K - Page 3 -Obits

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1982

Corinne (Higley) Kline

Corinne Kline, 69, of Greeley, Colo., died Friday, June 18, at Weld County General Hospital.

She was born on April 27, 1913, at Wauneta to Ward C. and Maude (Reynolds) Higley.

On August 27, 1934, she was married to Lester F. Kline at Wauneta.

The Klines came to Greeley from Benkelman in 1954. She worked for Weld County library for two years and the Gilbert Hillside Drugstore for six years.

She was a member of the Wesleyan Church and the Garden City Chapter of Order of

Eastern Star and Beta Sigma Phi.

Survivors include her husband, Lester F. Kline of Greeley; two daughters, Mrs. Robert (Sally L.) Koch of Greeley, and Mrs. James (Patricia Jo) Kelley of Arlington, Va.; her mother, Mrs. Maude Higley of Greeley; and four grandchildren.

Services were Tuesday, June 22, from the Macy Allnutt Drawing Room with the Rev. Francis W. Hubbard officiating. Interment was in Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Oncology Center of Weld County General Hospital.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 1980

Hanna Mary (Eikenberg) Klinzman

Hanna Mary (Eikenberg) Klinzman, the daughter of Louis and Alvina Eikenberg, was born at Bloomingdale, IL Dec, 9, 1888. She was baptized in infancy at the Lutheran Church in Bloomingdale, IL. In 1899 she moved with her parents to Agra, KS. She was confirmed in St. John Lutheran Church, Kensington, KS by the Rev. John Gemaehlich in 1902. On the 15th of February, 1906 she was united in marriage to John Henry Klinzmann at Kensington and the same year they moved to the Haigler-St. Francis area where Henry passed away March 14, 1965.

Hanna was a loving wife and mother and belonged to the quiet of the land. Her closing years were spent in the Good Samaritan Village where she passed away quietly on Sat. Dec. 6, 1980. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, one daughter Mary Odenbach and son-in.law Ed Odenbach; one son, Louis, four sisters, Zina Wells, Frieda Foree, Tillie Otis, and Alvina Bade and two brothers, Albert and Walter Eikenberg, She is survived by one daughte,r Alvina, three sons, Henry, John and wife May and Arthur and wife Ella Mae of this area, three sisters, Elsie Bade of Denver, Martha Lueschen and Emma Peter of St. Francis, KS; four grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren. She attained the age of 91 years, 11 months and 27 days.

Services were held at the Salem Lutheran Church Wed., Dec. 10. Rev. O.L. Zeilinger officiated. Burial was at the Hope Valley Cemetery.

Out of town relatives attending the funeral services were Mr. and Mrs. Clayton Klinzman; Mr. and Mrs. Herman Gemaehlieh; Mrs. Barbara Klinzman and Walter; Mrs. Emily Eikenberg, all of Otis; Mr. and Mrs. Albert Klinzmann Jr., Don Gemaehlich of Sterling, CO; Mr. and Mrs. Adolf Klinzman and Mary of Eckley, CO; Mrs. Elsie Bade, Derrol Bade, Mrs. Minnie Perko, all of Denver; Levin Foree, Wheat Ridge, CO; Berwin Eikenberg, Weldona, CO; Mrs, Delmer Zweigardt, Burlington, CO; Mrs. Delmer Melberg, Haswell, CO; Mr. and Mrs. Dallas Peter, Goodland, KS; Mr. and Mrs. Eldon Klinznann, Richard Diercks, Agra, KS; Mr. and Mrs. Louie Kuhlumann, Athol, KS, and Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Kuhlumann, Athol, KS; and Mr. and Mrs. Art Klinzman and family, Ft. Morgan, CO.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1991

Ella Mae Leona (Workman) Klinzmann

HAIGLER--Services for Ella Mae Leona (Workman) Klinzmann were held on Thursday, February 7, 1991, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Haigler, Nebraska, with the Rev. Doug Allen officiating.

She was born on October 1, 1929, five miles southeast of Haigler in Cheyenne County, Kansas, to Ernest and Charlotte (Buehler) Workman. She was baptized on November 17, 1929, at the Zion American Lutheran Church in Haigler by the Rev. H. F. Meyer.

Ella Mae grew up on the home place with older sister and brother, Mayme and Fred, and younger brother, Charles. She attended District East 10 School and graduated from the eighth grade there.

Throughout her life, she enjoyed the outdoors and in her younger days she spent much of her time riding horses and working with animals.

On April 11, 1954, she was confirmed in the Lutheran faith by the Rev. W. J. Rossbach in Benkelman, Nebraska.

Ella Mae married Arthur Leonard Klinzmann on June 14, 1960, at Benkelman. Two daughters, JoAnn Gayle and Janice Marie, were born to this union.

Ella Mae and Arthur moved a home into Haigler in 1966. Ella Mae's life centered around her home and family. She was a mom to her daughters and nieces and nephews, as well.

She was blessed with the talent of fixing and building and spent many hours building and remodeling in her own home and also helping others with their homes.

A highlight of Ella Mae and Arthur's life together was the birth of grandson Alex in 1981.

She had a quiet and steadfast faith in God and went to be with Him, dying at her home on February 4, 1991, after a lengthy illness.

She was preceded in death by her mother in 1952 and father in 1972 and an infant half-sister, Edna Rose, who died shortly after birth in 1921.

She Is survived by her husband, Arthur, of the home; her daughters, JoAnn, and husband, Victor Tafoya and grandson, Alex, of Haigler, and Janice and her fiancee, Mike Edwards, of Benkelman; one sister, Mayme Rose, of Haigler; two brothers, Charles Workman, and his wife, Nadine, of rural Haigler, and their children, Phyllis, Charla, Steve and Danny and their families, and Fred Rose and his wife, Jean, of Aurora, Colorado, and their children, Michael Lee and Kerry and families, and Fred's daughter from a previous marriage, Gayle Mitchell, and her family; two brothers-in-law, John Klinzmann, and his wife, May, and their children, Art and Joan and their families, and Henry Klinzmann, of Benkelman, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Pallbearers were Steve Workman, Danny Workman, Roe Custer, Dallas Whomble, Charlie Workman and Dean Krien.

Interment was in the Haigler Cemetery with Kramer Chapel of St. Francis, Kansas, in charge of arrangements.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1998

Arthur Leonard Albert Klinzmann

HAIGLER– Arthur Klinzmann was born in Cheyenne County, Kan., on April 18, 1920, the son of Henry John and Hannah (Eikenberg) Klinzmann.

At his baptism at the Hope Valley Church on June 15, 1920, in a service officiated by the Rev. 0.H. Zeilinger, he was given the name Arthur Leonard Albert Klinzmann. He was confirmed at the same church by the Rev. O.H. Zeilinger on July 8, 1934.

He attended a rural school near the home place. He served in the United States Army in World War II, serving from May 14, 1942, to Nov. 7, 1945. He was a part of the 144th Ordnance Motor Vehicle Assembly Company, and served in Normandy, Northern France and the Rhineland. He received the Good Conduct medal.

On June 14, 1960, he was united in marriage with EllaMae Workman at a service at the Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman, Neb. Two children were born to this marriage, JoAnn and Janice. Arthur lived all of his married life in Haigler. Neb., engaged in construction work and farming.

He had been in good health until the past year, He was hospitalized in Benkelman on May 3, 1998, and then on May 11, he entered the Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Nursing Home in Benkelman. He died on Tuesday, June 2, 1998, at the age of 78 years, 1 month and 15 days.

He was preceded in death by his father in 1965; his mother in 1980; his wife in February 1991; his sisters and brothers; Mary, Mrs. Ed Odenbach, Louis, Alvina and Henry, and his wife's sister, Mayme Rose, in 1997.

He is survived by his daughters, JoAnn, her husband, Victor Tafoya, and their son, Alex, and Janice, her husband. Mike Edwards, and their twin daughters, Jenna and Jillana; his brother, John, and his wife, May; brothers-in-law Fred Rose and his wife, Jean, and Charles Workman and his wife, Nadine, and nieces and nephews.

Arthur liked to fish and play cards, pool and horseshoes. His grandchildren were very important to him. He read his Bible daily as long as he was able to read. He was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church of Haigler, and will be remembered as a person who liked to talk about his beliefs.

Final rites for Arthur Klinzmann were held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 1998, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Haigler with the Revs. Chris Farmer and Douglas Allen officiating. Kaye Kamla was the organist and Cincy Haskell, Dana Webster, Linda Morris and Jann Clark sang "Rock Of Ages" and "How Great Thou Art." The congregational hymn was "What A Friend."

Bearers were Danny and Steve Workman, Craig Kamla, Robert Smith, Dale Rath and Howard Clark, Jr.

The flag presentation was by the American Legion Post No. 134 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 8009. Interment was in the Haigler Cemetery with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1965

Henry Klinzmann

Henry Klinzmann, son of Henry and Mary Klinzmann, was born May 7, 1881, in Defiance, Ohio. In infancy he was brought to the Lord in holy baptism and made a child of God and heir to eternal life. After due instruction in the word of God, he renewed this covenant with his God through the act of confirmation in the Lutheran faith. He continued to be a faithful member of the church. His parents moved to Ellinwood, Kansas, when he was quite young. Later they moved to Kensington.

In 1906 he was united in marriage with Hanna Eikenberg, to which six children were born, four sons and two daughters. It was also in 1906 that he came to western Kansas and made his home on a farm south of Haigler, Nebr., where he was engaged in farming his entire lifetime.

Mr. Klinzmann had been ailing for about two years, becoming more critical the last six months. He entered the hospital at Benkelman about two weeks before his death. He returned to the home of his daughter, Mary Odenbach, in Haigler on Wednesday and departed this life at 12:30 a.m. on Sunday. He had attained the age of 83 years, ten months and seven days.

Survivors include his bereaved wife; two daughters, Mrs. Mary Odenbach of Haigler and Alvina of the home; three sons, Henry of the home, Johnny of Tacoma, Wash., and Arthur of Haigler; three grandchildren, one brother Richard and one sister, Dora Deltmer, both of Kensington, and many other relatives and friends.

Services were held by Pastor Andrew Schempp at the Salem Lutheran Church on Wednesday, March 17, at 2 p.m. Interment was in the Hope Valley Cemetery.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1991

Henry John Otto Klinzmann

HAIGLER—Henry John Otto Klinzmann was born September 13, 1911, in Cheyenne County, Kansas, the third child of J. Henry and Hanna (Elkenberg) Klinzmann.

On October 22, 1911, Henry was baptized by the Rev. Kolb. He was raised on the family farm south of Haigle,. Nebraska, with an older sister and brother, Mary and Louis, and a younger sister and brothers, Alvina, John and Arthur.

As a young man, Henry was confirmed in the Lutheran faith by the Rev. O.H. Zeilinger at Hope Valley Church in Cheyenne County on June 10, 1928. He attended Hillcrest School and in his spare time enjoyed hunting and fishing.

On May 14, 1942, Henry was inducted into the service and spent 1 1/2 years in the African Campaign. He was honorably discharged on January 24, 1944, and returned to the family farm. He was a member of American Legion Post 134.

For most of his life, Henry continued living on the family farm. He enjoyed collecting arrowheads, coins and numerous other items and delighted in playing jokes and teasing. He enjoyed going to sales and liked to visit. Henry loved children and always had a small gift or trinket ready for any child he met.

In December 1988, Henry moved to the Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman, Nebraska, and lived there the remainder of his life. He liked to tease and visit with staff and residents and was affectionately known as the "candy man" because very few people left the Home without receiving a piece of candy from Henry.

Henry played bingo nearly every week and put together jigsaw puzzles. He enjoyed outings to holiday dinners and especially liked having a hamburger at the pool hall in Haigler.

Henry died at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman on October 27, 1991, having celebrated his 80th birthday one month earlier. He was precededin death by his brother, Louis, in1953; his father in 1965; his sister, Mary Odenbach, in 1967; a brother-In-law, Ed Odenbach, in 1976; his mother in 1980; a sister, Alvina, in 1982, and a sister-in-law, Ella Mae Klinzmann, in 1991.

He leaves to mourn, his brothers: John, and his wife, May, and Arthur, all of Haigler; nieces; Joan and her husband, Jerry Gertge, and family of Whitewater, Montana, JoAnn and her husband, Victor Tafoya, and family of Haigler and Janice and her husband, Mike Edwards of Benkelman and a nephew, Art, and his wife, Suzanne Klinzmann, of Tacoma, Washington.

Funeral services were held Saturday, November 2, at Zion Lutheran Church in Haigler with the Rev. Gerald Berggren officiating. Interment was in the Hope Valley Cemetery.

Casket bearers were Kenneth Potthoff, Danny Workman, Dale Rath, Gary Brown, Craig Karnla and Donnie Zuege.

Arrangements were by Kramer Chapel of St. Francis, Kansas.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 2001

John Herman Albert Klinzmann

WRAY, Colo.–John Herman Albert Klinzmann passed away peacefully at Hillcrest Care Center in Wray on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2001, at 2:10 p.m. He was born March 6, 1918, in Cheyenne County, Kan., to John Henry and Hanna (Eikenberg) Klinzmann.

John attended and graduated from eighth-grade at Hillcrest School in Cheyenne County where he worked on his parents' farm and for other farmers in the area.

During World War II, he was in the United States Army for 4 1/2 years and was honorably discharged in Tacoma, Wash. It was in Tacoma where he met and married May Elois Pellett on his birthday in 1946, and began 25 years of employment as a cook, chauffeur, mechanic and driving instructor with the Veterans Administration Hospital, American Lake, Wash.

In 1970, John and his wife moved to a small farm in Cheyenne County which he farmed briefly before deciding retirement was more preferable and moved to a purchased home in Haigler, Neb., in 1973, where they lived until his placement at Renotta Care Center in Wray in 1999. He moved to the Hillcrest in January 2001.

John spent nearly every summer vacation and a few Christmases on his parents' farm where a simple, quiet life of hard work, fun and fellowship could be found, as well as his favorite pursuits, occasionally sidetracked by his delight and considerable skill in the game of baseball.

John was a baptized child of God in Jesus Christ since infancy through the Lutheran tradition, where he was a member his entire life and worship on Sunday mornings was almost never missed. He was often at home caught thumbing through the Bible, reading passages and footnotes and writing down his reflections. He thoroughly enjoyed involved discussions on theology and politics, the "forbidden" topics.

Though he enjoyed baseball, fishing, farming, hiking. bike riding, music and repairing automobiles, his moments of intense enjoyment seemed mostly to be when having volunteered to help someone in need. One of his last voluntary activities which provided structure and joy to his day was his daily pickup and delivery of mail to some of the community's widows who were unable to venture out.

His wife's frequent visits to the Care Center became his cherished reward, as he came to know the visitation he shared with others. There was no human being alive anywhere in the county who, if they gave John eye contact, were not treated to his smile and respect, if not lengthy conversation.

John was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and two sisters.

He is survived by his wife, May; a daughter, Joan, and her husband, Jerry Gertge; a son, Arthur, and his wife, Suzanne; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; two nieces and their families; three stepgrandsons, and many relatives and friends who will miss his gift of faith, sense of humor and fascination with the simple, overlooked blessings of life.

Funeral services for John Klinzmann were held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Haigler with the Rev. Chris Farmer officiating. Burial was in the Hope Valley Cemetery in Cheyenne County. Spellman Schmidt Funeral Home of Wray was in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, May 1999

Delores (Morehouse) Klotz

AURORA, Colo.– Delores (Morehouse) Klotz, daughter of John E. and Mary Ellen (Pigg) Morehouse, was born on Dec. 7, 1914, in Belvedere, Neb. She passed from this life on May 7, 1999, at Columbia North Hospital in Aurora, Colo., at the age of 84 years.

Survivors include her sons; John and Dan Klotz; a grandson; John Klotz Jr., and his wife, Stephanie; two granddaughters, Karen and Stephanie Klotz, and three sisters, Bernice and her husband, Eldon Baker, Gladys and her husband, Joe Neilan, and Helen Howk. Delores' parents, husband, a brother, a sister, a sister-in-law and three brothers-in-law preceded her in death.

Delores spent her early life on the family's farm in the South Fork community in northwestern Kansas. She attended the White Lily School, a one-room rural school nearby the family farm. Delores attended high school in St. Francis, Kan., graduating in 1933. Following high school graduation, she returned to White Lily School where she was a teacher for several years. While attending x-ray technician school in Denver, Colo., she met Harold G. Klotz. They were united in marriage on May 19, 1939, in Golden, Colo.

Following their marriage, Delores and Harold lived for two years in Alamagordo, N.M. They then moved to Annette Island in Alaska where they spent the next 27 years. During their years in Alaska, Delores participated in community activities on the island, and developed skills in photography and cake decorating while also keeping up with the antics of her two young sons. One of her special talents was creating portraits of children.

When her husband retired, they moved to Aurora. Delores' years in Colorado were filled with caring for children, the light of her life. She provided a home for two of her grandchildren, John Jr. and Stephanie, and spent many years working in the nursery at her church. Delores was an active member of the Aurora First Assembly of God Church, and found great comfort and solace in her deep and abiding faith. She lived her faith and was a strong role model to all who knew her.

For the last 11 years of her life, Delores struggled with failing health due to an anemia which required her to receive blood transfusions more and more frequently. She fought to maintain her energy in order to participate in all the activities in her life that she loved so dearly. She also continued developing another one of her talents, writing poetry based on her family and memories of growing up in western Kansas. Several of her poems have been published.

She will be missed by a host of family and friends.

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m. on May 11, 1999, at the Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Neb., with Norman Morrow officiating. Pallbearers were John Klotz, John Klotz Jr., Melvin Haack, Norman and Doug Morrow, Cecil Morehouse, Gary Neilan and J. Michael Hoffman. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1975

Harold Klotz

Harold Klotz, son of Myrtle and Harry Klotz, was born on September 19, 1911 in Denver, Colorado. He died on November 9, 1975 at the age of 64 years at St. Lukes Hospital, Denver, Colorado. Survivors include his wife Delores, two sons John and Dan, their wives Barbara and Sharon, grandchildren John, Karen and Dawn. His parents and a sister preceded him in death.

He spent his early life and attended school in Denver. In 1939 he was united in marriage to Delores Morehouse in Golden, Colorado.

Harold was trained in electronics for service with the federal government. He spent two years at the Alamagordo Air Base. The next 27 years were spent in Alaska where he enjoyed the challenge of living and working in the community of Annette Island. He was transferred to North Dakota for 1 1/2 years before he retired due to ill health. At the conclusion of his career with the FAA, he was presented a certificate of award for 32 years of outstanding service.

He believed in and lived the good life and he attended Calvary Temple in Denver. He was a soft spoken man with many capabilities. Generosity was one of his many attributes.

The following lines of a familiar song are characteristic of Harold's philosophy of living with his fellow man.

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"If I have wounded any soul today,
If I have caused one foot to go astray,
If I have walked in my own willful way,
Dear Lord, forgive."

Pallbearers for the service were Leo Richard, Dale Lutz, Frankie Lutz, Brent Richard, Marty Lutz and Ward Harvey,

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

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1998

Margherita C. (Palmer) Knapp

McCOOK–Margherita C. Knapp, 85, died Wednesday, Jan. 28, 1998, at her home in McCook, Neb.

She was born June 12, 1912, at Cheyenne County, Kan., to Archibald G. and Mary (Mullally) Palmer. She attended Haigler (Neb). Elementary School and ,graduated from St. Francis (Kan.) High School. She graduated from Chadron (Neb.) State College.

She was united in marriage to Merle J. "Pete" Knapp in May 1928 at Alma, Neb.

She was a retired school teacher having taught all grades in many Southwest Nebraska towns. She was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in McCook.

Mrs. Knapp was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 1976; three brothers: Arch, Lyle and infant Stanley; and two sisters: Mary Admire and Pat Montini,

Survivors include her son, Thomas Michael, and his wife, Janice, of McCook; two daughters; Patricia and her husband, Ronald DeWester, of Benkelman, Neb., and Margaret Catherine and her husband, William VanWormer, of McCook; a brother, William L. and his wife, Cleo, of Pueblo, Colo.; a sister, Lorretta Palmer, of Benkelman; 11 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

Rosary was recited on Thursday Feb. 5, 1998, at 7:30 p.m. at the Carpenter Breland Chapel in McCook. A memorial service was held at 11 a.m. CST on Friday. Feb. 6, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church with Father Robert Tucker officiating. lnurnment was in the Benkelman Cemetery at 2 p.m. MST with Father Mark Pfeiffer officiating. Carpenter Breland was In charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1990

Leland Duane Knapp

McDONALD, Kan.–Leland Duane Knapp, son of Oscar Ivan and Madge Mae (Headrick) Knapp was born May 15, 1935, at St. Francis, Kansas. He died at his home on Thursday, March 22, 1990, at the age of 54 years, 10 months and 7 days.

Duane was a lifetime resident of the McDonald area. He graduated from McDonald High School in 1954. He was a faithful member of the McDonald Lions Club with 34 years of perfect attendance. At the time of his death, he was serving as the Lions Club President.

On August 19, 1962, he was united in marriage to Anna Marie Hafer at Atwood, Kansas. This union was blessed with six children, five daughters and one son; Cynthia, Cathleen, Cheryl, Connie, Michael and Barbara.

Preceding him in death were his father, Oscar Ivan, and an infant brother, Bobby Dee.

Survivors include his wife, Anna; his mother, Madge Knapp of Bird City, Kansas; five daughters, Cynthia King of St. Joseph, Missouri, Cathleen Loop and husband, Mark, of Benkelman, Nebraska, Cheryl Knapp of McDonald, Connie McCain and husband, Joe, of Atwood, Kansas, and Barbara and son. Michael, both of the home; his brother, Lyle Dean and wife, Theresa, of Bird City, Kansas; one half sister, Joanne Swanson and husband, Bud, of Idyllwild, California; his grandson, Tyler Scott Knapp, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Services were held March 24 at the United Methodist Church in Atwood with the Rev. Francis Harwerth officiating. Interment was in the Grace Cemetery at McDonald.

Memorials may be addressed to the McDonald Lions Club or the McDonald Ambulance Fund.

Brantley Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1976

Merrill J. "Pete" Knapp

Funeral services for Merrill J. "Pete" Knapp, 67, were held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church on Monday morning at ten o'clock, August 2nd with the Rev. Edward Valasek officiating. Altar boys were Rodney and James Frederick. A trio composed of Josie Preston, AdeII Richard and Walter Barenberg sang "Beyond the Sunset," “The Old Rugged Cross," and "Our Father," accompanied by organist Karole Knapp.

Casket bearers were Alva Shaw, Jerry Owens, Edwin Pinkerton, Jim Powell, Boyd Richards and Al Reining. Interment was in the Benkelman cemetery under the direction of Jones Funeral Home.

Mr. Knapp, a native of Dundy County, died Thursday evening, July 29th, at the Community Hospital in McCook. He was a heart patient. He was born October 25, 1908 at Loup City, Nebraska, the son of Seneca and Alice Brauer Knapp. He was married May 5, 1928 south of Alma to Margherita Palmer. Mr. Knapp was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Benkelman. He had lived in McCook the past 17 years where he served as a salesman.

He is survived by his widow, Margherita; two daughters, Mrs. Ron (Pat) DeWester of Benkelman and Margaret Linegar of El Cajon. California, one son, Michael Knapp of Trenton: seven grandchildren; two great grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Robert (Gladys) Blair of Sharpsburg, Iowa and one brother, Eljuf Knapp of Arvada Colorado. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Rollo and Coral, and sister, Sylvas.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1936

Franklin Seymour Knepper

Franklin Seymour Knepper was born at Mt. Morris in Ogle county, Illinois, November 17, 1865 and passed away at his home near Parks, Nebraska, April 5, 1936, aged 70 years, 4 months and 11 days.

His parents moved to Atchison county, Missouri, in 1870 where he grew up and spent his early manhood. On December 29, 1892 he was united in marriage to Hattie B. Ewing of Bennett, Nebraska, and since then Nebraska had been his home. Six children were born of this marriage, three of whom had preceded the father in death.

He has made Parks his home since 1912. Here he united with the Methodist church in 1917 and has been a faithful member and a leader in his church, putting his church activities first. He was a member of the Masonic lodge and of the Royal Neighbors.

He was a man of sterling qualities, honorable. upright, always helpful and considerate of others.

He had been in health for nearly a year, constantly under treatment, part of the time in hospitals but all the time gradually growing weaker until he passed quietly and peacefully away, surrounded by all this family.

He is survived by his wife, a daughter, Mrs. Robert Rolen and two sons, Seymour of Parks and Alvin of Wauneta, Nebraska ; four grandchildren, four brothers and four sisters, all of whom were present at the funeral, except one sister in Louisiana.

Hosts of friends in Dundy county, which he loved so well and for which he had labored so long and so diligently for its material and moral up building, sympathize with the family and mourn with them in his passing.

Relatives present at the funeral from a distance were Miss Gertrude Knepper, Lincoln; C. A. Knepper. Holton, Kansas; Miss Gertrude Knepper. Cape Girardeau, Missouri; Mrs. G. L. Rolfren, Lincoln; Miss Ida Knepper, Lincoln; J. W. Knepper, Tarkio, Missouri; George W. Knepper, Tarkio, Missouri; B. E. Knepper, Oshkosh, Nebraska; Selden Ewing, Abilene, Kansas; Mr. and Mrs: W. J. Williams, Cambridge: George W. Knepper, Skidmore, Missouri; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Williams, Bartley; Mr. and Mrs. Harry Earl Williams and Mrs. Alva Barnhart, all of Cambridge. Nebraska.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 1917

Ralph Ewing Knepper

Ralph Ewing Knepper was born at Bennet, Nebraska, September 24, 1895, and died December 10, 1917, at Fort Riley, Kansas, age 22 years, 2 months and 16 days.

When quite young he moved with his parents from Bennet to Hickman, Nebraska, and six years ago to Parks, and remained there until the call of his country, when with the first division of Dundy county's quota he left for Camp Funston September 20, 1917. With a willing heart and eager spirit he entered into all of the activities of camp life, until six weeks ago, when he fell a victim to the measles. That was the beginning of the end.

After several relapses he finally succumbed to acute pneumonia at one of the military hospitals at Fort Riley. He falls in the place of duty and honor to his family and country; the first of the heroic Dundy county boys who count physical comfort and life second to the eternal principle of righteousness.

He was a young man of fine physical form, of clean life and noble character, a friend of everyone and who dies with the friendship and sympathy of the entire county.

The body was shipped to Benkelman and funeral services were conducted from the M. E. church, Rev. Gibb preaching the sermon.

He leaves to mourn his loss his father, mother, three brothers, Harold, Seymour and Alvin and one sister Vera, one brother Marion, preceding him in death when two years of age. A multitude of sorrowing friends with many relatives, mourn his departure.

Interment took place in the Benkelman cemetery.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1967

Seymour N. Knepper

Seymour N. Knepper, a good neighbor of the Parks community, passed away at the Wray Community Hospital on Saturday at the age of 66 years. He had been in ill health for several years and had undergone extensive surgery last year. Failing health made it necessary for him to limit his farming activities and last fall he moved with his family to Haigler to be near a high school.

Funeral services were held at the Methodist Church in Parks on Tuesday afternoon with the Rev. Eric Talla officiating. Singers were Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Koons and Mrs. Robert Singley. Honorary bearers were Steve Ellis, Ami Teel, Bill Gunderman and Charlie Blank. Bearers were Max Cline, Ned Tecker, Tom Ballard, Dudley Blank, Louis Brinkerhoff and Frank Weiss. Interment was in the Benkelman cemetery with Jay's Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Seymour N. Knepper, son of Hattie Bell and Franklin Seymour Knepper, was born at Lincoln, Nebraska, July 5, 1900, and passed away March 11, 1967, at the Wray, Colorado, Community Hospital at the age of 66 years, nine months and six days.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, May 1997

Verle K Knepper

Verle K Knepper, age 59, of McCook died Sunday (May 4, 1997) at Community Hospital.

He was born Feb. 22, 1938, to Seymour Nicodemus and Eunice Margaret (Roundtree) Knepper at Parks. He graduated valedictorian of his class in 1955 from Parks High School.

On Jan. 27, 1962, he married Cecilia Louise Otter at New Almelo, Kan. He had worked in customer service for Burlington-Northern Railroad since 1955.

He was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus — 4th Degree, Grand Knight Trustee District Deputy; King's Men Prayer Group; and an usher at church. He also coached and officiated many sports events.

Preceding him in death were his parents; an infant brother, Delbert; and an infant grandson, Adam.

Survivors include his wife Cecilia of McCook; six daughters, Julie Knepper of Lincoln; Margaret "Peg" Harders and husband Dale of Grand Island; Patricia Knepper of Greeley, Colo., Nancy Trail and husband Kynan of Akron., Colo., Linda Gerih and husband Cody and Angela Knepper, all of Kearney; one brother, Marlin Dale Knepper and wife Patricia of Yarmouth Port, Mass.; one sister, Vicky Mackey and husband Gary of Fort Collins, Colo.; his stepmother, Beulah Oster of Sherwood, Ore.; two half-sisters, Velma Peranni of Englewood, Colo., and Myrna Sharp and husband Bob of Phoenix, Ariz.; one half-brother, Marvin Oster and wife Kathleen of Wichita, Kan.; four grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be given in his name to the American Cancer Society.

Rosary will be today at 7:30 p.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in McCook.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church with Father Robert Tucker as celebrant. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery at McCook.

Carpenter-Breland Funeral Home of McCook is in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1981

Bessie (Crosby) Knight,

Bessie Knight, 82, of Gibbon died Saturday morning at the Kearney hospital.

Services were Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the Gibbon Faith United Church with the Rev. Alvin Trucano, church pastor, officiating and burial in the Gibbon Riverside Cemetery.

Mrs. Knight was born July 2, 1898 at Benkelman to Elmer and Callie (Howell) Crosby. She was reared in Benkelman and attended school there. In 1923, she and James Messick were married and they made their home in Benkelman.

In 1930, she married Filmore Knight and they lived on a farm north of Benkelman. After his death in 1938, she moved to town where she owned and operated a creamery. She also taught school and served as justice of the peace.

Retiring in 1952, she moved to Kearney and to Gibbon in 1959 where her daughter taught school.

Survivors are two sons, James Messick and Edgar Knight, both of Joplin, MO; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by Mr. Knight; a daughter, Ethel Todd in 1973; a brother; and a sister.

Miller-Godberson Mortuary was in charge of the arrangements.

Bessie Knight was an aunt of Leon Barney, Jr., of Benkelman.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1938

Filmore Knight

Filmore Knight, Benkelman man, was instantly killed Monday night on the highway near Mountain Home, Idaho, and the two companions with whom he was riding were so severely injured that it was necessary for them to go to a hospital, when a heavy car collided from the rear as Filmore was removing a flat tire.

Sheriff A.W. Woodworth accompanied Mortician Joe Laughlin by motor after the body Tuesday noon and it is not expected that they can reach home before Friday or Saturday of this week.

Filmore had been in Idaho since September 1 where he had gone in search of work and he and his two companions were en route looking for work when the accident happened. It was between 12 and 2 o'clock at night. It is said that the death-dealing car was driven by a Nampa, Idaho, contractor and was one of the heavier types of cars.

Mr. Knight is survived by his wife, Bessie Crosby Knight, two stepchildren, Junior, 13, and Ethel, 11, and one son, Edgar, 7.

Because of the fact that the body could not be removed from the State of Idaho until after 30 hours had elapsed following the coroner's inquest and the further fact that other legal restrictions would delay shipment of the body by rail, it was deemed best to go to Idaho after it by motor. Further than this it was felt that local people should be there anyway pending the coroner's inquest and the investigation of officers.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1995

Harold Edwin "Knoly" Knoles

Harold Edwin "Knoly" Knoles was born in Muscatine County, Iowa, on November 17, 1919, the son of Ralph and Nellie (Umphress) Knoles. He received Christian baptism as a child and he attended school at Blue Grass, Iowa.

On December 29, 1940, he was united in marriage with Alberta M. Hall in a service at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Clinton, Iowa. To this marriage three children were born; Vicki, Rick and Holly.

After their marriage the couple lived for about two years in Clinton where Knoly managed a meat market.

With the outbreak of World War II he enlisted in the United States Marines. He served in a Pacific Theater of the war, rising to the rank of Master Technical Sergeant in the U.S. Marines. After the war, the Knoles’ lived for a year in San Diego, California.

After he was discharged from the Marine Copes, Knoly worked with his father-in-law, Roy Hall, in the Youngson Oil Company in Benkelman, Nebraska. Starting in 1950 he owned and operated the Knoles Cafe. In 1953 he purchased the local Ford automobile dealership which he operated until the time of his death. He first operated it along with the cafe as Youngson's Station, then sold the cafe in 1954. His garage also sold International Harvester farm equipment.

Knoly was active in many civic and community organizations. He was a member of the Martin F. Bowles Post No. 65 of the American Legion, the Veterans Service Board, the McCook Elks Lodge, the Iowa-Nebraska Equipment Dealers' Association and the Nebraska New Car Dealers' Association. He had served on the Benkelman City Council.

He loved to read. He took a special interest in his many young friends and liked to hunt and fish.

He suffered serious heart attacks in 1963 and 1985. His health was declining for many months but he still enjoyed going to the garage for a time every day. He died at his home Sunday, August 13, 1995, at the age of 75 years, 8 months and 27 days.

He was preceded in death by his father who died in 1975, his mother who died in 1986 and a sister, Helen Plett, who died at Blue Grass in 1986.

Knoly is survived by his wife, Alberta of Benkelman; his daughter, Vicki, and her husband, Merlyn Walter, of Wray, Colorado; his son, Rick, and his wife, Becky, of Houston, Texas, and his daughter, Holly, and her husband, Greg Ham, of Holdrege, Nebraska. He also is survived by 9 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; his sisters-in-law, Leona Osborn and her husband, Dale, of Benkelman and Merna Petersen of Davis, California; nieces, and nephews.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, August 16, 1995, at 10:30 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman with the Rev. Douglas Allen officiating. Pianist was Shirley Adkinson and Richard Bartholomew sang "Amazing Grace" and "On Eagle's Wings." The congregational hymn was "Spirit Of God, Descend Upon My Heart."

Bearers were Bob Jones, Rod Wiese, Mac DeHart, Jim Hardwick, Bob Grieser, Rich Ham and Scott Wiese.

Honorary bearers were Robert McChesney, Mason Jones, Bob Hardwick, Bill Hines, Leo Williams, Dr. James Monaghan, Boyd Adkinson, Lee Bowers, Glen Osborn, Dale Bauer, Bob Ewing, Ross Druliner, Walt Barenberg, Carl Lutz, Stan Jones, Dr. Howard Peckham, Jim Hamill, Dr. Robert Rhoades, Butch Stone, Kent Nehrboss, Victor Kisela and Bob Willis.

Committal services were by Martin F. Bowles American Legion Post No. 65. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery.

Jones Funeral Hdme of Benkelman in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1985

Hallie Melvina (Harris) Koons

Hallie Melvina Koons, daughter of William and Minnie Harris, was born March 19 , 1908, at Danbury, Nebraska. She spent her girlhood in tile farming community of Danbury, graduating from high school there.

Hallie was united in marriage to William Glenn Koons on November 14, 1928, at McCook. To this union three children were born, Carol, Jim and Mary Sue. They would have celebrated their 57th anniversary this coming November 14. Much of their life together was spent in the farming communities of Holbrook, Arapahoe and McCook, Nebraska areas.

While in McCook, Hallie worked at the St. Catherine's Hospital as a nurse's aide and for the school district in the high school cafeteria.

Hallie and Glenn moved to Parks, Nebraska, in 1959 to pastor the Parks Church of God Mission, now known as the Parks Community Church. While living there, Hallie worked at the Hester Memorial Home as a nurse's aide and at the Dundy County Hospital as housekeeper, where she worked until after her 76th birthday. She also drove to Max on Sundays for a couple years and preached at the Max People's Church. Midway through their labors at Parks, Glenn suffered a disabling stroke. Not allowing this to put a stop to their ministry at Parks, Hallie assumed full responsibility as pastor of the church, where she continued until approximately a year ago, when ill health caused her to discontinue many of her activities. While pastoring at Parks, Hallie was a member of the Benkelman Ministerial Alliance.

In 1982, they moved to Benkelman, residing at the Rainbow Fountain Park. The last year of her life, she and Glenn lived with their daughter and son-in-law, Rev. Bob and Carol Sander of Benkelman.

Hallie went to be with the Lord on Saturday morning, November 14, 1985 at the Dundy County Hospital at the age of 77 years, 7 months, and 12 days.

Survivors include her husband, Glenn, of the Hester Home; two daughters, Carol Maxine, and her husband, Rev. Bob Sander of Benkelman, and Mary Sue, and her husband, Bob Singley of Royal, Nebraska.; and her; one son, Rev. Jim D. Koons, and wife, Raymounda of Clarkston, Washington; 10 grandchildren and three great grandchildren; one brother, Max Harris of Gloucester Point, Virginia; one sister, Edna Thomaschefsky of Denver, Colorado; other relatives and many friends.

Hallie was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Phil Harris and Tippo Harris.

Hallie is remembered by her faithfulness, her industriousness, her love for her home, family and friends. But she is best remembered for her intense love for her Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.

She came to know Jesus in 1944 and from that time to the moment of her death, she was known as a true Christian wife, mother and grandmother, always thinking of others.

Our tears today are not tears of remorse, sorrow or regret, but tears of joy, thankfulness and memory of a loved one who has stepped beyond the line of worlds into the gracious presence of her Saviour.

Services were held Monday, November 4, at Friends Church of Benkelman. Rev. Robert Sander officiated.

Mary Baney accompanied Ruth Ann Daviak, Betty Sawyer and the Singing Friends with selections "Sweet Sweet Spirit," "I Will Pilot Thee" and "The Last Mile Of The Way" and the congregational hymn, "It Is Well With My Soul."

Bearers were Airman Rob Singley, Rocky Sander, Charles Sander, Jimmy Koons, Billy Koons
and Tom Daviak. Honorary bearers were Roy Walter, Roger Shillington, Lawrence Steele, Howard Irwin, Sr., Dr. James Monaghan, Lyle Hansen, Gerald Hayward, Milton Singley, Albert Sander and Dean Gove.

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

Mother Dear,

We have no fear

To follow in your path,

For you chose the Saviour

And on Him we all depend

Until we are together again.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1986

William Glenn Koons

William Glenn Koons, a son of James Russell and Martha (Halsey) Koons, was born January 9, 1908, at Lebanon, Nebraska, and passed away January 30, 1986, at the Dundy County Hospital, Benkelman, Nebraska, at the age of 78 years and 21 days.

Glenn spent his boyhood days on the farm near Lebanon where he also attended school. On November 14, 1928, he was united in marriage to Hallie Melvina Harris at McCook, Nebraska. To this union three children were born, Carol, Jim and Mary Sue.

Much of their life together was spent in the farming communities of Holbrook, Arapahoe and McCook, Nebraska.

Glenn and Hallie moved to Parks, Nebraska, in 1959 to pastor the Parks Church of God Mission, now known as the Parks Community Church, and the Max People's Church. While living in Parks, Glenn drove a school bus for the Parks school system, worked as a custodian at the Hester Memorial Home and was caretaker at the Rock Creek State Lake along with working for some of the local farmers. One of his greatest joys was planting a big garden and then giving the produce to the neighbors.

In 1944, in a revival meeting in Holbrook, Nebraska, Glenn received Jesus Christ as his own personal Saviour and from that time on, he put his heart and life into serving his Lord. He did considerable lay preaching and was active for some time in The Gideons International organization. During the time of his ministry at Parks, Glenn became very concerned for the Korean orphans and supported them with much care and prayer. Glenn is best remembered by his deep love for young people. His children and grandchildren remember him as a man of prayer, a man who desired above everything else the spiritual growth of his family. One of his favorite quotations was, "Whatever you do, be true to our blessed Lord."

Glenn pastored in Parks until incapacitated by a severe stroke. Glenn and Hallie finally moved to Benkelman and took up residence in the Rainbow Fountain Park. Later, because of ill health, they moved in with their daughter and son-in-law, Bob and Carol Sande,. where they resided for approximately a year. In October of 1985, they became residents of the Hester M emorial Home where they were living when Glenn bade farewell to his beloved wife, Hallie, on November 2, 1985, and where he was living at the time of his passing.

Survivors include two daughers, Carol, and her husband, Rev. Bob Sander of Benkelman, and Mary Sue, and her husband, Robert Singley of Royal, Nebraska; one son, Rev. Jim D. Koons, and his wife, Raymounda of Clarkston, Washington; 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, along with a host of other friends and relatives.

Glenn was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Hallie.

Dad, in a way today we are sad,
Not sad for you, for you are glad
But sad for ourselves;
For death is a temporary loss
But, oh, in the sweet bye and bye
We'll be together again
Gathered in the presence of the Saviour,
Nevermore to part.

Services were held Monday, February 3, at the Friends Church of Benkelman, Rev. Robert Sander officiated.

Mary Baney provided appropriate organ music. "The Last Mile Of The Way" was performed by Betty Sawyer and "Sitting At The Feet Of Jesus" by Ruth Ann Doviak. The congregation sang "Oh, That Will Be Glory For Me" and the Singing Friends sang "My Home Sweet Home."

Bearers were Airman Rob Singley, Jimmy Koons, Billy Koons, Rocky Sander, Charles Sander and Tom Doviak.

Honorary bearers were Roy Walter, Roger Shillington, Gerald Hayward, Howard Irwin, Dr. James Monaghan, Sam Kuhns, Bus Rhodes, Lyle Hansen, Albert Sander, Milton Singley, Lawrence Steele, Dean Gove, Malvin Hendrickson, Jim Baney and Johnny Ferguson,

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

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1991

William F. "Hoppy" Koppinger

BENKELMAN--William F. "Hoppy" Koppinger, 69, of Benkelman, Nebraska. died Thursday, March 7, 1991, at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman.

He was born August 27, 1921, in the farming community of New England, North Dakota, where he attended school at St. Mary's Academy. He graduated at the age of 16.

After working on his father's farm for a period of time, he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps. Through R.O.T.C., he earned his pilot's wings in Dickenson, North Dakota.

During World War II he was stationed at the Air Force Base in McCook, Nebraska, where he met his wife-to-be, Della May Haines. On January 17, 1945, the two were united in marriage by a justice of the peace in Oberlin, Kansas. The two resided in Trenton, Nebraska.

At the end of the war, Hoppy assumed the position of airport manager at the Trenton airport. During this time, he received his instructor's license at Lincoln, Nebraska, and later became responsible for qualifying numerous pilots throughout the area.

On June 26, 1945, their first child, Susan Rosalie, came into their lives. A little more than a year later, their second daughter, Sandra Kaye, was born on November 17, 1947.

Shortly thereafter, they moved to Benkelman where Hoppy went to work as a pilot instructor for Sam Norton. Less than two years later, he became the first aerial applicator in Chase, Hitchcock and Dundy counties.

On October 29, 1948, their son, William Glen, was born. As the children grew, the family also grew as a team, developing the business throughout the area.

Preceding him in death were his mother, Susanne, and his father, Nick, of New England.

He was a member of the McCook Elks Club, the Imperial Eagles Club No. 3472 and the Benkelman American Legion Post No. 65.

Survivors include his wife, Della Mae, of Benkelman; his daughter, Susan, and her husband, Arlyn Shineman, of Littleton, Colorado; his daughter, Sandra, and her husband, Adrian Moberly, of Osborne, Kansas, and his son, William, and his wife, Karen, of Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Also surviving him are his grandchildren, Julie, Kirt, James, John, Garth, Glenda, Austyn and Dylan, and great-grandchildren, Kaycie, Colton, Brandon and Kodie. Also surviving are his mother, Rose, of New England; his brothers, Robert and Charles of New England, Edward of Cottage Grove, Minnesota, James of New England and Harold of Cottage Grove, and his sisters, Ann Marie of Richerton, North Dakota, and Vivian of Amidon, North Dakota.

Services were held Tuesday, March 12, 1991, at 10 a.m. at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with the Rev. Dr. John Kilgore officiating.

Julie Stephenson was the flutist, Gwen Bauer, the organist, and Richard Bartholomew, the soloist.

Selections included a flute solo of "Blue Spanish Eyes," “In The Garden" and "Mother's Prayers Have Followed Me."

Bearers were Arnold Rotering, Barry Wallace, Stan Jones, Larry Einspahr, Jerry Shaw and Bob Hidy. Honorary bearers were Adrian Moberly. Garth Shineman, Arlyn Shineman, Don Stephenson and Jamie Moberly.

Committal was by the American Legion Post No. 65 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post. No. 4178.

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

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1990

Sherwood J. Korf

Sherwood J. Korf died today (March 15, 1990) at Community Hospital in McCook at the age of 42. He was born Feb. 9, 1948, at McCook, the son of Wayne J. and Darlene (Ellis) Korf.

He grew up in McCook and was a 1966 graduate of McCook High School. He also attended Kearney State College and served with the National Guard for four years.

He was married Aug. 8, 1970, at Red Cloud to Kiley Barta.

He spent his life in the McCook community where he was president of Barnett Do-It Center.

He was a member of the Memorial United Methodist Church in McCook, the Lions Club, the McCook Elks Lodge, and the Southwest Nebraska Antique and Rod Club. He was also a member of the Nebraska Lumberman's Association and the HWI Hardware Association.

His father, Wayne, preceded him in death Nov. 5, 1979.

Survivors include his wife, Kiley; three daughters, Jennifer, Jami and Jodi; his mother, Darlene; and one sister, Kristi Clapp, all of McCook.

Services will be Saturday at 10:30 a.m. at the Memorial United Methodist Church in McCook with the Rev. Gilbert Jackson officiating. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorials may be given in his name and friends may call at the funeral home. Herrmann Funeral Home of McCook is in charge of arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 2008

Bonnie E. (Edwards) Korkisch

Bonnie E. Korkisch, age 85, passed away Sunday, Feb. 17, 2008, at Carington Health Center.

Bonnie was born Jan. 4, 1922, in Benkelman, Neb., and moved to Huntsville, Ala., in 1956. Bonnie had a career that included work for John L. Lewis and 27 years of employment at Redstone Arsenal.

She is survived by her husband, George Korkisch and brother Eugene Edwards of Lincoln. Neb.

A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 20, at Trinity United Methodist Church at the Anne Howard Chapel with Laughlin Service Funeral Home in charge. Interment will be in Benkelman.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to your favorite charity.

Laughlin Service Funeral Home, Inc., of Huntsville is in charge of the arrangements.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1990

Fauniel June (Bragg) Kramer

WRAY, Colo.--Fauniel June (Bragg) Kramer was born April 1, 1938, in St. Francis, Kansas, the only child of Lloyd and Mildred Bragg, and died on July 27, 1990.

Her childhood was spent on the farm west of Haigler, Nebraska, where her love for animals, especially kittens, could grow without limits.

After attending all of her school years in Haigler, Fauniel graduated with the Class of 1955.

On June 12, 1955, she married Raymond "Sam" Kramer, and settled in a small house just a rock's throw from Mom and Dad Bragg. There they farmed and became "Mom" and "Dad" to Bruce Alan and Jana Sue.

In 1960, Sam lost his father and the family moved to the sandhills north of Wray to help his mother with the ranch. For the next 21 years, Kramer Ranch was home.

In addition to raising Bruce and Jana, Fauniel enjoyed working for Gladys at Coad Florist, and entertaining neighbors and friends. She was a great cook.

Sam died in November 1981. From then until her death on July 27, 1990, Fauniel resided in the Colorado Springs and Denver areas in Colorado.

Those left to mourn her passing are her mother, Millie Bragg, of Haigler; her son, Bruce, and his wife, Kathy; her daughter, Jana, and her husband, Ron Gallegos; grandchildren Levi, Tara, Beau and Sam Kramer and Stephanie and Shawn Gallegos, all of Wray; her aunts, uncles and cousins, and her little dog, Button, who was with her every step of the way.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, July 31, 1990, at the Wray United Methodist Church with the Rev. Ross B. Kershaw officiating. Interment was in the Haigler cemetery.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1989

Anna Irene (Jessee) Krausnick

WAUNETA — Anna Irene Krausnick of Wauneta died Wednesday (Feb. 1, 1989) at the Chase County Community Hospital in Imperial at the age of 87. She was born to Charles and Anna (Brewer) Jessee on April 1, 1901 in Dundy County.

She married Albert E. Krausnick in July of 1920.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband in 1968, a grandson, three brothers and two sisters.

Survivors include one son, Dale of Wauneta; one daughter, Marilyn McCrumb of Wauneta; one brother, Lyman Jessee of Westminster, Colo.; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Services will be Saturday at 11 a.m. MST at the United Methodist Church in Wauneta with the Rev. Randal Smith officiating. Interment will be in the Riverside Cemetery. Creveling Funeral Home of Wauneta is in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be addressed in her name and left at the funeral home.

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Printed in a Ft. Morgan, CO paper (?), December 1998

Donna (Turpin) Kress

Donna Turpin Kress, 70, of Bennett died Monday afternoon, Dec. 7, at the Aurora Presbyterian Hospital in Aurora following a brief illness.

Mrs. Kress was born July 6, 1928, in Haigler, Neb., to Tom and Mamie (Armstrong) Turpin. She attended school in Haigler through the ninth grade when the family moved to Fort Morgan. She attended high school here graduating with the Class of 1945.

On May 26, 1946, she was married to John Robert Kress in Fort Morgan, and they made their home in Wiggins. Mrs. Kress worked with her mother-in-law, Ann Kress, who owned Ann's Cafe near Wiggins. She also worked with Pauline Fetters at the White Spot Cafe in Wiggins, later becoming its owner-operator.

Before moving to Houston. Texas, in 1982 she was a bookkeeper at the Valley Feed and Seeds and later Excel. She moved back to Colorado in 1988, making her home in Bennett with her son.

During her time in Wiggins she was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

Mrs. Kress is survived by two daughters: Barbara Windsor of Lake George and Sharon Weimer of Bennett; a son, John, of Bennett; a brother, Vill Turpin. of Broomfield and four grandsons.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John; her parents; brother Tom and daughter Linda Richardson who left a son Ric. who was raised by his grandmother, Donna. Funeral services were held Dec. 11, 1998, at 11 a.m. at the Jolliffe Chapel with the Rev. Donald Beal officiating. Carol Herbst was the organist and Robert. Sagel the soloist. Vocal selections were "Peace In The Valley" and "Take My Hand Precious Lord." Bearers were Jim and Richard Vance, Melvin Howell. Jim Nichols, Steve Weimer and Ralph Beauprez Jr. Burial was in the Riverside Cemetery at Fort Morgan.

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

Henry H. Krieger

Henry H. Krieger of McCook died Sunday at the Community Hospital, McCook.

Mr. Krieger was born July 27, 1893 at Sutton to John and Maggie Krieger. He was married Dec. 5, 1942 in Manhattan, Kan. to Ida E. Yost.

He was a life member of the Elks Lodge 1434 of McCook; member of American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, both of McCook; World War I Veteran; and belonged to Burlington Veterans. He served 47 years in train service and was a retired conductor for the Burlington Northern Railroad.

Survivors include his wife, Ida E. of McCook; one stepson, Donald A. Yost of McCook; two brothers, Adam of Greeley, Colo. and Jacob of Wauneta; and one sister, Pauline White of Detroit, Mich.

Services will be Tuesday at 2 p.m. in the Carpenter-Breland Funeral Chapel of McCook with the Rev. Bruce Merizan officiating. Interment will be Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. in the Sutton Cemetery under the direction of the Carpenter-Breland Funeral Home of McCook.

Memorials will be accepted for the Hillcrest Nursing Home in McCook.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1990

Grace (Whitney) Kring

NEWCASTLE, Wyo.—Grace Kring was born October 4, 1909, at Haddam, Kansas, to George and Hilda (Groathouse) Whitney. Mrs. Kring died Monday, November 2, 1990, at the Weston Manor in Newcastle, Wyoming.

She was raised on the family ranch near Benkelman, Nebraska, moving to Wyoming in 1946 with her family.

On July 29, 1957, she married Walter Kring at Newcastle. For many years she was employed in Newcastle as a clerk for the Red Owl Store, the J.C. Penney Company and Modern Cleaners and as a waitress at the Club Cafe.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one son, Voll, in October 1955, one brother, one sister and several grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, Walt, of Newcastle; two sons, James Tetrick of South Bend, Washington, and Henry Tetrick of Newcastle; one daughter, Vera Mae Kennan, of McKinney, Texas; one sister, Jennie Redfern, of Salem, Oregon, and 57 grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Friday, November 16, at the Christ the King Lutheran Church in Newcastle with Pastor John Orwig officiating. Burial was in the Newcastle Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of the McColley Funeral Home of Newcastle.

A memorial has been established to the Weston Manor Nursing Home in Newcastle.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, July 1936

F. C. Krotter

The Benkelman community, like dozens of other Southwest Nebraska communities, was shocked and deeply grieved last Friday afternoon upon receipt of word of the sudden passing of F. C. Krotter at Palisade as a result of a stroke of paralysis from which he died instantly. Mr. Krotter had just left the local bank following a conference with his old friend L. C. Churchill and had driven to a local filling station to have his car serviced previously to leaving for Trenton in connection with his lumber yard interests there. After filling the gas tank, the attendant asked Mr. Krotter if his car needed oil. To this there came no response and when the attendant walked around in front of the car, he discovered Mr. Krotter slumped over the steering gear. A local doctor was called who pronounced him dead.

Funeral services were held out of doors at his home Sunday afternoon, being conducted by Rev. B. F. Hutchins, resident pastor. Interment was in the Palisade cemetery.

Surviving members of his immediate family are Mrs. Krotter and his two sons Dean and F. Chauncey.

Mr. Krotter came to Palisade from Illinois, his birthplace, about forty years ago to enter the lumber business. There was perhaps no greater amount of energy, ambition, business acumen, perseverance, honor and integrity involved in the make up of any one citizen in the state than did Mr. Krotter possess. It seemed that there was no such a thing as wearying in the busy life he lead. He operated a large string of elevators, lumber yards and other business enterprises along with herry land holdings for which he was always in direct charge. He was not only busy from an Individual viewpoint but from a communily angle as well. He devoted much of his time and eftort in community building.

Palisade, his home town, naturally benefitted most from the efforts and wisdom of its splendid citizen who gave it one of the first light plants in this end of the state,. a public play ground, a swimming pool for the children, a business district of such outstanding proportions as few towns the size of Palisade enjoy and many other improvements. He was strong for schools, strong for churches, strong for everything that reflected to the end of better community life. He thought clean and clear and that was the way he lived.

In the matter of public improvements and better living conditions, he was as strong for them at other points where he was financially interested as he was at home. He came to Benkelman time and time again without cost to our community to give of his experience and advice in all kinds of commmunity problems. And thru the years he was interested here in a business way, he was likewise^, interested from every kind of community development. Although a man of wealth and of super judgment, the problem of the man in modest or cramped financial circumstances was not too small for his consideration and by a word of encouragement a deed of kindness or an act of consideration, not measured by personal interest, he helped hundreds along their way in their problems; and struggles in life.

Although outstanding indeed was his spirit of vision and aggressiveness, one was most attracted by the honesty of the man—honesty of purpose and honesty in his business dealings. Although he accomplished things and created wealth as if by magic, no one seemed to envy him his success, and seldom indeed was a voice of malice or envy uttered against him. He was a man who seemed to like everybody and who seemed anxious to help all in any way possible. He played the game of life in a big way, appreciated his successes and never complained when the breaks were against him. He loved action, and its consequent fruits which to him was accomplishment, whether in a large or small way. He had the double faculty for detail and large undertakings alike. Nothing seemed too large for him to undertake and on the other hand nothing was too small for its just consideration in his every day life. And when his time came to depart this life, he died like he had lived – in action with much unfinished business filling his mind and in the process of fulfillment.

Hundreds of Dundy county folks will deeply sympathize with his loved ones in his passing and all will mourn with them for after all men like F. C. Krotter belonged to the communities, too.

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

F. Chauncey Krotter

F. Chauncey Krotter, who with his brother Dean, was a partner in the Benkelman firm, Krotter & Sailors, and the Max lumber yard, Krotter & Fitzgerald, passed away at his home in Palisade on Monday morning of a heart attack. The attack was the second that morning and occurred at near ten o'clock while he lay resting after recovering from an attack at near six o'clock when the family doctor was called. Mr. Krotter was thirty-nine years of age and is survived by his wife and five children.

Funeral services were held at the Krotter home on Wednesday afternoon at two o'clock and was attended by a large number of friends, both from Palisade and numerous communities in which he was known.

Benkelman people attending the services were Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Sailors, Mr. and Mrs. Howard Miller, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Fries and John Ham.

Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, March 28, 2007

Esther W. Krug

Wednesday, March 28, 2007

May 1, 1919-March 26, 2007

BENKELMAN -- Esther W. Krug, of Benkelman, Neb., died Monday (March 26, 2007), at Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman at the age of 87 years.

She was born May 1, 1919, on her family's farm north of Benkelman in Dundy County, Neb., to Fredrick and Louise (Haarberg) Kuhlman, and attended country school near her home. She later attended Benkelman High School where she was a member of the graduating class of 1935.

Esther was baptized into the Lutheran faith on May 11, 1919, at the Evangelical Lutheran Church near her home. She was confirmed in 1933, at Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman where she was a lifelong member.

On May 9, 1937, Esther was united in marriage to Henry M. Krug at the Cheyenne Valley Lutheran Church near Wheeler, Kan. They began their marriage on the farm in Cheyenne County, southwest of Benkelman.

Two children were born to their marriage; Henry, Jr., and Eva. The Krug's built a new home on their farm in 1963, and then moved their home into Benkelman in 1980. They had a special observance of their 50th wedding anniversary in 1987, and celebrated their 55th anniversary in 1992.

Esther was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She loved her family, her farm life, cooking for many and growing beautiful flowers. What she will be remembered most fondly by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, will be time spent with her enjoying a challenging puzzle and her famous German pancakes. Her gentle but determined spirit will be remembered by all.

Preceding her in death are her parents, Fred and Louise Kuhlman, and her husband, Henry, in 1992.

Survivors include her children, Henry Krug Jr., and wife, Jean and Eva Russell and husband, Jim all of Benkelman; seven grandchildren, Brenda Lutz and husband, Scott of Parks, Neb., Steve Krug and wife, Lana of Benkelman, Karey Graves and husband, Todd of McCook, Neb., Angie Teter and husband, Bill of Bartley, Neb., Carol Cornelius and husband, Ryan of Grant, Neb.; six great-grandchildren, Avery Lutz of Crete, Neb., Collin Lutz of Lincoln, Neb., Taylor Lutz of Parks, Chelsey and Lane Krug of Benkelman, Sage Graves of McCook, Trevor and Emily Cornelius of Grant; two step-grandchildren, Justin Gipe and wife, Chris of Scottsbluff, Neb., Tyler Gipe of Benkelman; one step-great-grandchild, Taylor Gipe; sisters-in-law, Irene Indorf and Josephine Mann both of Goodland, Kan.; and numerous other family members, friends and neighbors.

Visitation is today until 6 p.m., at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman.

Funeral services will be Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman with Rev. George Matthews officiating. Interment will follow services at the Benkelman Cemetery.

Memorials are being accepted in Esther's name. Condolences for the family may be left on-line at www.forch.com.

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

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, May 1973

Bertha (Laderick) Krug

Bertha Krug, a resident of this community for 52 years, passed away suddenly of a heart attack while entering the Zion Lutheran Church for Sunday services. She was 86 years of age and had been in failing health for several years. She was the mother of Henry Krug, Sr. and Mrs. Irene Wood of Benkelman and Mrs. Josephine Mann of Goodland, Kansas.

Bertha Laderick was born on September 4, 1886 in Doniphan County, Kansas, the daughter of Christine May and Christ Laderick. She was married to Henry William Fuellgraf on July 11, 1911 at St. Joe, Missouri. To this union one son, Henry, was born. Mr. Fuellgraf expired on June 6, 1914. On December 22, 1917 she was married to Joseph Krug and in 1919 they moved to Cheyenne county, Kansas and in 1921 to Dundy county, Nebraska. He died on December 27, 1942 after a short illness. To this union were born three daughters one of whom, a twin to Irene, passed away at the age of 16 months. She was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church and the ALCW.

Mrs. Krug is survived by her son, Henry Martin Krug, Sr. and wife Esther, Lora Irene Wood and husband Clifford, all of Benkelman and Josephine Darlene Mann and husband Harden of Goodland, Kansas; sisters -in-law, Freda Fuellgraf, St. Joe. Missouri, Clara Whitman and husband Louis of Portland, Oregon and Elsie Schultz and husband Otto of St. Joe, Missouri; brother-in-law Albert Fuellgraf and wife Emila of Grand Junction, Colorado; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews and other relatives. She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Otillia, Emma and Julia, brothers, Fred and John; daughter, Lucille and sister-in-law, Minnie.

Funeral services were arranged for Wednesday afternoon at the Zion Lutheran Church with Pastor Otto Zeilinger officiating. Jackie Wilson the organist and Shirley Adkinson and Genereva Schrader the singers. Casket bearers were Stanley Ham, Chris Anderson, Mac Anderson, Burdette Wilson, William Damrow, August Schrader, Elmer Elliott and Alvin Schrader. Honorary bearers were Alva Howard, Martin Lutz, Forrest Stamm, Fred Kuhlman, Howard Miller, Dick Jourdon and Bill Burk. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery. The Jones Funeral „Home was in charge of arrangements.

(Researcher note: Burial records for the Benkelman cemetery show a birth date of 9-4-1886 and a death date of 5-6-1973.)

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, July 1992

Henry Krug, Sr.

BENKELMAN — Henry Krug was born Henry Martin Fuellgraf on August 6, 1913, at St. Joseph. Missouri, the son of Henry Fuellgraf and Bertha (Laderick) Fuellgraf.

As an infant he was baptized in the Lutheran Church at St. Joseph, Missouri. His father died in June 1914. His mother married Joseph Krug in December 1917, and Henry was subsequently adopted by his stepfather in 1934. However, he remained close to his father's family, the Fuellgrafs.

The family lived in Shubert, Nebraska, from 1917 until 1920 when they moved to the farm in Cheyenne County, Kansas, southwest of Benkelman, Nebraska. They joined Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman and there Henry was confirmed on August 19, 1929. He graduated from Benkelman High School in 1931 as the valedictorian of his class.

On May 9, 1937, he was united in marriage with Esther Kuhlman at Cheyenne Valley Lutheran Church of Wheeler, Kansas. They began their married life on the farm in Cheyenne County, southwest of Benkelman.

Two children were born to their marriage: Henry Jr. and Eva (Mrs. Jim Russell). The Krugs built a new home on their farm in 1963 and then moved their home into Benkelman in 1980. They had a special observance of their 50th wedding anniversary in 1987 and celebrated their 55th anniversary in May 1992.

Always an active member of the church, Henry served several terms on the church council of Zion Lutheran Church. He was on the council when the sanctuary was doubled in length to its present size in 1963. He served on the extension council of Cheyenne County. He was instrumental in establishing the first telephone service to his area and served on the original board.

Henry maintained a keen interest in the livestock operation that will be carried on by his son and grandson. He was a forerunner of conservation practices regarding his wheat operation. He and his wife, Esther, received two prestigious awards for their work with dams and terraces to maintain the productivity of the land he loved.

He suffered a heart attack in February 1992 and underwent open heart surgery in April. Although he was able to return home, his health was declining and he entered North Colorado Medical Center in Greeley, Colorado. on Wednesday, July 1. He died July 7, 1992, at the age of 78 years, 11 months and 1 day.

He was preceded in death by his father in 1914, his adoptive father in 1942, his mother in 1973 and by a sister, Lucille Krug, a twin to Irene, who died when she was just 18 months old.

He is survived by his wife, Esther Krug; his children, Henry Krug Jr. and his wife, Jean, of Benkelman and his daughter, Eva, and her husband, Jim Russell, of Benkelman; five grandchildren, Brenda and her husband, Scott Lutz, of Parks, Nebraska, Steve Krug and his wife, Lana, of Benkelman, Karey Krug of Overland Park, Kansas, and Angie and Carol Russell of Benkelman.

His great-grandchildren are Avery, Collin and Taylor Lutz of Parks and Chelsey Krug of Benkelman and step great-grandsons are Justin and Tyler Gipe of Benkelman.

He is also survived by two sisters, Irene Indorf and Josephine Mann, both of Goodland, Kansas.

Henry's wife and family were his greatest treasures.

Services were held Friday, July 10, 1992, at 10:30 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman with the Rev. Douglas Allen officiating. Organist was Jackie Wilson. Shirley Adkinson and Steven Stroup sang "My God And I" and "Beyond The Sunset."

Bearers were Boyd Akdinson, Leo Richard, Larry Wiese, Brad Wiese, Robert Ellis, Lee Gallatin. Brad Waters and Tom Stevens. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, January 1943

Joseph Krug

Funeral services were held for Joseph Krug by Rev. Lillich at the Lutheran church Tuesday afternoon. Singers were Mrs. Dick Mason, R. D. Druliner, Lloyd Boswell and Mrs. August Schrader with Mrs. Lillich at the piano. Pall bearers were August and Ed Schrader, Albert Flemming, Henry Frenzen, Chris Anderson and Ted Schwartz. Burial was in the Benkelman cemetery with Laughlin & Lord in charge.

Mr. Krug was a resident of longstanding in the Benkelman community and was highly respected and esteemed by all who knew him. He was honorable in his dealings, considerate of those with whom he was associated, both in business and community life and was a man of industry and marked ambition with the one thought of making his community a better place to live. Not alone will he be greatly missed within the family circle but in the business and community life as well and the tenderest sympathies of all go out to the stricken family in their hour of sorrow and loss.

Joseph Krug, son of Amandus Krug and his wife Sophia, nee Franzmathes, was born on July 13, 1868, near Lake Huron, in Canada. When he was two years old, his parents moved to the United States, to Richardson county, Nebraska. In early childhood he was baptized in the name of the triune God. On December 22, 1917, he was joined in holy wedlock to Mrs. Bertha Fuellgraf, nee Laderick. To this union three children were born: one pair of twins, Irene and Lucile Maxine, the latter who preceded him in death at the tender age of 15 months, and Josephine. Henry Martin is his son by adoption.

In the year 1919 he moved with his family to Cheyenne county, Kansas, and in 1921 to Dundy county, Nebraska, where he lived until the time of his death. After instruction in the Christian faith, he joined Zion Lutheran church by confirmation on June 8, 1924, of which he was a member at the time of his death. He was a member of the committee when negotiations were under way for selling the old church property prior to the erection of the new church building.

The deceased was a kind and loving father, a good and faithful provider, and of a cheerful and jovial disposition. He had been in fair health until about six weeks ago, and took to his bed two weeks ago with a skin infection. On December 20th he was taken to a skin specialist in Denver, who diagnosed his case as pemphigus, which disease had affected his blood stream, and was the immediate cause of his death. He was brought home again on December 24th, and in spite of all that medical attention could do, and loving hands minister to his needs, the Heavenly Father called him home on Sunday morning, December 27th, 1942, at 12:35 at the age of 74 years, 15 months and 14 days.

Besides his infant daughter, one sister. Sophia Meyers, and two brothers, Edward and Adolph, preceded him in death.

He leaves to mourn their loss: three sisters. Mrs. Elizabeth McNulty of Falls City, Nebraska; Mrs. Lena Timmerman of Stella, Nebraska; and Mrs. Anna Casey of Fender, Nebraska; his faithful and loving wife, Mrs. Bertha Krug; two daughters, Mrs. Irene

Wilson of Benkelman and Mrs. Josephine Mann of Edson, Kansas; one adopted son, Henry Martin of Benkelman, and one grandson, Henry Martin Krug, Jr.; two sons-in-law, one daughter-in-law, and a host of friends.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1987

Sarah Grace (Gerver) Krutsinger

Sarah Grace Krutsinger was born November 9, 1890, at Danbury, Nebraska. She was the youngest daughter of Wesley and Janet Gerver. Grace died July 28, 1987, at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Nebraska, at the age of 96 years, 8 months and 19 days.

Until her grandmother's demise, Grace lived with her grandmother from the age of six months. Grace joined the Danbury Methodist Church at the age of nine and later transferred her membership to the Parks Methodist Church. At the time of her death she was a member of the United Methodist Church at Benkelman.

Grace received her education in the Danbury Public Education System and taught school in Kansas.

October 10, 1908, Grace was married to Clarence S. Krutsinger, a young rancher northwest of Parks.

To this union seven children were born, three boys and four girls.

Throughout her life, Grace was dedicated to her family, church and community. Her love of music will be remembered through the years of playing the piano at church and community events. She was a loyal communion steward for many years at the Parks Methodist Church. Grace taught Sunday School classes, held offices in the Woman's Society of Christian Service, administrative board of the Parks Methodist Church and the Parks Community Club. Serving many years on the school election board, Grace took much interest in all school activities.

Grace's home was the scene of many family gatherings as she maintained a very close relationship with her family.

Preceding her in death are her husband, Clarence S.; two grandsons, Jimmy Williams and Tom McGuire; two great-granddaughters, Sherri Schauer and Melodie Unger, and one son, Louis.

Survivors include her children; Opal Grace Winston of Benkelman, Evelyn Rose Schauer of St. Francis, Kansas, Clarence Lavern of Parks, Wanda Mae McGuire of Benkelman, Alice Janet Alba of Anaheim, California, and Jerald Dean of Alliance, Nebraska; 20 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren, many other relatives and friends.

When Grace received her 75-year membership pin from the Methodist Church at Parks she expressed her philosophy of faith:

"There are mainly three things to live a Christian faith I have found. First, to have faith in God. Faith is the Golden Key that opens the door to eternity; then confidence in yourself. God cannot do that alone, you have to do your part; then courage. Courage to meet the trials and troubles of life and I am sure all of us have had them sometime in life."

Services were held Saturday, August 1, 1987, at the United Methodist Church in Benkelman with the Rev. Dr. John Kilgore officiating.

Organist was Betty Erdman. Richard Bartholomew, with guitar accompaniment, sang the selections "Sweet Peace, The Gift Of God's Love" and "What A Friend We Have In Jesus."

Bearers were Raymond Winston, Bruce Krutsinger, Larry Krutsinger, Bob Krutsinger, Dennis Krutsinger, Kerry Krutsinger, Garry Krutsinger, Ron Krutsinger, Mike McGuire, Rick Alba, Anthony Schauer and Dwight Schauer.

Honorary bearers were Ned Tecker, Howard Morrison, Harold Allen, Max Cline and Dr. Ernie Schreiner.

Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery in Benkelman.

Services were conducted by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, September 1983

Daisy (Matthews) Krutsinger

Daisy Matthews Krutsinger was born on February 16, 1897, in Desota, Nebraska, to Henry and Charlotte Michaelson Matthews. She died August 24, 1983, in Lincoln, Nebraska, at 86 years of age.

Daisy attended public schools in Kenard, Walthill and Homer, Nebraska. She graduated from Homer High School in 1918.

She was united in marriage to Willard Krutsinger on October 4, 1924. They had no children.

Daisy worked at the Woodman of the World Insurance Company in Omaha, and for forty years, Willard (Krut) and Daisy operated a filling station at the corner of 27th and Holdrege in Lincoln.

She was a fifty-year member of the Order of Eastern Star chapter of Omaha and a member of Faith United Methodist Church of Lincoln. She had a lively personality and had great interest and was a supporter of young people. She also was an avid sports fan.

She is survived by her brother, Harry Matthews, of Lincoln, sister, Lillian Martin, of Waukegan, Illinois, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Chapter No. 148 O.E.S. of Lincoln and Rev. Lee Wrgirt of Faith Church conducted graveside services.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 2006

Lillian R. (Phifer) Krutsinger

PARKS — Lillian R. Krutsinger, 86, a longtime resident of Parks died Wednesday (June 14, 2006) at Chase County Hospital in Imperial.

She was born September 10, 1919, in a farm home north of Haigler, to John and Bertha (Kinnett) Phifer and attended school near her home.

On October 10, 1936, she married Clarence LaVerne "Bus" Krutsinger.

Lillian was a fuiltime wife and mother. She was an active member of Haigler United Methodist Church and received her 50-year membership pin. She was also active in the United Methodist Women and helped with Y-Teens, and played piano and organ for church and other special occasions for many years.

She was precedied in death by her parents, John and Bertha Phifer; her husband, Clarence "Bus" Krutsinger; and brothers, Tom and Glen.

Survivors include her children, Marilyn Hust and husband, Byron of Imperial, Ron Krutsinger and wife, Carol of Norfolk, Garry Krutsinger of Parks and Judy Krutsinger of McCook; sister-in-law, Alice Alba of Benkelman; brother-in-law, Jerry Krutsinger and wife, Louise of Alliance; five grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren

Funeral services will be 2 p.m., Friday, at United Methodist Church in Haigler. Interment will follow services at the Benkelman Cemetery in Benkelman.

Visitation will be 3 - 6 p.m., today, at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman. The family will be present to receive friends. A memorial has been established in Lillian's memory.

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

Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, June 15, 2006

Lillian Krutsinger

Thursday, June 15, 2006

Sept. 10, 1919 - June 14, 2006

PARKS -- Lillian R. Krutsinger, 86, a longtime resident of Parks died Wednesday (June 14, 2006) at Chase County Hospital in Imperial.

She was born September 10, 1919, in a farm home north of Haigler, to John and Bertha (Kinnett) Phifer and attended school near her home.

On October 10, 1936, she married Clarence LaVerne "Bus" Krutsinger.

Lillian was a fulltime wife and mother. She was an active member of Haigler United Methodist Church and received her 50-year membership pin. She was also active in the United Methodist Women and helped with Y-Teens, and played piano and organ for church and other special occasions for many years.

She was precedied in death by her parents, John and Bertha Pfifer; her husband, Clarence "Bus" Krutsinger; and brothers, Tom and Glen.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m., Friday, at United Methodist Church in Haigler. Interment will follow services at the Benkelman Cemetery in Benkelman.

Visitation will be 3 - 6 p.m., today, at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman. The family will be present to receive friends. A memorial has been established in Lillian's memory.

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

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, April 1986

Doris Leone (Wiggins) Krutsinger

Doris Leone Krutsinger was born June, 22, 1923,in St. Francis, Kansas, to Ory James and Hazel (Boyd) Wiggins. After a lengthy illness, she passed away on April 9, 1986, at the age of 62 years, 9 months and 18 days.

As a young woman, she lived and went to school in St. Francis, Kansas.

On October 11, 1941, at St. Francis, Doris was united in marriage to Louis D. Krutsinger of Parks, Nebraska, and to this union were born Dennis Eugene, Kerry Rene, Terril Kay, Bobby Louis, Darlla Doris and Lannie Dean.

Doris obeyed the will of the Lord and was baptized in the Church of Christ in St. Francis, Kansas. The fruits of the spirit shone through her life, and made her a special person. Through her love, compassion and sense of humor, she brought joy to so many people's lives. She was employed at the Hester Memorial Home for several years until her health prevented her from doing so. Doris was a giver, giving so much and expecting so little. She enjoyed playing the piano and she loved to read and write poetry, especially for her grandchildren, who were the pride and joy of her life. Her cooking was something she took pride in, usually giving it away, especially around Christmas— her favorite time of the year.

Preceding her in death were her father, Ory, and one brother, Charlie.

In addition to her devoted husband, Louis, she leaves to mourn her passing: her mother, Hazel (Boyd) Wiggins of St. Francis, Kansas; daughters, Terril Lankford and husband, Roger, of Houston, Texas, and Darlla Schneider and husband, Fred, of Benkelman, Nebraska; sons, Dennis Krutsinger and wife LaRue, of Imperial, Nebraska, Kerry Krutsinger and wife, Cindy, of Stratton, Nebraska, Bobby Krutsinger and wife, Joan, of Benkelman, Nebraska, and Lannie Krutsinger of Benkelman, Nebraska; 12 grandchildren: Kriss, Kassie and Karra Krutsinger, Bradley and Deidra Krutsinger, Mike and Renae Knoles, Molly and Katie Krutsinger, and Tyler, Toby and Jesse Schneider; brothers, Bill Wiggins of Benkelman, Nebraska, Hobart Wiggins of Marysville, Kansas, and Harvey Wiggins of Jacksonville, Florida; sisters, Joy McConnell of Tampa, Florida, Pauline Duncan of Yuma, Colorado, and Betty Winston of St. Francis, Kansas; many nieces, nephews and friends.

The following poems were written by her daughters as a loving tribute to their mother:

Mother

Today I expected to see your smiling face,
But all I could find was this lonely place.
I wanted to hug and kiss you again,
But I couldn't find my very best friend.
I know where you are, there's no suffering and pain,
But when I looked around, it's just not the same.
There's so much I wanted to say and do,
But all I can think about is how I love you.
Love, Terril

Dear Mother
Dear mother who has gone to heaven,
We will always have the love you have given.
May we not be selfish in our hearts,
But be comforted as we part.
You gave so much to make us smile;
Your life with us was truly worthwhile.
We knew your heart here on earth,
But only God above us knew its worth.
May your sense of humor live on and on,
For to make others laugh and smile
Is your heart's song.

A fancy person you were not,
But may you have the simple things you never sought.
As a family, we have had moments of tenderness
And hours spent with love,
So we hope you have the gentle things
You're so deserving of.

So our wish to you, sweet mom,
Is to go on living and spread your psalms,
Not just these moments,
But everyday for eternity.
Love, Darlla

Services were held Saturday, April 12, 1986, at 2 p.m., at the Trinity Baptist Church in Benkelman, Nebraska, with the Reverend Layton Hein officiating.

Grace Brynoff and Sherie Hein, pianists, accompanied soloist Monty Crandon with the selections "Amazing Grace" and "The Old Rugged Cross."

Bearers were Kriss Krutsinger, Ed Cobb, Brad Krutsinger, Dallas Wiggins, Michael Knoles and Jerry Pursley.

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

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, January 1991

Annie Marie 'Mary' (Williams) Krutsinger

IMPERIAL, Neb.--Annie Marie 'Mary' (Williams) Krutsinger was born March 8, 1896, at the home of her patents. Irvin S. and Annie (Russell) Williams near Putnam, ll inois. She departed this life on December 23, 1991, at the age of 95 years, 9 months and 15 days at the Imperial Manor in Imperial, Nebraska.

Mary resided in Putnam until March of 1910 when her mother and sister journeyed to Nebraska to reside on her father's homestead in northwest Dundy County near what was then Kaw, Nebraska.

She was united in Marriage to Earl C. Krutsinger on April 10, 1920, at St. Francis, Kansas. They made their home north of Parks, Nebraska, later moving to the old fish hatchery north of Haigler, Nebraska. In their later years. they moved to Haigler. Their final home was the Imperial Manor.

Preceding her in death were her husband. Earl; her parents, Irvin and Annie Williams; brothers, John, Russell and Jay, and sisters. Veda Manford and Grace Jones.

She leaves to mourn her passing many nieces, nephews. grand-nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

She grew up knowing the hardships of early life In Dundy County and enjoyed the many changes she saw during her stay on this earth.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1989

Clarence "Bus" Krutsinger

Clarence "Bus" Krutsinger was born to Clarence S. and Grace (Gerber) Krutsinger on May 14, 1914, in a ranch home north of Parks. He passed away Sunday evening, February 5, 1989, at the Aurora Presbyterian Hospital in Aurora, Colorado.

He attended elementary school in Parks, Nebraska. At the age of 22 he was married to Lillian Phifer of Benkelman on October 10, 1936, in St. Francis, Kansas.

Four children were born to this union, Marilyn Hust of Imperial, Ronald Krutsinger of Norfolk, Garry Krutsinger of Parks and Judy of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The Krutsinger family was active in the church and the community.

He started his career as a truck driver and then in the lean-crop years, in the early 1950s, Bus bought a few cattle for himself and some neighbors and soon word of his skill and honesty spread to others. He had many customers from Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska and Iowa.

Bus was a member of the Parks Methodist Church and was baptized on April 6, 1947. In 1978, he joined the Haigler Methodist Church.

Bus was a member of the Elks Lodge of McCook. He loved fishing, hunting, baseball and horseshoe pitching. He also loved going for a ride along the countryside, hiding behind a corner ready to shout "Boo" at the grandchildren. He loved going on picnics at the old soddie and teaching the grandchildren how to shoot a BB gun.

He was a great person and loved by everyone and will be missed by all.

He is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Louis Krutsinger.

He is survived by his wife, Lillian; four children, Marilyn, Ronald, Garry and Judy; four sisters, Opal Winston of Benkelman, Evelyn Schauer of St. Francis, Kansas, Wanda McGuire of Benkelman and Alice Alba of Anaheim, California; one brother, Gerald (Jerry) Krutsinger, five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; nephews, nieces and friends.

Services were held at the United Methodist Church in Haigler Wednesday, February 8, 1989, at 2:30 p.m. The service was officiated by the Rev. Barbara Hart.

The organist was Florence Daniels. A quartet, consisting of Helen Woods, Ray Harford, Virginia Harford and Don Harford, sang "Near To The Heart Of God" and “In The Garden." The congregational song was "The Old Rugged Cross."

Bearers were Mike McGuire, Wes Hust, Dennis Krutsinger, Bobbie Krutsinger, Jesse Krutsinger and Dan Brown.

Honorary bearers were Jiggs Hayward, Rex Daniels, Jake Wagner, Steve Yost, Bob Walker, Hal Tecker, Gary Ham, Harold Brunswick, Larry Williams, H. L. Anderson, Bob Hardwick, Lee Ohrman, Dudley Blank, Harold Bowman, Royal Woods III, Harry Eiler, Don Lebsack, Dave Leach, Otto Samler and Dick Wall.

Interment took place at the Benkelman Cemetery with arrangements by Jones Funeral Home.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1961

Clarence Samuel Krutsinger

Death came to Clarence Krutsinger, well-known Parks farmer, on Wednesday, November 15, after a two-year illness.

Mr. Krutsinger, a lifelong resident of Dundy County, watched and participated in the agricultural revolution which came into being during his lifetime. With his wife, Grace, they developed their farm northwest of Parks into a high state of productivity, raising many good crops of corn, along with nurturing an orchard of a variety of fruit, associated with the ideal of a well-balanced family type farm and gracious living.

Mr. and Mrs. Krutsinger spent over 30 years on their farm and celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary on October 10th.

Clarence Samuel Krutsinger, son of Lewis and Alice Krutsinger, was born at Oskulossa, Illinois, February 6, 1882, and departed this life at St. Francis, Kansas, November 15, 1961, at the age of 79 years, nine months and 21 days.

He came to Nebraska with his mother and father and brother, Clode, in 1887. He lived all of his life in Dundy County as a rancher and farmer.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, January 1985

Earl Clinton Krutsinger

Earl Clinton Krutsinger was born July 2, 1893, to Louis and Alice (Gorden) Krutsinger at the farm home north of Parks, Nebraska.

He passed from this life January 16, 1985, at the Chase County Hospital of Imperial at the age of 91 years, 6 months and 14 days.

Earl and Marie Williams were united in marriage at St. Francis, Kansas, on April 10, 1920. Their home was north of Parks, where Earl farmed and ranched until 1950. They moved north of Haigler after purchasing a place which was a former fish hatchery. Earl, being an avid fisherman, spent many hours around the lakes.

In 1974 a home was purchased in Haigler. Retirement years were enjoyed until Earl's. health began to fail. It was decided both Earl and Marie should spend some time in a nursing home. They have been living at the Imperial Manor since September 20, 1984.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Alice; four brothers, Asher, Clode, Clarence and Willard; and one sister, Rossa Krutsinger Brown. Those left to mourn his passing are his wife, Marie, a sister, Mrs. Maude Young of Lincoln, many nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

Services were held Saturday, January 19, at the Jones Funeral Chapel of Benkelman. Rev. Lloyd Bley officiated.

Gwen Bauer accompanied Carol Tecker with selections "Beyond The Sunset" and "The Old Rugged Cross."

Bearers were Garry Krutsinger, Kerry Krutsinger, Tommie Ellis, Ron Jones, Dennis Krutsinger and Ron Krutsinger.

Honorary bearers were Paul Freehling, Oscar Samler, Bruce Singley, Robert Schorzman, Otto Singley and Milton Singley.

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

Printed on the web site of KNEB AM 960 and FM94.1 of Scottsbluff, NE May 2008

Jerald D. "Jerry" Krutsinger

Jerald D. "Jerry" Krutsinger, of Alliance, died Thursday, May 15, 2008, at his home in Alliance at the age of 80. Memorial services will be a week from next Wednesday, on May 28 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Alliance with Pastor Doug Griger officiating.

He was born July 25, 1927, in Dundy County, Neb., to Clarence Samuel and Grace (Gerver) Krutsinger. After graduating high school in 1944 Jerry farmed before entering the U.S. Army Air Corp in 1945. He was stationed in Okinawa and was honorably discharged in 1946. He then returned to Parks, Neb., to farm with his father.

On March 17, 1951, he was united in marriage to Louise M. Ike in North Platte, Neb.

He later began his employment with Kansas Nebraska Natural Gas Company which later became KNEnergy for 41 years until his retirement. His career took him to the communities of McCook, Neb., Creighton, Neb., Haxtun and Yuma, Colo., Sidney, Scottsbluff and Alliance. He held various management positions including service manager, division manager and district manager.

He was active in Rotary and received a 25-year perfect attendance award. He was also involved in Masonic Lodges including serving as president of Yuma Lodge No. 149. He was a 33 degree KCCH, Knight Commander Court of Honor, a member of Tehama Shrine Club and Cattle Capital Shrine Club and recently received his 50-year member award from Alliance Lodge No. 183 A.F.& A.M.

He also was a member of the United Methodist Church and an avid sports fan and enjoyed his pastime of golf.

His survivors include his wife Louise, daughter Vicki (Robert) Dyer of Omaha; son Bruce D. (Marsha) Krutsinger of Houston, Texas; grandchildren Katherine Dyer and Alexander Dyer. He is also survived by his sister Alice Alba of Benkelman, Neb., and numerous nieces and nephews. His parents, two brothers and three sisters preceded him in death.

Memorial services will be a week from next Wednesday, on May 28 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Alliance with Pastor Doug Griger officiating.

Memorials may be given to the Shriners Children's Hospital Transportation Fund or to a charity of the donor's choice.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 2008

Kassi Denise Krutsinger

On April 15, 1970 God sent a beautiful red headed baby girl to Dennis and La Rue Krutsinger to light up their world. They named her Kassi Denise. She was baptized at the Methodist Church in Imperial on May 9, 1971 and as a child she knew her Heavenly Father. He gave her the gifts of kindness, compassion for others, and a heart of gold. She was always full of energy and spread her great joy to others so freely. She always had big dreams of helping people and sharing anything she had so that others would not go without.

In her youth she was a girl scout and attended Sunday school. Her grade school years were spent at Imperial Grade School and she attended Chase County High School, spending her senior year in1988 at Alief High School in Houston, TX. She loved the big city and Houston was her home for over ten years. Art was a special love of hers and she won many awards at Krogers for her creativity. She was also employed at Excel Telephone Company as a customer service representative and at Pagenet.

The family was blessed to have Kassi return to Imperial in 2000. Kassi was confirmed into the Lutheran church at this time. Kassi met and then married Matthew Strawn on June 29, 2002 in Imperial. They made their home in Imperial and Hobbs, NM. Kassi returned to Imperial in 2006 and was engaged to Steven Shinn at the time of her death.

She was generous beyond words and her giving spirit always made holidays a special time for her. She has left many memories with her six nieces and one nephew, whom.

she treasured. Her love of her Heavenly Father was always at the center of her life and giving to others was her passion. She studied his word and always tried to live by His laws. She was always seeking to find a direction for her life and His words always gave her great comfort. Her deep faith carried her through her earthly life and has always prepared her for her eternal home. She joined her Heavenly Father in her celestial home on October 31, 2008.

Friends and relatives joined together at the Imperial Lutheran Church on Tuesday, November 4, 2008, to celebrate her life and to thank our Lord Jesus for giving her to us for 38 years. Mount Hope in Imperial is her final resting place. Pallbearers were her brother, Kriss, her brother-in-law, Karl; her nephew, Korey Krutsinger; her uncles Bobby Krutsinger and Kerry Krutsinger, and Kerry Shinn.

She will be missed by her parents, Dennis and La Rue Krutsinger; brother Kriss and wife Lisa of Benkelman, NE; sister Karra and husband Karl of Champion, NE, and fiance, Steven Shinn of Imperial; her nieces, Breanna, Gabrielle, and Delaney Krutsinger and Kaylee, Kambree and Krista Meeske and one nephew, Korey Krutsinger; her grandmother, Betty Lee Green of Wray, CO; special aunt and uncle, Terril and husband Dan Conery of Houston, TX, aunts Lu Ann and husband Duane Wall of Cheyenne, WY; Darlla and husband Rod Kerchall of Benkelman, Ronda Krutsinger of Benkelman; uncles Kerry and wife Cindy Krutsingcr of Seward, NE; and Bobby and Joan Krutsinger of Benkelman; as well as numerous cousins and great aunts.

Preceding her in death were her grandparents. Doris and Louis Krutsinger and Gilbert Green and uncle Lannie Krutsinger of Benkelman.

Arrangements made by Liewer Funeral Home, Imperial, Nebraska.

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Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, September 30, 2003

Lannie D. Krutsinger

Tuesday, September 30, 2003

BENKELMAN -- Lannie D. Krutsinger, the sixth child of Louis and Doris (Wiggins) Krutsinger, was born Dec. 27, 1963, in Benkelman, his lifetime home, where he grew into manhood. He attended Benkelman Elementary School and graduated in 1982 from Benkelman High School. He was involved in all athletics.

His love growing up was being around the equipment and concrete work that was his fathers and later his brothers, Krutsinger Construction Co. He became an expert at running a backhoe and his creative talents were put to use by many people in the community. Being a perfectionist, he was always striving to please everyone.

His schooling took him to Milford Southeast Technical College and later to Goodland, Kan., where he graduated from Northwest Kansas Vo-Tech in auto body, his lifetime love.

Ronda Jean Jones became his bride on Jan. 22, 1994. They became the parents of three beautiful children, Kameron Louis, 7; Adalene Elizabeth, 3; and Keegan Lee, 14 months. Every man who has children becomes a father, but not all are a loving daddy. He delighted hosting the annual Father's Day fishing trip with his father-in-law, son, and this past year, his niece, Lexis Jones.

Krutsinger Construction was a large part of his life. He was an active Jaycee working on many projects. Golfing, hunting, fishing with his son, and wrestling with his children gave him great joy in his free time. Watching Husker football was a favorite pastime in the fall -- he loved the Big Red.

Lannie could create or repair anything, which made him a treasure to many of the older generation. He was always ready and willing to help those in need and generously donated his time to family and friends. Lannie's mark can be viewed throughout the community. He was a devoted husband, improving the homes in which his family lived. Adalene always said when anything was broken, "Daddy fit it." He was so special to all of his brothers and sisters, especially with his being the baby of the family.

Lannie left this earth, and his beloved family and friends, on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2003, at Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman at the age of 39 years.

Preceding him in death are his parents, Louis and Doris (Wiggins) Krutsinger.

He is survived by his loving wife and adoring children; parents-in-law, Ron and Jean Marie Jones of Benkelman; brothers, Dennis Krutsinger and wife, LaRue of Imperial, Kerry Krutsinger and wife, Cindy of Stratton, Bob Krutsinger and wife, Joan of Benkelman; sisters, Terril Conery and husband, Dan of Tennessee, Darlla Kerchal and husband, Rod of Benkelman,; grandmother, Velma Jones also of Benkelman; 13 nieces and nephews, Deidra Fields and husband, Kevin of Seward, Mike Knoles of Houston, Texas, Kriss Krutsinger and wife, Lisa of Kimball, Brad Krutsinger and wife, Susan of Peyton, Colo., Renae Rivera and husband, Rudy of Houston, Texas, Kassi Strawn and husband, Matt of Hobbs, N.M., Karra Meeske and husband, Karl of Champion, Molly Horner and husband, Trevor of Benkelman, Tyler Schneider and wife, Megan of Denver, Colo., Toby Schneider of Kearney, Katie Krutsinger and fiancee, Randy Partch of McCook, Jesse Schneider and Jodi Parman of Benkelman, Lexis Jones of McCook; and numerous other relatives, and friends.

Visitation will be Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2003, at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman. Funeral services will be Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2003 at 2 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Benkelman with Rev. Norman Prather and Rev. Matthew Price officiating. Interment will follow services at the Benkelman Cemetery.

Memorials may be given in his name.

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

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, October 2003

Lannie Dean Krutsinger

Lannie Dean Krutsinger was born on Dec. 27, 1963, in Benkelman, Neb. He was the sixth and youngest child of Louis and Doris (Wiggins) Krutsinger. Lannie left this earth, and his beloved family and friends, on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2003, at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman.

His love growing up was being around the equipment and concrete work that was a part of the business established by his father, Krutsinger Construction. Lannie and his brother Bobby worked side by side to carry the business into the second generation. He became an expert at running a backhoe and his creative talents were put to use by many people in the community. Being a perfectionist, he was always striving to please everyone.

Lannie graduated from Benkelman High School with the Class of 1982. He was involved in all athletics, reveling in the competition of the sport. His continued education took him to Northwest Kansas VoTech in Goodland. He graduated with an Associate Degree in Auto Body, his lifetime love. His painting skill was a true talent.

Ronda Jean Jones became his bride on Jan. 22, 1994. Lannie loved his wife dearly. Together they shared many wonderful moments and memories. From this love, three beautiful children were born; Kameron Louis, 7, Adalene Elisabeth, 3, and Keegan Lee, 14 months. Every man who has children becomes a father, but not all are a loving Daddy. He delighted hosting the annual Father's Day fishing trip with his father-in law, son and, this past year, niece Lexis Jones.

Lannie was an active Jaycee, working on many projects with his closest friends. Golfing, hunting, fishing with his son and wrestling with his children gave him great joy in his free time. Watching Husker football was a favorite pastime in the fall; he loved the Big Red. Lannie also had a passion for classic rock music. He could name the title, artist and album of most any song. "Krut's Assorted Hits" cassettes were always playing.

Lannie could create or repair anything, which made him a treasure to many of the older generation. He was always ready and willing to help those in need and donated his time for family and friends generously. Lannie's mark can be viewed throughout the community. He was a devoted husband, improving the homes in which his family lived. Adalene always said when anything was broken, "Daddy fix it."

Lannie's death was a tragedy to the community and all who loved him.

Lannie was preceded in death by his mother and father, brother-in-law Richard Jones and great-nieces Grace and Emma Fields.

He is survived by his loving wife and adoring children; parents-in-law, Ron and Jean Marie Jones of Benkelman; brother and wife Dennis and LaRue Krutsinger of Imperial, Neb.; brother and wife Kerry and Cindy Krutsinger of Stratton; sister and husband Terril and Dan Conery of Tennessee; brother and wife Bobby and Joan Krutsinger of Benkelman; sister and husband Darlla and Rod Kerchal of Benkelman; 13 nieces and nephews: Deidra Fields and husband Kevin of Seward, Neb., Mike Knoles of Houston, Texas, Kriss Krutsinger and wife Lisa of Kimball, Neb., Brad Krutsinger and wife Susan of Peyton, Colo., Renae Rivera and husband Rudy of Houston, Texas, Kassi Strawn and husband Matt of Hobbs. N.M„ Karra Meeske and husband Karl of Champion, Neb., Molly Horner and husband Trevor of Benkelman, Tyler Schneider and wife Megan of Denver, Colo,. Toby Schneider of Kearney, Neb., Katie Krutsinger and fiancé Randy Partch of McCook, Neb., Jesse Schneider and Jodi Parman of Benkelman and Lexis Jones of McCook. Velma Jones is the surviving grandparent,

Services were held Wednesday, Oct. 1, at 2 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Benkelman with the Revs. Norman Prather and Matt Price officiating. Beth Kollmorgen was the pianist and Diana Ham the organist. Kelly Hayward sang “The Lord's Prayer" and "How Can I Mend a Broken Heart" and the congregational hymn was "On Eagles Wings."

Casket bearers were Mike Knoles, Brad Krutsinger, Toby, Tyler and Jesse Schneider, Kriss Krutsinger, Hugh Anderson, Richard Ham, Kirk Potthoff and Dan Husted. Honorary bearers were Trevor Horner, Randy Partch, Karl Meeske, Matt Strawn, Rudy River, Kevin Fields and all of Lannie's friends. Burial was in the Benkelman Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1939

Louis Krutsinger

Dundy county folks felt deep sorrow in the passing of Louis Krutsinger early Monday morning for in his demise Southwestern Nebraska lost one of its finest citizens and the family lost a kind and devoted husband and father. His death was not unexpected for it had been known for several days that there was little if indeed any hope of recovery. Some weeks ago Mr. Krutsinger underwent a major operation in an eastern Kansas hospital and from that time on his condition became alarming. After he returned home he gradually weakened to the point that he sank into a coma Saturday night from which he never awakened.

The funeral was held Tuesday afternoon at the United Presbyterian church in Benkelman and interment was in the Benkelman cemetery. Rev. J. C. Foster officiated at both services. Singers were George Kuhlman, Mrs. Floyd Rickard, Irene Passmore and John Baer with Mrs. D. L. Ough at the piano.

Mr. Krutsinger located in the Parks section in 1885 and from that day on became one of its most forward-looking, esteemed and progressive citizens. He was a man of unusual business judgment and his community enjoyed the benefits of his wisdom and vision to a generous degree because he gave freely of his best efforts to building his home and to the community advancement. He was honest and honorable in all of his dealings and he enjoyed a high place in the public esteem generally, not alone in Parks precinct where much of his life had been lived, but in Dundy county as a whole and today hundreds of Dundy county people mourn with his family and loved ones in the passing of this splendid man.

Louis Krutsinger was born in Clay county, Illinois, May 19, 1853 and departed this life November 6, 1939, at the age of 86 years, 5 months and 13 days. He was married to Alice Gorden of Oskaloosa, Illinois, November 21, 1878. To this union were born seven children.

In the spring of 1885 they came to Nebraska and settled on a homestead five miles west of Benkelman. He was one of the early pioneers and he and his wife went through the hardships of pioneer times. He was kind and considerate and just in all of his dealings. He established membership in the United Presbyterian church of Parks in the year of 1892, later taking membership in the U. P. Church at Benkelman and was ordained as elder October 3, 1937.

He leaves to mourn his departure his wife Alice and six children, Clode, Clarence and Earl of Parks, Nebraska; Mrs. Rosa Brown of Rollwitz, Nebraska; Mrs. Maude Young and Willard Krutsinger of Lincoln, Nebraska; also 14 grandchildren and six great grandchildren. A son, Asher, preceded him in death at the age of 14 years on February 11, 1906, also a great grandchild preceded him in death in 1923.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1987

Louis Dennis Krutsinger

Louis Dennis Krutsinger, son of Clarence S. and Sarah Grace (Gerver) Krutsinger, was born October 10, 1918, at Parks, Nebraska. After a short illness he died February 4, 1987, in Benkelman, Nebraska, at the age of 68 years, 3 months and 1 day.

He was baptized at an early age in Parks, Nebraska. Louis enjoyed his school years in Parks where he excelled in both academics and sports. He often reminisced about the glory years (1934-1937) of Parks athletics and of special times with family and friends.

On October 11, 1941, Louis was united in marriage to Doris Leone Wiggins in St. Francis, Kansas. They made their home in Parks until 1954 when they moved to Benkelman. To this union were born six children: Dennis Eugene, Kerry R., Terril Kay, Bobby Louis, Darlla Doris and Lannie Dean.

Louie, as he was called by many of his friends, was devoted to his work and family. Lou always took great pride in everything he accomplished, which showed through the establishment and success of the Krutsinger Construction Company. He will be missed by many throughout the surrounding business communities of Nebraska and Kansas.

Lou had many values: truth, responsibility and compassion, which were taught to his children and grandchildren.

When not working or keeping up with sports, he loved to read which he did until the last few days of his life.

Preceding him in death were his father, Clarence, and his beloved wife, Doris.

Lou is survived by his mother, Grace Krutsinger of Benkelman; two daughters; Terri! Landford of Sugarland, Texas, and Darlla Schneider and husband, Fred, of Benkelman; four sons: Dennis and wife, LaRue, of Imperial, Nebraska, Kerry and wife, Cindy, of Stratton, Nebraska, and Bobby and wife, Joan, of Benkelman and Lannie of Benkelman; 12 grandchildren: Kriss, Kassie and Karra Krutsinger, Bradley and Deidra Krutsinger, Michael and Renae Knoles, Molly and Katie Krutsinger, and Tyler, Toby and Jesse Schneider; one great-granddaughter, Amber Knoles of Houston, Texas; brothers, Bus Krutsinger of Parks and Jerry Krutsinger of Alliance, Nebraska; and three sisters: Opal Winston of Benkelman, Wanda McGuire of Benkelman and Evelyn Schauer of St. Francis, Kansas.

Services were held Saturday, February 7, 1987, at the Trinity Baptist Church in Benkelman with the Rev. Layton Hein officiating.

Organist was Betty Erdman. Kelly Hayward sang the selections "Like A River Glorious" and "The Lord's Prayer."

Bearers were Tom Ellis, Larry Clark, Alva Shaw, Leon Schrader, Wilmer Seybold and Lawrence Steele.

Honorary Bearers were Dale Smith, Gerald Hayward, Harold Knoles, Glen Mullanix, Boyd Blair Jr., Malvin Hendrickson, M.D. Sailors and Charles Blank.

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

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1981

Elizabeth Augusta (Daum) Kuhlman

Elizabeth Augusta Kuhlman, daughter of Philip and Catherine Daum, was born on September 11, 1884 at Findlay, Ohio and died May 27, 1981 at the Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman at the age of 96 years, 8 months and 16 days.

The Daum family moved to the South Fork community near St. Francis in the early 1900's and on February 1, 1925, Betty was married to George Kuhlman at Wray, Colorado. They lived in Parks, Nebraska where they had a general store and Betty was postmistress for many years.

In 1956 they moved to Benkelman where they built a new home and used part of it for a neighborhood store. When they were no longer able to care for themselves, they moved to the Hester Home in 1975 and were there for the remaining years of their lives. George passed away October 28, 1977.

Although they married later in life, they were privileged to celebrate their golden wedding anniversary in 1975 at the home of their friends, Tom and Alice Ballard

Betty was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church and attended regularly as long as she was physically able.

She was a sixty-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star and a Past Matron of Holly Chapter.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, George. her father and mother, her sisters, Mrs. Catherine Kehlbeck and Mrs. Rachel Mosher, and her brothers, Louis Daum and Henry Daum. Survivors include one sister-in-law, Esther Daum of Burlington, Colorado, and several nieces and nephews and many friends. "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest."

Services were held Saturday, May 30, 1981 at 1:30 p.m. in Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman.

Pastor Lynn Parsons officiated at the afternoon service.

Gwen Bauer accompanied Velma and Wilbur Case in singing "City Four Square" and "He Touched Me".

Bearers were Kenneth Brown, Ned Tecker, Charles Blank, Leon Baney, Jr., Rex Roundtree, and Lester Criger.

Interment was in the St. Francis Cemetery, St. Francis, Kansas. Committal service was conducted by Holly Chapter NO. 233, O.E.S.

Arrangements were made by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman, Nebraska.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, August 1991

Louise Sophia (Haarberg) Kuhlman

BENKELMAN--Mrs. Louise Kuhlman was born at Elk Creek, Nebraska, on April 15, 1897, the daughter of Wilhelm Haarberg and Sophia (Engelke) Haarberg.

She was baptized May 9, 1897, at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Clear Creek Precinct, near Elk Creek and given the name Louise Sophia Haarberg.

She attended Lutheran parochial school as a youth. She was confirmed on April 30, 1911, at St. Peter's Lutheran Church near Elk Creek.

In 1913 she moved with her family to Chase County, Nebraska, where they lived on a farm southwest of Wauneta, Nebraska.

On August 30, 1917, she was united in marriage with Fred Kuhlman at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Wauneta in a service officiated by the Rev. W.L. Ernstmeyer. One child, Esther, was born to their marriage.

The Kuhlmans farmed 20 miles north of Benkelman, Nebraska, except for a two-year period, 1925-26, when they lived on a farm near Leoti, Kansas. They semi-retired in 1964 and moved into Benkelman.

Mrs. Kuhlman was a member of Zion Lutheran Church of Benkelman and for several years was a member of the Ladies Aid Society.

She always loved her plants and flowers and liked to work in her yard, taking an interest in them even when she was in her 90s.

Her health had been failing the past few years and especially in the last three or four weeks. She died on Saturday, July 27, 1991. at the age of 94 years, 3 months and 12 days.

She was preceded in death by her parents and by her husband, Fred, who died March 18, 1981.

All of her 10 brothers and sisters also preceded her in death. They were Sophia Fortkamp, Mary Keiser, Minnie Haarberg, Dora Denker, Henry Haarberg, Fred Haarberg, Dick Haarberg, William Haarberg (who died when he was two years old), Ella Bischoff and Louis Haarberg.

Mrs. Kuhlman is survived by her daughter, Esther Krug. and husband. Henry Krug Sr.; a grandson, Henry Krug Jr., and wife, Jean: a granddaughter, Eva Russell, and husband, Jim; five great-grandchildren, Brenda Lutz and husband, Scott, Steve Krug and wife, Lana, Karey Krug, Angie Russell and Carol Russell, and her great-great-grandchildren, Avery Lutz, Collin Lutz, Taylor Lutz, Justin Gipe and Tyler Gipe. She also has two living sisters-in-law, Lena Haarberg and Elise Haarberg.

Services were held Tuesday, July 30, 1991, at 10:30 a.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman with the Revs. Douglas Allen and Otto Zeilinger officiating.

Jackie Wilson was the organist. Shirley Adkinson and Steven Stroup sang "Amazing Grace" and "Nearer My God To Thee." "My God And I" was played by the organist.

Bearers were Harold Nordhausen, LeRoy Haarberg, Emil Fortkamp, Victor Haarberg, Erwin Kuhlman and Elmer Keiser.

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

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1981

Fred Diedrich Kuhlman

Funeral services for Fred D. Kuhlman were held Saturday afternoon, March 21, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman.

Pastor Lynn Parsons officiated at the service. Mrs. Jackie Wilson was organist and singers were Mrs. Edwina Roesener and Mrs. Shirley Adkinson. Selections were "0' Where Is The Home Of The Soul To Be Found" and "God Be With You Till We Meet Again".

Bearers were Erwin Kuhlman, Henry Brunkhorst, Emil Fortkamp, Elmer Keiser, Martin Lutz and Wm. Damrow. Honorary Bearers were Glen Osborn, Doran Jessee, Howard Miller, Chris Anderson, August Schrader and Wm. Roschewski.

Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery. Arrangements were made by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman, NE.

Fred Diedrich Kuhlman was born Sept. 14, 1892 near Elk Creek, NE., the youngest son of John H. and Wilhelmina (Rottman) Kuhlman.

He was baptized in early infancy in the Lutheran Church and confirmed in the Lutheran Church in Smith County, KS., where the family had moved in 1900.

In 1907, Fred came to Dundy County, NE., with his parents and brother, and the new family home was located on a farm about 20 miles north of Benkelman.

Fred Kuhlman was married to Louise Haarberg on August 30, 1917 in St. Paul's Lutheran Church on the Ough Divide. To this union one daughter, Esther, was born. They lived on their farm close to the home place until 1964 when they moved to Benkelman. Fred's main interest was farming until his health failed him. In January of this year, Fred went to the Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home where he passed away on March 18, 1981.

Fred Kuhlman was a faithful member of the Zion Lutheran Church of Benkelman since 1931.

Survivors are his widow, Louise; one daughter, Esther Krug and husband Henry Sr.; two grandchildren, Henry Krug, Jr., and wife Jean, and Eva Russell and husband Jim; five great-grandchildren, Brenda Lutz and husband Scott, Steve and Karey Krug, and Angela and Carol Russell, and many other relatives and friends. Fred was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Henry.

Fred will be missed by his family and many friends.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, November 1977

George Frederick Kuhlman

George Frederick Kuhlman died Friday, October 28, 1977 in the Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman at the age of 94. He was born January 16, 1883 in KnottsviIle, Ohio, to George and Elizabeth (Kuck) Kuhlman.

He was a retired grocer and had lived at the Hester Home for two years.

He was married February 1, 1925 in Wray, Colorado, to Elizabeth (Betty) Daum.

Survivors include his wife, Elizabeth, of Benkelman; two sisters, Mary S. Hanse and Anna Miller, both of Toledo, Ohio; one brother, Ed C. Kuhlman, Menno, South Dakota; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister.

Funeral services were held Monday, October 31 at 1:30 p.m. in the Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with the Pastor 0. L. Zeilinger officiating. Interment was in the St. Francis, Kansas cemetery.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1984

Edith May (Couch) Kuhns

Edith May (Couch) Kuhns, daughter of Joseph L. and Mable (Silliman) Couch, was born March 27, 1898, at Belle Fourche, South Dakota, and passed away March 14, 1984, at the Walker Post Manor in Oxford, Nebraska, at the age of 85 years, 11 months and 15 days.

Edith spent her early years around Belle Fourche and Lincoln, Nebraska, and on September 22, 1915, she was united in marriage to Earl Henry Stanley at Grant, Nebraska. To this union, four children were born: Robert, Elsie, Warren and Henry.

This marriage was interrupted by the premature death of her husband, Earl. On April 3, 1940, Edith was united in marriage to Andrew William Schrader at Goodland, Kansas, and to this union, two children were born: Darlene and Darrel. During this period of her life, she served as a midwife, a profession she loved because of her love for little children. She also operated a nursing home at St. Francis, Kansas, for 15 years ,

On April 13, 1966, Edith was united in marriage to Samuel Benjamin Kuhns at St. Francis, Kansas. They made their home at Parks, Nebraska. Edith spent many of her last years in rest homes in Wauneta and Oxford where she was residing at the time of her passing.

While residing at the Kinder Care Center in Wauneta, she was involved in the Boy Scout "Rock & Roll Jamboree," rocking in her rocking chair for the heart fund. She received certificates for this in both 1982 and 1983.

Edith attended the Parks Community Church where she often played the piano, and later, while a resident in the rest homes, she received great enjoyment from playing the piano for various activities. She shall be remembered for her love for children and her caring for others.

Preceding Edith in death were her parents; her first two husbands, Earl Stanley and Andrew Schrader; one son, Robert Stanley; and one daughter, Darlene Schrader; three brothers, Roy Couch, Greg Couch and Herb Jones; one sister, Francis Carey, and one granddaughter.

She is survived by her husband, Sam Kuhns of Parks, Nebraska; one daughter, Elsie Hankins of St. Francis, Kansas; three sons, Warren and his wife, Jule Stanley of Hemet, California, Dale and his wife, Kathleen Stanley of St. Francis, Kansas, and Darrel and his wife, Judy Schrader of Goodland, Kansas; three sisters, Mary Hickly of Greeley, Colorado, Iola Rymar of St. Francis, Kansas, and Ruth Bullock of California; 17 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild, a host of other relatives and friends.

Services were held Tuesday, March 20, 1984, at 2 p.m. at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Nebraska, with Pastor Robert Sander officiating. Organist Mary Baney accompanied Carol and Robert Sander as they sang "The Beautiful Garden of Prayer" and "Sweetly Resting."

Bearers were Roger Carey, David R. Hankins, Robert A. Hankins, Bob Lewis, John W. Hankins and Andrew Schrader. Honorary bearers were Kenny W. Kuhns and Gerald Kuhns.

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

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, December 1986

Margaret Bessie (Hanes) Kuhns

Margaret Bessie (Merklin) Kuhns, daughter of George M. and Mary Alice (Matney) Hanes, was born July 29, 1910, at Jasper County, Iowa, and passed away December 14, 1986, at the Rawlins County Hospital in Atwood, Kansas.

Margaret lived most of her life in the Dundy and Hitchcock County areas attending school in Jasper County, Iowa, and Cheyenne County, Kansas.

On September 1, 1928, she was united in marriage to Harold (Jack) Merklin at Wray, Colorado. To this union five children were born; Wilber, Oran, Dorothy, Hattie Mae and Phyllis Marie.

Margaret worked as a cook in some of the local restaurants and as a nurse's aide and also did some housekeeping until 1978, when ill health forced her into retirement. She was known for her honesty, hard work and her love for her children.

Preceding her in death were her parents; one daughter, Dorothy; one son, Oran; one sister, Anna; four brothers: Bert, Jim, Henry and Alfred, and two great-grandchildren.

Margaret is survived by two daughters: Phyllis Wineingy of Palisade, Nebraska, and Mrs. Jim (Hattie Mae) Shreve of Hastings, Nebraska; one son, Wilbur Merklin of Thornton, Colorado; two sisters: Susie Burr of St. Francis, Kansas, and Modest Scherbondy of Lincoln, Nebraska; four brothers: John Hanes of Trenton, Nebraska, Wayne Hanes of Advance, North Carolina, Carl Hanes of Stratton, Nebraska, and Elmer Hanes of Benkelman; 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

Services were held December 18, 1986, at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Nebraska, with the Rev. Robert Sander officiating.

Organist was Mary Baney. Carol and Robert Sander sang the selections "The Old Rugged Cross" and "In The Garden."

Bearers were Jim Hanes, Tim Hanes, Jerry Hanes, Wade Hanes, Jim Shreve and Scott Shreve.

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

(Researcher note: Burial records for the Benkelman cemetery show that Margaret was also married to Samuel Kuhns.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1977

Myrtle Margaret (Johnson) Kuhns

Myrtle Margaret Kuhns, daughter of William and Catherine Kier Johnson, was born March 4, 1905 in Red Willow County, Nebraska and died January 27, 1977 at the age of 71 years, 10 months, and 23 days. She was united in marriage to Glenn Kuhns in Laird, Colo. on July 29, 1927. To this union one son was born, Calvin Ray.

Myrtle graduated from Haigler High School and attended Peru State College. She taught many years in surrounding Haigler school districts. She was a member of the Haigler United Methodist Church, Holly Chapter No. 233, Order of Eastern Star, the Cloverleaf Extension Club, Haigler Women's Club, and United Methodist Women. Myrtle's most recent contribution to her community was membership on the Dundy County Extension Council, which produced the Dundy County Heritage book.

Preceding her in death were her husband in 1964, her son in 1945, two brothers, Willis and Harold, a half-brother Earl and a half-sister, Iva. She is survived by a sister, Mrs. Bertha Barrett of Cisne, Ill. and a sister, Mrs. Zello Kelly of Colorado Springs, Colorado, a number of nephews and nieces, and a host of friends.

This poem expresses some of the feelings of her friends.

Cherished Friends by Barbara Burrow

God must have know there would be times

We'd need word of cheer,

Someone to praise a triumph

Or brush away a tear.

He must have known we'd need to share

The lay of "little things"

In order to appreciate

The happiness life brings,

I think He knew our troubled Hearts

Would sometimes throb until pain

At trials and misfortune

Or some goal we can't attain.

He knew we'd need the comfort

Of an understanding heart

To give us strength and courage

To make a fresh, new start.

He knew we'd need companionship

Unselfish---lasting---true,

And so God answered the heart's great need,

With cherished friends--like you.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, June 1951

Dora Ellen (Pfrimmer) Kuhns

Dora Ellen Pfrimmer was born November 22, 1874, at Norwood, Iowa, one of seven children born to Francis Marion and Mary Emma Pfrimmer.

At an early age, she came to Nebraska with her parents.

On January 4, 1898, at Culbertson, Nebraska, she was married to William D. Kuhns.

To this union two daughters were born, Wilma Pauline and Emma Frances.

In 1898 she and her husband came to Dundy county where they homesteaded and lived until 1930 when they moved to Benkelman.

She leaves to mourn her death two daughters, Wilma Siegel of Stratton and Emma Wood of Benkelman; six grandchildren, Billy and Kay Siegel, Joann Mehl, Annette, Keith and Doralee Wood; two brothers, George of West Des Moines, Iowa, and Charles of Brush, Colo.; three nieces, Marion Bratton of Austin, Texas; Patricia Briggs and Norma Pfrimmer of Denver.

She was a member of the Methodist church and always derived a great deal of pleasure and satisfaction in being a part of church organizations.

Rev. H. T. Slagg conducted the funeral services at the Benkelman Methodist church at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 23. Miss Marguerite Ough was soloist, accompanied by Mrs. JoAnn Rath at the organ. Pallbearers were Gerald Russell, Delbert Russell, Lee Hamilton, Art Thompson, Fay Wood and Gene Ham. The Laughlin Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements and interment was in the Benkelman cemetery.

(Researcher note: Burial records for the Benkelman cemetery show a birth date of 11-22-1874 and a death date of 6-20-1951.)

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, February 1975

Darlene M. (Schrader) Kuhns

Darlene M. Schrader Kuhns of St. Francis, Kansas was born to Andrew W. and Edith Schrader on April 2, 1941 at St. Francis, Kansas and passed from this life on February 15, 1975 near Parks, Nebraska at the age of 33 years, ten months and 13 days.

She was united in marriage to Jerrold Kuhns April 18, 1959 at the South Fork parsonage by Rev. Brown. To this union were born three daughters, Cynthia Sue, Karen Marie and Kathleen Mae and one son, Kenneth Wayne.

She was preceded in death by a half-brother, Robert Hanley, in February 1947 and her father, Andrew Schrader in August 1971.

Darlene is survived by her husband, Jerrold of St. Francis, Kansas; three daughters, Cynthia and her husband Bill Carson of Parks, Nebraska, Karen and Kathleen of St. Francis, Kansas; one son, Kenneth also of St. Francis, Kansas; her mother and step-father, Edith and Samuel Kuhns of Parks, Nebraska; one brother, Darrel Schrader and wife Judy and children of Goodland, Kansas; two half-brothers, Dale Stanley and wife Kathleen of St. Francis, Kansas and Warren Allen Stanley and wife Jule of Hermet, California; one half-sister, Elsie Hankins and husband John of St. Francis, Kansas; also a half-sister-in law, Freda Decker of Benkelman, Nebraska and her daughter, Georgia Stanley of Imperial, Nebraska along with a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at the Jones Funeral Home on Thursday afternoon with the Rev. Bob Sander officiating. Betty Erdman was the organist and Carol and Bob Sander, the singers. Casket bearers were Larry Williams, Rex Roundtree, Sylvester Gallington, John Ferguson, Ernest Graham and Lawrence Westrand. Interment was in the Benkelman Cemetery.

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

Harold "Willie" Kuhns

Harold "Willie" Kuhns, the 26-year-old grandson of Sam Kuhns of Parks, Nebraska, was fatally shot while working at a gasoline station in Sterling, Colorado, on Saturday, March 8.

Mr. Kuhns' body was found in the office of the 6 & 76 station in east Sterling at approximately 6 p.m. on March 8, after he had apparently alerted law officers by triggering a silent alarm.

Shortly after the murder of Willie Kuhns, Sterling Police arrested Brian Stansfield, 23, of Yuma.

The suspect has subsequently been charged with First Degree Murder, Aggravated Robbery and Crimes of Violence.

The young man who was murdered graduated from Yuma (Colorado) High School in 1978.

His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Kuhns of Sterling. Three brothers—Don and Russ of Sidney, Nebraska, and Sam of Garden City, Kansas—also survive him.

Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, January 13, 2008

Jerrold Wayne Kuhns

BENKELMAN -- Jerrold Wayne Kuhns, 82, died Monday, (Jan. 12, 2009) at Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman.

He was born May 3, 1926, to Samuel and Mildred (Lytle) Kuhns, south of Imperial in Chase County. He moved with his family at an early age to their farm north of Parks. It was here where he attended school and spent his childhood. After completing the seventh grade, he helped his father with the family farm.

On April 17, 1959, he married Darleen Schrader. He worked as a farmhand for many years for numerous area farmers. He also drove truck for Wayne Putman for several years.

He lived in Southwest Nebraska and Northwest Kansas his entire life, including St. Francis and Bird City, Kan. In recent years he lived in Parks. After his health began to fail, he moved to Benkelman, where he resided for several years at the Rainbow Fountain Park. He moved to Hester Home in November of 2008.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Mildred Kuhns; and his wife, Darleen Kuhns in 1975.

Survivors include his children, Cindy, Karen, Kathleen and Kenny; sisters, Nina Oakley of Max, Barbara Hanes of Benkelman, Doris Biggs of Killeen, Texas and Betty Campbell and husband, Bob of Hill Rose, Colo.; brothers, Sam Kuhns and wife, Eva of Sterling, Colo., Dale Kuhns and wife, Judy of Yelm, Wash.; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Memorial services have not been scheduled and will be announced at a later time. There will be no visitation or viewing.

A memorial has been established in his name.

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

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, May 1988

Samuel B. Kuhns

Samuel B. Kuhns, Sam as he was known, passed from this life at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, Nebraska, April 30, 1988, at the age of 84 years and 9 months.

He was born to Frank and Bessie Kuhns at Kenesaw, Nebraska, August 29, 1903.

On July 16, 1925 at Holyoke, Colorado, he was joined in holy matrimony to Mildred Lytle. To this union, seven children were born: Jerrold, Parks; Nina Oakley, Benkelman; Dale, Napa, California; Barbara Hanes, Benkelman; Sammy, Sterling, Colorado; Doris Briggs, Killeen, Texas, and Betty Campbell, Ft. Morgan, Colorado.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Richard; two sisters, Francis and Esther, and two grandchildren, Willie Kuhns and Tommy Hanes.

He leaves to mourn his first wife, Mildred Kephart of Ft. Morgan, Colorado, his seven children and their spouses, 29 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and a host of friends and relatives.

Sam farmed many years in the Dundy County area. The last few years of his life he raised a large garden with his son Jerrold. They kept a few chickens and also had some pigs.

Sam was a cheerful person and never met a stranger. He enjoyed visiting about old times.

Services were held on May 3, 1988, at 10:30 a.m. at Jones Funeral Chapel in Benkelman, Nebraska. The Rev. Robert Sander officiated. The organist was Mary Baney.

Carol and Robert Sander sang “The Old Rugged Cross” and “In The Sweet By And By.”

Bearers were Tim Hanes, Jerry Hanes, James Hanes, Mark Hanes, Dennis Hanes and Gary Hunkins.

Honorary bearers were Robert Todd, Carl Gunther, Ross Goddard, Rex Roundtree, Lawrence Campbell and H. L. Anderson.

Interment was in the Benkelman cemetery.

Arrangements were conducted by Jones Funeral Home, Benkelman, Nebraska.

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Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1933

William D. Kuhns

William D. Kuhns was born in Boulder, Colorado, on November 18, 1863, and died in Benkelman, Nebraska, on March 8, 1933, age 69 years, 3 months and 20 days.

Mr. Kuhns moved with his parents from Boulder, Colorado, to a farm near Culbertson, Nebraska, when he was a child. There he spent his youth and early manhood, riding range for occupation, being at the time of his death one of the few remaining cowboys of pioneering days.

He was united in marriage to Miss Dora Ellen Pfrimmer of Culbertson, Nebraska, in Culbertson on January 4, 1898. To this union were born two daughters, Mrs. Wilma Pauline Siegel of Stratton and Mrs. Emma Frances Wood of north of Benkelman.

Mr. Kuhns moved with his family to Dundy county, Nebraska, in about 1900 and has lived here ever since; a man highly esteemed in his community and accounted a valuable citizen. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Benkelman, Nebraska, and attended the Methodist Episcopal church.

He leaves to mourn his departure from these shores of time besides his wife and two daughters, a brother, Charles of Maxwell, Nebraska; a half-brother, A. F. Marlatt of Denver, Colorado; and a number of more distant relatives. He was a man well respected by all and beloved of many friends.

Funeral services were held at the Benkelman Methodist church on Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Rev. G. A. Schwabauer was the minister in charge assisted by Rev. J. C. Foster of the United Presbyterian church. A quartet composed of R. D. Druliner, Lloyd Boswell, Tena Jorgensen and Mrs. John Hollinger sang three selections. Mrs. Hopkins officiatecl at the piano. Burial was in the Benkelman cemetery.

Printed in the Benkelman, NE Post, March 1979

Adolph Kutz

Adolph Kutz was born Feb. 16, 1892 in Perry County, MO, and passed away Feb. 21, 1979 in the Chase County Hospital in Imperial, NE, at the age of 87.

Services were held at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 24, 1979 in St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Benkelman, NE.

Officiating the services was Rev. Irvin Weber. Organist was Janet Faimon who accompanied Kim Beck with the selections, "Abide With Me" and "Just as I am".

Bearers were Walt Barenberg, Verle Raichart, M.D. Sailors, Ben Gottschalk, Orval Johnson and Harold Glasco.

Interment was held at Benkelman Cemetery in Benkelman, NE.

Services were conducted by Jones Funeral Home of Benkelman, Nebraska.

Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, April 19, 2007

Walter A. Kutz

Thursday, April 19, 2007

October 3, 1918 to April 16, 2007

CURTIS -- Walter A. Kutz, 88, of rural Hayes Center died on April 16, 2007, at Sunset Haven Nursing Home in Curtis.

Walter Adolph Kutz was born on October 3, 1918, in McDonald, Kan., to Adolph and Martha (Schultz) Kutz. He grew up with one sister, Mary Mae (Kutz) Duvel. He attended school in Max and graduated at Benkleman High School.

He attended college for one year at the University of Nebraska at Kearney before enlisting in the Air Force in 1941. He was a pilot with Lt. Col. James "Jimmie" Doolittle's Eighth Air Force Fighter Squadron in World War II in the European campaign. He was discharged as a Lieutenant in 1946 in St. Louis, Mo.

He returned to Nebraska and married Bertha Agnes Klumpe on Sept. 11, 1946. He moved to Hayes County and purchased his farm in 1954. He was a progressive farmer/rancher until his passing.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Martha and Adolph, his wife, Bertha, and his sister Mary Mae Duvel.

He is survived by his brother-in-law, Marvin Klumpe and wife, Sylvia and sister-in-law, Arlene Williams and husband, Dwight. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

The rosary was on Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the St. James Catholic Church in Curtis.

The memorial funeral Mass was at 10:30 on Thursday, April 19, at the St. James Catholic Church with a dinner following at Klehn hall. Inurnment for Bertha and Walter will be at the Benkelman Cemetery following the dinner.

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Printed in the McCook, NE Daily Gazette, January 8, 2007

LeNeve Marjorie Kyle

Monday, January 8, 2007

Nov. 16, 1910 - Jan 4, 2007

STRATTON -- LeNeve Marjorie Kyle, 96, died Thursday (Jan. 4, 2007) at the Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman.

She was born Nov. 16, 1910, in Stratton, to Henry Wilson and Nellie May (Reed) Kyle, and grew up in the Stratton area. She was a member of the graduating class of 1929, at Stratton High School and attended Doane College for two years, graduating in 1932.

She taught school for two years in the late 30s, before starting her 30-year career in public welfare, as a director and caseworker. She lived in Kearney for close to 20 years before moving back to Stratton. Her mother lived with her for 20 years, coming to Kearney to share her home after the death of her husband and son.

She was a 50 plus year member of Community United Methodist Church in Stratton, and was always an active member. She played piano at church for many years and would often play with the choir. She also had many other interests in the community, including the Hitchcock County Historical Society, the Busy Bee Club, American Legion Auxiliary, and Grandview Retirement Center. She enjoyed reading and writing, and music was always a special part of her life. Family and friends were important to her. She loved God's earth, and all His creatures, especially cats.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Henry and Nellie Kyle; and one brother, Pharence Kyle.

Survivors include her cousins, Marian Mohr, Pauline Reed and husband George, and Iris Gummere; and numerous other relatives and friends.

Visitation is today from 3-6- p.m., at Community United Methodist Church in Stratton.

Funeral services will be Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at the church with Rev. Brian Fong officiating. Interment will follow services at Rose Hill Cemetery near Stratton.

Memorials may be given in her name to Grandview Retirement Center or Community United Methodist Church, both of Stratton.

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

Page 1	Page 2	Page 3
Kacirek, Douglas Linn	Ketler (Ballard), Ethel	Kline (Higley), Corinne
Kamla (Martin), Frances Marie	Ketler (Borchert), Irene Lela	Klinzman (Eikenberg), Hanna Mary
Kamla, Paul Henry	Ketler (Bowers), Blanche A. 'Sally'	Klinzmann (Workman), Ella Mae Leona
Kamla, Robert Joseph 'Bob'	Ketler (Cooley), Eva Marie	Klinzmann, Arthur Leonard Albert
Kappelman (Vonderfeckt), Marie Lena	Ketler (Cummings), Clara M.	Klinzmann, Henry
Kappelman, Dennis R.	Ketler (Ough), Jessie Agnes	Klinzmann, Henry, John Otto
Kappelman, Robert John	Ketler (Seitz), Anne Veva	Klinzmann, John Herman Albert
Karns, Gerald	Ketler, Carl M.	Klotz (Morehouse), Delores
Karre, William I.	Ketler, Charles Lee 'Pat'	Klotz, Harold
Kashka, Mary Martha	Ketler, Clyde Merle 'red'	Knapp (Palmer), Margherita C.
Katherine Hubbard (Brumm), Katherine	Ketler, Duane Lee	Knapp, Leland Duane
Kauffman (Hauser), Gypsie Mae	Ketler, Lee Wayne	Knapp, Merrill J. 'Pete'
Kauffman (Schrader), Marie L.	Ketler, Leon E. 'Cy'	Knepper, Franklin Seymour
Kauffman, Frances Melvin 'Ted'	Ketler, Vaughn Ough	Knepp, ralph Ewing
Kauffman, Orlie Ray	Kier (Brown), Laberta L.	Knepper, Seymour N.
Kautz, Jessica Rose	Kier, Adrienne Loree	Knepper, Verle K.
Keenan (Rogers), Lenora Florence	Kier, Charles Edward	Knight (Crosby), Bessie
Keenan, Herbert	Kier, Henry Adam	Knight, Filmore
Keenan, Jahew McLung	Kier, Jimmie Gene	Knoles, Harold Edwin 'Knoly'
Keenan, Ogla	Kier, Richard Lee	Koons (Harris), Hallie Melvina
Keenan, Romie	Kier, Weslie W.	Koons, William glenn
Keenan, Walter L.	Kilgore, John edward	Koppinger, William F. 'Hoppy'
Kenney, Milford	Killoran, Michael	Korf, Sherwood J.
Kehlbeck (Druliner), Berniece Esther Gorthy	Kilpatrick (Frasier), Marilyn	Korkisch (Edwards), Bonniee E.
Kehlbeck (Sawyer), Ruth Lucille	Kilpatrick, David Samuel	Kramer (Bragg), Fauniel June
Kehlbeck, Donald duane	Kimberling, Charlie	Krausnick (Jessee), Anna Irene
Kehlbeck, Friedrich Carl	Kimble, Dale Richard	Kress (Turpin), Donna
Kehlbeck, Fritz	Kimsey (Bash), Ladema	Krieger, Henry H.
Kehlbeck, Henry Carl	Kimsey (Stroup), Katie B.	Kring (Whitney), Grace
Kehlbeck, Larry	Kimsey, Clement C, 'Kim'	Krotter, F.C.
Kehr, Robert kehr	Kimsey, George Walter	Krotter, F. Chauncey
Keim (O'Neall), Iva D.	Kimsey, James E.	Krug (Kuhlman), Esther W.
Keiser, Albert J.	Kimsey, John Walter	Krug (Laderick), Bertha
Keiser, Elmer	Kimsey, Thomas C.	Krug, Henry, Sr.
Keiser, Fern G.	Kinen (Gallagher), Patricia Ann	Krug, Joseph
Keiser, John	King, Ronald Mark	Krutsinger (Gerver), Sarah Grace
Keiser, Raymond Henry	Kinnett, Fred Giltner	Krutsinger (Matthews), Daisy
Keller (Lemke), Johanna Louise	Kinnett, Leon Larry	Krutsinger (Phifer), Lillian R.
Keller (Stickel), Lydia	Kenney, Anna L.	Krutsinger (Wiggins), Doris Leone
Keller, Martin Carl	Kinney, Wallace leon	Krutsinger (Williams), Annie Marie 'Mary'
Keller, Reinhold	Kinsey, Mildred	Krutsinger, Clarence 'Bus'
Kelley (Jones), Sarah Ellen	Kiolbasa, Sandra	Krutsinger, Clarence Samuel
Kelley, Effie rose	Kirkman (Pickens), Ruby	Krutsinger, Earl Clingon
Kelley, Ervin L.	Kirkman, Ivan V.	Krutsinger, Jerald D. 'Jerry'
Kellogg (Greene), Marion A.	Kirkman, James Quentin	Krutsinger, Kassi Denise
Kellogg (Overhowser), Laura Ellen	Kirkman, Leslie Ivan	Krutsinger, Lannie D.
Kellogg, Lillian	Kirkpatrick, Arnold 'Jack'	Krutsinger, Lannie Dean
Kellogg, Scott C.	Kirkpatrick, Davey hank	Krutsinger, Louis
Kelly (Selby), Marthalene	Kirkpatrick, Jerome C, 'Joe'	Krutsinger, Louis Dennis
Kelly, Maurice Wayne	Kisela (Miller), Blanche Irene	Kuhlman (Daum), Elizabeth Augusta
Kentoop (Hinz), Gertrude Mary	Kisela (Vancura), Agnes bertha	Kuhlman (Haarberg), Louise Sophie
Kentoop, Milton E.	Kisela, Anton	Kuhlman, Fred Diedrich
Kephart (Lytle), Mildred L.	Kissler (Gettman), Marie 'Maggie'	Kuhlman, George Frederick
Kephart, Earl	Kite (Shay), Prudence Leone	Kuhn (Couch), Edith May
Kephart, Jack lloyd	Kitt (DeHart), Eva J.	Kuhns (Hanes), Margaret Bessie
Kephart, James Leon 'Bill'	Kitt (Donze), Mary	Kuhns (Johnson), Myrtle Margaret
Kerchal (Taylor), Frona L.	Kitt, Edgar Vearl	Kuhn (Pfrimmer), Dora Ellen
Kerchal (Vlasin), Olga Cecelia 'Opal'	Kitt, Ervin Willard	Kuhns, Calvin Ray
Kerchal, Kelly Kent	Kitt, Helen	Kuhns (Schrader), Darlene M.
Kerchal, Leonard E.	Kitt, John J.	Kuhns, Harold 'Willie'
Kerchal, Virgil	Kitt, John Junior	Kuhns, Jerrold Wayne
Kern, Orville L.	Kitt, Randy	Kuhns, Samuel B.
Kerns, Donald Dale D.V.M.	Kitt, Ray N.	Kuhns, William D.
kessler (Hendrix), elsie Rosa	Kitt, Theron Dale	Kunnemann (Haarberb), Rose
Kessler, Michael Andrew	Kitt, Theron Dean	Kutz, Adolph
Kestler (Baldwin), Jean	Klein (Fisher), Irene E.	Kutz, Walter A.
Kestler, James	Kleinschmidt (Labert), Avilla Elizabeth	Kyle, LeNeve Marjorie
Kestler, Louis	Kleinschmidt, Bill D.	Kyle, Nellie May
Kestler, Melvin	Kleinschmidt, Harry W.