Maiden Name: Brandenburg

 

The family of Leota Nadine Schledewitz announce the passing of their dear mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and Aunt, on August 9, 2023, at 98 years of age. A Celebration of Her Life and joyous death will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday, August 15, 2023 at O’Brien Straatmann Redinger Funeral Home at 4115 N Avenue in Kearney. Interment will be at 2:00 p.m. at Fort McPherson in Maxwell. Visitation will be held 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday, August 14th at the funeral home.

Leota was born on January 13, 1925 to Martin and Bertha (Lindsey) Brandenburg, as a twin and one of 9 siblings; 7 sisters and 2 brothers. The twins were born in Sumner, Nebraska. Leota attended grade school in the Lexington, Nebraska school system, and she and her twin, Leona, graduated from Lexington High in 1944. During WWII, the twins worked at the Grand Island Ordnance Plant on the TNT sifting line. They quickly became known as the “Twin Sifters”. Their work earned them enough money to attend and graduate from The Grand Island School of Beauty.

She was married in Lexington Nebraska to Edward Schledewitz and instantly doubled the size of her family. She became a farm wife who planted large gardens and raised chickens. Her summers were taken up with canning and fruits and vegetables and dressing chickens for the winter. In her years in Gothenburg and Axtell she taught Sunday School at the Lutheran Church. She wanted to share her love for Christ which was challenging at times with young children but also fulfilling for her. Another challenge at times being the Leader of Blue Birds and Campfire Girls but she loved it. Not only was she a hardworking farm wife and mother she also took the time and cared for and loved on her Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren and they will always remember and cherish her.

Leota has 4 children: Karen Cherniss married to Jim and living in Napa California, Edward Jr., married to Gwen and living in Westminster Colorado, William, single and living in York Nebraska, and Jane Fruge, married to Jerry and living in Kearney Nebraska. From these children she has seven grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren, plus one on the way, all of whom she loved dearly. She also leaves behind numerous adoring nieces and nephews who will also miss her smile, her ornery sense of humor and love for a good time!

Leota was the last remaining of her siblings and her husband’s siblings. Her twin preceded her in death in 2018, shortly after their 90th birthday that was celebrated by family and friends with a party that was covered by the local TV station.

During their marriage, Ed and Leota traveled frequently to Denver, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco. They made a trip to Europe in 1974 visiting the countries of France, Belgium, Amsterdam, Switzerland and Germany. A highlight of their trip was attending the Oktoberfest in Munich. Also included in their travels was their vacation to Hawaii. In her later years she enjoyed crossword puzzles and Bingo and visits from her family and relatives.

In 2012, Leota was preceded in death by her Husband of 62 years. Ed was in the military and is buried in Fort McPherson National Cemetery in Maxwell. She will be laid to rest with him.

Leota spent the last year of her life at St. Lukes Rest home in Kearney. The family would like to thank the nurses and staff for the excellent care, and to Aseracare Hospice for helping her transition into the loving arms of God.

Rest in Blissful Peace, Mom. You lived a life well deserving of eternal grace.

 

Died October 5, 2020 in St Charles Ill. 94 yrs.

Date Posted: 2018-11-23
Maiden Name: Brandenburg

Leona M. Frey, 93, Lincoln, passed away November 20, 2018. Born January 13, 1925 in Sumner, Nebraska to Martin and Bertha (Lindsay) Brandenburg. Retired Beautician.

Family members include her daughter Jackie and son Terry, grandchildren Stacy (Jason) Pecha and Todd Stumpff. Preceded in death by her husband Neil O. Frey; sons Thomas and James Stumpff and grandson Scott Stumpff.

A graveside service will be held in the spring (2019) at Fort McPherson National Cemetery, Maxwell, NE.

Date Posted: 2011-04-15

Lloyd D. Jones, 85, of Lexington, Nebraska, died Friday, April 15, 2011, at the Plum Creek Care Center in Lexington.

He was born February 24, 1926, at Lexington, Nebraska to Walter Clyde and Anna Vivette (Nelson) Jones.

Lloyd grew up in Lexington where he attended school and graduated from Lexington High School with the class of 1944. He was active in sports in high school and earned the honor of All-State Basketball player. Following high school, Lloyd was inducted into the United States Navy. He served his country proudly from May 24, 1944, until being honorably discharged on May 7, 1946. He then furthered his education at the University of Nebraska where he graduated with a business degree. While in college he met the love of his life, Leona Joan Sorensen and was married June 5, 1949, at Blair, Nebraska. Three children were blessed to this marriage; Mark, Scott and Sheila.

Lloyd and Leona made their home in Lexington where Lloyd took over Jones Plumbing from his father. He so enjoyed his customers and many became lifelong friends.

The couple loved to travel extensively. They wintered in Texas for years and it was with their help that the H.O.S.T. Mentoring Program was brought to Lexington. An avid sports fan, Lloyd was always active in his children’s and grandchildren’s lives, cheering them on in all of their endeavors. He coached little league baseball, played city baseball himself as a young man and never missed a St. Louis Cardinal baseball game if he could help it.

Lloyd loved the Nebraska Cornhuskers and he and Leona were fortunate enough to be able to follow them to many bowl games throughout the years. He enjoyed playing golf, bridge, going dancing and playing tennis. He was also active in his community and was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church, a 60 year member of the Masonic Lodge, the VFW, American Legion, Eastern Star and received the Paul Harris Fellowship Award for his contributions to the Rotary Club.

Lloyd is survived by his wife of 62 years: Leona Jones of Lexington, Nebraska

Two sons: Dr. Mark (Patty) Jones of Lexington, Nebraska

Scott (Starla) Jones of Hobbs, New Mexico

One daughter: Sheila (Kent) Bader of Richland, Washington

Eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren

Lloyd was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother, Nelson Keith.

The family has honored Lloyd’s wishes that his body be cremated. There will be no visitation.

A Memorial Service will be held Monday, April 25, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Lexington with Reverends Tess Hufford and John Craig officiating.

Inurnment will be held prior to the Memorial Service in the Methodist Columbarium for family only.

Memorials are suggested to First United Methodist Church, Lexington Community Foundation or Lexington Volunteer Fire Department.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be directed to the family through: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com

Date Posted: 2016-09-09

Robert H. Adams, 89, of rural Lexington died Friday, September 9, 2016 at the CHI Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska.

Robert was born December 5, 1926 in Lexington to Robert and Esme (Olsen) Adams. He attended school in Lexington and graduated from Lexington High School with the class of 1944. Bob farmed after high school and served his country in the U.S. Army. After the Army he returned home and spent the rest of his working years farming.

Bob was united in marriage to Catherine M. Purintun on April 24, 1949 in Overton, Nebraska. The couple was blessed with three children Dave, Randy and Ann.

Bob loved life on the farm, sports and spending time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include; wife Catherine of Lexington, Nebraska; daughter, Ann and husband William Verzani of South Sioux City, Nebraska; four grandchildren, Adam, Caid, Allie and Holli.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sons: Dave and Randy, one bother: Ben and an infant sister Caroline.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, September 13, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington with Rev. Thayne Moore, officiating.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral service at the funeral home.

Interment will be in the Greenwood Cemetery in Lexington, Nebraska.

Memorials are suggested to Overton Fire and Rescue Department or the donor’s choice.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting:reynoldslovefuneralhome.com

Date Posted: 2008-02-11
Maiden Name: Tomasek

Iryl V. Nelson, age 81, of Aurora, formerly a resident of Lexington, died Monday, Feb. 11, 2008, at Aurora Memorial Community Care.     

Funeral services will be held Friday, Feb. 15, at 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Lexington, with the Rev. Todd Karges, officiating. Burial will be in the Greenwood Cemetery at Lexington. Visitation will be held Thursday, Feb. 14, from 5-7 p.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington.     Survivors include two sons, Russ (Linda) Nelson of Woodbury, Minn., Al (Sandra) Nelson of LaVista; one daughter, Cindy (Valta) Ross of Aurora, seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.     

Iryl was preceded in death by her parents, husband Dick in 2007, and her infant son, Terry Dick Nelson.     

She was born June 21, 1926, at Lexington, to Walter and Hazel (Hatfield) Tomasek.     

Iryl attended school at Lexington, graduating from Lexington High School in 1944.She was united in marriage to Dick J. Nelson on Jan. 2, 1947, at the First United Methodist Church in Lexington.     

Iryl worked several jobs during her lifetime as well as being a full time homemaker.She spent most of her time on their farm northwest of Lexington taking care of their huge yard, beautiful flowers, and abundant garden. She was known for her cooking especially her cookies.     

Iryl and Dick traveled and shopped about the country. Iryl also taught Sunday school for many years.     

She was a member of the First United Methodist Church. Memorials are kindly suggested to the East Park Villa in Aurora, or the First United Methodist Church in Lexington.

Date Posted: 2008-06-21

Francis Edward Fagot, 82, of Lexington, Nebraska, died Saturday, June 21, 2008, at Plum Creek Care Center in Lexington. He was born March 21, 1926, at Lexington, Nebraska to Forest Mathias and Sevilla May (Reynolds) Fagot. Fran grew up at Lexington where he graduated from Lexington High School with the class of 1944. He then served his Country during WWII in the United States Navy from 1944-1946. 

He was united in marriage to Ruth Miller on April 10, 1949, at Milford, Nebraska. Three children were blessed to this union; Kathy, Annette and Craig. Fran farmed north of Lexington, fed cattle and was a crop adjuster. 

Fran was always very active in the community; he enjoyed people and enjoyed serving as past president of the Dawson County Feeders Association, past president of the Lexington Rotary Club, past president of the Dawson County Museum board, past board member of ESU #10, the Plum Creekers, Toastmasters, Barbershoppers, Lexington Art's Council, a member of the First United Methodist Church, the Methodist Church choir and the Methodist Men. He also served 14 years on the Central Platte Natural Resource District board.  

He enjoyed the family cabin at Johnson Lake, flying, sailing, boating, skiing, archery, singing, gardening, people, and was, "always ready for an adventure"! 

Survivors include his wife: Ruth Fagot of Lexington, Nebraska, Brother: Dale (Virgene) Forest of Trophy Club, Texas, Daughters: Kathy (Mike) Hockley of Overland Park, Kansas, Annette (Russ) Eisenhart of Culbertson, Nebraska, One son: Craig (Pat) Forester of Cincinnati, Ohio. Grandchildren: Chris Hockley, Anne Crofford, John Eisenhart, Ben Eisenhart, Andrea Eisenhart, Rachel Forester and stepgrandchildren; Lucy and Vinnie Conlon.   Fran was preceded in death by his parents.   

The family has honored Fran's wishes that his body be cremated. There will be no visitation. A Memorial Service will be held Monday, July 7, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Lexington, Nebraska with Reverend Todd Karges officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date in the First United Methodist Church Columbarium. Memorials are suggested to the Dawson County Museum, the First United Methodist Church Music Department, or the Donor's Choice.   

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be directed to: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.

Date Posted: 2009-01-16
Maiden Name: Lange

Maxine Evelyn (Mrs. Donald) Carlson, 82, of Lexington, Nebraska, died Friday, January 16, 2009, at Golden Living Care Center in Cozad, Nebraska.

She was born July 14, 1926, at Lexington, Nebraska, to Lewis Henry and Eva Mae (Dillman) Lange.     

Maxine grew up in Lexington and lived here most of her life. She graduated from Lexington High School in 1944, and then Kearney State College.     

She was united in marriage to Donald Carlson on May 22, 1948, at North Platte, Nebraska. Two children were blessed to this union; Thomas and Vicki Sue.     

Maxine taught school in Lexington and in the Bertrand area. She played piano for many activities at District #38 school when her children were growing up. She also helped her husband with the farming operation. But, her most cherished career was raising her children and keeping her home. She loved flower gardening and sewing.     

She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, the Rebekah Myrtle Lodge, the VFW Auxiliary and the American Legion Auxiliary.     

She is survived by her daughter: Vicki Sue and husband, Mike Davis of Lexington, Nebraska, Daughter-in-law: Kay Carlson of Lexington, Nebraska, 5 grandchildren and 7 7/8ths great-grandchildren.     

Maxine was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Donald and son, Tom.   

Funeral Services will be Wednesday, January 21, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Lexington, Nebraska with Reverend Caroline Vickery officiating.     

Burial will be in the Greenwood Cemetery at Lexington.Visitation will be held Tuesday, January 20, 2009, from 5-7 p.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington.     

Memorials are suggested to Lexington Volunteer Fire Department or the First Presbyterian Church.     

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Online expressions of sympathy or guest book signatures may be directed to: www.reynoldslovefuneralhome.com

Date Posted: 2011-11-22

Donald D. Hofferber, 85, of Lexington, Nebraska, passed away Tuesday, November 22, 2011, at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney. He was born May 18, 1926, at Lexington, Nebraska to George and Ida (Hatfield) Hofferber. Don attended school at Lexington and was a 1944 graduate of Lexington High School. He was baptized at the United Methodist Church in Lexington in April of 1927, and Confirmed at the First Lutheran Church at Buffalo in 1950.     

Don was united in marriage to Elizabeth "Betty" Zwick on April 17, 1949 at First Lutheran Church at Buffalo, Nebraska. Three sons were blessed to this marriage; Timothy, David and Kent. He served his Country during the Korean Conflict in the United States Army from February of 1952 to February of 1954. He was stationed in Germany.    

Following Don's honorable discharge from the Army, he returned to Lexington where he and Betty farmed and raised their sons. He was active in Trinity Lutheran Church where he served on the Board of Directors. He also served on the boards of the Dawson County Extension Service and the Lexington COOP. He was also a member of the American Legion.    

Don loved following his sons in their activities and sports while they were in school. He also enjoyed fishing, playing cards, watching sports and his beloved Nebraska Cornhuskers.     

Survivors include his wife of 62 years: Betty Hofferber of Lexington, Nebraska, Three sons: Timothy D. (Patricia) Hofferber of Lincoln, Nebraska, David A. (Katherine) Hofferber of Lexington, Nebraska, Kent C. Hofferber of Lexington, Nebraska, Two brothers: Gary (Jan) Hofferber of Cozad, Nebraska, William (Fran) Hofferber of Lexington, Nebraska, One sister: Georgia Speak of Bella Vista, Arkansas, Four grandchildren: Drew & Brett Hofferber both of Lincoln, Nebraska; Jennifer (Trevor) Soncksen of Lexington, Nebraska; Jamie (Ruben) Vasquez of Lexington, Nebraska, Three great-grandsons: Jonathon Vasquez and Liam & Landen Soncksen, Two great-step-granddaughters: Madison Mast of Cozad, Nebraska and Joscelyn Soncksen of Eddyville, Nebraska, One brother-in-law: Richard (Eveline) Zwick of Seward, Nebraska, One sister-in-law: Armelda Schreiber of Stockton, California, Many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.     

Preceding Don in death were his parents; two brothers-in-law, Bill Speak and Leland Zwick and one sister-in-law, Edith Wobig.     

Funeral Services will be Saturday, November 26, 2011, at 10:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington with Reverend Craig Whitson officiating. Burial with Military Honors will be in the Greenwood Cemetery at Lexington. Visitation will be held Friday, November 25, 2011, from 5-7 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington. Memorials are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church or the Donor's Choice. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Please direct online condolences to the family through: www.reynoldslovefuneralhome.com

Date Posted: 2012-08-10
Maiden Name: Hagan

Viola May Cline, 86 years of age, of Bertrand, died Friday, Aug, 10, 2012 at Christian Homes Care Community in Holdrege.

Memorial services will be conducted from the Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege on Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2012 at 2:30 p.m. with Pastor Darrel Wissmann officiating.  Inurnment will be at a later date in the Greenwood Cemetery at Lexington. There will be no visitation. The family is honoring her wish for cremation.     

Viola was born May 17, 1926 at Lexington, the second of six children born to Thomas James and Martha Marie (Sullivan) Hagan. She received her primary education and later graduated from Lexington Public Schools with the Class of 1944. Viola helped with the family after graduation. Later, with her sister Clara and cousin, Doris (Hollibaugh) Green, the girls traveled to Denver to work in the factories during the war. Viola and Doris went to work for the Cleo Plunkett Shows and met Kenny Cline who was employed by the Gill Gray Circus.     

She was united in marriage to Kenneth Irwin Cline on May 21, 1958 at the Nebraska State Capitol in Lincoln. The family was blessed with two daughters: Valerie and Sandra.  The family made their home on acreage in Bertrand since 1964 to be close to Viola's family.

Viola and Kenny enjoyed the concession business and continued working for the Carden and Johnson Shrine Circus. They expanded on their own in 1960, serving cotton candy, sno cones and chocolate nut sundaes on a stick. They worked fairs in Nebraska and Kansas where Viola and Kenny enjoyed serving the public.     

Viola loved her family and often would stay home with the girls. She enjoyed taking care of their small farm, working with livestock and gardening. Viola also enjoyed a trip to the Platte for some fishing. Always being outdoors with the dogs and the grandkids was the best for her.     

She leaves to mourn her passing her daughters: Valerie (Gary) Percival of Oxford, Sandy (Mike) Hill of Loup City; four grandchildren, Ian (Patty) Stewart of North Platte, Ahron Stewart of Lexington, Jessica and Thomas Percival in Oxford; one great-grandson, Aiden Stewart of Lexington; sisters, Clara Schlotman of Ocean Park, Wash., Agnes (Edsel) Chandler of Smithfield, Lois Hagan of Bertrand; sister-in-law, Phyillis Richardson of Elm Creek and a host of other nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and other relatives and friends.     

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Kenneth, in 1977 and brothers, William (Bill) Hagan and Ralph Hagan.     

A memorial has been established and kindly suggested to Alzheimer's Association or to donor's choice.    

Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is in charge of arrangements.

Date Posted: 2012-09-10

Richard L. "Dick" Rickel, 86, of Lexington, Nebraska, passed away Monday, September 10, 2012 at his home. He was born September 8, 1926, in Cozad, Nebraska to Otto R. and Helen (Godfrey) Rickel. Dick graduated from Lexington High School with the class of 1944. He then served his Country in the United States Army during WWII, from October 23, 1944, until being honorably discharged on July 24, 1946.     

Upon Dick's return to Nebraska after his discharge he worked at the Majestic Theater, at a lumberyard and laid flooring for Graham-Edwards Furniture. He was united in marriage to Norma Young on June 11, 1950, at the United Methodist Church in Lexington.     

Dick began a 27 year career with Cornland Dressed Beef in the maintenance department and then another 27 years as an electrician for Henry Orthman at Orthman Manufacturing. He retired in 1995.   

Dick was always good with electronics. He loved fixing guns, working on guns and everything he was given as gifts he tore apart and put together again. He was active in the Gopher Smoker's and set up the communication center at Heartland Military Museum. He was an avid HAM Radio Operator with the call letters WA0RAK and active in the Central Nebraska Amateur Radio Club.     

Dick is survived by his children: Jim (Natalie) Rickel of Lexington, Nebraska; Jeri (Dave) Jaixen of Grand Island, Nebraska, and Sue Hedges of Waterloo, Nebraska.     

Seven grandchildren: Matt (Leslie) Irwin of Elkhorn, Nebraska; Becky (Rocky) Doerr of Andover, Minnesota; Carissa (Kyle) Stritt of Axtell, Nebraska; Beth (Aaron) Sauerland of Phoenix, Arizona; Brandon Howell of McCook, Nebraska; Josh Irwin of Des Moines, Iowa; and Trisha Rickel of McCook, Nebraska. Five great-grandchilren: Abby and Kaitlyn Doerr, Avery and Leah Stritt; Ava Sauerland, and one baby on the way! Brother-in-law: Dr. Gerald, Jr. and wife Lee Young of Barrington, Illinois     

Dick is also survived by three nieces, one nephew, other extended family members and friends.     

Dick was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Norma in 2008 and sister, Mary.     

The family has honored Dick's wishes that his body be cremated. There will be a Book Signing on Wednesday, September 12, 2012, from 5-7 p.m. with the family present at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington.     

Memorial Services will be Thursday, September 13, 2012, at 10:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Lexington with Reverend Tess Hufford officiating.   

Inurnment will be held in the Evergreen Cemetery at Lexington with Military Honors.     

Memorials are suggested to the Heartland Military Museum, Lexington Volunteer Fire Department or the Donor's Choice.     

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Please forward online condolences to the family through: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.

Date Posted: 2014-02-20
Maiden Name: Silas

Jennie Silas Gutierrez, 90, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 20, 2014 at St. Joseph's Villa in Omaha, Nebraska. She was born on February 2, 1924 to Herman and Paublita Silas in Hershey, Nebraska. Jennie moved to Lexington as a ten year old and worked alongside her family as a migrant worker in the sugar beet fields throughout her young life. Because of her love of education, her father promised they would never move from Lexington. Her passion for helping others began as a young girl volunteering her interpretation and translation skills at every opportunity to help her family and their friends.

Jennie married the love her life, Primo Gutierrez Jr. of Lexington on January 15th, 1942 and they were blessed with five children. She graduated from Lexington High School with the class of 1944. Jennie enrolled in Kearney State Teachers College to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher. After two years she received her Nebraska State Normal School certificate and began her teaching career in a country school north of Eddyville, NE. She continued going to school evenings and every summer to earn her Bachelor degree in Elementary Education, Master's Degree in Middle School Education, Master's Degree in Education Administration and an endorsement in English as a Second Language. Throughout this time, she raised and loved her own five children, nieces and nephews, Godchildren, and hundreds of school children. Jennie taught in eight Dawson County Rural Schools for 42 years and retired in 1994.

Jennie loved her community and she wanted Lexington and everyone in it to be the best at every turn. She volunteered her time and talents to serve in any way possible. Jennie was very proud to belong to the following educational and community organizations: Dawson County Rural Teachers association; Nebraska State Education Association; and the National Education Association, where she served as President, Commissioner, and on several executive committees. She was one of the founders of the Educational Minority Action Committee and also served on the Chapter I Migrant Education Leadership Committee. She was a member of Alpha Delta Kappa and Delta Kappa Gamma sororities. Jennie was an active member of the Red Cross, Dawson County Housing Authority, the United Way, the Central Nebraska Hispanic Awareness Center, the Mexican American Commission, and Encuentro of Central Nebraska. She was a 4-H leader for 35 years and a lifelong member of St. Ann's Catholic Church. She was elected and served as a board member to the St. Ann's and Lexington Public School Boards. Jennie was honored as the First Nebraska Hispanic Woman of the Year, the Nebraska Woman of Color, and recipient of the UNK Distinguished Alumni Service Award.

In her retirement, Jennie championed Lexington's efforts to unite and welcome the new Latino community by teaching Spanish to city officials and participating in many planning committees to navigate change. She taught English as a Second Language and Citizenship Classes to newcomers and was an essential part of the founding of the Haven House in Lexington. Jennie and her husband Primo, along with their lifelong Lexington Latino friends, founded the Lexington Welcome Center.

Jennie's loving and giving spirit will be missed by everyone who knew and loved her. She was preceded in death by her husband Primo Gutierrez Jr., her parents Herman and Paublita Silas, brother Modesto Silas, sisters Chita Munoz and Ann Cole, and beloved grandson Jade Gutierrez. Jennie is survived by her sister Eva Montoya, of Omaha, Nebraska; her five children Kathleen Gutierrez, of Everett, Washington; Robert Gutierrez, of Kansas City, Missouri; Bill and Catherine Gutierrez, of Eustis, Nebraska; Jack and Kelly Gutierrez, of Columbus, Nebraska; and Judith Gutierrez, of Omaha, Nebraska. Grandchildren Racqel and Brian Self, Jacques Smith and fiancé Jill, Cody and Amanda Smith, Tosh Gutierrez, Drew, Jake, and Jaisa Gutierrez, and Juanita Snow. Great-Grandchildren Kylee and Primo Self, Cody, Laikyn, and Olivia Smith, Ryder and Cali Smith.

Memorials are suggested to CCC Foundations Lexington Adult ESL & Citizenship Classes or St. Ann's Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, February 24, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Lexington with Father Neal Nollette celebrating. Visitation will be held Sunday, February 23, 2014, from 5-6 p.m. with Wake Service to follow at 6:00 all at St. Ann's Catholic Church. Burial will be in the St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery at Lexington. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family through: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com