Mary Lanning School of Nursing for 1 year. She was employed at the Nebraska Veterans Home in Grand Island until December of 1979. She had resided in Benkelman since March of 1980 where she was employed at the Dundy County Hospital.

Miss Freburg was a member of the Peace Lutheran Church at Alma. She was also active in many high school organizations such as pep club and Twirl Club, Track Team, High School Band, and a member of the Alma Livestock Club from grade 4-12. She was also an active member in Luther League.

She is survived by her parents, Phelps and Marcelle Freburg of Alma, NE., her maternal grandmother Edna Jones of Alma, and three brothers, Pat Feyler of Sioux Falls, SD., Van Feyler of Olathe, KS., and John Freburg of Alma. Services were held at the Peace Lutheran Church at Alma at 10:00 a.m. with the Rev. Steve Conklin and Rev. Michael Spangle officiating. Burial was in the Alma cemetery.

A memorial fund has been established at the Nebraska Veterans Home in Grand Island and at the Peace Lutheran Church in Alma. The Banta-Torry Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1983

Ellis Lee Frederick

Ellis Lee Frederick, husband of the former Maxine Wilson, died unexpectedly from a heart attack on May 27, 1983, at Portland, Oregon.

He was born in Alden, Kansas, on May 28, 1914, on the family farm. After graduating from high school, Ellis enlisted in the U.S. Navy at the age of 17 years. After his discharge, he was employed in the oil fields of Kansas and Southwest Nebraska. He was also a welder and worked on building the Enders Dam.

Ellis moved to Portland, Oregon, in 1945, the same year he and Maxine were married. He began work with the FMC Company as a welder and later worked for them as a foreman, building railroad cars and barges.

Ellis and Maxine had two daughters, Sharon and Janet, and now have six grandchildren, five boys and one girl. One of the grandsons is now serving in the U.S. Navy. He is also survived by one brother, Raymond, of Dearborn, Michigan.

Ellis or "Fred" as most of his friends were used to calling him, was a member of the Montavilla Methodist Church and both the Gateway Elks Lodge and the Eagles. He had been retired from the FMC Corporation for about four years.

Funeral services were held in the Sunrise Chapel of the Gable Funeral Home in Portland, Oregon, on Tuesday, May 31, 1983, at 2 p.m. Interment was in the Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery at Portland, Oregon.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, May 1986

Gladys A. (Douthit) Freehling

Gladys A. (Douthit) Freehling, fifth child of Frank Richmond and Mary Ellen Styers Douthit was born January 7, 1910, at Yadkinville in Yadkin County, North Carolina. She departed from this life May 24, 1986, at Bryan Memorial Hospital in Lincoln, Nebraska, at the age of 76 years.

As a young girl she came west to Benkelman, Nebraska, where her parents settled on the North Divide in Dundy County. She graduated at Benkelman High School and attended college at Hays State Teachers College at Hays, Kansas, and Greeley State Teachers College at Greeley, Colorado. She taught school for nine years in rural Dandy County, Nebraska, rural Cheyenne County, Kansas, and later in the elementary school in St. Francis, Kansas. She has always received many notes and remembrances from her former students.

Gladys was active in the community, a member of the United Methodist Church, served on the church board and United Methodist Women. Active in Golden Inn, most community activities were attended by Gladys including Saturday afternoon drawings.

The blossoms and greenery flourishing on her porch, windows and home were an expression of her green thumb and love of flowers. Her flower arrangements were enjoyed by all at many community and social occasions.

Gladys loved to shop for herself, loved ones and friends. Her energy and endurance to cover an entire city of stores was felt by many a weary companion. She enjoyed surprising loved ones and friends with her found purchases.

She married Paul Freehling Sr. June 15, 1938, at the Douthit Ranch north of St. Francis, Kansas. To this union were born two sons, Paul Jr. and Calvin.

Gladys is survived by her husband, Paul Freehling; children, Paul Jr. and Nancy Freehling of Valparaiso, Nebraska, and Calvin and Susan Freehling of Haigler, Nebraska; grandchildren, Brad, Brian, Doug, Lisa, Lara, Tara and Darin; sisters-in-law, Bernie Fergenson of Illinois, Helen Douthit of St. Francis and Hazel Douthit of St. Francis; brothers-in-law, Edward Snedeker of California and Lyle Miller of Texas; nieces, nephews and many friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Mary Douthit; sisters, Minnie, Elizabeth and Edith; brothers, Stephen, Frank, Kitchin, Jim, Thad and Styers.

Services were held Wednesday, May 28, 1986, at the Haigler Methodist Church in Haigler, Nebraska, with Reverend Ross Kershaw officiating.

Florence Daniels, organist, accompanied soloist, Dale Faylor, and duet ensemble, Ray and Don Harford, with the selections "Rock Of Ages," "How Great Thou Art" and a congregational singing of "Beyond The Sunset."

Bearers were Thad Douthit Jr., Stephen Douthit, Walter Douthit, Roger Douthit, Rudolph Douthit and Roger Faulkender.

Interment was in the Haigler Cemetery at Haigler Nebraska, with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman, Nebraska.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, July 1996

Paul Albert Freehling Sr.

HAIGLER--Paul Albert Freehling Sr. was born to Peter and Mary (Wagner) Freehling Dec. 7, 1909, on the family farm west of Haigler, Neb., where he spent the majority of his life. He died June 29, 1996, at the Lakeview Nursing Home in Firth, Neb., at the age of 86.

Paul was married to Gladys Douthit on June 15, 1938. at the Douthit Ranch north of St. Francis, Kan. To this union were born two sons, Paul and Calvin.

Mr. Freehling spent his life farming and ranching west of Haigler on the place he was born along the Arikaree River. His interest in Hereford cattle produced a herd which expanded to his ranch north of Parks, Neb.

He was a walking history book of Haigler and its early days. He loved to tell the stories of early farmers and ranchers and the growth of Haigler. A lifetime was shared with many an anxious listening ear of stories and tales from a true Nebraska historian.

Before his health failed, he loved to garden and raise flowers. Many shared in his generosity of produce; his flowers brightened many churches, nursing homes and homes of his friends.

Mr. Freehling was actively involved in the creation of the Golden Inn in Haigler and was proud of what he and his friends provided for Haigler. He served on the Haigler town board, Haigler cemetery board, Haigler Methodist Church board and the Pioneer Ditch board. He was a member of the Haigler Methodist Church for 76 years, the longest known continuous member.

He was involved in many projects in Haigler and the surrounding communities.

He especially liked the "Birthday Group" of men he was involved with in Benkelman, Neb. His highlight of this group was when it was his birthday. This past Dec. 7 he was not able to be with them, but provided them with his cake and picked up the tab for the coffee.

He cherished the time he had with his friend and fishing buddy, George Haskell, and his other roustabout buddy, Curtis Carroll.

He was preceded in death in 1986 by Gladys, his wife of 48 years; sisters, Alma, Anne and Pauline; infant sister, Emilie, and infant brother, Karl.

Surviving him are son Paul A. Jr. and wife, Nancy, of Roca, Neb., and their children, Brad, Brian and Doug and wife, Mary, all of Lincoln, Neb., and Lisa and husband, Scott Clark, of Angel Fire, N.M.; son Calvin and wife, Susan, of Haigler and their children, Lam and husband, Kevin Stewart, of Kearney, Neb., and Tara and Darin of Haigler. Great-grandchildren are Aaron, son of Brad, and Katie and Shelby, daughters of Doug and Mary.

Also surviving him are six sisters: Lydia Webster of McCook, Neb., Lora Bye of Taft, Calif., Emma Tilton of Temecula, Calif.. and Garnet Miller, Pearline Rath and Esther and husband, Roy Walter, all of St. Francis; brothers-in-law Ray Roberts of Buckeye, Ariz., and Clayton Buhl of Arizona; sisters-in-law Hazel Douthit and Helen Douthit of St. Francis, and Bernie Ferguson of Chillicothe, Ill., and a host of other relatives, nieces, nephews and friends.

Services were held Monday, July 1, 1996, at 2 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Haigler, with the Revs. Curtis Carroll and Harun Gatobu officiating. Florence Daniels was the organist and Don Harford, Ray Harford and Dale Faylor sang "How Great Thou Art" and "Beyond The Sunset." The congregation sang “Amazing Grace."

Bearers were Lara Stewart. Lisa Clark and Brad, Brian, Doug. Tara and Darin Freehling. Honorary bearers were Wayne McVey, Don Webster, Richard Wall, Roger Phipps, Kenneth Potthoff, Wallace McKay, George Haskell, Ward Wonder and Dale Rath..

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

A Paul Freehling Memorial Fund has been established at the First Pioneer National Bank of Wray, Colo.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, Augusdt 2008

Bruce Freemyer

Bruce Freemyer was born in Dundy County, Neb., to Harley and Lily (Gardner). Freemyer. He grew up on the family farm in Nebraska and later served in the Army Occupation Forces in Germany at the end of World War II.

On Sept. 2, 1945, in Fort Morgan. he married Mildred Stephen. He farmed for many years around the Briggsdale area, and then worked for Monfort Meat Packing plant for more than 20 years until 1982, when he returned to farming and owned and operated the Briggsdale Market.

Mr. Freemyer enjoyed bowling and playing pinochle. He was an active member of the Briggsdale Lions Club for more than 50 years and a member of the Congregational Church of Briggsdale.

Mr. Freemeyer died Friday at his home in Briggsdale,

Survivors: His wife, Mildred Freemyer of Briggsdale; two daughters, Nancy Allshouse and husband Ralph of Briggsdale and Lois Freemyer of Kersey; a son, Stephen Freemyer and wife Julie of Briggsale; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are four brothers and their wives, Ed and Della Freemyer, and David and Jolene Freemyer, all of Greeley, Francis and Mary Anna Freemver of Gill and Marshall and Julia Freemyer of Marrierta. Ga; and a sister and her husband, Ruth and Dick Becker of Zephyrhills, Fla.

Preceded in death by: a son, Roger Dean Freemyer; a daughter, Jodel Mangum; his parents; a brother; and a sister.

Graveside services were held at the Sunset Memorial Gardens in Greeley.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Briggsdale Lions Club or the Briggsdale Fire Department in care of Adamson Funeral and Cremation Services, 2000 47th Ave., Greeley, CO 80634. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.adamsonchapels.com.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1978

Lily E. (Gardner) Freemyer

Mrs. Lily E. Freemyer of 1816 Dilmont Ave., died Tues., March, 14, 1978 in Weld County General Hospital. She was born March 13, 1898, in Max, Nebr.

She was married to Harley Roy Freemyer June 1, 1921, in Max.

She grew up on the family homestead at Max, and after her marriage moved to Haigler, Nebr., where she and her husband farmed.

They moved to Greeley in 1948 and farmed in the Greeley area. They moved to their present home in 1961.

Mrs. Freemyer was a member of the First Christian Church, a 42-year member of the QED Extension Homemaker's Club, a 4-H leader for the Delta 4-H Club since 1959, a charter member of the Weld County Art Association, received the Colorado Master Farm Homemaker's Award in 1954 and was also the historian for the organization at the time of her death.

She is survived by her husband, Harley; five sons, Alvin B. of Briggsdale, Lawrence E., David A. and Francis G., all of Greeley, and Marshall L. of Marietta, Ga.; two daughters, Mrs. R.L. (Ruth) Becker of Burlington and Mrs. Jack (Rosemary) Nusbaum of Ault; two brothers, Richard Gardner of Max and Raphael Gardner of Cambridge, Nebr.; 35 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

A son, Philip, died in 1948. A grandchild, a brother, and four sisters are also deceased.

Services were held Fri., March 17, 1978 at 10:30 a.m. from the First Christian Church. Rev. Leslie L. Bowers officiated. Organist was Mrs. Wallace Roberts. Mrs.

Jerry Bigbee was soloist singing two selections, “The Old Rugged Cross" and "In the Garden."

Interment was in Sunset Memorial Gardens with her grandsons serving as pallbearers.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1948

Phillip Harley Freemyer

All honors due a fine soldier were paid to Lieut. Phillip H. Freemyer of the US Air Forces military ceremony held at the Methodist church in Benkelman, Tuesday the 14th.

Lt. Freemyer was killed at the end of a power dive in his P-51. fighter plane while getting. the required flying time to check out to fly P-80 jet planes. He was to have checked out in jets the next day. The crash occurred on July 26 of this year on Honshu Island, Japan, approximately 300 miles north of Tokyo, at Misawa Air Base where he wan assigned as Army Post Exchange Officer. Lt Freemyer had been stationed with the 49th Fighter Group in Japan since August, 1946 and had been on detached service twice to Kimpo Air Base at Seoul, Korea. In his last letter to his parents he spoke of his anticipation of being home by the end of this year.

Military honors were carried out at the memorial services by the Haigler American Legion, assisted by the American Legion of Benkelman. Rev. Robert Jefferies, former Haigler minister, preached the sermon. The church was filled with relatives and friends, one section being reserved for comrades in the service who took part in these last rites. Pall bearers were Stanley Zuege, Leon C. Hines,. LaMoyne Palmer, Freddie Rose, Ralph Gies and Paul Erdman. Taps were sounded at the graveside by Bernard Wimmer, who went into the Air Corps at the same time as Phil did. Music was furnished by a quartet of Haigler ladies, Eugenia Scrivner, Ardath Clegg, Leola Woods and Vynette Faylor, accompanied on the piano by Anna Miller.

All business was suspended for one hour in Benkelman and Haigler in tribute during the services and flags at half-mast dotted the streets of both towns.

Memorial services had previously been held on July 29 in his home base chapel at Misawa where it was reported by a close friend that everyone on the base was there as he was well liked here as well as every place. Services were also held at Tokyo before the remains were shipped to the States, and at Macy's Mortuary in Greeley, Colo., last Sunday for relatives and friends near LaSalle.

Quoting from a letter from his friend who was the last one with Phil before he took off in his plane: "He was in good health and high spirits and very happy about checking out in the jet the next morning." Lt. Freemyer was well known in this vicinity being the son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Freemyer of LaSalle, Colorado, and having attended the Haigler high school where he graduated in 1941. His whole life was put into completing a successful flying career and he was well on his way to this goal when his life was taken.

Phillip Harley Freemyer was. born July 10, 1922 to Mr. and Mrs. Roy Freemyer at St. Francis, Kars. He grew to manhood in that community. He attended and graduated from high school in Haigler, Neb., with the class of 1941 where he proved himself as an able student. Very early in life he showed an active interest in airplanes. In December, 1941, after Pearl Harbor, Phillip volunteered, to enter the Army Air Corps. His basic, training was received at. Jefferson Barracks, Mo., from where he was sent to Columbia University, to take basic aeronautical courses preliminary to flight training. After classification, he was located in California at Santa Ann, Sante Barbara and Merced as an aviation. cadet. On August 4, 1944, he earned, his wings and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant at Luke Field, Arizona, graduating with a high rating in his class.

At the end of the war, Phillip reenlisted in the Air Force and attended Budget and Finance School in Indiana. He was promoted to First Lieutenant before going overseas in August of 1946. Even there he attended school, studying radar and the piloting of planes by radar in Kiro University at Tokyo. He was stationed for a while at Johnston Field in Korea.

His next assignment at Misawa Air Base in northeastern Honshu was as an officer of the Post Exchange for the occupation forces. He attended church regularly and commented that prayer was more powerful than planes.

Phillip was killed on the afternoon of July 26, 1948 when the P-61 fighter plane which he wan piloting failed to come out of a dive. He was flying that day to complete for jet planes and needed only three more hours to make his goal.

His greatest enjoyment was flying formation. Phil was a good pilot and a good soldier.

He was a fine young man, making friends easily who will miss him greatly. His accidental death has caused much grief, but from behind the clouds of sorrow there comes the assurance that he is most happy who lives and dies doing the things he most loves.

Phillip leaves to mourn, his parents, five brothers and two sisters, Bruce and Mrs. Ruth Mildenberger of FL Morgan, Colo.: Edgar of Bird City, Kan.; and David, Francis, Marshall and Rosemary at home; a niece, Jodell Kay Freemyer and a nephew, Ronald Lee Mildenberger: also his grandfather Freemyer; eighteen aunts and uncles; twenty-four cousins and a host of buddies and friends.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1925

Marie (Ohnesorg) Frenzen

Mrs. Marie Frenzen, nee Ohnesorg was called to her heavenly home last Monday, March 9th, at 12:42 P. M., after a brief illness of only four days. She took suddenly sick last Thursday morning. Her illness developed into pneumonia. All that loving care and doctor's skill could do was done for her to restore her health, but in the providence of God she was not to get well.

Funeral services were held Wednesday at 2:30 at the Lutheran church, Rev. H. F. Meyer officiating. Her body was laid to rest in the Benkelman cemetery, there awaiting the resurrection morn.

The large number of friends in attendance at the funeral testified to the high esteem in which she was held by all who knew her. Her family mourns the loss of a loving mother and grandmother, her church a true Christian and devoted supporter, the community an esteemed citizen.

Mrs. Frenzen was born June 10th, 1855 at Stargard, Pomerania, Germany. She was baptized in early infancy. After a thorough course of instruction in the teaching of Scripture she became a communicant member of the Lutheran church at the day of her confirmation, Palm Sunday 1869. She has kept her vow until her death.

In 1878 she emigrated to this country with her parents, settling in Chicago. There she was married to Mr. Henry Frenzen on the 21st of August, 1880.

Mr. and Mrs. Frenzen came to Fillmore county in 1883 and then to Cheyenne county, Kansas in 1887, where they took up a homestead. They were some of the early pioneer settlers enduring the hardships and privations of that period. They came to live in Benkelman in 1916. Her husband preceded her to Eternity in December, 1922.

Mrs. Frenzen reached the age of 69 years and 9 months. She leaves to mourn her death her daughter-in-law, four grandchildren, one brother and other more distant relatives. May her ashes rest in peace.

Asleep in Jesus! Blessed sleep!

From which none ever wake to weep.

A calm and undisturbed repose,

Unbroken by the land of foes.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1971

Rosa Bertha (Talmon) Frenzen

Rosa Bertha Frenzen, a pioneer resident of this communtiy for 85 years, expired at the Dundy County Hospital on Sunday after a short illness. She was 87 years of age and had been a resident of the area since age two. Fifty-five years of her life was spent in Benkelman where her family was reared. She was well known here as a person of unlimited energy, strong convictions and a pleasant out-going personality. She represented the perseverance that characterized the sturdy nature of the pioneers who built the country.

Funeral services were conducted at the Zion Lutheran Church on Tuesday afternoon with Pastor Otto Zeilinger officiating. Mrs. Gwen Bauer was the organist and Mrs. LaNeta Anderson the soloist. Bearers were Leonard Amsberry, Donald Osborn, Frank Weiss, Carl Lutz, John Talmon and Chris Andersen. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery. Arrangements were by the Jones Funeral Home.

Rosa Bertha, the daughter of Henry William Talmon and Mary (nee Jourdan) Talmon was born March 28, 1884 in Roca, Nebraska in Lancaster County. In early infancy she was baptized; in the name of the triune God; and at the age of 15 she reaffirmed her baptismal vow in the rite of Confirmation. At age two they moved to a farm in Kansas.

On July 4, 1905 she was united in marriage to Paul C. Frenzen at Benkelman, Nebr., and to this union four children were born. The first eleven years of married life were spent in Cheyenne County, Kansas. The remaining 55 years were spent in Benkelman, Nebraska.

She was a devoted mother and homemaker, and found her strength for a long and active life by steadfastly clinging to her faith. Her greatest joy in this life came from her sincere belief that one day, through faith. we will all lie reunited in a life of eternal happiness in which the tears, sorrow, and travail of this world will never more be known.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband. She is survived by one son, Henry Carl Frenzen: three daughters, Marie Rose Knapp, Susanna Emma Hall and Emma Rose Howard; also one daughter-in-law, Leone Frenzen and three sons-in-law. Troy Knapp. True Howard, and Loyd Hall. Also seven grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Mrs. Susie Amsberry, Bird City, Kans., and Mrs. Emma Albra, Harm, Montana. She was also preceded in death by two brothers, Herman and Emil, the latter died in infancy.

She passed away quietly on Sunday morning, November 14th at Dundy County Hospital, Benkelman, Nebr., attaining an age of 87 years, seven months, and 18 days.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1978

Henry Carl (Hiney) Frenzen

Henry Carl (Hiney) Frenzen, the son of Paul C. Frenzen and Rosa (Talmon), was born in Cheyenne County, Kans. on March 8, 1906. He died Jan. 31, 1978 at the Presbyterian Medical Center in Denver, Colo. at the age of 71 years.

In early infancy he was baptized in the Lutheran faith, and was confirmed on May 23, 1920. He was a very faithful member of the church all of his life.

He attended the Benkelman schools and the University of Nebraska.

On Nov. 11, 1930 he was united in marriage to Leone Vanderford in Creston, Iowa. Hiney and Leone resided in Benkelman for their entire married life. He was employed as a carpenter with Jim Christiansen and helped build altars, pews, and other church furniture for the local Lutheran church and other churches in Nebraska. Later he worked for the U.S. Postal Service from which he retired in 1966.

Sports were a. important part of Hiney's life. He played baseball and later softball until he was 55. During this time he also coached, and was one of the first announcers for baseball games and high school football games.

Henry is survived by his wife Leone; two children, Bettye Pursley and husband Jack of Benkelman; and John and wife Sharon of Denver, Colo.; seven grandchildren, Vicki Powell, Gary, Kevin, Ron and Darci Pursley and Christy and Wendy Frenzen; and by one great-grandson, Jacob Powell. He is also survived by his sisters, Marie Knapp and husband Troy, Suzanne Hall and husband Lloyd, all of Los Molinos, Calif., and Emma Howard and husband True of Benkelman, numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services were held Feb. 4, 1978 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman, Nebr. with O.L. Zeilinger officiating. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery under the direction of Jones Funeral Home, Benkelman, Nebr.

Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, March 13, 2007

John H. Frenzen

Tuesday, March 13, 2007

Dec. 9, 1939 - March 1, 2007

BENKELMAN -- John Henry Frenzen died Thursday (March 1, 2007) in his home at 1820 South Yank Court, Lakewood, Colo., at the age of 67.

A memorial service was at the Horan & McConaty Family Chapel in Lakewood on March 10, 2007.

John was born Dec. 9, 1939, in Benkelman to Henry C. and Leone (Vanderford) Frenzen. On March 24, 1948, he was baptized in Zion Lutheran Church. He graduated as salutatorian from Benkelman High School in 1958, from McCook Junior College and attended Kearney State College.

John was an avid sports fan having run track in high school and both colleges. His interests also included music having played trumpet in High School and in dance band in college. He always retained his love of music, especially jazz. John loved to talk about the history of Denver as well as many other places in the world.

On Feb. 2, 1963, he married Sharon Glover in Kearney. They have two daughters, Christy and Lindsay.

John lived and worked selling business forms in the Denver area, attaining President of Moore Business Forms. After his retirement at 62, he and Sharon purchased a second home in Ocean Park, Wash., and enjoyed spending time there until his illness made it impossible to travel.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon; daughters, Lindsay of Lakewood, Colo., and Christy of Ashland, Ore.; his mother, Leone Frenzen; sister, Bettye and husband, Jack Pursley of Benkelman; and nieces, nephews and many many friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Henry in 1978.

The family suggests memorials to The American Cancer Society.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1979

Mabel Marie (Christensen) Frerichs

Mrs. Mabel Marie Frerichs died Sun., Feb. 4 at Great Plains Medical Center in North Platte, NE at the age of 89. She was born near Douglas, NE, on July 17, 1889, the daughter of the late Hans and Mary Christiansen. She grew up at Beatrice and was married Aug. 21,. 1907 to William Frerichs.

Mrs. Frerichs was baptized, confirmed and married at the Hanover Lutheran Church in Beatrice. She and her family came to Stratton in 1910. In 1920 they moved to Culbertson. In 1943 they moved to the McCook area. They retired from farming in 1953.

She was a member of the Peace Lutheran Church and of the Peace Lutheran Guild. For the past six Years Mrs. Frerichs has resided at the Hester Home in Benkelman.

Preceding her in death were her husband William in 1970, six sons, two brothers, and four sisters. Survivors are four sons, Henry of Amarillo, TX; Walter, Dumas, TX; Elmer of Lexington, and Bill, McCook; seven daughters, Mrs. John (Anna) Fortkamp, Wauneta, Mrs. Katherine Potthoff, St. Francis, KS, Mrs. Duane (Emma) Girton, Phoenix, AZ, Mrs. Joe (Pauline) Horacek, McCook, Mrs. Gordon (Doris) Popp, Colby, KS; Mrs. Everett (Viola) Steinbeck of National City, CA, and Mrs. Don (Thelma) Moorhous, Culbertson; 42 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren. Three sisters, Mrs. Daisy Makemsen, Kingfisher, OK; Mrs. Elizabeth Eggert, Beatrice, and Mrs. Ella Carstens, Sioux City, Iowa.

Services were held Tues., Feb. 6, 1979 in the Peace Lutheran Church with the Rev. John Raess officiating. Interment was in the Eden Cemetery near Hamlet. Herrmann Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Pallbearers were: Richard Frerichs, Jim Fortkamp, Gerald Fortkamp, David Moorhous, Mike Moorhous, Kenneth Potthoff.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, September 1986

Bessie (Bukacek) Fries

Bessie Bukacek was born on April 18, 1900, in Kuklik, Moravia, Czechoslovakia, to Joseph and Antonia Libra Bukacek, and died September 4, 1986, at Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Nebraska.

The father, after spending a year in the United States of America, decided to bring his family to Nebraska to make their future home. They arrived in America on March 16, 1906. The first home was in Richardson County near Humboldt, Nebraska.

In November 1916, the family moved to Dundy County because of the mother's health. She was a sufferer of asthma.

Bessie taught school until her marriage on December 24, 1919, to Hugh Thomas Jones. Two sons were born to them, Robert Joseph on December 15, 1929, and Hugh Thomas Jr. on March 28, 1933.

Hugh Sr. passed away on August 24, 1933, leaving her with Robert, four years old, and Hugh Jr., only four months.

On September 4, 1937, she was married to Magnus Fries and made a home for his three sons.

On November 4, 1961, Hugh T. Jr. passed away at the age of 28, and June 28, 1975, Magnus passed away.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Dr. B.J. Bukacek; one sister, Martha Sullivan; two brothers-in-law, Laurin Sullivan and Alvin Crook; one granddaughter, Linda Fries, and a son, Hugh Thomas Jr.

Survivors are four sons and their wives: Robert and Irene Jones, Dale and Osie Fries, Guy and Melba Fries and Rodney and Inez Fries; one sister, Virginia Crook; 17 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and other relatives and many friends.

Services were held Saturday, September 6, 1986, at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Nebraska, with Rev. Dr. John Kilgore officiating.

Organist was Betty Erdman. She accompanied the trio, Robert Andrews, Paul Erdman and Richard Bartholomew, with the selections "In The Garden" and "How Great Thou Art."

Bearers were Robert R. Jones, Jim Fries, Jerry Fries, Gale Fries, Kenny Fries, Wayne Barent, Richard Fries, Galen Todd, John Fries and Kurt Applegarth.

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

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, October 2007

Martha E. "Betty" (Cordwell) Fries.

Martha E. "Betty" Fries. 83, died Thursday, Sept, 27, at her home in Great Falls, Mont., with her five children at her side. She was born April 23, 1924, in the Max area, Dundy County, Neb., the youngest child of George Thomas Cordwell and Amanda Elizabeth Belle Miller.

She married Dale Magnus Fries on Dec. 31, 1941, in Sidney, Neb. They were the parents of five children, Jim and Judy Fries of Las Vegas, Nev, Carolee and Lynn Christensen of Great Falls, Mont, Terri and David Plew of Rock Springs, Wyo, Stewart and Lynne Fries of Solvang, Calif., and Christine Cordwell and Eric Diegel of Salt Lake City, Utah.

She is survived by all of her children and their spouses, 13 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, three unborn great-grandchildren and the Guy and Melba Fries family of Benkelman.

She was preceded in death by her husband Dale, granddaughter Jennifer Lyn Julius, great-granddaughter Stormie Nicole Christensen, five brothers and two sisters.

A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. Schnider Funeral Home of Great Falls, is handling the arrangements.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.schnider funeralhome.com.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1999

Dale Magnus Fries

STOCKTON, Calif.--Dale Magnus Fries was born at Benkelman, Dundy County, Neb., to Peter Magnus and Lulu (Swain) Fries on Aug. 27, 1920, and departed this life on Saturday, July 31, 1999, at Stockton.

On Jan. 1, 1942, he was married to Betty Cordwell and to this union five children were born: Jim, Carol, Terri, Stewart and Christine.

He farmed in Dundy County before moving to Grant, Neb. He mined for gold in the Black Hills of South Dakota and owned and operated Fries Construction in Rock Springs, Wyo., before moving to Stockton in 1975 where he was a consulting engineer for Harris & Associates for more than 15 years.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Osie Fries, and three grandchildren.

Survivors include his children: Jim and wife, Judy, of Fernley, Nev., Carol and husband, Bob Christensen, of Great Falls, Mont., Stewart and wife, Lynne, of Salyang, Calif., and Terri McKenney and Christine Fries of Rock Springs; stepchildren: Edna and husband, Glen Myers, of Meeteetse, Wyo., Eva and husband, Tom Wagner, of Lovell, Wyo., Robert Sell and wife, LaVonne, of Green River, Wyo., Osie Beth Lyon of Cody, Wyo., and Curtis Sell and wife, Keri, of West Valley City, Utah; two brothers: Guy Fries of Benkelman and Rodney Fries of Rapid City, S.D.; a stepbrother, Robert Jones, of Rapid City, and 22 grandchildren.

Services were held Wednesday, Aug. 4, 1999, at 2 p.m. in the Chapel of the Wallace Martin Funeral Home in Stockton. Burial was in the Stockton Rural Cemetery.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 2006

Lyle L. Fries

Lyle L. Fries, son of Harry H. and Alice (Myers) Fries, was born on Nov. 12, 1929, southwest of Dannebrog, Neb. He entered into rest on April 7, 2006, at the St. Francis Medical Center in Grand Island, Neb., at the age of 76 years.

Lyle was raised southwest of Dannebrog and attended rural school District 29. He attended Dannebrog High School where he graduated in 1948. He then served in the United States Army.

He was united in marriage to Dora Jean Reimers on April 19, 1952, in Prince George, Va. The couple lived in Anchorage, Alaska, while he was serving in the Army.

After receiving his discharge on Jan. 21, 1954, the couple lived and farmed in the Dannebrog area. At the same time he also worked for the sugar beet factory, Redmans, and the Cornhusker Army Ammunition Plant in Grand Island and Christensen Plumbing in Dannebrog. He served as a rural mail carrier for 25 years.

His wife, Dora Jean, died on Aug. 16, 1990. Lyle continued to live in Dannebrog.

Lyle was united in marriage to Margaret Krajewski Nemetz on June 14, 1991, in Farwell, Neb. They moved to Cairo, Neb., in January 1992. Lyle continued to carry mail in Dannebrog until retiring in 1994.

Lyle loved sporting events, especially attending ones that his grandchildren were participating in. He liked to hunt, fish and watch Husker baseball and football. He also enjoyed antique cars, gardening, watching ducks and playing cards at the Danish Baker and Whiskey River in Dannebrog, the Gold Nugget in Boelus, Neb., and the Platt-Duetsche in Grand Island.

He was an avid supporter of the Centura School and the D-C-B baseball program.

He was a member of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Dannebrog, Ducks Unlimited, Platt-Duetsche, the rural mail carriers association, the 40&8 and a board member of D-C-B baseball. He also was a certified hunter safety instructor. Lyle was a 50-year member of the Mickelsen-Larkowski American Legion Post 241 in Dannebrog, receiving his pin on April 1, 2006.

Survivors include his wife, Margaret, of Cairo; five sons and four daughters-in-law: Dennis and Loretta Fries of Grand Island, Daniel Fries of Aurora. Colo., William and

Shelly Fries and James and Monica Fries of Dannebrog and Chris and Lindsey Nemetz of Atkinson, Neb.; three daughters and two sons-in-law: Kathleen and Butch Hurst of Grand Island, Linda and Dan Mostek of Boelus and Jill Nemetz of Palatine, Ill.; 19 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren, and numerous brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

He was preceded in death by his parents: wife Dora Jean; brothers Howard and Wayne Fries, and sister Beverly Volkl.

Services were held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, April 12, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Dannebrog with the Rev. Robert Carlson, Jr., officiating. Randi Pennell was the organist. Tom Schroeder sang "How Great Thou Art," "Just A Closer Walk With Thee" and “We Shall Gather At The River."

Pallbearers were Dale Fries, Richard Page, Jon Hurst, Scott Fries, Tristan Fries and Luke Fries. Interment was in the Oakridge Cemetery at Dannebrog with military honors by Mickelsen-Larkowski American Legion Post 241 of Dannebrog. Arrangements were under the direction of Jacobsen-Greenway Funeral Home of St. Paul, Neb.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, July 1975

Magnus Fries

Magnus Fries, son of Soren M. and Jacobin Fredericka Kuster Fries, was born August 11, 1885 at Nysted, Nebraska and died June 28, 1975 at the Dundy County Hospital at the age of 89 years, 9 months and 28 days.

He was reared on a farm near Dannebrog, Nebraska with his eleven brothers and sisters and received his education in a country school at Dannebrog, then in a Danish Folk School and graduated from St. Paul, Nebraska, Business College.

He farmed in Howard County for a few years and came to Dundy County in 1915 where he spent the remainder of his days.

He was united in marriage on August 8, 1917 to Lulu May Swain of Dannebrog and to this union were born five children. She died in 1935.

On September 5, 1937, Magnus was married to Bessie Jones and raised the two step-sons as his own, Robert J. and Hugh T. Jones. Magnus was active in the Farm Bureau, Production Credit Association, A.S.C., a member of the school board for 21 years and worked to keep an accredited school in District 66. He was a member of the Dundy County Fair Board and was an active member of Benkelman United Methodist Church serving on its Board for many years.

Preceding him in death were his wife, Lulu; one son, Charl Martin; one daughter, Arda May; his parents; three sisters, Clara, Blanche, and Katherine; one brother, Soren; and a stepson, Hugh T. Jones.

He leaves to mourn his passing his wife, Bessie; three sons, Dale and wife Ocie of Stockton, California, Guy and wife Melba of Benkelman, Nebraska, Rodney and wife Inez of Rapid City, South Dakota; his stepson, Robert T. Jones and wife Irene of Rapid City, South Dakota; two brothers, Walter and wife Dee Fries of Benkelman, Nebr., Harry and wife Alice Fries of Dannebrog, Nebraska; four sisters, Agnes McCleod of

Cairo, Ida Obermiller of Cairo, Nebraska, Rose and husband Wm. Scheffer of Denver, Colorado, Katie and husband John Hussey of San Leandro, California; by an adopted sister, Dora Taber of El Paso, Texas; 18 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and by a number of nieces and nephews.

Magnus was a good and kind husband, a thoughtful father and loving grandfather. He was a good neighbor and friend and will be missed by all.

Funeral services were held at the United Methodist Church on Tuesday afternoon with the Rev. Allan Martin officiating. Gwen Bauer was the organist and the singers were Ray Balderson, John Baer, Robert Andrews and Harold Ferguson. Casket bearers were James Fries, Richard Fries, Alan Crook, Jerry Fries, John Fries, Gail Fries, Robert R. Jones, Galen Todd and Kenneth Fries. Honorary bearers were Delbert Russell, Harold Barnes, Bill Neemann, John Wilkens, William Gunderman, Dick Jourdan, Chris Anderson, Dan Ellis, Joe Peirano, M. C. Brunt, Frank Weiss and Harry Gunther. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery. The Jones Funeral Home had charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 2004

Rodney Eugene Fries

Rodney Eugene Fries, 79, of Rapid City, S.D., died Tuesday. Dec, 21, at his home. He was born on April 28, 1925 Benkelman, Neb. He served with the United States Army Artillery during the Korean Conflict.

Rodney was preceded in death by a daughter. He is survived by his wife, Inez Fries, of Rapid City; their daughter, Julie Osmondson. of Thief River Falls, Minn.; two grandchildren: a brother, Guy Fries, of Benkelman, and a stepbrother, Robert Jones, of Rapid City.

A graveside service was held on Monday, Dec. 27, at the Black Hills National Cemetery with Chaplain Debra Geelsdottier officiating. Arrangements were by Behrens-Wilson Funeral Home of Rapid City.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1992

Walter August Fries

BENKELMAN--Walter August Fries of Benkelman, Nebraska, died Monday, March 23, 1992, at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman at the age of 91.

He was born August 5, 1900, at Dannebrog. Nebraska, to Soren M. and Jacobina F. (Koster) Fries. He was a contractor of residential and commercial buildings and operated a gravel business at one time in Benkelman.

On February 14, 1924, Walter was united in marriage to Emily Josephine Wadsworth and to this union was born one daughter, Phyllis. Josephine died January 9, 1967.

Walter was married to Dee M. Silvester at Imperial, Nebraska, on September 3, 1967.

Walter's love for carpentry and the creation of beautiful articles from wood began at an early age when he made doll furniture for his sisters from grocery boxes.

His fascination for fine woodwork is evident in the Benkelman Methodist Church. The book racks on the back of the pews, paneling enhancing the piano and organ, the baptismal font, grillwork above the doors to the choir room and the pastor's study, memorial plaques and remodeling in the basement are just a few of his contributions.

In the mid-'50s, Walter built the Methodist Church in Palisade. Nebraska, and the Benkelman Methodist parsonage in the mid-'60s.

His talents are also evident in the Benkelman Masonic Temple as he built the temple and all the furnishings within. Many homes in the Benkelman area are a result of his carpentry talents. Many streets in the city were paved by Walter and his construction crew.

His creativity can be seen in the many grandmother and grandfather clocks he made after semi-retirement in the late 1960s. He and Dee crafted more than 100 clocks that can be found in homes in Southwest Nebraska, and from California to Michigan.

Walter once commented, “Some people sing in the choir, some teach Sunday school classes and some help in other ways. Building things is my way of contributing."

As a little boy on the street one day said, "I knew him; he fixed my bike."

Walter was a member of the United Methodist Church of Benkelman, a Past Master of Justice Lodge No. 180 A.F. & A.M. a Past Patron of Holly Chapter No. 233, Order of Eastern Star, the Dundy County Motor Patrol, Odd Fellow Lodge No. 316 and Rebekah Lodge No. 321, all of Benkelman; the Scottish Rite and Tehamah Temple Shrine of Hastings, Nebraska, and the Antique Auto Club of Bird City, Kansas. He served on the board of the Hester Memorial Home and the Methodist Church in Benkelman.

Preceding him in death were his parents; his first wife, Josephine; seven sisters, Clara, Blanche, Katherine, Rose, Agnes, Katie and Dora: three brothers. Magnus, Soren and Harry, and his son-in-law, John Sola.

Survivors include his wife, Dee: daughter, Phyllis Sola, of Pasadena, California; his sister, Ida Obermiller, of Cairo, Nebraska; four grandsons, Greg and wife Kathy, David and wife Joyce, Michael and William; one great-grandson. Zeb; four step-great-granddaughters, Debbie, Amanda, Clara and Erin of California, many other relatives and a host of friends.

Services were held Saturday, March 28, at 2 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Benkelman with the Rev. Art Phillips officiating.

Music was provided by organist Betty Erdman, soloist Dorothea Bauerle and the United Methodist Choir. Selections included "One Day At A Time." “When The Roll is Called Up Yonder," “When We Get To Heaven" and congregational singing of "Christ The Lord Is Risen Today."

Bearers were Dr. Tom Noffsinger, Gary Stamm, Robert Beck, Frank Draper, Jerry Fries, Richard Fries, Kenny Fries and John Fries.

Committal was by Justice Lodge No. 180 A.F. & A.M. with interment in the Benkelman Cemetery.

Arrangements were by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 2002

Evelyn Faye (Myer) (Creach) Friesen

Evelyn Faye (Myer) Creach Friesen was born Dec. 23. 1907, on a ranch north of Callaway, Custer County, Neb. She was the first of eight children born to James Laird and Bertha Lureen (Martin) Myer. Her life of 94 years, 3 months and 20 days ended on the first day of spring, March 20, 2002, at the Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman. Neb.

Evelyn's childhood days were spent on a farm south of Franklin. Neb. She began school in the kindergarten at Red Cloud, Neb. The majority of her elementary school years were attended in rural schools south of Franklin. She graduated from Franklin High School in 1926--working those four years for her room and board to go to school. After high school graduation, she began her teaching career--a decision she made while in the third grade. Evelyn gave 41 years of dedication and service to the teaching profession in the states of Nebraska, Wyoming. Maryland, Missouri and Kansas. She taught four years in a rural school north of Franklin; 12 years in the Haigler (Neb.) Public Schools (1932-42 as Miss Myer and 1952-54 as Mrs. Creach): two years at Pine Bluffs, Wyo., sixth grade; two years in Annapolis. Md., in the history department of a junior high school, and more than 20 years in the Bird City (Kan.) Public Schools teaching the seventh-grade home room and social studies and spelling, literature and English to the seventh and eighth grades. She also served as the sponsor for the Junior High Pep Club.

Evelyn graduated with magna cum laude honors from Chadron (Neb.) State College in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. She spent many summers on campus to continue her education and receive her college degree. Even after receiving her degree, she continued to learn and earn additional college hours of graduate work during the summers at Chadron State College and Hastings (Neb.) Business College and participated in history tours sponsored by the University of Wichita in Kansas.

Evelyn was united in marriage to Oscar Eulan Creach Kansas City, Mo., on May 2, 1943, at the Methodist Church in McCook, Neb. It was while Oscar was in the United State Navy during World War II that Evelyn taught in Pine Bluff. She worked as a receptionist on weekends and holidays for the Mountain States Telephone and Telegraph Company. At the close of the war. Oscar and Evelyn returned to Kansas City from Annapolis, where Oscar had served as an x-ray technician clan at the United States Naval Academy Hospital and Evelyn had taught school and worked in a clothing store. She worked three years in Kansas City at the Commerce Trust Bank in the bookkeeping department. She also worked three summers tutoring at Estes Park, Colo. Then a new adventure hobby was acquired when the invested in a dairy farm. Oselyn Acres. at Humansville. Mo. In 1954. they moved to Bird City: Oscar and Evelyn celebrates their 25th wedding anniversary in their home at Bird City in 1968. Oscar, at age 69, died on Sept. 11, 1969. following heart surgery in Denver. Colo.

Evelyn continued her teaching in the Bird City Public Schools until her retirement from teaching in 1973, but she did not retire from working. She continued to serve the community and became the new editor of The Bird City Times newspaper. She was editor for 12 1/2 years, and retired from that profession to many Abraham T. Friesen of Colby, Kan.. on Jan. 12, 1985, at the Methodst Church in Bird City. She sold her home in Bird City and moved to Abraham's farm south of Colby where they lived for several years before moving into a home in Colby. Abraham 91, died March 20, 1997, at Citizens Medical Center in Colby. Evelyn died the same day in 2002--five years later.

Evelyn was an active member of her community and a member of various clubs. She especially enjoyed the Mr. and Mrs. Garden Club and served on the Jackson and Perkins Rose Research Panel for five years. She was a member of the Famous Artists School of Westport, Conn.; American Legion Auxiliary, Methodist Church, Nautilus Club, The Royal Neighbors of America, Griggsville Wild Bird Club and Air Capital Purple Martin Association. Her purple martin birdhouses were always associated with "Bird" City. For eight years, she served as district chairman of the Conservation Department of the Kansas Federated Women's Clubs. Each year of her teaching. she was a member of the local, state and national teachers' associations. She served as president of Zeta Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma Society, an international honorary women educators organization.

Her hobbies and interests were so varied. She enjoyed traveling, cooking. oil painting. scrapbooks, manuscript writing, judging school exhibits, hiking, birding, crafts, ceramics, fishing, conservation, gardening and landscaping. And always, she was interested in people. Her love of travel extended throughout most of the United States, four provinces in Canada and to Juarez, Mexico. She also journeyed on many fishing expeditions and into the Churchhill River area in Canada and a fly-in north of Otter Lake. Canada, to fish for rainbow trout. And always, she was interested in learning. Three of her favorite mottoes were "variety is the spice of life," "brighten the corner where you are" and "ever upward and onward.”

Evelyn entered Lantern Park Nursing Home in Colby after hip surgery in Hays, Kan. On Dec. 3, 1990, she moved to the Hester Home in Benkelman to be closer to relatives. She was a resident at this home for the past 11 years. Evelyn was a member of the United Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents: her husbands; two brothers, Everett Ross and James Wendell, a sister, Loretta Maxine, and a brother-in-law, Wilbur Adams.

Survivors include three sisters: Velma and husband Francis Neville, Opal and husband LaVoine Collicott and Grace Adams, and a brother, Gerald Myer and wife, Betty, all of Haigler; a sister-in-law, Grace Myer, of Wray, Colo.: two stepsons: Herbert 0. Friesen and wife, Vicki. of Denver and Leslie Glen Friesen and wife of Fresno, Calif.; nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives.

Evelyn Creach-Friesen's life was one of dedication and purposeful living. Her influence lives on in the lives of the students she taught, in the coworkers who felt her devotion and love and in the family members, citizens and friends who knew her. She was a teacher and a teacher affects eternity.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Monday, March 25. 2002, at the Haigler United Methodist Church, with interment in the Haigler Cemetery.

Memorials may be given in her name to the Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman or the United Methodist Church in Haigler.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1994

Ray E. Frisbie

FORT COLLINS, Colo.--Ray E. Frisbie was born October 19, ;1910, in McDonald, Kansas, the son of David E. and Lura Pearl (Lilly) Frisbie. He died Tuesday, November 22, 1994, at Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins, Colorado, at the age of 84.

He attended rural school through the eighth grade and graduated from high school in 1927. He enrolled at Colorado A&M in 1928 and received his Bachelor of Science degree in 1932. He received honors as an undergraduate, was captain of the football team his senior year and was all-conference for two years.

He belonged to the livestock judging team at A&M and competed at the International Contest in Chicago. He was selected as a peacemaker, received certificates for distinguished service to agriculture from both Colorado A&M and Kansas State University, and was a member of Lambda Gamma Delta, an honorary livestock judging fraternity, and Alpha Tau Alpha Honorary Vocational Fraternity.

Frisbie also was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon and was named an Honor Alumnus.

He married Vera A. Elrod November 29, 1934, in Springfield, Colorado, and they raised four children. This month marked their 60th anniversary.

After graduation, Frisbie became involved in farming, but during the first year was asked to do extension work where he spent a short time as an extension agent. He also spent four years as a vocational ag teacher.

Much of his time was spent on public work such as memberships in local communities. This evolved into membership of county and state committees.

He served as a member on the boards of the State Farm Bureau, the Kansas Farm Bureau, the American Farm Bureau and the Research Advisory Committee of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and was named Master Farmer of Kansas.

He resigned from the Farm Bureau presidency to run for governor of Kansas. In 1972, the couple moved to Fort Collins to spend their retirement years. They became "snowbirds" and went south every winter for several years. The last three years were spent in a retirement home in Fort Collins.

Frisbie was also involved with community projects and believed one should serve their community.

He was affiliated with the Faith Evangelical Free Church in Fort Collins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Lillie Berry and Fern Defines.

He is survived by his wife, Vera of Fort Collins; three sons, Gilbert R. Frisbie of McDonald, Larry E. Frisbie of Fort Collins and Jerry L. Frisbie of Winston, Oregon; a daughter, Linda L. Beck of Benkelman, Nebraska; a brother, Floyd "Bud" Frisbie of Bird City, Kansas; two sisters, Ruby Blakney of Apache Junction, Arizona, and Ruth Davison of Norton, Kansas; 8 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

A private family graveside service was scheduled at McDonald Cemetery in McDonald with Reager Funeral Home & Crematory of Fort Collins in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, January 1990

Ann Monica (Diehl) Fryar

LONGMONT, Colo.--Ann Monica Fryar died Monday, January 15, 1990, at the Longmont United Hospital, Longmont, Colorado, at the age of 65.

She was born May 9, 1924, at Stratton, Nebraska, to Norval E. and Florence E. (Hertz) Diehl. She was married August 6, 1945, at McCook, Nebraska, to Harry F. Fryar Jr.

She lived in Ames, Iowa, from 1963 to 1979, at which time she moved to Longmont. Prior to moving to Ames, she lived in Broken Bow and Scottsbluff, Nebraska.

She was a member of the Spirit of Peace Catholic Church, Longmont Newcomers Club, Agape Small Community and the Catholic Daughters of America. She served on the planning committee for the establishment of the Spirit of Peace Catholic Church in Longmont.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Survivors include her husband, Harry of Longmont; three sons, John Fryar of Longmont. Rick Fryar and wife, Terri, of Denver, Colorado, and the Rev. Thomas S. Fryar of Denver; two daughters, Teresa Laird and husband, Rox, of Des Moines,

Iowa, and Kristie Becker and husband, James, of Arvada, Colorado; one brother, John Diehl and wife, Julia, of Stratton, Nebraska; one sister, Nancy Gummere of Littleton, Colorado, and six grandchildren.

Vigil service was held Wednesday evening, January 18, 1990, and funeral mass was held Thursday, January 19, 1990, at 11 a.m. at the Spirit of Peace Catholic Church with the Rev. Thomas S. Fryar officiating. Private inurnment service was held at the Mountain View Cemetery in Longmont.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1973

Elisabeth K. (Orten) Frye

Elisabeth K. Frye, 45, daughter of Mrs. Cora A. Orten of Benkelman, was found dead at her home at 6698 South Lafayette, Littleton, Colorado on Saturday afternoon. A spokesman for the Arapahoe County Sheriffs Office said that she may have surprised a burglar. She died of multiple head injuries. She was found by her husband.

The sheriffs office reported that a number of household items had been taken from the house and placed in the garage giving rise to the idea that Mrs. Frye had surprised a burglar and was beaten.

Mrs. Frye is survived by her mother, Mrs. Cora A. Orten of Benkelman, her husband, Duane Frye, children, Janet L., Marilyn K., Douglas D., and Gregory C. Frye, all of Littleton; sisters, Agnes Burk, McDonald, Kansas, Lucene Kruger, Belmont, California, Jean Brickell, Denver, Thelma Phifer, Fort Collins, Delores Graff and Patti Loper, McCook, Nebr., and John Mills, Stockton, California.

Captain Ed Nelson of the sheriff’s department said the woman was found face-down on the f;ppr of the closed garage. She had apparently been dead about five or six hours. Stacked close to the garage door was a television set, a radio and personal items. Mrs. Frye's husband and several of their children had left the house at 10:30 that morning for a trip to Denver and Boulder.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday at St. John's Church at rural McDonald. The rosary will be recited at 8:00 p.m., Tuesday at Schandler's mortuary in Atwood. Interment will be at McDonald, Kansas.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1966

Fannie Gladys (Foster) Fuehring

Mrs. Edward G. Fuehring, a , long-time resident of the Dundy county area, passed away at the Dundy County Hospital on Saturday after a long illness. She had been in ill health for the past year. She was 69 years of age.

Funeral services were arranged by Jay's Funeral Home for Tuesday afternoon with the Rev. Jerry D. Elrod officiating. Mrs. Paul Erdman was the organist and Mrs. LaNeta Anderson the soloist. Casket bearers were Joe Foster, Glen Foster, Harry Foster, Lloyd Foster, Ray Ham, Jr., and Wayne Ham. Interment was in the Benkelman cemetery.

Fannie Gladys Foster, daughter of Charles and Josephine Foster, was born at Weldon, Iowa, March 24, 1897. Her family moved to Dundy county when she was three. As a young woman, she joined the Max Methodist Church. She was married to Edward G. Fuehring September 25, 1929.

Survivors include her loving husband, Edward G.; her three children, Elma Lessick, Chesterland, Ohio; Charles Edward, of Benkelman and Elaine Frasier of Benkelman; grandchildren, Carolyn and Patricia Lessick of Chesterland, Ohio, and Marshall Frasier of Benkelman; sisters, Mary Parsons of Pawnee Rock, Kansas, and Nellie Ham of Benkelman; and brothers, C. C. Foster and J. B. Foster of Benkelman, and W. A. Foster of Max. She was preceded in death by her parents, an infant son and two brothers.

Fannie was a kind, gentle and devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was so dear to all of those who mourn her passing and the empty void can never be filled.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1987

Charles Edward Fuehring

Charles Edward Fuehring was born at the family farmhouse north of Max, Nebraska, on Christmas Day, 1930, to Edward G. and Fannie (Foster) Fuehring. It soon was apparent to the family that Eddie wasn't progressing physically. After many heartbreaking trips to doctors, the family accepted the fact that he would be unable to walk and do things that others took for granted. Knowing that he couldn't go to public schools, his older sister, Elma, spent many patient hours teaching him to read. This knowledge provided him untold hours of pleasure throughout his life. His reading material ranged from newspapers, magazines and fiction to the entire Holy Bible. Elma challenged his mind and helped him develop an inquiring mind. When Eddie was nine, a baby sister, Elaine, was born.

Music was very important. Through the years he built an extensive record library focusing heavily on the big bands of the '40s. The family's Saturday nights at the movies and Sunday drives added variety to his life. In 1954 the family purchased one of the fiist televisions in the area. From that time on television filled many hours.

An electric train was a highlight and he spent hours operating it and supervising the layout with his sister, Elaine.

In August 1957 the family moved to Benkelman, Nebraska. In April 1966 Eddie's patient mother who had so lovingly cared for him, died. His dad soon found that he was unable to go to the farm each day and adequately care for Eddie. The family made the decision that the only way he could have the care he needed was for him to move to the Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman. Thus began a new dimension in his life. Up to this time his life revolved around the family. Now he became his own person and communicated his thoughts and ideas to staff and residents. He was a member of one of the first resident councils at the Home. A lasting friendship began with Eloise Adams who he fondly called his "Honey."

Visits from family and friends meant so much to Eddie. Keeping family traditions alive was of utmost importance—sending Christmas cards and letters and taking family pictures.

On February 19, 1978, Eddie was baptized and joined the United Methodist Church. He drew a great deal of strength through his faith.

The residents and staff of the Home showed their love and respect to Eddie when they voted him Valentine King for 1986. He was deeply moved by this tribute.

Despite declining health Eddie retained his zest for life. Anyone who ever met him knew of his ready smile and the twinkle in his eyes.

Eddie departed this life on February 7, 1987, at the Dundy County Hospital. He will be dearly missed by his sisters and brothers-in-law: Elma and Walter Lessick of Chesterland, Ohio, Elaine and Kenneth Frasier Jr. of Max, Nebraska; three nieces, two nephews, three great-nieces and two great-nephews.

Services were held Tuesday, February 10, 1987, at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with the Rev. Dr. John Kilgore officiating.

Organist was Betty Erdman. Richard Bartholomew, with guitar accompaniment, sang "The Great Speckled Bird" and "The Old Rugged Cross."

Bearers were Leo Williams, Glen Lemon, Marvin Zimbelman, Willie Pearson, Guy Fries and Robert Jensen.

Honorary bearers were Harold Chipperfield, Ross Goddard, Lloyd Foster, Joe Laughlin, Bill Aeby and Jerry Roethemeyer.

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

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1983

Edward Gustav Fuehring

Edward Gustav Fuehring was born October 15, 1900, at Lincoln, Illinois, to Karl and Hulda (Munk) Fuehring. He was the eighth of nine children. The Fuehring family was a close family and they maintained their German heritage in their home. Horses were their livelihood. When they moved, the horses went with them and many times there were three railway cars of horses.

The Fuehrings lived in various places during Ed's childhood including Lincoln, Illinois; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Elm Creek, Nebraska. In 1909, Ed moved with his family to Dundy County where they purchased a half section of land northwest of Benkelman. His

formal schooling ended at this time. After several dry years, the Fuehrings moved back to Seward County in 1915 where Ed's older brothers were living and working. In 1916 he was confirmed in the Evangelical Church of Peace in Goehner, Nebraska.

In the spring of 1929, Ed returned to Dundy County and began his farming and livestock career. On September 25, 1929, he and Fannie G. Foster were married in the Benkelman Methodist Parsonage. They made their home north of Max with their children, Elma, Charles Edward and Elaine.

In July, 1957, a tornado ravaged the farmsite and Ed and Fannie made the decision to move to Benkelman. Ed continued his farming and livestock operation. By now he had built up a sizeable herd of quality Hereford stock cattle. Commuting one and sometimes several times a day to care for his livestock became a way of life.

In April, 1966, Fannie passed away. Ed married Erma Veal of Benkelman on May 15, 1970. He retired in 1978 but continued to drive out to the farm. He found great enjoyment in the countryside and his cattle. When he could no longer drive, he walked downtown daily. Due to failing health the last year, his walks ceased but he still enjoyed a ride out to the country. On March 1, 1983, after a long illness, Ed passed away at the Dundy County Hospital.

Preceding him in death were his parents, an infant son, Robert, sisters, Hulda and Edith, and brothers Herbert, Walter, and Udo.

Survivors include his wife Erma of Benkelman, a daughter, Elma (Mrs. Walter Lessick), Chesterland, Ohio, a son, C. Edward Fuehring of Benkelman and a daughter Elaine (Mrs. Kenneth) Frasier of Max; Three brothers, Helmuth of Milford, Karl of Southgate, California, and August of Lincoln, Illinois; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Although Ed had only a third grade education, he realized the importance of a good education and stressed this to his children.

Throughout his life he had a great respect for his elders and had a strong sense of right and wrong. In return, he was respected by the community and will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

Services were held Saturday, March 5, 1983, at 2:00 p.m. in the Jones Funeral Chapel at Benkelman with the Rev. Everett Erickson officiating. Organist Anna Benge accompanied Rev. Erickson with the selections "How Great Thou Art" and "In The Garden."

Bearers were Bill Cawthra, Gayle Jensen, Glen Lemon, Raymond Bowers, Lloyd Foster and Gary Powell.

Honorary bearers were Donald Foster, Loren Humphreys, Ray Daniels, Orval Johnson, Glenn Spears and Torsten Anderson.

Arrangements were by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, January 1988

Erwin J. "Stove" Fuerniss

Erwin J. "Stove" Fuerniss, 75, of York died Monday, January 11, 1988, in York, Nebraska.

He was a bulk agent for the Continental Oil Company in York for more than 30 years.

He was born August 6, 1912, at Staplehurst, Nebraska, to Adolph and Lena (Bertram) Fuerniss.

On October 16, 1944, he married Loretta Friel in York.

He was a Navy veteran of World War II and a member of the American Legion, VFW and York Elks Club.

Survivors include his wife, Loretta of York; two sons, Stephen of Endicott, New York, and Mark of Hastings, Nebraska; five daughters, Jean of Lincoln, Nebraska; Mrs. Maureen (Ted) Behlke of Benkelman, Nebraska; Mrs. Kathryn (James) Say of Omaha, Nebraska, Jane of San Carlos, California, and Joan of Farmington, Connecticut; five grandchildren; one sister, Clara Bereuter of Utica, Nebraska, and one brother, Theo Fuerniss of Utica.

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

Services were held Thursday, January 14, 1988, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in York with the Rev. John Kelly officiating. Military graveside services were held at St. Joseph's Cemetery.

Metz Mortuary of York was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1989

G. Marie (Adkinson) Fugate

G. Marie (Adkinson) Fugate was born at her parents' home in Dundy County, Nebraska, July 31, 1900. She was the eldest child of Oliver G. and Chloe (Van Buskirk) Adkinson. She passed away at the Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman, Nebraska, April 25, 1989, at the age of 88 years, 8 months and 25 days.

Marie attended rural schools and graduated in 1920 from the Nebraska School of Agriculture in Lincoln, Nebraska. After teaching in rural schools, she married Alfred E. Fugate April 10, 1923. They purchased a farm and established a home near her parents and they resided there until retirement. They then purchased a residence in Benkelman and lived there until poor health caused them to enter the Hester Memorial Home in 1983.

One son, Dale Lee, was born to them. He gave his life for his country in the Korean Conflict in 1951. This was truly a great sacrifice for them.

Mrs. Fugate was very active in extension and 4-H clubs. She was club leader for 30 years, earning many awards of merit and recognition. She was a good gardener and raised thousands of chickens which they dressed and delivered to customers in Benkelman. They enjoyed the fellowship which delivery gave them and rain or shine, they made their customers happy.

They were members of the Presbyterian Church and attended the Pleasant Valley Church in the country before it was moved into town.

They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on April 10, 1973, and were privileged to spend 63 years together.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Alfred; son, Dale; her parents; and three brothers, Francis, Henry and Ivan.

Surviving is one sister, LaVeta R. Jones; nieces, nephews; and four sisters-in-law.

Services were held at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman Friday, April 28, 1989, at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Dr. John Kilgore officiating.

The organist was Jackie Wilson with Shirley Adkinson on piano. Brian Adkinson sang "In The Garden" and "The Lord's Prayer."

Bearers were Dwight Hatch, Grant Hatch, Scott Edwards, Floyd Parman, Dick Parman and Burdette Wilson.

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

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 1986

Alfred Edgar Fugate

Alfred Edgar Fugate was born September 28, 1899, near Champion, Nebraska, and passed away December 20, 1986, in the Hester Home at Benkelman, Nebraska, at the age of 92.

He was born to Lee Fugate and Elizabeth Sweeney Fugate. When he was one year old the family moved to Norton County, Kansas, where he attended school and grew to manhood. He then returned to Dundy County and was employed by William Hoover.

On April 10, 1923, he was united in marriage to G. Marie Adkinson in her parents' home near Benkelman.

One son, Dale Lee, was born to them. He was the light of his parents' life and Dale gave his own life for his country in 1951.

Alfred was dedicated to his life as a farmer and was awarded the Good Neighbor plaque by the Ak-Sar-Ben. He helped with 4-H activities, was a board member of School District Number 14, and a member of the Presbyterian Church.

They sold their farm to Floyd Parman and retired to a home in Benkelman where they resided until failing health caused them to sell their home and enter the Hester Home.

Alfred and Marie celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary April 10, 1973, at the Friends Church in Pleasant Valley. Many of their nephews and nieces were able to gather with them at that time. Alfred was much loved and admired by them. He loved children and they admired him as much.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Dale; one brother, Dale, and two sisters, Virgie and Bessie. His brother, Dale, was a casualty of World War I.

Survivors include his wife, Marie of Benkelman; two sisters: Doris Fugate and Thelma Houchin of Norton, Kansas, nephews, nieces and many friends. He will be missed by his loved ones and friends.

Services were held Tuesday, December 23, 1986, at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Nebraska, with the Rev. Norman Burkhart officiating.

Organist was Velma Case. Robert and Carol Sander sang the selections "Going Down The Valley" and "In The Garden."

Bearers were Larry Stute, Merle Wallace, Glen Osborn, Floyd Parman, Byron Els and Wilfred Hansen.

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

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 1951

Dale Lee Fugate

Pfc. Dale Lee Fugate, who made the supreme sacrifice for his country on the battlefield in Korea on February 4, of this year, was laid at rest in the Benkelman cemetery on Wednesday. Funeral services were held at the Methodist church with Rev. J. William Woodworth of the. United Presbyterian church in charge. Singers were Mrs. Margie Bartels, Mrs. Delores Wilkinson, Carson and Robert Andrews, with Mrs. Jackie Wilson at the organ. Pallbearers were J. M. DeWester, Jr., Robert Hardwick, Howard Bernard, John A. Phifer, Frank Stute, Jr., and David Warning. Honorary pallbearers were Vernon Elliott, Thelman Pursley and Frank Priest and Clark McMinn of Hamlet. The service was arranged by the Laughlin Funeral Home.

Dale Lee Fugate, only child of Alfred and Marie Fugate, was born on October 9, 1923, at the home of his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. O. G. Adkinson, at Benkelman, Nebraska. He departed this life at Ochon-Ni, South Korea, February 4, 1951, at the age of 27 years, 3 months and 25 days.

From the time he was 18 months old until he was called into the serviee of his country, he lived with his parents at their present farm home. He was neither absent nor late while attending grade school in District 14. He graduated from Benkelman high school with the class of 1941.

Dale was an active 4-.H. club member for eight years and a leader for two years. He earned a trip to Club Week at Lincoln and was on two judging teams competing at the state fair.

As a child he attended the Mt. Emmett Sunday school and church. Later, during his military service, his letters indicated real interest in, and regular attendance at, the chapel services on the post.

In 1946, he received two orders to appear for induction to military service which were canceled by government ruling. Then on November 17, 1948, be was inducted into the army at North Platte, Nebraska, and then sent to Ft. Riley, Kans., to the 87th Infantry Regiment for his basic training.

After two months of basic training, he was sent to leaders' course school and graduated on March 25, 1949. On May 23, he received his private first class rating. After serving one year and 13 days, he was transferred from active duty to the Enlisted Reserve Corps.

Dale was called back to active service, reporting at Ft. Lewis, Washington, September 17, 1950. On December 19, he was sent to Ft. Lawton, Port of Embarkation, sailing January 5, 1951. He landed at Yokohama, Japan, after 17 days at sea. He was then sent aboard a Japanese ship for Pusan, Korea. In Korea, he was a replacement in the 7th Regiment of the 1st Cavalry Division. In this he realized one of the ambitions he had mentioned during his training.

Dale's Buddy, Sgt. Roy League of Stratton wrote of Dale's last battle at Ochon-Ni, a point south of Seoul.

"In the late afternoon of February 4, our company was advancing uphill preparing to secure the last part of a hill to complete the battalion defense perimeter. Advancing into persistent enemy machine gun fire, it made it very difficult to maneuver and Dale was hit by a Chinese concussion grenade. Though the medics were right there, it was instant death."

Dale and his father were constant companions in all their farm work, sharing responsibilities and pleasures alike. Dale's personality was such that he made friends easily with both young and old alike and was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Both grandfathers and two uncles preceded him in death. He leaves to mourn his parents; his grandmothers, Mrs. Lizzie Fugate of Norton, Kansas, and Mrs. Fred Fanning of Benkelman; his step-grandfather, Fred Fanning; two uncles, five aunts, eighteen cousins and a great number of friends.

Friends from a distance attending the service were Mr. and Mrs. R. N. Jones of Ft. Morgan, Colo., and Mr. and Sirs. W. W. Heuermann of Grant, Nebr. Relatives from a distance who attended the funeral were: Miss Doris Fugate, Norton, Kans.; Mrs. Thelma Houchin, Norton, Kans.; Mr. and Sirs. Leland Dicke, Stratton, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. Tom Sharp, Laird, Colo.; Mr. and Mrs. Orin Wilson, Wray, Colo.; Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Adkinson, Woodston, Kans.; Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Adkinson, Sidney, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. Ray Grimes, Champion, Nebr.; Mrs. Dorothy Cain and children, Stockton, Kans.; Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Sweeney, Champion, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. Merle Taylor, Haigler, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. Glenwood Eyestone, Yuma, Colo.; Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Day, Yuma, Colo.; Mr, and Mrs. Roy Fitzpatrick, Imperial, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Hoskins, Yuma. Colo.; Mrs. May Day, Imperial, Nebr., Mr. and Mrs. Paul Crews, Culbertson, Nebr.

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

Alfred Harve Fulk

HELENA, Mont — Alfred Harve Fulk, 90, died Friday in the Fort Harrison Veterans Hospital, Helena

Survivors are one brother, Benjamin Samuel Fulk, Black Diamond, Wash., and two sisters, Mrs. Grace Eskew, Imperial, and Mrs. Lottie Nelson, Benkelman.

Services will be at 11 a.m. (MST) Wednesday in the Creveling Funeral Chapel, Imperial, with the Rev. Robert Call officiating. Interment will be in the Mount Hope Cemetery under the direction of the Creveling Funeral Home of Imperial.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 1964

Donald R. Fuller

Donald R. Fuller succumbed to a heart attack at his home on the Kroger Ranch northeast of Benkelman on Tuesday evening. He was 28 years of age and was watching television when the fatal attack befell him.

Mr. Fuller is survived by his wife, Edith, and a child, age seven. He was a native of the McCook area.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, May 1992

William G. Fuller

STRATTON--William G. Fuller, 31, of Stratton, Nebraska, died Tuesday, May 19, 1992, at Community Hospital in McCook, Nebraska.

He was born November 28, 1960, in Oskaloosa, Iowa, to James T. and Jo Ann (Swangel) Fuller.

He married Betty Ann Willis December 20, 1981, in York, Nebraska.

He was a minister at the Church of Christ in Stratton and a member of the Stratton Volunteer Fire Department.

His father preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife of Stratton; two sons, Aaron and Jeremiah, of Stratton; his mother of Gladbrook, Iowa; grandparents, Arline and Ralph Swangel of Gladbrook; four brothers, Jim and his wife, Kandy, of Marshalltown, Iowa, Sam and his wife, Judy, of Albin, Iowa, and Steve and his wife, Dee, and Clint of South Bend, Indiana, and one sister, April, and her husband, Joe Scozell, of Gladbrook.

Services were held Thursday, May 21, 1992, at 3:30 p.m. at the Church of Christ in Stratton with the Rev. Rick Eldred officiating.

Sacred selections were sung by the Church of Christ Singers.

Bearers were Steve Melchert, Mark Tremaine, Erick Tremaine, Sam Fuller, Jim Fuller and Dave Thornbrugh. Honorary bearers were the Stratton Volunteer Fire Department.

A service and interment were held Saturday, May 23, 1992, at Riverside Cemetery in Marshalltown.

Arrangements were by Jones Funeral Home, Inc. of Stratton.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1945

Dr. E.F. Fuqua

Through a letter received this week by R.D. Druliner from Mrs. Dr. E. F. Fuqua, we learn of Dr. Fuqua's death at his home in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 6 from a heart attack.

Dr. Fuqua will be remembered by many Dundy County people, he having located in Haigler in the practice of medicine as a young man immediately after having completed his medical education. He remained in Haigler for several years and then moved to Benkelman where he entered practice and remained here until 1919 when he disposed of his practice to Dr. J.F. Premer and then with his family moved to Greenville, Georgia, where he practiced for a few years and then moved to Atlanta which had since been his home and where he enjoyed a phenominal success in his chosen profession.

He was married to Miss Maud Locker of Palisade, teacher in the Haigler schools during the time the doctor was located here and three children were born to them.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 1984

Frances (Hollenberger) Furtak

Funeral services for Frances Hollenberger Furtak of Crawford, Nebraska, were held Monday, December 17, at 2 p.m. in the Methodist Church in Crawford. Rev. Richard Macha officiated. Burial was in the Crawford Cemetery.

Mrs. Furtak died Thursday, December 13, at Crawford Community Memorial Hospital. She was 73.

A memorial has been established for the Methodist Church organ fund. Donations may be sent to the Crawford State Bank.

Mrs. Furtak was associated with PEO Chapter Alpha Chi, the Methodist Church choir and Eastern Star.

Survivors include her husband, Al of Crawford; a niece, Mary Wheeldon of California; and a sister-in-law, Mildred Hollenberger of Benkelman.

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

Alfons (Al) Furtak

Alfons (Al) Furtak formerly of Benkelman, died Thursday, July 18, at Ponderosa Villa in Crawford following a lingering illness.

Furtak was born in Fullerton, Nebraska, January 30, 1908, and moved to Elyria, Nebraska, with his parents in 1911. He attended District 63 school in Elyria and went on to graduate from Ord High School with the class of 1928.

Al learned the bakery business while working in the Ord Bakery and took his expertise to bakeries in Hastings, North Platte and Benkelman. He was married to Frances Hollenberger in Benkelman in 1963 and the couple purchased a bakery in Beemer, Nebraska, a short time later. In 1943 they moved the business to Crawford where they operated it for the next 30 years.

He became a charter member of the Crawford Volunteer Fire Department on January 4, 1944, and in his 32 years of service with the organization, held the positions of secretary, department chief and assistant fire chief. Of the 360 regular meetings held during his years with the organization, he attended 350. He retired from the department in April of 1976. He was also a charter member of the Crawford Rescue Unit which he served faithfully for 22 years. He also served on the hospital board during the hospital's construction stage and was a member of the Crawford Golf Club since May 3, 1943.

After his retirement from the bakery in 1974, he worked for a mortician in Crawford and was caretaker of the city golf course in his spare time.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Frances, who died December 13, 1984; his parents; brothers, Edmund and Thaddeus, and an infant brother, Frank.

Survivors include a sister, Florence Love of Victorville, California; four brothers, Leonard of Ravenna, Floyd of Schuyler, Sylvester of Ord and Raymond of Blair, Nebraska. Also surviving are a sister-in-law, Mildred Hollenberger of Benkelman and a niece, Jody Menikheim of Broomfield, Colorado.

Funeral services were held Monday, July 22, at the United Methodist Church of Crawford with Rev. Keith Bruning officiating. Burial was in the Crawford Cemetery. Memorials have been donated to the donor's choice at the Crawford State Bank.

Pallbearers were Ronald Smith, Jack Garner, Harry Warren, George Leeling, Gene Wasserburger and Paul Jones Jr.

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