H - Page 6 - Obits

Services were held Sat., Oct. 21, 1978, for Leta L. Howard, 73, at Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Nebr.

Mrs. Howard was born on May 8, 1905 in Rawlins County, Kansas, and passed away on Oct. 17, 1978 at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Nebr.

Officiating the services was Rev. Delbert Callaway. Organist was Mrs. Jackie Wilson playing for Edwina Roesener and Shirley Adkinson the selections, "How Great Thou Art" and "Asleep in Jesus."

Bearers were Herbert Talman, Harold Jensen, Reinhart Lunzman, Bud Cline, Charles Draper and Loren Mossburgh. Honorary bearers were Robert Gish, Everett Gerdes, August Schrader and Al Anderson.

(Researcher note: Burial records for the Benkelman cemetery show a birth date of 5-8-1905 and a death date of 10-18-1978. It also shows her maiden name as “Gerdes”.)

WAUNETA--Lillie Dell Howard was born Feb. 19, 1904, at Sherwood, N.D., to Lon and Hattie Mae (Foster) Lathrop. As a young girl, Lillie moved with her family from North Dakota to Burlington, Iowa, to be near relatives because of her father's health. She attended grade school in Burlington and at the age of 12 moved with family to Lamar, Neb.

Lillie attended high school in Lamar before marrying Ira Elwin Howard on Feb. 15, 1921, in Imperial, Neb. The couple settled in Imperial for a short time before moving to Max, Neb. Lillie and Ira then moved to a farm north of Enders, Neb., where they raised cattle. Later they moved 18 miles northwest of Wauneta, Neb., where they farmed. The couple also lived in Palisade, Neb., before moving into Wauneta in 1939.

Lillie and Ira owned and operated the Wauneta Grocery Store and a welding and iron salvage shop for many years. After Ira's death in 1954, Lillie became a Licensed Practical Nurse and was employed at the Chase County Hospital in Imperial from 1960 until retirement.

Lillie passed away early Sunday morning, May 20, 2001, at the Heritage of Wauneta Nursing Home. She was 97 years of age.

Lillie was a member of the United Methodist Church of Wauneta and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary. She had many hobbies including hunting, fishing, riding horses in her younger years and blue rock shooting.

In addition to her husband, Lillie was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Edward; three sisters: Alta Eilers, Sylvia Brass and Lilas Huffrrian. and three sons: Jewel, Johnnie and Ira "Bud."

Those surviving her are her daughter, Shirley Moreland, of Houston, Texas; her daughters-in-law; Patty Howard of Goodland, Kan., and LeVeta Howard of Palisade; 11 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services for Lillie Howard were held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 24, 2001, at the United Methodist Church in Wauneta with the Rev. Richard Brian officiating. Interment was in the Riverside Cemetery at Wauneta. Liewer Funeral Home of Wauneta was in charge of arrangements.

BENKELMAN— Elsie Irene Howard, eldest child of Clarence H. and Verna I. (Kirk) Moreland, was born September 30, 1907, on a farm in rural Norton County, Kansas. She died at the Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman, Nebraska, on November 18, 1990.

Elsie moved with her family from Norton County to a farm southwest of McDonald in Rawlins County.

She attended rural schools in both Norton and Rawlins counties and later graduated from McDonald Rural High School with the Class of 1925. She completed Normal Training School that summer and taught three years in rural schools in Rawlins and Cheyenne counties.

Elsie accepted Christ as her Saviour in her teen years and became a member of the McDonald Federated Church. She attended faithfully and served many years as Sunday school teacher and later as junior Sunday school superintendent.

On June 15, 1927, she was united in marriage to Charlie Everett Howard at the Methodist parsonage in Colby, Kansas. After a long muddy drtve to their new home 12 miles north of McDonald, they had to assemble their new cooking stove before she could cook her first meal.

Their home was blessed with the birth of four children: Royce Duane, who died at age five, Lois Jeanne, Kenneth Elwin and Lynn Veldon.

She enjoyed membership in the North Divide Extension Club and served several years as secretary of the McDonald Alumni Association.

In the middle 1950s, she and Charlie purchased the McDonald Clothing Shop which she managed for more than 20 years. She greatly appreciated her customers as well as those who helped her with the operation of the store

Elsie enjoyed her retirement years gardening, traveling and visiting the family. She especially enjoyed attending activities of her grandchildren as often as her health would permit.

After a brief stay in the Dundy County Hospital with a mild stroke, she was transferred to the Hester Home in April of 1988. She remained there until her death.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her eldest son, Royce, and a brother, Lyle

She is survived by her daughter, Lois Simon and her husband, Edwin of Studley, Kansas, sons Kenneth and his wife, Phyllis of rural McDonald, and Lynn and wife, Rebecca, of Pointblank, Texas; eight grandsons, five granddaughters and five great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her brothers Leon of Jerome, Idaho, Ernest and wife of Apache Junction, Arizona, Dale and wife of Lancaster, California, Lewis and wife of Goodland, Kansas, and Richard and wife of Boulder, Colorado; sisters Dorothy Smith and husband of Lovington, New Mexico, Verla Smith and husband of Apache Junction, Verda Smith of Lovington and Delores Craig of Burlington, Colorado; sister-in-law Lavena Moreland of Apache Junction, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Memorial services were held November 21, 1990, at the McDonald Federated Church with Pastor Greg Moyer. assisted by Pastors Clarence Swihart and Greg Hubbard. officiating.

Music was provided by Mrs. Owen Wingfield, organist, and Mrs. Greg Moyer, soloist. Bearers were her grandsons.

Interment was in Grace Cemetery at McDonald with Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman in charge of arrangements.

CHINO, Calif.--Margaret Pauline Howard, 80, of Chino, California, died November 15 at Chino Valley Medical Center.

She was born in Victor, Colorado, and had lived In Chino 16 years. She was a homemaker.

Mrs. Howard is survived by her husband, Alva George Howard; two sons, Myron Sherman of Denver, Colorado, and Lloyd Sherman of Las Vegas, Nevada: three daughters, Patricia Hall of Fort Lupton, Colorado, Donna Lou Blethen,of Albany, New York. and Diana Stuart of Taneville, Missouri; a brother. John Shelley of Pahrump, Nevada; a sister, Hazel Hale of Denver, 23 grandchildren, and four

sisters-in-law, Joyce Ham and Janet Haines of Benkelman, Nebraska, Jean Blecha of Goodland, Kansas, and Doris Albert of Phoenix, Arizona.

Graveside services were held Friday, November 18, 1994, at Crown Hill Cemetery in Denver with Pierce Bros. Griffith Mortuary in charge of arrangements.

Alva Guy Howard, beloved husband of Helen C. Howard, was born Sept. 7, 1903 at Enders, NE, the son of Adrian M. Howard and Addie D. Clotfelter Howard.

He attended school at the Pioneer District 1 in Chase County. He farmed at home with his brother Lee, then he worked at the Baker Ranch. In 1923, he and several other young men went to Grand Rapids, Michegan and secured employment.

While there he met Helen Boening who was working at the Sunshine Sanitarium at the time.

On June 19, 1924, Alva and Helen were married at Lowell, Michigan. About this time, Alva's father became very ill, so the young couple went back to Enders, NE, to be near his family. Here, Alva farmed the home place and rented other farm ground.

They moved to rural Imperial and farmed land owned by F.C. Krotter. Alva accepted Christ as his personal Savior and was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church in Imperial in 1928.

In 1932, the family moved to Dundy County and farmed near Doane. In 1935, they moved to Max, NE, and continued farming. During the Depression years and as the family enlarged, Alva started working at the carpenter trade, but continued farming.

As times improved, Alva began contracting buildings and homes. In time he became a master carpenter. After 40 years residing in and around Max, Alva decided to retire and bought a home in Benkelman, NE. He had sustained three severe heart attacks besides other illnesses. But he didn't retire completely while living in Benkelman. He continued to use his skills. He built many beautiful homes, besides the hundreds of smaller jobs for the many friends and neighbors. Among the accomplishments that he was especially proud of was the remodeling of the Max Women's Club community building, the enlargement of his own church, the original Lutheran Church building and renovation of the local mortuary.

During Alva's years in Max, he served on the school board for 15 years and was active in community affairs besides being a 4-H leader for many years. He received a certificate of appreciation for outstanding dedicated service for 20 years from the Dundy County Agriculture Society.

Alva Loved gardening, flowers and vegetables and these he shared with family and friends. Alva loved people and he enjoyed visiting his friends and having them come to visit him.

He was happy with his family, children and great grandchildren; they were his joy.

Alva passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 1979 at 7.50 am. at his home. His wife and family had been with him during the last weeks. After a lingering sickness he went to his Eternal Rest

Those who survive him his wife Helen, two sons, George Howard and wife Margaret of Chino, CA; and Tom Howard of Max, NE. Four daughters survive, Mrs. Janet Haines and husband John, Mrs. Joyce Ham and husband Arden, Mrs. Jean Blecha and husband Walter, all of Benkelman. Mrs. Doris Alber and husband Phillip of Brighton, CO; and brother Virgil Howard and wife Violet of Max; a sister Mrs. Oneta Cecil of Imperial; a sister-in-law, Mrs. Lillie Howard of Wauneta, 14 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and a host of friends survive

Preceding Alva in death were his parents, a sister Mrs. May Cecil, three brothers, Ira, Lee, and Delmer and one grandson, Richard Robin Howard.

Alva was a faithful member of Zion Lutheran Church and attended services regularly while his health permitted. He was a member of the Benkelman Lodge 36 of the I00F.

Funeral services for Alvin Howard, who passed away so suddenly and unexpectedly at the Morehouse hospital last Thursday morning while under examination for a heart condition, was held at the Laughlin funeral home at two o'clock Sunday afternoon, being conducted by Milo W. Rose. Mr. and Mrs. Harry L. Ough sang three duet numbers, "Beautiful Isle of Somewhere," "Sweet Peace the Gift of God's Love," and "Have Thine Own Way Lord." Mrs. D. L. Ough presided at the piano. Pall bearers were Jesse Mowery, Arthur Sherbert, Miles Jones, Harry L. Ough, Harry Martin and Roy Lingo. Interment was in the Benkelman cemetery.

Alvin Howard, son of Lazarus and Margaret Howard, was born January 16, 1876, at Des Moines, Iowa, and died December 4, 1941, at the age of 65 years, 10 months and 17 days.

Mr. Howard came to Max, Nebraska, in March, 1899, at the age of 23 years and was married to Abbie Cannon July 21, 1902. They lived on the old F. C. Phillips ranch for two years and then Mr. Howard took a homestead 12 miles south of Wauneta where they lived for three years and then he bought the Prouty farm, which he still owned at the time of his death, and they made their home there for 14 years and then, because of the better educational advantages for their children, they moved to Max where they resided for 14 years and then in 1935 they bought their present beautiful home in Benkelman and had resided here since with the occasional exception of spending a few weeks or months at a time on the ranch. During all these years Alvin devoted his time to the ranching business which he loved so well and in which he was very successful. Although he liked people and enjoyed meeting them, he was a man of marked energy and he was always happiest when he was busy on the ranch or in selling and buying cattle. He couldn't be idle and kept going even though at times he did not feel well, even up until the end.

In the closing days of his life his greatest delight was in his little grandson Jimmie and his love and devotion for him was intense and every minute that he could spare from his work was spent at home with Mrs. Howard and Jimmie. Mr. Howard, while a busy man always, also found time to busy himself in the promotion of community affairs and he was one of the moving spirits in the Dundy County Fair Association all the years he lived here and later took an equal interest in the county fair and rodeo, spending freely of his time and energies in making these events successful. He enjoyed his friends and neighbors and sought to be worthy of them. He never spoke ill of anybody nor did he complain of the trials and. tribulations of life, even unto the end.

To Mr. and Mrs. Howard were born four children, two of whom preceded him in death—an infant daughter who died in 1903, and a son Glen who passed away in 1935. Besides the wife he leaves one son, True, of Benkelman, and one daughter, Mrs. Madge Yoerger of Mt. Vernon, Washington, and his grandson, Jimmie. Other surviving relatives are five brothers and two sisters, namely, Fred of Max, and George, Clyde, Ernest and Frank of Billings, Montana, and two sisters, Mrs. Orville Clark and Mrs. Earl Zahler, also of Billings. All were present at the funeral as was Mr. Yoerger.

Mr. Howard's body lay in state at the Laughlin Mortuary from Thursday until Sunday and dozens of his old friends and neighbors, many from considerable distances, called there during that time. The funeral was largely attended and the floral tribute was both extensive and beautiful.

Bly H. Howard, sexton tor the Benkelman Cemetery subce 1966 expired suddenly on Wednesday afternoon while at work at his duties at the cemetery. He was 69 years of age and had resided in this community since 1935. He worked for many years for the state highway department.

Funeral services were conducted at the Zion Lutheran Church on Saturday afternoon with Pastor Alvin Danielson in charge. The organists were Mrs. Burdette Wilson and Miss Vickie Pursley with the Lutheran choir singing. Casket bearers were Loren Mossburgh, Ray Draper, Royce Anderson, Charles Draper, Dan Ellis and Carl Gunther. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery under the direction of Jay's Funeral Home.

Bly Hardy Howard was born on September 4, 1900, at Palisade. Nebraska, the only child of Jesse La Rance Howard and Lillian May Hardy. He passed away on January 1970, at the age of 69 years, four months and three days.

When he was one year old, his family moved to Randolph, Nebraska, where he grew to manhood. Later he lived near Hershey, Nebraska, and moved to Benkelman in 1924. He was married on December 15, 1926, to Leta L. Gerdes and the young couple at first lived near Sutherland, Nebraska. They returned to the Benkelman area in 1936 and farmed until 1950, when they moved into Benkelman. He worked for the State of Nebraska Hi-way department until 1960. In 1966 he began work as a sexton at the Benkelman Cemetery. He passed away peacefully while at work.

He became a member of the Zion Lutheran Church on October 15, 1944. He has been a member of the Odd Fellow Lodge No. 361 in Benkelman since 1954.

He leaves to mourn him, his wife Leta; son Maynard M. of Imperial Beach, California; daughters, Eva E. Lunzmann of Imperial, Nebraska, and Karron K. Gates of Denver, Colorado; eight grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, two grandchildren, and one son-in-law.

Mrs. Howard has one living brother, Foster Gerdes, of Benkelman and two sisters, Mrs. Gladys Schwartz of Richards, Missouri, and Mrs. Elsie Rossi of Denver, Colorado. Two of her brothers have passed away, Dewey Gerdes and Chester Gerdes.

Charlie Everett Howard, the second son of Charles Edgar and Ida Leora (Beeson) Howard, was born June 15,1905, in a sod house four miles northeast of McDonald, Kansas.

The family then moved to McDonald for a short time while the parents operated a grocery store. In 1916, the Howard family moved to the farm 12 miles north of McDonald.

He began his education in a one-room school, and later graduated from McDonald Rural High School with the Class of 1923.

He began farming with his father and older brother, John. He enjoyed growing wheat and took great pride in their herd of Hereford cattle. He picked corn in the fall to supplement his income.

Charlie accepted Christ as his Saviour in his teen years and became a charter member of the McDonald Federated Church. He served many years as Sunday School clerk-treasurer.

On June 15,1927, he was united uin marriage to Elsie Irene Moreland at the Methodist parsonage in Colby, Kansas. Their home was blessed with four children; Royce Duane, who died at age five, Lois Jeanne, Kenneth Elwin and Lynn Veldon.

In the middle 1950's, he and Elsie purchased the McDonald Clothing Shop. He enjoyed helping with the maintenance and other chores as much as his farming would permit.

Charlie did much of his own mechanical work and would make a part if the proper repair was not available.

He enjoyed studying the weather. Kenneth built a weather house for his various instruments, and his first chore each morning was to check the recording thermometer and the rain gauge.

For many years, Charlie took his family on fishing trips, usually to the Colorado Rockies. He would study maps and find a stream which would not endanger the safety of his family. He taught the children the thrill of trout fishing, carefully baiting the hooks and telling how to look for just the right pool of water.

He loved his grandchildren. He often took them along to see a new calf, a deer fawn, or a rainbow. He took time to repair their toys and often had one or more on his knee.

After Elsie's illness confined her to the Hester Home, he drove to Benkelman each day to take the mail and the laundry to her. They both took part in the chapel services at the Home.

He became ill on June 7, 1989, and underwent major surgery at the Great Plains Regional Medical Center in North Platte, Nebraska. After a brief battle with massive infection, God called him home on June 12, 1989, just three days before his 84th birthday.

Memorial services were held on June 17, 1989, at the McDonald Federated Church with the Revs. Greg Moyer. Clarence Salhart and Greg Hubbard in charge. Music was provided by Mrs. Owen Wingfield, organist, and Fred Waters, soloist. Selections were “Blessed Assurance,” "In The Garden,” and the congregation sang "Blest Be The Tie That Binds.”

Pall bearers were his grandsons: Todd Howard, Kris Howard, Rob Howard, Tim Simon, Mike Brannick, Delbert Harvey, Treg Vyzourek, Steve Brocleman, Kelly Howard, Cody Beeson, Justin Jenik and Wade Harvey.

Honorary pall bearers were Fran Hatch, Orville Knapp, Gene Moser, Dale LeBow, Claude Pickett, Ross Wingfield, Ilan Hubbard and Dave Hubbard.

Burial was in Grace Cemetery at McDonald with Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years; daughter Lois Simon and husband, Edwin of Studley, Kansas; sons, Kenneth and wife, Phyllis, of rural McDonald and Lynn and wife, Rebecca, of Commerce, Texas; eight grandsons; five granddaughters: five great-grandchildren; brothers, John and wife of McDonald and Glenn and wife of Goodland, Kansas; sisters, Verne Swanson of Bolivar, Missouri, Vivian Opell and husband of Washington, Indiana, and Vida Gillispie of Kearney, Nebraska, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Fred Howard was born to Lazarus and Margaret Howard on March 30, 1882 in Des Moines, Iowa. At an early age he came to Union County, where he grew to manhood and was married to Nellie Dement on March 10, 1907, and shortly afterwards moved to a farm north of Max, Nebraska.

To their union was born Etha Elizabeth and Harley Douglass. Etha passed away on February 28, 1929.

In March 1929 he retired from the farm and moved into Max, where on July 19, 1932, his wife, Nellie, passed away.

Since 1936 he had made his home with his son and family until his death on May 31st, 1960. He was preceded in death by four brothers, Alvin, George, Otis and Bert.

He is survived by his son Harley of Max; a daughter-in-law, Selma; granddaughter and husband, Phyllis and Les Kirkman; three brothers and two sisters, namely, Ernest Howard of Ashland, Oregon; Clyde Howard and Mamie Zahller of Huntley, Montana; Frank Howard and Ada Clark of Billings, Montana; many nieces and nephews and a host of friends and neighbors.

Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Otto W. Michel at the Laughlin Chapel Thursday afternoon. A male quartet, composed of Ray Balderson, Harry Ough, Ross Druliner, Jr., and John Baer sang, "Beulah Land" and "Rock of Ages." Mrs. Gwen Bauer presided at the organ.

The body of Glen Howard was returned to Benkelman Friday evening and funeral services were held at the grave Sunday afternoon by Rev. J. C. Foster, and interment was in the Benkelman cemetery.

Glen's brief life came to an end at 5 o'clock Thursday morning, August 15th, following fatal burns sustained at near eleven o'clock the day previous when he fell backwards into a small geyser. He was fishing at the time, had landed one fine fish and had hooked another and in his interest in reeling it out of the water, forgot for the second the location of the burning pool behind him, stepping backwards into it. The walls of the pool had a sloping surface and realizing that once reaching the center, one is hopelessly lost as many of the geysers have no apparent bottom.

Glen exercised rare presence of mind in his efforts to escape, succeeding to the third trial. But he was burned, hopelessly burned, up to his collar bone. He removed all of his clothing in order that the cool air could reach him and about that time a forest ranger came upon him. Mr. and Mrs. Howard, who were about a quarter of a mile away at the camp were notified. The park ambulance service was immediately put at the disposal of the unfortunate youth, and he was taken to the government hospital at Mammouth Hot Springs about eighty miles distant, in the park_

There some of the best doctors in the government service ministered to him and Alvin also sent to Livingston, Montana, for a highly repoted specialist along this particular line. But there was nothing that really could be done.

Hospital doctors explained that in falling into ordinary boiling water one might be scalded to death but in falling into boiling geyser water, one is burned to death. The acid and mineral content of this water is very similar to hot lead and in contacting it, the flesh, and every tissue in it, is seared and can never be rebuilt. The circulation is also naturally practically put out of commission. But there is no suffering from geyser burns such as comes from other forms. Both Mr. and Mrs. Howard, who were with Glen from the time of the accident until his death, said that Glen said he had no pain whatsoever and that he was feeling reasonably good. For an hour preceding his passing, he begged his parents to lay down and get some rest, assuring them that he was feeling alright.

Glen was a splendid boy. He was thoughtful and considerate of others to the point far beyond his years. He was fairly charged with energy and his greatest pleasure came in accomplishing things. He begged his parents to move to the ranch this spring when school was out so that he could farm and keep busy. And when they finally acceded to his wishes, he carried on like a veteran all summer, never seeming to tire of his work and this in the face of one of the most discouraging growing seasons in years. His parents felt that he should have a rest and planned the trip to Yellowstone with Glen uppermost their minds.

He loved outdoor sports, hunting and fishing and these were his favorite diversions. He liked his school work but God's great out-of-doors, admidst its hills and valleys, surrounded by the beautiful setting so profusely provided by the Creator which we so often confuse as the work of nature, had a terrific appeal to him and he breathed, lived and enjoyed it as it is given few to appreciate and enjoy.

He counted his friends by the hundreds—everybody liked Glen—you just couldn't help it. And in his tragic passing the tears of many admiring friends are mingled with those of his heart-broken parents, brother, and sister.

Glen Larue Howard was born July 30,.1919, near Max, Nebraska, and passed away August 15, 1935, at Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park. Practically all of hts brief life was spent in school at Max and on the ranch. He is survived by the parents, Alvin and Abbie (Cannon) Howard, one brother, True Howard, and one sister. Mrs. L. B. Gallagher. An infant sister preceded him in death.

Harley Douglass Howard was born to Fred and Nellie Dement Howard north of Max on July 15, 1915, and went to his Heavenly home April 18, 1980 at the age of 64 years, 9 months and 3 days. He attended country grade school and graduated from Max Rural High in 1932.

Following the death of his siste,r Etha, in 1929 Harley and his parents moved to Max, Nebraska, where his mother passed away in 1932. On his 21st birthday in 1936, he was united in marriage to Selma Brynoff in the Stratton Parsonage. Phyllis Nadine was born in June 1937 and the family made their home with his father, Fred.

Harley opened his own service station in 1935 and he was associated with the Texas Company for 25 years.

On May 12, 1957 he was baptized and joined the Max Methodist Church where he held many offices and was faithful in attendance.

Harley enjoyed serving the public and was County Commissioner for 16 years, was one of the original owners and a part-time worker in the Dundy County Bowling Lanes, Past Master of Justus Lodge 180 AF&AM of Benkelman, and was a member of McCook Elks No. 1434.

He served his community and county in many capacities. For several years, he thoroughly enjoyed driving a bus for Benkelman Public Schools.

In February of 1979 his failing health was diagnosed as A .L.S. or Lou Gehrig's disease, for which there in no medical help. With a courageous will to live, he struggled against the disease, but had to enter the hospital in Kearney on March 7, where he continued to fight for the life he loved. He was an ardent outdoorsman and a student of nature. He leaves an empty place in our lives that can never he filled.

He was preceded in death by his father, mother and sister. Harley is survived by his devoted wife, Selma. loving daughter Phyllis and husband Les, and his much loved grandson, Neal, all of Max, Nebraska, his uncle, Clyde Howard of Huntley, Montana, and aunt, Veda Howard of Billings, Montana, many cousins, including True Howard and Merrel Howard of Benkelman, nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

Services were held Tuesday, April 22, 1980 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Benkelman, Nebraska, with the Rev. Dean Pofahl and Rev. Allan Martin officiating. Organist was Gwen Bauer who accompanied Chris Barenberg with the selections "I Know Who Holds Tomorrow" and "God Be With You Till We Meet Again".

Bearers were Bill Osborn. Duane Rousselle, Kenneth Gardner, Wayne Bascue, Howard Crow, and Edgar Powell.

Honorary bearers were Fred Scott, Quentin Kirkman, Torsten Anderson, Virgil Howard, Bob Bellamy, Leon.

McDONALD, Kan.--John Fredrick Howard, oldest child of Ed and Ida (Beeson) Howard, was born September 4, 1903, four miles northeast of McDonald, Kansas, and died January 17, 1993, at the Good Samaritan Center in Atwood, Kansas, at the age of 89 years, 4 months and 13 days.

He attended country school north of McDonald and graduated from McDonald Rural High School with the Class of 1922. His life's work included farming and ranching. He and his brother, Charlie, began farming on their own as teenagers 12 miles north of McDonald.

John was united in marriage to his first wife, Beulah Copper, in May 1922 at Benkelman, Nebraska. Two daughters were born to this union: Elaine and Joan. Beulah died April 10. 1946, and daughter Elaine Hoover died May 5, 1988.

He was united in marriage to Maxine Leebrick on November 22, 1946, at Denver, Colorado. To this union two children were born: Judy and Douglas. Maxine preceded him in death on December 6, 1989.

Preceding him in death were his parents; both his wives; a daughter and a brother, Charlie Howard.

John entered the Good Samaritan Center in Atwood January 13, 1992. and resided there until his death.

Survivors Include a son, Douglas Howard and his wife, Rita, of Benkelrnan; two daughters, Joan Lortscher and her husband, Don, of National City, California, and Judy Ketterl and her husband, David, of Herndon, Kansas; three sisters, Verne Swanson of Bolivar, Missouri, Vivian Opell and her husband, Jack, of Washington, Indiana, and Vida Gillespie of Kearney, Nebraska; a brother, Glen Howard and his wife, Ruth, of Goodland, Kansas; a son-in-law, R.M. Hoover of Sanford, North Carolina; 10 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. January 19, 1993, at the Federated Church in McDonald, with the Revs. Greg Moyer and Clarence Swihart officiating. Burial was in the Grace Cemetery at McDonald.

WAUNETA--Johnnie Edward Howard was born Nov. 21, 1924, on a farm north of Enders, Neb., to Ira E. and Lillian D. (Lathrope) Howard. He attended rural school near Enders and grade school in Palisade, Neb. He attended high school in Wauneta, Neb.

He was inducted into the United States Army in 1943 and served in the European Theatre under Gen. Patton. After his discharge in 1946, he married LaVeta May Bernard on Feb. 24, 1946, at the Pleasant Valley Church in Dundy County, Neb. The couple lived and worked on a farm and feedlot in Dundy County, moving into Benkelman in 1949 where Johnnie was employed as a truck driver.

In 1950 Johnnie was called up again during the Korean Conflict and stationed at Ft. Leonard wood, Mo., where he was joined by his family. After his discharge in 1951, they moved to Sidney, Neb., where Johnnie worked in the ordnance plant as an ammunition inspector.

In 1954 they moved to a farm north of Palisade where they made their home until the present.

At the age of 74 years, Johnnie passed away Tuesday evening, April 13, 1999, at the Heritage of Wauneta Nursing Home.

Johnnie was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church of Wauneta and the American Legion Post No. 318 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 7028, both of Palisade. He was a life member of the V.F.W. and served as the Post Commander for five years.

Johnnie enjoyed fishing and hunting and especially loved to care for his cattle.

Survivors include his mother, Lillian Howard, of Wauneta; his wife, LaVeta, of Palisade; sons Darryl and wife, Ronda, and Dean and wife, Mary Jo, all of Palisade, and Jimmy and wife, Marilyn, of Hayes Center. Neb.; a sister, Shirley Moorland, of Houston, Texas; eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father in 1954 and two brothers, Jewel and Ira Jr. "Bud."

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. MDT on Friday, April 16, 1999, at the Redeemer Lutheran Church of Wauneta with the Rev. Timothy Neumann officiating. Interment was in the Riverside Cemetery at Wauneta. Liewer Funeral Home of Wauneta was in charge of arrangements.

Services were held Sat, Oct. 21, 1978 for Leta L. Howard, 73, at Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Nebr.

Mrs. Howard was born on May 8, 1905 In Rawlins County Kansas and passed away on Oct. 17, 1978 at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Nebr. Officiating the services was Rev. Delbert Callaway. Organist was Mrs. Jackie Wilson playing for Edwina Roesener and Shirley Adkinson the selections, "How Great Thou Art" and "Asleep in Jesus."

Bearers were Herbert Talman, Harold Jensen, Reinhart Lunzman, Bud Cline, Charles Draper and Loren Mossburgh. Honorary bearers were Robert Gish, _t Everett Gerdes, August Schrader and Al Anderson.

Interment was held in Beneklman Cemetery in Benkelman, Nebr. Arrangements were made by Jones Funeral Home in Benkelman, Nebr.

She letves surviving her son Lyle Joseph and wife Eva of Benkelman, Nebr., Elsie Rosa and husband Mike Kessler of Benkelman, Nebr., one granddaughter Cheryl and husband Richard Hamilton of Watineta, Nebr., half-sister EdA.Schwarti of Benkelman, Nebr., Aer-in-law Geraldine Mundt, of Benkelnian, Nebr., many nieces and nephews, cousins and a host of friehds.

Merrel Lazerth Howard was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on January 1, 1906, to Otis Blaine Howard and Lena Beal Howard.

He passed away in the Northern Colorado Medical Center on January 11, 1988, at 1 p.m. at the age of 82 years and 11 days.

At the age of eight he moved with his family to Huntley, Montana, then at the age of 12 to Benkelman, Nebraska, where he spent the rest of his life, except for two years spent in Fort Morgan, Colorado.

He was married to Maude E. Edwards on October 19, 1924, at Holyoke, Colorado. They were married in the Methodist parsonage by the Rev. Tyre. Witnesses were his father, Otis Howard, her sister, Daisy Edwards Bisgard. and Fred Waterman. To this union two daughters were born; Daisy Merrella Howard and Doris Elaine Howard Frasier.

He lived a varied life. He attended Benkelman School through the seventh grade. He rode race horses for his father until he became too heavy to ride, then he did hauling with a team and wagon. The material for the present courthouse, and old schoolhouse which was recently torn down, were projects he worked on. He spent two years working in one of the first filling stations and delivered gas, mostly kerosene, to the farms around. He then bought a dray team and wagon and did contract hauling, delivering groceries and freight to the stores from the depot before trucks were available.

In 1926 Merrel joined the Methodist Church and was a member of the Benkelman United Methodist Church at the time of his death.

In 1928 he bought a truck and began a trucking career with Vern Griffin. They did local hauling until the years of the depression when they began the first long hauling out of Benkelman. Many trips were made to Greeley and Denver, clearing $5 a trip. In 1936 he began farming for himself and this became his life's work. In 1954 he purchased his present farm. His family and his farm were his greatest pleasures. His family is closely knit, and the family gatherings were his number one pleasure.

At age 72 Merrel retired from active farming and he and his wife purchased a motor home and traveled, visiting much of the western part of the U.S. and part of Canada.

He leaves to mourn his passing his wife, Maude of Benkelman; daughters; Merrella and husband, Harry Martin, of Benkelman, and Elaine and husband, C.O. Frasier, of Champion; five grandchildren and families; Debra Frasier, Terry Martin and Verla Bennett, Lonny and Kathy Stahlecker, Scott and Lori, Merrel and Linda Martin, Sara, Stacy and Steven Martin and Shalia and Brandon Sanford, and Derrel and JoAnn Martin, Jennifer and Kim; four sisters; Eva March, Irene Osborne and husband, George, Ruth Massey and Lucille Richmond and husband, Bill: one brother, Roy Howard, and wife. Freda: one sister-in-law, Daisy (Edwards) Bisgard; one brother-in-law, Lou Edwards, and wife. Mildred, many other relatives and a host of friends.

Services were held Friday, January 15, 1988, at 11 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Benkelman with the Rev. Dr. John Kilgore officiating.

Organist was Betty Erdman. Robert Andrews, Wilbur Case, M.D. Sailors and Steve Stroup sang the selections “The Old Rugged Cross" and “He's Got The Whole World In His Hands."

Bearers were Wes Cooley, Randy Bartlett, Darren Kilpatrick, Keith Wood, Gene Zimbelman and Ron Berry.

Honorary bearers were Joe Sidell, Harry Ough, Glen Osborn, Wayne Berry, Lee Gallatin, Glen Richard, Howard Miller, Walter Fries, Everett Alsbury, Bus Krutsinger and John Ham.

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

Thomas Duncan Howard was born August 21, 1932, on a farm south of Doane, Nebraska, to Alva Guy and Helen Cora (Boening) Howard and departed this life December 21, 1984, in Benkelman, Nebraska.

He was baptized in the Lutheran Church December 11, 1932, and confirmed March 21, 1948.

The family moved to Max, Nebraska, in 1934 where he attended grade school and high school, graduating in 1950. ,

On January 14, 1951, he was united in marriage to Karoline Dora Stute. To this union were born four children, Richard Robin, Roger Thomas, Debra Lee and Kevin George. Preceding him in death were his infant son, Richard Robin, and his father, Alva G.

On October 12, 1984, he was married to Jean Newman of Benkelman. He is survived by his wife, Jean, of Benkelman; one daughter, Debra Nordhausen and husband, Monte of Wauneta; two sons, Roger Thomas of Fort Collins and Dr. Kevin George of Hastings; four grandchildren, Cory and Heidi Nordhausen, Heather and Megan Howard; his mother, Helen Howard of Benkelman; one brother, Alva George and wife, Margaret of Chino, California; four sisters, Helen Janet Haines and husband, John, Rosemary Joyce Ham and husband, Arden of Benkelman, Margaret Jean Blecha of Goodland, Kansas, and Doris Adaline Albert and husband, Phillip of Fort Upton, Colorado; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Tom was a master builder. It was a profession of 34 years that he learned from his father.

His love for his one grandson and three granddaughters gave him much happiness and times of enjoyment.

His life here on earth is left with this verse: "If I should die and leave you here a while, be not like others—sore, undone, who keep long vigil by the silent dust and weep. For my sake turn again to life and smile, nerving thy heart and trembling hand to do that which will comfort other souls than mine. Complete these dear unfinished tasks of mine and I, perchance, may therein comfort you."

Services were held Monday, December 24, at Zion Lutheran Church of Benkelman with Pastor Earl Martell officiating.

Peggy Roesener accompanied Betty Hansen and Shirley Adkinson with selections, "Just To Know I'm Your Child" and "My Faith Looks Up To Thee."

Bearers were Leo Williams, Eldon Hendrickson, Glen Mullanix, John Owens, Glen Lemon, Larry Hansen, Jerry Owens and Gene Hansen.

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

True Howard. 92, died Friday, April 6, 2001, at the Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman, Neb. He was born Aug. 11, 1908, to Alvin and Abbie (Cannon) Howard on his family's ranch between Benkelman and Max. Neb. True rode a horse through the canyons to attend school in Max and graduated from Max High School in 1927.

In 1944 he was united in marriage to Emma Reimer, and with this union True was blessed with two daughters who he considered his own.

True was well-known throughout the area as an excellent rancher and horseman. He enjoyed trading and breaking horses, and bought cattle from or for many people throughout the area.

In his early years, True was an avid roper in all the area rodeos. In later years, he and his wife enjoyed traveling and attending rodeos from Texas to Canada.

True's wit and love of a good practical joke were well-known and could bring a smile to everyone. He will be greatly missed by his family and everyone who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Emma, who passed away in 1986: a brother. Glen; a sister in infancy, and a grandson, Greg.

Those who survive hint include his daughters: Loretta and husband, Jim Powell. of Benkelman and Carolyn and husband, Floyd Edmonds, of Meade, Colo.; a sister. Madge Rice, of McAllen, Texas; a nephew, Jim Howard and wife, Anita, also of McAllen: four grandchildren: two great-grandchildren: two great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews. relatives and friends.

Funeral services for True Howard were held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 10, 2001, at the Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with the Rev. George Matthews officiating. Phyllis Kirkman was the organist, and Kelly Hayward sang "On The Wings Of A Dove" and “Trails To Lead Ol Cowboys Home."

Pallbearers were Drs. Tom Noffsinger and Michael Downey, Kevin Cawthra, Shane Sis, Casey Donohue and Richard Fries. Honorary bearers were Torsten Anderson, Drs. Don Hudson and Robert Rhoades, Lawrence Ham, Lee Gallatin, Bill Hall, Jim Sis, Roger and Roy Dean Parker and AI Reining.

MAX—Virgil Wayne Howard was born August 23, 1912, at Enders, Nebraska, the son of Adrian and Delitha (Clolselter) Howard. He was baptized and attended the Lutheran Church as a youth.

During the second World War he worked in a defense plant in Glendale, California, and remained in California until he returned to this area in 1967, and resided in Max, Nebraska.

He was united in marriage with Violet Luella Carter in McCook, Nebraska, on February 21, 1969. They managed a resort in Springdale, Arkansas, from 1970 to 1973. They returned to Max for retirement where he helped his neighbors at many jobs, including carpentry.

He suffered a stroke and was hospitalized in the Dundy County Hospital at Benkelman, Nebraska, and then in Greeley, Colorado. He entered the Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman on June 2, 1992, and re-entered Dundy County Hospital on June 10 where he died at the age of 79 years, 9 months and 18 days.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Ira, Lee, Alva and Delmer, and two sisters, Oneta Nicholson and Mae Cecil.

He is survived by his wife, Violet; a son, Donald, in California; two daughters, Genevive Bryson of Lincoln, Nebraska, and Barbara Phorath of California; six grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother-in-law, Loyd

Nicholson of Cambridge, Nebraska, and a sister-1n-law, Lillie Howard, of Wauneta, Nebraska.

Services were held Monday, June 15, at 10 a.m. at Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with the Rev. Douglas Allen officiating. Organist was Jackie Wilson and Phyllis Kirkman sang "Peace In The Valley." "It Is No Secret" and "Going Down The Valley One By One."

Bearers were Barry Carter, James Carter, Mark Carter, Darryl Howard, Dean Howard and Jimmie Howard.

Interment was in Mount Hope Cemetery at Imperial, Nebraska, with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

Clarence Raymond Howk, son of Marion and Emma Howk, was born September 26, 1886, on the family homestead east of Bird City in Cheyenne County, Kansas.

Preceding him in death were his wife, Lena, in 1951, and two brothers; Ellis, as a boy of 12, and LeRoy, his partner of many years.

Survivors include his son, Merle, who with his wife, Helen, shared his home, and a granddaughter, Merla Rae Hoffman, and her husband, Michael. His brother LeRoy's wife, Lavern, and her daughter, Laura Lee Jones, are among other relatives who survive.

As a youth, Clarence rode his bicycle daily to McDonald, Kansas, where he learned the mercantile trade under the supervision of Ed Dobbs. This early training could have been a factor in developing the sense of judgment and business he was to exhibit.

In 1909, he entered a partnership with his father and brother, LeRoy, in establishing the Howk and Sons General Merchandise in Bird City, Kansas.

Three years later Clarence was married to Lena Byers, who early in life developed a progressive paralysis. The tender care he administered to her throughout her lingering years won him the respect of those who knew him.

The Howk brothers saw a future in the fertile lands in the Bird City vicinity and sold their store interests to purchase more farm ground. They continued to operate as partners for a number of years.

Clarence was involved in many activities in the interest of his home community. He regularly attended the Methodist Church and served a number of years on the school board. As a member of the I.O.O.F. Lodge, he received his 60-year-pin in 1967. He worked on the hospital board and for the hospital building.

Clarence had the remarkable ability to carry on under adverse conditions. Whatever his burdens were—they were his burdens.

Merle Raymond Howk, son of Clarence and Lena Byers Howk, was born Feb. 21, 1914, at Bird City, Kansas. He died July 23, 1979, at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Nebraska, at the age of 65 years, 5 months and 2 days.

Preceding him in death were his parents and an infant son. Survivors include his wife, Helen, one daughter; Merle Rae Hoffman and her husband, Michael, and one granddaughter, Beth. Other survivors include two aunts, Lavern Howk and Ilone Byers, and several cousins, other relatives, and many friends.

Merle's years at Bird City Rural High School were filled with achievements, both scholastic and athletic, culminating in his appointment by Congressman Charles I. Sparks to the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland. Merle was president of the Senior class of 1932 and was elected to the National Athletic Association for his participation in basketball. He was proud that his team went to the State Basketball Tournament. His love of sports continued into his adult years when he played the position of catcher on the Bird City Town Baseball team for many years

Merle attended barber school and operated a Barber shop in Bird City for a time—a vocation which gave him great delight throughout his life in giving many youngsters their first haircut.

When family illness prevented his acceptance of the appointment to Annapolis, he attended Santa Monica (California) Junior College and Woodbury College in Hollywood, California. He later was employed at Eastman-Kodak for some time.

Following his service in the United States Army during World War II, he returned to Bird City and his chosen profession of farming. He was the last one carrying the Howk name to follow the tradition started by his pioneer grandfathers and their families who both homesteaded near Bird City in 1886.

Merle was a member of the Immanuel United Methodist Church in Bird City and the Everett Nelson Post of the American Legion.

Merle was united in marriage to Helen Morehouse on Dec. 6, 1943. Their home was blessed with one daughter, Merla Rae. Merle's yery special pride and joy the past years has been his granddaughter, Beth. Her devotion to her "Grampy" gave him much pleasure and consolation during the months of his final illness.

Merle's love and concern for his family and friends, and his hope and courage in times of illness and adversity will be a guiding memorial to those whose lives he touched.

This life's day has ended,
His toil and sorrow are o'er
His New Day has begun
Where there'll be pain no more
And though our hearts are heavy
And we will miss him so
We cannot wish him back
To this life of pain and woe.
His love will be a beacon
As we travel on our way
His courage a guide to follow
Till we begin our New Day.

Funeral services were held Thurs., July 26 at the Immanuel United Methodist Church in Bird City with Rev. Paul Gilbert, Jr. officiating. The organist was Mrs. Laura Lee Jones, and vocalists were Warren and Hal Sager. Casket bearers were Martin Rinehart, Fred Sager, Harold Nelsen, Mae Chapman, J. C. Gleason, and Robert Sweaty. Interment was in the Bird City Cemetery under the direction of the Kramer Chapel of St. Francis. The Everett L. Nelsen American Legion Peal 352 conducted graveside services.

Family and friends from a distance who attended were: Dr. and Mrs. J. Michael Hoffman, Colorado Springs, Colorado; Mrs. Doris Lane, Denver, Colorado; Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Haack and Mark Haack, Loveland, Colorado; Mrs. Delores Klotz, Aurora, Colorado; Mr. Cecil Morehouse, Wheat Ridge, Colorado; Mr. Scott Neilan, Kansas City, Kansas, Dr. and Mrs. E.E. Laws, Jr., Shawnee, Kansas; Mr. Warren Sager, Wathena, Kansas; Mr. and Mrs. Clyde O'Mary, Geranamo, Oklahoma; arid Mr. David Trent, Ft. Doge, Iowa.

Wyona Darlene Hoyt, 81, of Culbertson, Neb., died Friday, March 19, 1999, at the Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman, Neb., where she lived since 1994.

She was born Aug. 27, 1917, in Davenport to William and Lulu (Miller) Keim. She was baptized and confirmed in the American Lutheran Church of Davenport. She attended country school through the eighth grade then graduated from Davenport High School in 1935. She graduated from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln as an English and Home Economics major. She taught two years in Phillips.

Wyona was married to James Thomson Hoyt on May 28, 1941, in Davenport by the Rev. Dumler. To this union were born four children. The Hoyts farmed 48 years near Culbertson.

Mrs. Hoyt actively participated in her community through extension, Federated Woman's Club, Legion Auxiliary. United Methodist Women and Gideon Auxiliary.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband,an infant son, and two brothers, Darrell and Myron.

Survivors include her daughter, Janice, and husband Lloyd Nellor of Beemer; her sons, Ronald and wife, Alana, and Dennis and wife, Janice Lynn, all of rural Culbertson; 10 grandchildren; Barbara and Jeff Hart, James and Dale Nellor, Paul and Sarah Hoyt, Anna and Tammy Hoyt, Nathan and Trina Hoyt, and Andre, Jeremy and Logan Hoyt; 4 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law Doris Keim, Kathryn Keim and Carol (Hoyt) and husband Harold Miller; a brother-in-law, Cloyd Hoyt, and his wife, Lola; nieces and nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services for Mrs. Hoyt were held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, March 23, at the Trinity United Methodist Church in Culbertson with the Rev. Don Morton and grandson Jeremy Hoyt officiating. Burial was in the Culbertson Cemetery. Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook was in charge of arrangements.

Charles Deroy Hubbard was born at his parents' home in McDonald, Kansas, October 6, 1930, to Katherine Brumm and Charles 0. Hubbard. He passed away December 24, 1983, at his home at the age of 53 years, two months and 18 days.

In December of 1948, Deroy trusted in Christ as his Saviour at a young life youth camp at Star Ranch, Colorado, 35 years ago. Deroy graduated from McDonald High School in 1949. In 1950, he attended Rockmont Bible College in Denver, Colorado.

Deroy was united in marriage to Phyllis Leone Officer on August 10, 1952. They started their home one mile south of McDonald. To this union were born four children; Daniel Deroy, Davy Gene, Dixie Jo and Diane Sue. For 31 years, Deroy devoted his time, effort and love to his family, friends and the Lazy H Ranch. He made the Lazy H a productive dairy, cattle, horse and grain ranch as well as a place to enjoy good company, hospitality and fellowship for all who stopped by.

Foremost, Deroy dedicated his life to daily activities to the service of his Saviour, Jesus Christ. Deroy's active participation in the Gideon organization and the Federated Church of McDonald was a witness exemplifying his love for the Lord. He served on the church board as well as teaching Sunday School and being a youth leader.

He is survived by his wife, Phyllis; his sons, Dan and wife, Margie, and Dave and wife, Sylvia; his daughters, Dixie and husband, Lonnie Louderbaugh, and Diane and husband, Lonnie Moffett, and Karen and husband, Paul Bischoping and children; his grandchildren, Roger, Roy, Stacy, Dusty and Rochelle; his mother, Katie Hubbard; his brothers and sisters, Jean Skubal, Harlan Hubbard, Vaulene Watt, Janice Antholz and Rodney Hubbard; and a host of relatives and friends.

Services were held December 27, 1983, at the Federated Church in McDonald, Kansas, with Rev. Greg Moyer officiating.

Assisting with musical selections were Dixie Louderbaugh, Greg Hubbard, Mrs. Claude Kisling and Mrs. Greg Moyer. Songs were "When We've Walked The Last Mile Of The Way," "When We All Get To Heaven" and "Blest Be The Tie That Binds."

Bearers were Perry Cork, Edwin Simon, Gordon Crowdis, Lawrence Simon, Lynn Haigler and Kent Voorhies.

The community was greatly shocked last Thursday morning when it became generally known that Mrs. Samuel Hudson had answered the Master's call and had entered onto that journey from which no traveler returns. Mrs. Hudson's illness had been of very abort duration and her death was due to influenza. She had only felt slightly ill for a few days preceding her death and no alarm was felt concerning her condition until Tuesday night when her Illness began to assume serious proportions and although physicians labored diligently to stop the progress of the disease, it was of no avail and she sank rapidly at the last.

Funeral services were held from the M. E. church Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. M. C. Smith and interment was in the Benkelman cemetery. Mrs. Hudson had lived with her family in the South Fork neighborhood for the past three years and had endeared herself to the people of that community to a remarkable degree. She was a woman of great industry and of many fine qualities of character. She appreciated and prized deeply the true friendship that she enjoyed with those who knew her best and her life was lived in such a way as fully merited those endearing friendships. She was a wonderfully devoted mother and her greatest hopes and ambitions were centered around her children. Site planned and sacrificed for their education and looked forward to the day when they might be surrounded by all the advantages for their progress and development.

She was a splendid woman possessing such noble traits of character as inspired those around her to the more noble and worth-while things of life. She was a true and considerate wife, a dutiful and affectionate daughter, a wonderful mother and a trusted neighbor and friend and those nearest and dearest to her have the tenderest sympathies of all in their great lose and bereavement.

Marie Jensena Jensen was born in Hamilton county, Nebraska, May 6, 1891. She died at her home near Benkelman, Nebraska, Thursday morning, November 29, 1928, aged 37 years, 6 months and 23 days

Soon after graduation she moved with her parents to Benton county, Missouri and in 1909 was married to Samuel Hudson. Five sons were born to them, all of whom survive. They are Vern 18, Harold 14, Marion 12, Willard 8 and Howard 5.

Besides her husband and children, she leaves in her immediate family only her father, Nelson C. Jensen, who made his home with them.

STRATTON -- Lylas Elaine Hudson, 72, died Wednesday (April 16, 2003) at Great Plains Regional Medical Center in North Platte.

She was born March 18, 1931, in Wauneta, to Frank and Meta (Christiansen) Norman, and later moved with her family to their farm near Hayes Center. She was a graduate of Hayes Center High School.

On Aug. 10, 1949, she married Delmer D. Hudson at Hayes Center. When her husband returned home from serving in the U.S. Navy, she moved with her family to Palisade. They later moved to Benkelman, where they both worked for Southwest Public Power; he as line manager, and she as dispatcher - a job she held for more than 25 years. Following retirement in 1990, they moved to Wauneta. After her husband's death in 1999, she continued to make her home in Wauneta. In May of 2002, she moved to her residence in Stratton, to be closer to her family.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Frank and Meta Norman; her husband, Delmer; sister, Marcella; and brother, Wendell.

Survivors include her daughter, Ronda and husband, Gaylord Vrbas of Stratton; sons, Randy Hudson and wife, Sally of Benkelman and Richard Hudson of Grand Island; sister, Betty and husband, Bob Carey of Palisade; brothers, Bud Norman and wife, Marilyn of Faribault, Minn., Jim Norman and wife, Cleone of Rochester, Minn., Merle Norman and wife, Anna Mae of Zumrbo Falls, Minn., and Elgin Norman and wife, Jean of Rochester; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be Saturday, at 9:30 a.m. (MDT) in the Forch Funeral Home Chapel in Benkelman with the Rev. Bernard Lorenz officiating. Interment will follow services at the Palisade Cemetery in Palisade.

NORTH PLATTE -- Donald B. Hudson, DVM, of North Platte, died Tuesday (July 30, 2003) at Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman at the age of 71.

He was born Oct. 25, 1931, to Byron and Betty (Shelly) Hudson in Arvada, Wyo. He attended primary school in Cheyenne Wells, Colo. After graduation, with a basketball scholarship in hand, he pursued a college education at Otero Junior College in LaJunta, Colo. After graduating in 1952, he entered Colorado State University's Animal Husbandry Program in Fort Collins, Colo.

On Dec. 29, 1953, he married Ruth LaVonne Baker, his high school sweetheart, in Cheyenne Wells. The couple moved to Fort Collins where he graduated from Colorado State University with a bachelor of science degree in animal husbandry in 1954.

In the fall of 1954, Don proudly served his country in the United States Army and received his honorable discharge in 1956. His fondness for animals, particularly bovine and equine, compelled him to complete a degree in veterinary medicine at Colorado State University in 1960. During college he worked as a carpenter and competed on the college rodeo team. In June of 1960, the couple purchased Dr. L.F. Blanchard's veterinary practice in Benkelman.

On March 24, 1961, a daughter, Marta Lucille, was born as Don's beagle, Cindy, waited on the front steps of Dundy County Hospital. Two years later on June 20, 1963, a son, Nicholas Byron, was born.

In 1966, as Don's veterinary practice at Twin Forks Clinic thrived, the couple built a home overlooking the Republican River, which Don named Springhill. In 1975, the couple purchased the Clearview Ranch located one mile north of Doane. Don sold his veterinary practice in 1976 and moved his family to North Platte where he accepted a position as University of Nebraska Extension and Research Veterinarian. In 1987, he fulfilled a life-long dream of earning a master's degree in clinical studies from Colorado State University. Don retired from the University of Nebraska in 1997 after serving the farmers and ranchers of Nebraska for over 20 years. During his veterinary career that spanned four decades, Don was president of the National Bovine Association, The Society of Theriogenology and served on the Nebraska Board of Veterinary Examiners. He was also a member of the Nebraska Veterinary Medical Association.

Don's retirement plan included steer roping in the Senior Steep Roping Association, cattle ranching and restoring the ranch house circa 1907 and hayloft barn at the Clearview Ranch. Throughout his life, Don was a member of the United Methodist Church and he served communities by building houses for Habitat for Humanity, serving on the NebraskaLand Days Board of Directors and actively participating in Rotary as a Paul Harris Fellow. Don was a devoted husband, father, brother and friend. He was first and foremost a great man and a cowboy who was fortunate enough to live his life with the woman he loved and doing the work that he loved until the moment of his passing. Don's special gift was his ability to see good in all people, his limitless work ethic and his resounding laugh.

Preceding him in death are his parents, Byron and Betty Hudson; infant son; and sister, Mae Pelton.

Those who survive him include his loving wife of more than 49 years, LaVonne Hudson of North Platte; daughter, Marta Hudson Ramsey and husband, Joe Ramsey, M.D. of Overland Park, Kan.; son, Nick Hudson of Strasburg, Colo.; sisters, Betty Jo Pennington and husband, Jack Pennington of New Jersey, Bobbie Dawes and husband, Les Wetmore of Colorado, Sally Hollenbaugh and husband, Marvin of Benkelman; brother-in-law, Dean Pelton of Cheyenne Wells; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Dr. Hudson will lie in state at Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman on Friday, Aug. 1, 2003, from 2-8 p.m. (MDT). Funeral services will be Saturday, Aug. 2, 2003 at 10 a.m. (MDT) at the United Methodist Church in Benkelman with Rev. Norman Prather officiating. Interment with military honors will follow services at the Benkelman Cemetery. Memorials may be given in his name.

NORTH PLATTE -- Donald B. Hudson, DVM, of North Platte, died Tuesday (July 30, 2003) at Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman at the age of 71.

On March 24, 1961, a daughter, Marta Lucille, was born as Don's beagle, Cindy, waited on the front steps of Dundy County Hospital. Two years later on June 20, 1963, a son, Nicholas Byron, was born.

Preceding him in death are his parents, Byron and Betty Hudson; infant son; and sister, Mae Pelton.

STRATTON -- Lylas Elaine Hudson, 72, died Wednesday (April 16, 2003) at Great Plains Regional Medical Center in North Platte.

She was born March 18, 1931, in Wauneta, to Frank and Meta (Christiansen) Norman, and later moved with her family to their farm near Hayes Center. She was a graduate of Hayes Center High School.

Following retirement in 1990, they moved to Wauneta. After her husband's death in 1999, she continued to make her home in Wauneta. In May of 2002, she moved to her residence in Stratton, to be closer to her family.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Frank and Meta Norman; her husband, Delmer; sister, Marcella; and brother, Wendell.

STRATTON -- Lylas Elaine Hudson, 72, died Wednesday (April 16, 2003) at Great Plains Regional Medical Center in North Platte.

She was born March 18, 1931, in Wauneta, to Frank and Meta (Christiansen) Norman, and later moved with her family to their farm near Hayes Center. She was a graduate of Hayes Center High School.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Frank and Meta Norman; her husband, Delmer; sister, Marcella; and brother, Wendell.

STRATTON– Mildred E. Hudson, 97, died Wednesday, Sept. 26. 2001, at the Community Hospital in McCook, Neb.

She was born Nov. 26, 1903, to Amos A. and Jennie E. (Johnson) Wood on their farm in Hitchcock County, Neb. As a young girl, Mildred attended McCabe country school near her home south of Stratton and later attended Stratton High School where she graduated in 1923. Having attended normal school, Mildred was eligible to begin her teaching career, and she taught school in rural Dundy and Hitchcock counties while attending summer school to obtain her lifetime certificate.

On July 29, 1930, she was united in marriage to John H. Palmer at Stratton, and to this union two sons were born; Norman Dale and Kent Arlon. Mildred continued teaching for three more years; however, times were rough and money was scarce, so on Oct. 1, 1936, she opened a beauty shop behind her husband's barbershop, and it was here she began her career as a beautician that would last more than 33 years.

On Sept. 4, 1969, Mildred was united in marriage to Jesse D. Hudson at her home in Stratton, and together they enjoyed traveling throughout the United States visiting family and friends and seeing the country.

She was a member of the Community United Methodist Church of Stratton, the United Methodist Women, the Stratton Garden Club and the American Legion Auxiliary.

Mildred loved to quilt and was often referred to as the "Quilt Lady." She made and donated several quilts to Grandview Senior Center in Stratton where they were used in fund-raising events, and volunteered her time to help with activities at the Center. She could often be found playing cards with friends and neighbors, and enjoyed watching game shows on television and working crossword puzzles.

Mildred was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, her sons and sisters Austa Bennett- Clark and Florence Nelson.

Survivors include a stepson, Neal Hudson, and wife, Shirley, of Trenton, Neb.; a half-sister, Pearl Onita Pitner of Reno, Nev.; step-grandchildren Roger Hudson and wife. Debra, of Martell, Neb., and Jean and husband, Earl Ward, of Hays, Kan.; nephews Lyman Nelson and wife, Martha, of Richland, Wash., Wendell Nelson of Kennewick, Wash., Charles Nelson and wife, Alice, of Yakima, Wash., Jim Bennett and wife, Sharon, of Minneapolis. Minn., and Vincent Bennett and wife, Judy, of Colfax, Wis.; step great-grandchildren Grant Hudson and wife, Anne, Jennifer and husband, Steven Vanderpool, Chad Quick and wife, Kathy, Kyle Quick and Tisha and husband, Nael Samha; eight step great-great grandchildren; a stepsister-in-law, Velma Wood, of Portland, Ore., and numerous other relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Mildred Hudson were held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 1, at the United Methodist Church in Stratton with the Rev. Norman Prather officiating. Marjorie Redfield was the organist. Wallace Gummere, Robert Thomas, Phil Goodenberger and Michael Pruter sang "Amazing Grace" and "I Know Who Holds Tomorrow."

Casket bearers were Roger and Grant Hudson, Earl Ward, Jim and Charles Nelson and Kyle Quick. Burial was in the Rose Hill Cemetery at Stratton. Forth Funeral Chapel of Stratton was is charge of arrangements.

Byron B. Hudson, one-time Dundy County resident and the father of Dr. Don Hudson and Mrs. Marvin Hollenbaugh of Benkelman, passed away on Monday evening at St. Joseph's Hospital in Cheyenne Wells, Colorado, where he had undergone major surgery last week. He had been critically ill for several days and members of the family had been summoned to his bedside. He was 74 years of age.

Mr. Hudson was a retired Colorado brand inspector and Cheyenne Wells, Colorado, was the family home altho he and his wife did reside on the Hines Ranch for a year and a half several years ago but returned to their home community later.

He is survived by his wife, Lucile; one son, Dr. Don Hudson and wife LaVonne of Benkelman; daughters, Sally Hollenbaugh and husband Dr. Marvin Hollenbaugh of Benkelman, Bobbie Dawes and husband Les of Fort Collins, Colorado, May Pelton and husband Dean of Cheyenne Wells, Colorado and Betty Jo Pennington and husband Jack of Pennington, New Jersey.

Funeral services were being, arranged to be at Cheyenne Wells, but further details were not available when The Post went to press.

WAUNETA- - Delmer D. Hudson, 71, died Tuesday, Oct. 12, 1999 at Heritage of Wauneta, Neb. He was born July 8, 1928, in Imperial, Neb., to Lloyd and Beulah (Scott) Hudson. He grew up in Palisade, Neb., where he attended school and graduated in 1947.

He was united in marriage to Lylas Norman on Aug. 10, 1949, in Hayes Center, Neb. He served his country in the United States Navy for four years before receiving his Honorable Discharge in 1953.

While in the Navy, Delmer received his education to become a licensed electrician. He was employed by Southwest Public Power District for more than 38 years, retiring in 1990.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Those who mourn his passing include his loving wife, Lylas, of Wauneta; two sons, Randy and wife, Sally, of Benkelman, Neb., and Richard Hudson of Grand Island, Neb.; a daughter, Ronda, and her husband. Gaylord Vrbas, of Stratton, Neb.; grandchildren Emily and Eleanor Hudson, Michael Todd, Shari (Todd) Hearon, Aubrey Vrbas and wife, Lisa, Chanta Vrbas and Jared Vrbas; great-granddaughters Nicole, Dana and Carli Jo Hearon and Taylor Todd, and nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 16, 1999, at the United Methodist Church in Palisade with the Rev. Richard Brian officiating. JoAnn Ward was the organist and Ken Hazel sang "How Great Thou Art," "On The Wings Of A Dove" and "Be Not Afraid."

Bearers were Ron Janicke, Bill Lawless. Hugh Anderson. Frank Potthoff, Roger Britten and Lawrence Richard. Burial was in the Palisade Cemetery with military rites by the American Legion Posts No. 318 of Palisade and No. 304 of Wauneta. Arrangements were by Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman.

Jesse D. Hudson was born on February 23, 1893, in a sod house at Hamlet, Nebraska, to Marion Edgar and Sylvia Jane (Colby) Hudson and departed this life on December 10, 1984, at El Dorado Manor in Trenton, Nebraska.

In 1894 the family moved by covered wagon to Tres Piedras, New Mexico, and returned to Hitchcock County in 1905. Jesse served a tour of military duty overseas during World War I and was a permanent member of William Egle Post 281. Following his military service, he spent several years at the carpenter trade.

On July 10, 1923, he was united in marriage to Leona (Jessee) Dunn at Imperial, Nebraska. To this union, one son, Neal Dowell, was born. They were engaged in farming in Dundy and Hitchcock counties until the time of Leona's death in 1968.

Jesse was married to Mildred (Wood) Palmer on September 4, 1969, and they made their home in Stratton, Nebraska.

Preceding him in death were his wife, Leona, his parents, his brother, Eddie Hudson, and one sister, Ida Mae Bancroft.

He is survived by his wife, Mildred of Stratton; one son, Neal, and his wife, Shirley of Trenton; one stepson, Gaile Dunn, and his wife, Irma of Benkelman; two grandchildren, Roger Hudson, and his wife, Debra of Martell, Nebraska, and Jean (Hudson) Quick of Hays, Kansas; five great-grandchildren, Jennifer and Grant Hudson of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Chad, Kyle and Tisha Quick of Hays, Kansas; one sister, Gladys Speicher of Wray, Colorado; and many other relatives and friends.

Services were held Friday, December 14, at the United Methodist Church of Benkelman with the Rev. Dale Coates officiating.

Marie Kleinschmidt provided organ music and accompanied Wallace Gummere, Arthur Hawkinson, Richard Stahly and Daniel Rife with selections "How Great Thou Art" and "Beautiful Isle Of Somewhere."

Bearers were Gene Kleinschmidt, Howard League, Howard Wyss, Dick Hannah, Gerald Paxton and Wilbur Wyss.

Interment was in the Rose Hill Cemetery of Stratton. Committal service was conducted by William Egle Post No. 281 and VFW Post No. 9155.

Lucile Hudson loved the Lord and sought earnestly to do His work and will. Her parents worked faithfully in the Round Mountain, Texas church and she often told of her father helping baptize new members in the creek. She loved children and taught school in Wyoming where she met her future husband, Byron. During the years when she lived on isolated ranches where it was impossible to attend church, she held Sunday school weekly for her children.

Lucile was an ideal cowboy's wife as she had been a tomboy who worked with her father to train horses and mules. A fine horsewoman, she liked animals of all kinds and helped her husband with the stock on the ranch.

In Cheyenne Wells, Colorado, she happily joined the Methodist Church and began years of joyous service. For more than 20 years she was a Sunday School superintendent and nursery class teacher. For years she held an Easter egg hunt in her home for all Sunday school students.

Lucile was a member of Naomi Circle of W.S.C.S. where her joy was in serving and in helping others. Her fingers flew as she worked making things for the bazaar, serving dinners and cleaning up afterward. Always. she felt happy and useful at church which was truly the center of her life.

A devoted wife and mother, Lucile worked to instill in her children the values demonstrated by Jesus Christ. She stressed love, honesty, integrity and fidelity to her children and was proud that all five grew up to take their places in churches and communities and raise strong families.

She leaves behind to mourn her the following: sister, Hope Alexander; daughter, Betty Jo Pennington, and husband, Jack of Pennington, New Jersey, children, Steven, Shelly, Amy, Lucy and Beth; daughter, Mae Pelton, and husband, Dean of Cheyenne Wells, Colorado, children, Carleton, Mark, Belinda, Hudson, Wade, Selmer, Elitha, Shane, Arlie, Kirby, Bonnie and Troy; daughter, Bobbie Dawes, and husband, Lesley of Salida, children, Robby, Melissa and Tina; son, Dr. Don Hudson, and wife, LaVonne of North Platte, Nebraska, children, Marta and Nick; and daughter, Sally Hollenbaugh, and husband, Marvin of Benkelman, Nebraska, children, Andrea and Stacey; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Lucile was preceded in death by three brothers, five sisters, husband Byron Hudson and two grandchildren.

BENKELMAN - Nicholas Byron Hudson, of Laird, Colo., died Friday, June 16, 2006, at the home of his mother, Ruth LaVonne Hudson, in North Platte, at the age of 42.

He was born June 20, 1963 to Donald Byron and Ruth LaVonne (Baker) Hudson and attended primary school in Benkelman and North Platte. After graduation he worked on a ranch in the Sandhills of Nebraska where he thrived on cowboy life. With a rodeo scholarship in hand, he pursued a college education at Casper College in Casper, Wyo. and completed a bachelor's degree in agriculture and business at the University of Wyoming, in Laramie, Wyo. in 1987. Throughout high school and college Nick pursued his passion for rodeo and competed in bare back, saddle bronc, calf roping, and team roping. He won the regional title in bareback riding and competed at the national college rodeo finals rodeo. He joined the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association where he competed in bareback riding and steer roping. While in the PRCA Nick successfully placed in four rodeo events.

In 1987 Nick relocated to Pratt, Kan., when he accepted a position as Head Rodeo Coach and as an instructor in agriculture and business. The rodeo team learned that Nick's teaching methods included riding the rough stock, roping and handling the livestock himself to show them how to win and have fun.

In 1990 Nick moved to Laramie, to pursue his bareback riding career and work for Hamaker Excavation. On Nov. 12, 1994, Nick married Katie Smith and was married for six years. While living in Laramie, Nick used his expertise in construction and excavation to build a home. After winning the Laramie Rodeo, he fractured his neck and retired from bareback riding. As a cowboy, his rodeo career was far from over. Mounted on a big gray horse named Especiale, he started his career as a steer roper in the PRCA. He developed a talent and passion for rodeo announcing, which included announcing high school, college, and PRCA rodeos, not to mention the Daddy of 'em All at Cheyenne Frontier Days in Cheyenne, Wyo. To promote high school rodeo around the country, Nick announced high school rodeos, which were telecast across the nation on television.

In 2000 Nick moved to Denver, Colo., to work for his long-time friend Greg Ressler where he managed a telecommunications company. He purchased a small acreage and built a roping arena and home in Strasburg, Colo.. After the death of his father in 2003, Nick sold his home in Strasburg in 2005, and moved to Wray, Colo., to be closer to his mother and her ranches, Clearview in Benkelman and While You're Here in North Platte. In 2004 he started a cattle business with his sister, Marta Hudson, and Roger and Lucille Herman, which gave him joy and strength until the moment of his passing.

On his 42nd birthday, June 20th, 2005 Nick was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. When he was given a prognosis that could potentially limit his life to one year, he pursued radiation and chemotherapy treatment with courage, a positive attitude and hope of recovery. He continued to announce rodeos, sell cattle for Superior Livestock Auction, and work with the cattle on the ranches. Despite his illness, he never ceased to lend a helping hand and care for his family and friends.

Nick was a devoted son, brother, and friend. He was first and foremost a great man, a cowboy who was fortunate enough to live his life with a passion for his work, a multitude of friends and dry sense of humor that made him "one of those guys that you always want to be around".

Preceding him in death are his grandparents, Byron and Lucile Hudson and Edward Russell (Rusty) Baker; father Donald Byron Hudson; an infant brother; uncles, Don Baker and Marvin Hollenbaugh; and aunt, Mae Pelton.

Those who survive him include his loving mother, Ruth LaVonne (Baker) Hudson of North Platte; sister, Marta Lucille Hudson of Shawnee, Kan.; aunts Sally Hollenbaugh of Benkelman, Barbara Baker of Venice, Florida, Bobbie Dawes and husband of Wetmore, Colo., Betty Jo Pennington and husband of Pennington, N.J.; uncles Laverne (Butch) Baker and wife of Spearman, Texas, Phillip Baker and wife of Longmont, Colo., and Dean Pelton of Cheyenne Wells, Colo.; and numerous other cousins and friends.

Funeral services were today, June 20, 2006, at 11. a.m. (MST) at the United Methodist Church in Benkelman, Nebraska, with Rev. Brian Fong Officiating. Interment will follow services at the Benkelman Cemetery.

Memorials may be sent to Great Plains Regional Medical Center Hospice, 601 W. Leota, North Platte, Nebraska 69101.

Marta and LaVonne Hudson would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the Great Plains Regional Medical Center Hospice staff and volunteers and the Callahan Cancer Center in North Platte. for their support. To the many family and friends who visited Nick, helped maintain the ranches, telephoned, and sent their thoughts and prayers, we thank you.

Funeral services were held from the Methodist church in Yuma on Monday afternoon May 31 for Grace L Huey, prominent long-time resident of that community.

She is survived by her husband, George Huey; two daughters, Mrs John Pletcher of Lakewood and Mrs. Robert Seward of Yuma; and a son, Millard Huey, of Fort Morgan,—Wray (Colo.) Gazette.

SUTHERLAND– Almer R. Hughes, 87, former Sutherland, Neb., area farmer, died Dec. 29, 1996, at the Sutherland Community Care Center.

He was born March 16, 1909, to George and Achsah Hughes in Custer County on his grandfather's place. He farmed south of Sutherland.

Survivors include 3 daughters: Ramona, Mrs. Pete Watrous, of Des Moines, Iowa, Betty, Mrs. Bud Friel, of North Platte, Neb., and Joyce, Mrs. Lloyd Boyer, of Sutherland; 2 sons, Bill and his wife, Evelyn, of Rapid City, S.D., and David and his wife, Betty, of Sutherland; a sister, Pamela Latimer of Lincoln, Neb.; 14 grandchildren and 27 great- grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his wives, Acenath and LeNora; a daughter, Lola; four sisters, and a brother.

Imperial, Neb. — Herbert J. Hughes, 64, who promoted Nebraska wheat around the world, died Friday at his farm west of here, apparently of a heart attack.

He was one of the organizers of the Nebraska Wheat Growers Association, a past president of the National Wheat Growers Association and one of the leaders of the Great Plains Wheat Marketing Development Association.

As a delegate to the 1956 International Wheat Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, he won praise by scattering Nebraska wheat in the ashtrays around a conference table. Soon, the delegates were inspecting and even tasting the wheat. The stunt resulted in Swiss interest in importing the wheat.

Hughes was appointed by President Eisenhower to the Commodity Credit Corp. Advisory Board in 1953, later becoming chairman. President Johnson appointed him to the Food and Fiber Commission.

A delegate to the 1952 National Republican Convention, he also ran for the State Board of Education and the Legislature. Hughes received the Nebraska Agribusiness Club service award in 1967.

Rosary will he Sunday at 8 p.m. in Imperial and funeral at 10 a.m. Monday at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, with the Rev. Zygumnd S. Rydz officiating.

Many of the readers of the STAR were surprised and grieved to learn of the death of Delos Hulbert in last week's issue. There are but few old settlers that did not know and kindly remember the deceased. He was a prosperous farmer of Oneco and later West Point township.

Three years ago he disposed of his farm and personal property and moved to Palisades, Neb. When he left here he was considered well-to-do but his trip west, the purchase of a farm, erection of buildings and failure succeeding failure reduced him until his fortune was swept away. His health failed him and he died a broken hearted and sorrowing man. A kinder or better man never lived and his friends here mourn his demise.

The deceased was born in Chautauqua county, N. Y. in 1835; two years later he came to this county and lived with his parents in Oneco until his marriage with Miss Elizabeth M. Solace in 1858, when he purchased a farm of his own in the same township and lived there until 1882, when he removed to West Point township, making his home here until 1893, when he sold out and went to Hitchcock county, Neb. Twelve children were horn to Mr. and Mrs. Hulbert, all but two of whom died in infancy. His wife and these two, now Mrs. Van Matre and Mrs. Wm. Gorin of Hitchcock county, Neb., survive him.

Besides these two he leaves a brother, John Hulbert, of Oneco, and a sister, Mrs. Wm. Diveley, of Waddams.

Mr. Hulbert was an upright, honorable citizen, both prominent and popular in the neighborhood where so much of his life was passed, a kind husband and father, a good neighbor and a substantial member of the community. He was a member of the Baptist church in the work of which he took an active part for several years. His death is deeply regretted by his old friends, who grow lonesome as one by one those with whom they have been associated all through life pass to the mysteries of the other world.

The remains were buried at Pleasant Ridge cemetery, the Rev. Mr. Duval conducting the services.

Nathaniel H. Hull, an aged farmer, living about a mile and a half west of Parks, committed suicide sometime between Thursday night and Sunday morning, last, by hanging himself in his barn, where his body was found Sunday morning by a 14-year-old son of James Wickersham, a neighbor.

Coroner E.A. Pickens went to the scene of the tragedy Sunday and after viewing the body and making inquiry decided an inquest was not necessary. There could have been no reason for supposing the old gentleman met his death by foul means, for the body hung in such a way that if he had wanted to he could have prevented death, and on his person was found over $18 in money, there being more in the house, besides a bank book showing a deposit of about $800 in a local bank. He left no written word nor sign as a reason for taking his life, but it was known by friends that he was very lonesome, often complaining of life on that score, as he lived alone.

He was about 713 years of age. The last seen of him alive was Thursday afternoon, though a neighbor thought he observed a light in the old gentleman's house Saturday evening. However, the undertaker who prepared the body for burial expressed the opinion that the deceased had been dead at least 48 hours, as the body was beginning to putrify when taken down.

Nathaniel H. Hull had resided in Dundy County almost 25 years. He was a veteran of the Civil War and a pensioner of the government. He was a widower.

There are left to mourn his loss, three children: two sons, John Hull, an assistant yardmaster for the Burlington at Lincoln, and Harry Hull, employed by an electric company in Oregon, and a daughter, Mrs. Will Ellis, residing near Laird, Colorado, who was the only child present at the funeral services, which were held Monday at the home by the Rev. J.F. Hageman of Benkelman, interment being in the United Presbyterian Cemetery north of Parks.

Mildred Francis Humphrey, 86, of Benkelman, Neb., died Saturday, July 22, 2000, at East Morgan County Hospital in Brush, Colo.

She was born Sept. 3, 1913, on her family's homestead north of Benkelman, the firstborn child of Harry Lee and Selma Alfreda (Nelson) Dixon.

Having been born and raised in Dundy County, Mildred grew up on the family farm and attended school in Benkelman. She graduated from high school in 1931.

In 1993, she moved to the Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman, and in June 2000 moved to Sunset Manor in Brush, Colo.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald W. Humphrey, in 1990; three brothers; Marvin, Maurice and Mardelle Dixon, and a son, Dick Humphrey.

Those surviving her include her daughter, Patricia Jean Lee, of Golden, Colo.; a sister, Madeline Mae Cox, of Imperial, Neb.; a grandson, Gregg Allen Lee, of Golden; two great-grandsons; Branigan and Nathanuel, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation was Tuesday, July 25, 2000, at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be given in her name to Sunset Manor Alzheimer's Care Center, 2200 Edison St., Brush, CO 80723.

Blanche Ensley Humphrey died in New Haven, Connecticut on October 19, 1972. She was born in Tice, Illinois, the daughter of William and Lizie Tice Ensley. They moved to Dundy County when she was 13 years old.

Blanche Ensley and Seldon B. Humphrey were married in Dundy county on August 1, 1920 and subsequently lived in Missouri, Ohio and Connecticut. They had lived in New Haven since 1931. Surviving are one daughter, Helen Mary Stone (Mrs. L. Edgar Stone, Jr.) of Newport, Rhode Island and two grandchildren, Wesley and William.

Funeral services were held in New Haven, Connecticut on October 21st. Cremation followed and interment will be at a later date in the Oronoque, Kansas, cemetery.

The Ensley farm is still owned by Mrs. Humphrey and is worked by Paul Eaton. Mr. and Mrs. Harold Hazlett live in the Ensley homestead.

Boyd L. Humphrey, 36, was instantly killed in an aircraft accident at the New Castle airport near his home at Wilmington, Delaware on Tuesday afternoon. Full details of the tragedy were not learned by Benkelman relatives by the time The Post went to press on Wednesday.

Information received here was to the effect that Boyd was testing electronic equipment in an aircraft in the normal pursuit of his occupation in connection with the RCA laboratories. Immediately after the crash, his wife, Virginia Ann, was informed of the tragedy and she communicated with her mother, Mrs. Mable Lewis, and other Benkelman relatives. Mrs. Lewis left by Zephyr from McCook on Tuesday evening enroute to Wilmington to be with her daughter and family.

Boyd Humphrey was born May 24, 1921 and was reared in the Benkelman community where he attended the public schools and graduated from the Benkelman high school. He attended McCook College and entered the service of his country in the Navy in December, 1942 and served as a night fighter pilot where he distinguished himself in action with the Pacific fleet, particularly in the Philippine Islands, Formosa and Tokyo area for which he received the Distinguished Flying Cross.

He is survived by his wife and four daughters; and three sisters; Mrs. Floyd Rickard of Benkelman; Mrs. Basil Crook of McCook and Mrs. Howard Merklin of Cheyenne. He is preceded in death by his parents.

He was born in July 1963 in Culver City, Calif., and attended Benkelman Grade School from kindergarten through fifth grade, before moving to Paso Robles, Calif., in 1974. Curt graduated from Paso Robles High School in 1981. Beloved Husband, Son, Brother, Uncle and Friend.

Curt is survived by his wife, Gael; mother, Doris Lutz of Paso Robles, CA; brother, Greg Altig, currently residing in Saudi Arabia; niece, Melissa Altig and nephew, Cory Altig of Paso Robles, CA and his beloved Airedale, Grace.

WHEAT RIDGE, Colo.– Dick D. Humphrey was born Sept. 3, 1935, in Dundy County, Neb., to Donald W. and Mildred F. (Dixon) Humphrey. He died Tuesday, Feb. 18, 1997, at the Lutheran Hospital in Wheat Ridge. He was 61 years old.

He was an electrical technician and worked in the aircraft industry in California before accepting an early retirement when he moved to Wheat Ridge.

Survivors include his mother, Mildred Humphrey, of the Hester Home in Benkelman, Neb.; his sister, Patricia, and her husband, Don Lee, of Golden, Colo.; a nephew, and other relatives.

Graveside services were held at the Benkelman Cemetery on Saturday, Feb. 22, 1997, at 10:30 a.m. with the Rev. Michael Davis officiating. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery. Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman was in charge of arrangements.

GLENDALE. Ariz.—Funeral services for Donald W. Humphrey, husband of Mildred F. (Dixon) Humphrey, of Glendale, Arizona, will be held Saturday, December 15, at 10:30 a.m. at Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Nebraska, with the Rev. Dr. John Kilgore officiating.

Mr. Humphrey died December 8, 1990, at the Thunderbird Samaritan Hospital in Glendale.

He is survived by his wife, Mildred, of Glendale; one son, Dick D. Humphrey, of Wheat Ridge, Colorado; one daughter, Patricia J. Lee, and her husband, Donald G. Lee, Sr., of Denver, Colorado; one grandson, Greg A. Lee, and his wife, Shawn, of Denver, and one great-grandson, Branigan J. Lee.

Mr. Humphrey was a resident of the Benkelman area for the first 24 years of his life and left the area in the late '30s.

Clara Humphreys, daughter of Jacob and Laura Artist, was born December 10, 1896, in the Hiawatha Community of Dundy County, Nebraska, in a sod house on her parents' homestead. She departed this life December 5, 1987, at the age of 90 years, 11 months and 25 days.

Clara led an active life until arthritis forced her to slow down and eventually made it necessary to go to the Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman, Nebraska.

She helped her parents on the farm and when later asked about the hardships that the early settlers of this area faced, she replied, “We never felt like we had hardships. The Lord took care of us. He saw to it that we had enough to eat, clothes to wear, and satisfled our basic needs. Mother always had a big garden and dried the surplus and Father raised his own meat."

On November 6, 1917, she was united in marriage to Tom Humphreys. The Rev. Mrs. Oda Woodward performed the ceremony and was in attendance for their 50th wedding anniversary celebration in 1967.

In her younger years Clara was an active Christian. Their home was a place of fellowship with friends and family. Their lives were filled with service to others and for years they delivered fresh milk from their farm to homes in the Benkelman area. She and Tom often invited folks to their home for a meal and often entertained church evangelists and other visitors.

For years they helped in the Pleasant Valley Friends Church and later they were both active in planning the new church, which later became known as the Benkelman Friends Church. She and Tom were both charter members of this new work. She was faithful in attending the services and later when unable to attend because of health, she welcomed her church friends to visit her. Many remember stopping by for a brief visit and finding her reading the Bible.

She leaves to mourn her passing several nieces and nephews who were her only family, and her many friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, two brothers, Ward and Earl, and four sisters, Vada, Maude, Flossie and Loa.

Services were held Tuesday, December 8, 1987, at 2 p.m. at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with the Rev. James Brackett officiating.

Organist was Mary Baney. James and Debbie Brackett sang the selections "How Great Thou Art" and "Oh To Be Like Thee."

Bearers were Mearl Richard, Wesley Wheeler, Nason Wilson, Eugene Hansen, Jim Battey and Duane Wilson.

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

MAX --Opal Humphreys, 88, died Sunday (July 10, 2005) at Hester Memorial Nursing Home in Benkelman.

She was born Oct. 5, 1916, to Bert and Jessie (Gardner) Lemon northeast of Max. She graduated from Max Rural High School.

She married William "Kermit" Humphreys on Aug. 10, 1935, in her parents' home. They made their home in the Benkelman area until they moved to Max.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Kermit; granddaughter, Nancy; great-grandson, Jackson Mossburgh; three brothers Roy, Harley and Earl; and two sisters, Hope and Dorothy.

Survivors include three sons, Lyle of Benkelman, Merril and wife, Sylvia of Imperial, and Levoine of Max; two daughters, Ila Foster and husband, Val of Omaha, and Shary Jones and husband, Jerry of Max; one brother, Glen Lemon and wife, Shirley of Max; one sister, Helen Shoemaker and husband, Vern of Cawker City, Kan.; seven grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Ruth Elizabeth Blakslee, daughter of Elmer and Pauline Blakslee, was born at Wilcox, Nebraska, June 27, 1893, and passed away at Perkins County Hospital, Grant, Nebraska, on Sunday, May 23, 1965, at the age of 71 years, 11 months and four days. She had been injured in an automobile accident on April 28 and never recovered.

Ruth grew to young womanhood and received her education in Harlan county. She moved with her parents to Chase county in 1911, locating on a farm ten miles south of Imperial.

She received Christ as Saviour when a young girl, and had lived a devoted life to her Saviour. She was a good neighbor, always thinking and doing for others. Her church came first in her life, teaching Bible School, and anything else that was asked of her.

Ruth was united in marriage to Ora M. Humphreys on June 25, 1919, in Chase county in the home of her parents. They lived most of their married life on the farm where they were currently residing.

In the year 1928, they adopted Bernard F. and William G. Miller. They also raised two nephews, Charles A. and Arthur J. Austin, having them from babyhood.

Her passing leaves to mourn her husband, Ora M.; son, William G., of Cleveland, Ohio; nephews, Charles A. of the home place and Arthur J. of Imperial, Nebraska; three daughters-in-law and four grandchildren; one brother, Will Blakslee, of Provo, Utah; two sisters, Margaret Schneider of Huntington Park, Calif., and Louise Austin of Hastings, Nebraska; and many other relatives and a host of friends.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, May 26, at 2 o'clock at the Berean Fundamental Church with Rev. Ray Ransom officiating and assisted by Rev. Kenneth W. Zuercher. Two numbers in song, "Have Thine Own Way" and "Abide With Me," were sung by C. W. Pribbeno and Lester Adams, accompanied by Mrs. Willard Rouze at the piano.

Pallbearers were Harold Stinette, Philip O'Brien, Elton Haarburg, Stanley Pribbeno, Charles Leach and Joseph H. Greene. Interment was at Mount Hope Cemetery with Luhrs and Reynolds in charge of arrangements.

Those from out-of-town attending the funeral of Mrs. Ora Humphreys were W. G. Humphreys of Cleveland, Ohio; Mrs. Margaret Schneider of Los Angeles, Calif.; W. C. Blakslee of Provo, Utah; Mr. and Mrs. A. F. Hunt of Denver; Mrs. Gertrude Arnold of Colorado Springs; Mrs. Sadye Hunt, Mr. and Mrs. Dean Hunt, all of Ragan, Nebr.; Louis and Merle Hunt of Beaver City, Nebraska; Mr. and Mrs. Hathaway of Norton, Kansas; Mrs. Kate Haskins of Omaha; Mr. and Mrs. Tom Humphreys of Benkelman; Mr. and Mrs. Paul Schneider of North Platte, Nebr.; Mary Hankins of Grant, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. John Hankins and family of St. Francis, Kans.; Mr. and Mrs. Harold Engel and children of Lewellen, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. Kermit Humphreys and family of Benkelman, Mr. and Mrs. Loren Humphreys and family of Max; Mrs. Victor Stephson and children of Riverton, Wyoming; Mr. and Mrs. Dan Lynch and family of Omaha; Mr. and Mrs. Basil Crook of McCook, Nebr.. and Mr. and Mrs. Francis Schneider of Funk, Nebraska.

MAX– Dorothy Leta (Lemon) Humphreys was born Feb. 27, 1918, in Dundy County, Neb., to Bert E. and Jessie Grace (Gardner) Lemon, and she departed this life on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 1998, while a patient at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Neb. She was 80 years old.

She graduated from Max High School with the Class of 1936, and after Normal Training, taught in rural schools in the Wauneta (Neb.) area and in Dundy County.

She was a member of the Max United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women and the Max Women's Club.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Loren, in 1995; a sister, Hope Morris, and two brothers, Earl and Roy Harley.

She is survived by four children: Gaylin and wife, Kathy, of Santa Barbara, Calif., Cheryl and her husband, Milton Cancienne, of Houma, La., Anita Humphreys of

Tokyo, Japan, and Robby and wife, Una, of Kearney, Neb.; two sisters: Opal Humphreys of Max and Helen and her husband, Vern Shoemaker, of Cawker City, Kan.; a sister-in-law, Marjorie Lemon, of Palisade, Neb.; a brother and sister-in-law, Glen and Shirley Lemon, of Max; seven grandchildren: Scott and Todd Humphreys, Amy (Cancienne) Cave, Troy Cancienne, and Steven, Tony and Leilah Bowie, and a great-granddaughter, Arianna Bowie.

Final rites for Dorothy Humphreys were held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 13, 1998, at the United Methodist Church in Max with the Rev. Michael Davis officiating. Phyllis Kirkman was the organist and Wallace Gummere sang "Hymn Of Promise" and The Old Rugged Cross." Bearers were Scott, Todd and Kevin Humphreys, Willie Mossburgh, Bobby Lemon and Keith Shoemaker. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

Bernard F. Humphreys, an adopted son of Mr. and Mrs. Ora M. Humphreys of the South Divide community, is added to the list of Chase County boys who have made the supreme sacrifice for their country, for protection of Christian civilization, and on behalf of all liberty and peace loving peoples of the earth.

An official communication from the War Department, which is reproduced below, was received by the Humphreys family last Friday, stating that all available evidence indicated almost without any possible doubt that Bernard was among a large group of American soldiers, held prisoners by the Japanese, who lost their lives in the sinking of a ship north of the Philippines in October, 1944.

While the War Department's letter does not touch on those points, news dispatches and radio broadcasts during recent months have told of the sinking, by an American submarine, of a Japanese ship carrying prisoners of war. The Japanese at that time were being pressed hard in the Philippines area, and apparently were trying to remove the prisoners to Japan, or to some other territory still under their control. Statements made at that time indicated definitely that the prison ship was traveling without lights, whereas all recognized rules of warfare provide that such ships shall be fully lighted and identified. It was also stated positively that the Japanese ship refused to halt or be identified before it was fired upon by the submarine.

Bernard was born December 30, 1918. in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Dominion of Canada, to Albert and Lillian Drexell. On November 5, 1927, he was adopted by Mr. and Mrs. Ora Humphreys, given every advantage and privilege of the finest type of Christian home, and treated in every may as their own son.

He entered the service in the summer of 1941, from Meridian, Wyo., and after about two months was sent to the Philippines for Army duty there. He was among American soldiers taken prisoner by the Japanese when the latter invaded and captured the Philippines. and was officially reported missing in action in May of 1942. The following February word came from the U. S. government that Bernard was a prisoner of war, held by the Japanese at a military prison camp in the Philippines.

Subsequently, six communications were received from him by Mr. and Mrs. Humphreys. Thet wrote to him as frequently as regulations would permit, and sent all articles that could be sent under these circumstances, but it is not known whether Bernard ever received any of them. In the last message which he sent, Bernard seemed to have contacted the Red Cross, and asked for word through that organization. That last card which came from him was dated July 24, 1944, and arrived here the following August.

Mr. and Mrs. Humphreys studied thoroughly every bit of information concerning prisoners of war in Bernard's status, and made every possible effort to do all for him that could be done under these circumstances.

The unspeakable cruelty of the Japanese in refusing to let such a lad communicate much more often and freely with his home folks, and to let them know whether he was receiving letters and packages from home, together with the circumstances of his death are but further evidence of the bestial and unprincipled character of the enemy against whom he fought as long as he could, and in which effort he has given his life.

The deep bosom of the South China Sea thus becomes the tomb of another American hero, whose memory will forever be honored, and who sleeps in peace beyond the reach of the brutal and treacherous enemy at whose hands he suffered for more than two long years.

The International Red Cross has transmitted to this Government an official list obtained from the Japanese government, after long delay, of American prisoners of war who were lost while being transported northward from the Philippine Islands on a Japanese ship which was sunk on 24 October, 1944. It is with deep regret that I inform you that your son. Private First Class Bernard F. Humphreys, 17,024,117, was among those lost when that sinking occurred and, in the absence of any probability of survival, must be considered to have lost his life. He will be carried on the records of the War Department as killed in action 24 October, 1944. The evidence of his death was received 16 June, 1945, the date upon which his pay will terminate and his accounts will be closed.

The information available to the War Department is that the vessel sailed from Manila, Philippine Islands, on 11 October, 1944 with 1775 prisoners of war aboard. On 24 October, 1944, the vessel was sunk by submarine action in the South China Sea, over 200 miles from the Chinese coast, which was the nearest land. Five of the prisoners escaped in a small boat and reached the coast. Four others have been reported as picked up by the Japanese, by whom all others aboard are reported lost. Absence of detailed information as to what happened to other individual prisoners and the known circumstances of the incident lead to a conclusion that all other prisoners listed by the Japanese as aboard the vessel perished.

It is with deep regret that I must notify you of this unhappy culmination of the long period of anxiety and suffering you have experienced. You have my heartfelt sympathy.

Sincerely yours.
J. A. ULIO,
Major General
The Adjutant General
of the Army

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MAX— Charles Loren Humphreys, 78, of Max, Nebraska, died February 26, 1995, at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska. He was born in Chase County, Nebraska, to Harley Guy and Sarah Edith (Clark) Humphreys on October 12, 1916.

On June 3, 1940, he married Dorothy Lemon at her parents' home of rural Max, and to this union four children were born: Gaylin, Cheryl. Janice and Robby.

After retiring from farming in the Max area, he remained active in many community organizations and enjoyed visiting with his many friends. He also enjoyed having his grandchildren come to visit during their summer vacations.

He is survived by his wife Dorothy, and their children; Gaylln and his wife, Katharine, of Santa Barbara, California, Cheryl and her husband, Milton Cancienne, of Houma, Louisiana, Janice Anita Humphreys of Tokyo, Japan, and Robby Humphreys of Kearney, and four grandchildren; Amy and Troy Cancienne and Scott and Todd Humphreys.

He is also survived by his brother, Kermit,and his wife Opal,of Max; three sisters; Winona Reid and Charlotte Meadows, both of Modesto, California, and Ruth and her husband, Clifford Borgquist. of Sonora, California, and a host of family and friends.

Services were held Friday, March 3, 1995, at 10:30 a.m. at Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Nebraska, with the Rev. Art Phillips officiating. Phyllis Kirkman was the organist and Wallace Gummere sang “In The Garden" and "How Great Thou Art." Bearers were Bob Lemon, Kevin Humphreys, Troy Cancienne, Gayle Jensen, Roger Parker and Kenny Frasier. Honorary bearers were all of his friends. Committal was offered by I.0.0.F. Lodge No. 361 with interment in the Benkelman Cemetery. Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman was in charge of arrangements.

Lyle Albert Humphreys was born to William Kermit and Opal Marjory Lemon Humphreys May 31, 1937, at the family home south of Max in Dundy County. In the fall of 1940, Lyle had a very serious battle with "Sleeping sickness", leaving him with disabilities the rest of his life. He was cared for by his parents until he entered the Hester Home the summer of 1998. There, he received care that showed love and appreciation until he entered Dundy County Hospital, Oct. 31, 2008, where he passed away on Nov. 5 to be with his parents.

Despite his disabilities, Lyle was able to do many play activities, such as cars and trucks and building roads for examples. Lyle enjoyed listening to his radio while growing up and then he had his TV and his favorite shows and was able for many years to use the remote. He was fascinated with airplanes and enjoyed his magazines, Flying and National Geographic. One of the high points of his life was an airplane ride over the area, courtesy of Bob Brown. He turned in the last year to the channel featuring livestock auctions. Getting out to be around people was always a joy to him where he could watch and listen to them, and he never missed a chance to attend family activities. He will be missed by family and his caretakers.

Lyle is survived by brothers: Merril and wife, Sylvia of Imperial; Levoine of Max, sisters: Ila Foster and husband, Val, of Omaha, and Shary Jones of Max. He is also survived by nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kermit and Opal, and a niece, Nancy, and a great nephew, Jackson Mossburgh and brother-in-law, Loren Mossburgh.

Funeral services were held November 10, 2008, at the Liewer Funeral Home in Wauneta, Nebraska, with Rev. Vernon Whetstone officiating. Interment followed at Ash Grove Cemetery, rural Max, Nebraska.

Ora M. Humphreys, son of J. William and Eva Humphreys, was born near Beloit, Mitchell County, Kansas, March 13, 1890, and passed away at the Chase County Hospital October 17, 1968, at the age of 78 years, six months and four days.

He went with his parents to Tennessee, living there for five years; from there they moved to Superior, Nebr.; after a short time moving on to Chase county, residing on the South Divide and farming there for many years.

He was united in marriage to Ruth E. Blakslee June 25, 1919. They adopted Bernard and Billy and raised as their own Charles and Arthur Austin, who were nephews.

He was converted as a child and became a member of the United Presbyterian Church at Superior, Nebraska. After many years in Chase county he helped establish the Berean Fundamental Church in Imperial.

For the past two years he had resided in the Good Samaritan Village in Hastings, Nebraska. His remaining months were spent in the Imperial Manor.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother; a son; Bernard; one sister, three brothers and his wife Ruth.

He leaves to mourn his departure his sons, William (Billy) Humphreys, Charles and Arthur Austin; two sisters, Mrs. Jennie Marks of Hastings, Mrs. Kate Haskins of Omaha; a brother, Thomas Humphreys, of Benkelman; six grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Among the relatives and friends attending the funeral services on Saturday were Dr. William G. Humphreys, Naugatuck, Conn.; Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Austin and family, Akron, Colo.; Mrs. Kate Haskins, Omaha; Mrs. Jennie Marks, Hastings; Rev. and Mrs. Ray Ransom, Lymon, Nebr.; James Schneider, Los Angeles; Mary E. Hankins, Grant; Mr. and Mrs. Harold Engel, Fort Collins; Mrs. Ralph Freeman, Chappell; Mrs. Glen Paulsen, Oshkosh; Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Humphreys and family, Simla, Colo.; Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Bricker, Sharon Springs, Kans.; Mr. and Mrs. Darrell Harvey of Holyoke; Mr. and Mrs. Tom Humphreys, Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Rickard, Mrs. Clifford Ham, Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Mathews, Mrs. Wayne Putnam, Mr. and Mrs. Clint Bash and Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Hansen of Benkelman; and Loren and Kermit Humphreys of Max.

Thomas Humphreys passed away at the Dundy County Hospital on Friday after a Iong illness. He was 82 years of age and he and his wife, Clara, had been residents of the Sarah Ann Hester Home for the past nine months.

Funeral services were held at the Jones Funeral Chapel on Monday afternoon with the Rev. Bob Sander officiating. Betty Jacobson was the organist and Clyde Jacobson the soloist. Casket bearers were Mearl Richard, Wesley Wheeler, Nason Wilson, Jim Baney, Hubert Haines and Duane Wilson. Honorary bearers were Melvin Spears, Walter Wheeler, Sherm Phifer, Fred Cain, Kermit Wilson, Johnny Mays, Edwin Adkinson and Glenn Williams. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery.

Thomas Humphreys, son of John William and Eva States Humphreys, was born in Mitchell County near Beloit, Kansas, July 8, 1892 and departed this life June 6, 1975 at the age of 82 years, 10 months and 28 days in the Dundy County Hospital, Benkelman, Nebr., following his recent illness. Tom had suffered ill health and a serious heart condition for the past several years.

When a boy of four years of age, be moved with his parents and other seven brothers and sisters to the state of Tennessee. This voyage was made in a covered wagon. Later they returned to the midwest and located at Superior, Nebr., and from there to Wauneta where Tom attended the local schools.

He became a Christian as a young man and for many years was a faithful member of the Presbyterian Church, as were his parents. For the past many years he has been a member of the Friends Church.

On November 6, 1917 he was united in marriage to Cara Artist of the Hiawatha precinct The Rev. Mrs, Oda Woodward performed the ceremony and was in attendance to their 50th wedding anniversary celebration held for them in 1967.

Tom and Clara have spent their active years farming near Hiawatha and Benkelman. He also worked for Krotter and Fitzgerald lumber yard for three and one half years. He loved the soil and delighted in both farming and gardening, but due to failing health has been retired for many years, and both have been residents of the Hester Memorial Home for the past nine months.

Tom was a devoted, faithful and thoughtful husband, a good neighbor and a kind friend and their home was always a place of hospitality. He loved the Lord and His work. and was concerned and instrumental in organizing the Benkelman Friends Church. He was faithful in his attendance and support and was loyal in supporting the work of the church after health did not permit their attendance.

He leaves to mourn his passing his devoted and loving wife, Clara; two sisters, Jennie Marks and Kay Haskins of Hastings, Nebr.; many nieces and nephews who were their only family, and their many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers; Lewis, Guy, Carl and Ora; and one sister, Elta Hankins.

MAX—William Kermit Humphreys was born July 30, 1913, north of Max in Dundy County, Neb., to Harley Guy and Sarah Edith (Clark) Humphreys and died Saturday, Dec. 30, 1995, at the Chase County Community Hospital in Imperial. Neb., at the age of 82.

He grew to manhood in Southwest Nebraska, attending schools in Chase and Dundy County. He was baptized at Twin Lakes northwest of Benkelman as a teenager and was a member of the Benkelman Baptist Church.

On Aug. 10, 1935, he married Opal Lemon at her family home. They have five children: Lyle, Merril, Levoine, Ila and Shary.

He enjoyed working with his hands, repairing machinery, gardening and then sharing the produce, carving, especially horses, and then giving them away. He enjoyed meeting and visiting with people and never met a stranger.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Loren Humphreys, and a son-in-law, Loren Mossburgh.

Survivors include his wife, Opal, of Max; three sons, Lyle at home, Merril and his wife, Sylvia, of Imperial and Levoine of McDonald, Kan.; two daughters, Ila Mossburgh and Shary and her husband, Jerry Jones, all of Max; eight grandchildren; five great grandchildren; three sisters, Wenona Reid and Charlotte Meadows, both of Modesta, Calif., and Ruth and her husband, Clifford Borgquist, of Senora, Calif.; nieces and nephews, and a host of friends

Services were held Tuesday, Jan. 2, 1996, at 10:30 a.m. at Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with the Rev. Art Phillips officiating. Organist was Phyllis Kirkman and Andy Paeh was soloist. Selections included “The Old Rugged Cross" and "His Eye Is On The Sparrow." Bearers were John Lemon, Bob Lemon, Rob Humphreys, Glenn Shoemaker, Keith Shoemaker and Mark Sutherland. Honorary bearers were all of his friends.

Interment was in Ash Grove Cemetery, rural Max, with Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman In charge of arrangements.

Minnie Irene Hunkins was born August 7, 1895, to Willis Lincoln Losey and Martha Ellen (Filbert) Losey. (Friends knew them as Abe and Mattie.)

Minnie was called home to be with her Saviour on Sunday, September 25, 1988, in the El Dorado Manor in Trenton, at the age of 93.

She was born in a dugout 12 miles southeast of Stratton, Nebraska, and was five years old when the family moved into a sod house. Later they moved into a block house which the family built.

She attended grade school in District 60, called the Taylor School. Later she completed the tenth grade in Stratton.

On April 11, 1915, she and Perry Hunkins were married in the M.E. Church. They attended church there until the Christian Church again started up which Perry belonged to. Then in 1947 she joined the church and was baptized into it. She was an active church member. She was superintendent for many years and also taught Sunday School.

Their first home was on a farm south and west of Stratton which is now the Paul Burks farm. The first years were hard, but they raised potatoes and traded them in town for other necessities.

She was a charter member of the MGR Club which started in 1922. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, the Stratton Garden Club and the Woman's Missionary Prayer Fellowship.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two sisters, Mae and Nevada; one brother, Ariel, and one great-granddaughter, Jennifer Marie.

She leaves to mourn two sons and a daughter-in-law, Winston and Clyde and Arletta: five grandsons; Kenneth and James of Lincoln, David and wife, Jamie, of Eagle, Nebraska, Donald and wife, Linda, Gary and wife, Jeanne, of Trenton: 10 great-grandchildren; Karee. Joshua. Lacey, Angelia, Jody, Kelly, Jeremey, Sandra, Lisa and Jason; nieces and nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.

Services were held Wednesday, September 28, 1988, at 1:30 p.m. at the Christian Union Church in Stratton with the Rev. Philip Sorensen officiating. Tally Case accompanied Elmer Case with the selections "One Day At A Time" and "Peace In The Valley."

Bearers were Kenneth Hunkins, Donald Hunkins, David Hunkins, James Hunkins, Gary Hunkins and Scott Golding.

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

Elry L. Hunt was born on January 20th, 1932, in Trenton, Nebraska, to his parents Fred and Thelma (Buhler) Hunt. He attended Benkelman High School.

Elry enlisted in the United States Navy on March 18th, 1952. After boot camp and damage control school, he was stationed in the South Pacific, specifically Kwadendarnme Island and the Hawaiian Islands. Elry spent his entire enlistment in crash fire and rescue. He was honorably discharged in 1960.

Subsequently, Elry worked in refrigeration at a gas plant for several years. Then, he attended the Kansas Highway Patrol Academy in Salina. After graduating, Elry was a weight officer for the Kansas Department of Revenue. After retiring, Elry was a city police officer for St. Francis. Finally, this last year, he worked for Cheyenne County.

Elry was preceded in death by his father and mother and by his sister, Aletha Hunt McVoy. Elry is survived by his, wife, Lee, his sister, Jeanie Rigal, one son, James Hunt, one daughter, Shelley Christensen, six step-children, Al Redeen, Jim, Bessie, Sharyl, Carl, and Fred. four grandchildren, seventeen step-grandchildren, one great grandchildren, and twenty step-great grandchildren.

Elry passed away November 9th, 2008 at his residence. Services were held on November 13th, 2008 with a burial in the Haigler Cemetery with Military honors.

Elry will always he remembered as someone who loved everyone. He will also be remembered as a prankster, always pulling something on someone, though always done in love. Finally, Elry will be remembered for his love of fishing.

Edith Viola Hunter, longtime resident of southwest Nebraska passed away at her home at 1713 Federal in Wyoming, Michigan on Monday evening, January 24th. She was a daughter of John Hamilton Ritchie and Clara Gilberth Ritchie and was born in Stratton, Nebraska on March 18, 1891 and was 80 years, ten months and seven days of age at the time of her demise.

Mrs. Hunter spent most of her lifetime in southwest Nebraska. She was a pleasant woman and enjoyed a wide acquaintance in the area. Mrs. Hunter had been a resident of Benkelman for 15 years. After the death of her husband, William L. Hunter, Jr., in November 1966, she remained in Benkelman until September 1969 when she moved to Wyoming, Michigan to be near her son, Robert Crooks and family.

Survivors include her son, Robert Blain Crooks and wife, Angeline, four grandchildren, Larry Allen Crooks and Brenda Kay Crooks, Vonda McGraw and Marilyn Nyulassie, five great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Mabel Ritchie; two nieces, Clara McCallam, Mariann Gerdes and one nephew, Oscar Marquisse. She was preceeded in death by one son, Willard F. Crooks; one sister, Olive Lee Marquissee and one brother, William H. Ritchie; her parents; husbands, Frank J. Crooks, George Russell and Witham L. Hunter, Jr.

Funeral services were held in the Jones Funeral Chapel in Stratton on Saturday, January 29th at 2:00 p.m, with the Rev. Bob Mustain of Benkelman officiating. Carl Philo was the soloist accompanied by Mrs. Diana Reed at the piano. Casket bearers were Melvin Duvel, Foster Gerdes, Ellsworth Wilson, Earl Bailey, Elmer Baker and Gene Van Matre.

Interment was in Rose Hill cemetery in Stratton under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home of Stratton.

OGDEN, Utah— Fred Jacob Huser, 89, died Sunday, June 9, 1991, at his Washington Terrace home. He was born September 14, 1901, in Max, Nebraska, a son of Jacob and Bertha Huser.

Fred was reared and educated in Nebraska and had lived in Ogden for the past 60 years.

He had worked at the Ogden Arsenal and Defense Depot, retiring in 1965. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and enjoyed hunting, fishing and the outdoors.

Surviving are his wife of Washington Terrace: two daughters, Carol Meyer of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Joy Ann Hoagland of Washington Terrace; seven grandchildren, Rod Ormond, Gail Bennett, Jodi Parker, Jan Strong, Sylvia Meyer, Shelly Hickam and Steve Meyer and five great-grandchildren; Clint and Carly Ormond, Megan Strong, Chase Parker and Dalton Bennett.

Funeral services were held at the graveside Wednesday, June 12, at 3 p.m. at Aullorest Memorial Park. Arrangements were by Lindquist's Ogden Mortuary.

Services were held this morning at 11 a.m. at the United Methodist Church of Imperial for Helen Christine Huston. The Rev. Robert Call officiated.

Memorials for the cancer fund are being accepted and may be left at the Creveling Funeral Home of Imperial.

Survivors include: a son, Harry at Enders; three daughters, Mrs. Pearl Kapperman, Enders, Mrs. June Ramboa, Monee, Ill. and Helen Frasier of Benkelman; two brothers, Bill and Maurice Abraham of the San Francisco Bay area; two sisters, Marjorie Basket of the San Francisco Bay area and Mrs. Beth Blackburn of Iowa; 14 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

STRATTON -- Stephen M. Hussey, 85, died Tuesday (Dec. 11, 2001) at the Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman. He was born Nov. 2, 1916, at Pendennis, Kan., to Richard Stephen and Iva Elizabeth (Averill) Hussey.

He entered the U.S. Navy in 1937, serving during World War II, and was honorably discharged in 1945.

On June 12, 1949, he married Mary Carty at Boston, Mass. He was an electrical engineer for Boston Edison. He retired in 1978 and moved to Stratton.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary in 1960; two sisters, Dora Hussey and Flossie Crouse; and one brother, Phay Hussey.

Survivors include his daughter, Sandra Latta and husband, Lynn of Stratton; two sisters, Violet Stahly and husband, Reg of Stratton, and Elda Conrad of Holdrege; three grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Mass of Christian Burial services will be Friday, 10 a.m., at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Stratton, with the Rev. Douglas Dietrich officiating. Interment will be at the Rosehill Cemetery in Stratton.

The rosary service is tonight, 7 p.m., at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Stratton. Visitation is today until 5 p.m. at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook.

Nora Lee Hutchinson, 73, formerly of Benkelman, Neb., died Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2003, at her daughter's home in Clovis, N.M.

She was born on May 29, 1930, to Harry and Ella (Bowers) Carr in Marion, Ohio, and on May 28, 1950, she was united in marriage to Wilbur Hutchinson. The family moved to Benkelman in 1976.

While living in Ohio she drove the handicap bus for nine years. Upon moving to Benkelman she worked as a nurse aide at the Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home for many years. After the death of her mother in 1997, she moved to Oregon to be near her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Sharon, Leona and Greta; a granddaughter, Elizabeth; a nephew, Millard; her husband, and her stepfather, Clarence Wilson.

Survivors include her son, Olen Hutchinson and wife, Becky, of Hebo, Ore.; daughters Sharon McQuigg and husband, John, of Clovis and Karen Karr and husband, Dwayne Loewen. of Las Vegas, Nev.; her sister's children whom she raised as her own, Linda, Penny Allen and husband, Carl, Mike, and Ella and husband, Ed Shafer; a brother, Homer Carr and wife, Clove, of Caledonia, Ohio; 18 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces. nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2003, at the Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with the Rev. Cindi Prather officiating. Kelly Hayward sang "In the Garden" and "Softly and Tenderly." Casket bearers were Olen Hutchinson, Corey Parker, Joe Hutchinson, Joel Hutchinson, Larry Steinbeck and Wilbur Steinbeck. Honorary bearers were Terry Steinbeck, John McQuigg and Dwayne Loewen. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman.

Nora Lee Hutchinson, 73, formerly of Benkelman, Neb., died Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2003, at her daughter's home in Clovis, N.M.

She was born on May 29, 1930, to Harry and Ella (Bowers) Carr in Marion, Ohio, and on May 28, 1950, she was united in marriage to Wilbur Hutchinson. The family moved to Benkelman in 1976.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Sharon, Leona and Greta; a granddaughter, Elizabeth; a nephew, Millard; her husband, and her stepfather, Clarence Wilson.

Connie Jean Huxman, 58, died July 3, 2008, at Tulsa, Okla. She was born Dec. 28, 1949, at St. Francis, Kan., the daughter of Glenn and Mildred (Jones) Glasco.

She was a longtime Moundridge area resident and a member of the Hesston Mennonite Brethren Church, Hesston.

Survivors include her husband, Ronald L. Huxman, Moundridge; daughters, Tasha (Tim) Cain, Lenexa, and Tracy Huxman, Imperial, Calif.; a granddaughter, Sloan Cain, Leneza; parents, Glenn and Mildred Glasco, Bird City; and brother, Lynn (Candy) Glasco, Bird City.

A memorial service was held on Wednesday, July 9, at Hesston Mennonite Brethren Church, Hesston.

Memorial donations may be given to the Harvey County Homeless Shelter in care of the Moundridge Funeral Home, P.O. Box 410, Moundridge, KS, 67107.