Maiden Name: French

 

Joan K. Teel, 85, passed away December 2, 2022, at Emerald Nursing and Rehab in Cozad, Nebraska.

Joan was born in Lexington, Nebraska, on November 7, 1937, to Vernon and Irene (Wilson) French. She graduated from Lexington High school with the class of 1956.

Joan married Marlyn Teel on August 18, 1956, in Lexington, Nebraska, where they made their home. She worked as a clerk for the United States Postal Service for over 20 years. Joan was a member of the Lexington Women’s Bowling Association for 50 years, a member of the Lexington Community Foundation, and was part of the Ladies Auxillary VFW Post 111.

Joan loved bowling, spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, crafting, playing board games, crossword puzzles, watching Husker games, and traveling.

Joan is survived by her husband, Marlyn Teel of Lexington, NE; sons, Mike Teel of Denver, CO, and Mark Teel of Lincoln, NE; daughters, Diana (Leonard) Rainforth of Doniphan, NE, Rhonda (J.L.) Spray of Lincoln, NE; sisters, Judy (Harry T.) Danner of Plattsmouth, NE and Jean (George) Holbrook of Lexington, NE; grandchildren: Travis (Teana) Rainforth, Jeremy (Brandi) Rainforth, Jessica Betz (Jon Bittick), Gretchen (Branden) Wagner, Cassie (Tony) Skarka, Nathan (Sandy) Betz, John “Jack” Spray, Emma (Mike) Woodall, Grace (Jonathan) Halstead; and great-grandchildren: Elizabeth, Ben, Brian, Jytt, Mia, Atley, Teddy, Sawyer, Lynden, Auggie, Gloria, Hank, and Reagan.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Janet Trupp, and a brother, Larry French.

Funeral service will be Wednesday, December 7, 2022, at 10am at Reynolds- Love Funeral Home. The service will be live-streamed via the Reynolds-Love Funeral Home Facebook page. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery in Lexington. Visitation will be Tuesday, December 6, 2022 from 4-7pm with the family to greet friends at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home.

Memorials are kindly suggested to Lexington Community Foundation in Joan’s honor.

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

 

Frederick “Otis” Ward, 83, of Lexington, Nebraska passed away on Tuesday, February 1, 2022 at the Colonial Villa in Alma, Nebraska.
Otis was born July 20, 1938 in Lexington, Nebraska to Cecil Otis and Anna Frieda Augusta (Camin) Ward.  He was baptized August 14, 1938 at the Christ Lutheran Church in Oconto and was confirmed there on April 6, 1952. Otis attended rural school near Lexington and graduated from Lexington High School with the class of 1956.
He was united in marriage to Sherilyn Marie Hanson on February 26, 1965 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington. To this union twins were born: Susanne and Steven. On October 18, 1961 Otis entered the US Army and served his country until being honorably discharged on September 22, 1967. He was a sharpshooter and served in Germany. He and his son Steve were able to travel to Washington DC on the Hero Flight together.
Otis worked as a carpenter with Howard Hanson and loved doing remodeling on his home. He then was hired by Dawson County Public Power where he was a lineman from October of 1966 until his retirement in July of 2000.
Otis loved his horses and rode with the Plum Creekers for over twenty-five years. He also was instrumental in getting his daughter, niece and nephew to join the Plum Creekers. He also helped with Reenactment ride with the Pony express. He loved to go back packing on horses in the mountains of Colorado with his brother-in-law John Caldwell and a group of guys from Lexington. Later in life he enjoyed panning for gold with his brother-in-law, John in Colorado. Otis loved to be with his grandkids, he loved to show them the great outdoors from camping, fishing to riding horses.
Otis was a member of the Lions Club and the Sons Of The American Resolution.
Survivors include his wife, Sherilyn Ward, of Alma, Nebraska; his children, Steven Ward of Omaha and Susanne (Gary) Janssen of Alma; three grandchildren, Blaine (Allison) Janssen of Alma, Brent (fiancé Brooke Hough) Janssen of Alma and Brandie (Troy) Bland of Grand Island; sister-in-law, Mary Ward of Bloomington, Colorado; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, extended family and friends.
Besides his parents, Otis was preceded in death by his brother, Donald Ward; sister, Mary Ann Ward; daughter-in-law, Nancy Wescott; brothers and sisters in-law, Collen & John Caldwell, J.R. & Ann Hanson, and Jim & Bev Hanson.
Funeral Services will be on Thursday, February 10, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at First Lutheran Church at Buffalo with Pastor Vic Rasmussen, officiating.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 9, 2022 from 5-7 p.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington.
Interment with Military Honors will be in Christ Lutheran Cemetery near Oconto, Nebraska.
Memorials are kindly suggested to the First Lutheran Church at Buffalo or Heartland Museum in Lexington.
Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com
a

Maiden Name: Whittaker

 

Myrna J. Eggleston, 82 of Lexington passed away Sunday, December 20, 2020 at the Plum Creek Health Care Community in Lexington.

Myrna was born February 1, 1938 in Lexington to Paul and Mary (Brummet) Whittaker. She attended school in Lexington and graduated from Lexington High School with the Class of 1956. On March 24, 1957 she was united in marriage to Glenn Eggleston at the Evangelical Free Church in Lexington. To this union five children were born: Linda, Doug, Terry, Dave and Ann. Glenn preceded her in death on October 30, 2017.

Glenn and Myrna lived in several different communities, but Lexington was their home. Myrna performed various jobs outside the home, but raising her children was her main priority.

Myrna was an awesome cook, her bread, noodles, wedding cakes and Christmas cookies and candy were her specialties. She also enjoyed square dancing, gardening, canning and making floral arrangements.

Myrna was a loving mother, grandmother & great grandmother.  Her kids and grandkids were her pride and joy.

Myrna was a member of the Berean Bible Church in Lexington.

Survivors include two sons; Doug (Ann) Eggleston of Sumner, Dave (Jayne) Eggleston of Cozad; two daughters; Linda Leibert of Cozad and Ann Sleicher of Kearney;  one brother, Jerry (Donna) Whittaker of Lexington, one sister, Paula Blodgett of Lexington, brothers and sisters-in law; Marilyn Whittaker of Kearney, Bonnie Eggleston of Oconto, Roger Casey of Houston, Texas, LaVonne (Gene) Oxford of Broken Bow, Loraine ( Delbert ) Rogers of Franklin, Charles (Vicky) Eggleston of Gothenburg, Lloyd (Sandy) Eggleston of Broken Bow, Judy (Maynard)  Struempler of Oconto, Jane (Nick) Liakos of Lawrence, Kansas,  thirteen grandchildren, twenty-four great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Myrna was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, Terry; son-in-law, Steve Leibert, brother Kenny, brothers-in-law; Marvin Blodgett, Kenneth Eggleston, Keith Eggleston, Ivan Eggleston; sisters-in-law; Ella Mae Casey, Beulah Eggleston and Violet Eggleston.

Funeral services will be held Monday, December 28, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. at the Berean Bible Church in Lexington with Pastor Tom Parker, officiating. The service will be live streamed via the Reynolds-Love Face Book Page. Social distancing and face masks are recommended.

Visitation will be held Sunday, December 27, 2020 from 2-4p.m. at the Berean Bible Church in Lexington. Interment will be in the Robb Cemetery, SE of Lexington. Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation.

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

 

Barbara Ann Wheeler, born in Lexington, NE to Joseph Wayne Coons and Laceil Ann (Phillips) Coons, passed away Friday, November 1, 2019.

Barbara grew up on a farm SW of Lexington, near Johnson Lake. She was baptized and confirmed in the First UMC of Lexington.

She attended country school and graduated from Lexington Sr. High School 1956. She had her first date with Gene Wheeler at an FFA roller skating event, at the age 15. They were engaged at 17 years of age and then Gene joined the Marines for three years. Upon his discharge and return to Lexington, Eugene C. Wheeler and Barbara were united in marriage on March 16th, 1958 in First UMC, Lexington. Two children were born to the marriage, Tepricia and Randy. After marriage they moved to Brule, NE and to Julesburg, CO. After approximately two years, they returned to make their home in Lexington. Barbara taught Sunday school in the earlier years, and co-led a Brownie troop and then a Jr. Girl Scout troop. She was also on the Goldenrod GS council for a few years.

Barbara was a bookkeeper for Mingus Oil, Hibbard’s Liquid Feed, and retired from Platte Valley Products. She was active in downtown coffee groups, and Extension Club that later evolved into a Bunco Group and two Red Hat groups. She enjoyed meeting monthly with a group of long time couple friends.

In the first half of their marriage she and Gene enjoyed Dance Club and at least two Card Clubs on Saturday nights.

In 1968 an old bus joined the family and Gene renovated it into a proper camper, for the family, that was enjoyed for over 15 years. Many weekends at Johnson Lake, annual trips to Rocky Mountain National Park, and one trip to the Black Hills and Yellowstone. Barbara enjoyed any excuse to go to Colorado. She loved to travel, even taking a four week bus trip to Alaska with a dear friend, fulfilling a life long dream.

She cherished her aunts, uncles and cousins and enjoyed when they all could gather in Nebraska.

Barbara moved to Story City, IA to be near her daughter and son in law when her health became an issue, in February 2016.

She is preceded in death by her husband Eugene C. Wheeler, son, Brad, born at rest, her parents, brothers in law: Daryl Wheeler and David Wheeler; Sister in law Nel Wheeler and nephews: Barry Wheeler and Joel Bean.

She is survived by daughter, Tepricia and husband Louis Reeder of Story City, IA, grandchildren T.C. and wife Jessica Anthony with Aedan, Norah and ClaraJoy; Andrew and wife Andrea Anthony with Addison and Aubree. Kira and husband Luke Romens, and Evan Reeder. Son, Randy and wife Janniee Wheeler of York, NE. Grandchildren: Betty and husband Scott Myers with Brittany and Christopher; Dan and wife Priscilla Jensen with Sierra, Savanna, Daniel and Shelbi; Bob Jensen and significant other Tara with Dennis, Landyn and Jade; and Bill Jensen. And nine great-great grandchildren.

She is also survived by sister, Patricia Gage, Brothers in law Dean and Shirley Wheeler, Don and Ilsa Wheeler, sisters in law: Inalynn and Melvin Buckley and Cindy Wheeler, and many nephews and nieces.

We would like to express our appreciation for the Bethany Life Organization for the fine persons who work at Timberland and the Households for the kind and considerate care that they gave our mother, thank you. We also want to express our appreciation to the Suncrest Hospice team for their care of mom and guidance for her family.

Memorials to Alzheimer’s Association, First United Methodist in Lexington or Story City Grace United Methodist Church.

A memorial service will be Saturday November 16, 2019 at 10:30 am at Grace United Methodist Church in Story City. Visitation will be Friday from 5 to 8 at the church.

Another memorial service will be Saturday December 14 at 10:00 am at First United Methodist Church in Lexington, NE followed by inurnment at Greenwood Cemetery and then a luncheon in the fellowship hall. A memorial Book signing will be Friday December 13 from 5 to 8 at Reynolds- Love Funeral Home in Lexington, NE.

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

Date Posted: 2018-10-23
Maiden Name: Walston

Merna Louise Modglin, age 81, died Saturday, October 20, 2018, at her home in Elwood, Nebraska. She was born September 5, 1937 in San Bernardino, California to Kenneth and Opal (McGraw) Walston.

Merna grew up in the Lexington area and graduated high school from Lexington High School in the Class of 1956. In October of 1953 Merna married Larry Adams and to this union they were blessed with six children, Gary, Deb, Ricky, Michelle, Alan, and Terri. Merna married Mitch Modglin on April 20, 1968, they were married 22 years. Merna held many jobs throughout her life mostly working in the office doing books for various businesses. She also owned the Elwood Market with her sister Janet for 15 years, until she retired in 2010.

Merna enjoyed spending time with her family, with her favorite holiday being Christmas, she would always made an abundance of candy. She enjoyed hobbies such as gardening, playing the piano, playing Yahtzee, and other card games. Merna was also a proud cancer survivor.

Merna is survived by her daughters Deb and Mike Potter of Holdrege, Nebraska, and Michelle and Dean Jones of Burley, Idaho. sister Janet Refior of Elwood. Six grandchildren Angela and Jason Phipps, Jason Wick, Justin and Stephanie Potter, Joshua and Mary Grace Swartwood, Tiffany and Brett Mitchell, Autumn and Jared Bramer. 8 and ½ great-grandchildren as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, ands friends.

Merna was preceded in death by her parents, brother Jim Walston, husband Mitch, sons Gary, Ricky, and Alan and daughter Terri.

Condolences or personal reflections can be left at elwoodfuneralhome.com
Viewing and Visitation will be on Tuesday, October 23, 2018 from 5 PM to 7 PM with family present at the Elwood Funeral Home, Elwood, Nebraska. Celebration of life will take place on Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at 2PM at Parkview Baptist Church in Lexington, Nebraska on with a coffee and cookie reception following at the Elwood Senior Center. Interment will be at Elwood Cemetery, Elwood, Nebraska. Elwood Funeral Home, Elwood, Nebraska is in charge of the arrangements.

Date Posted: 2015-01-13
Maiden Name: Reichert

Elizabeth 'Betty' Sanders

Elizabeth was born Nov. 14, 1938 in St. Xavier, Mont., to Jacob and Elizabeth Reichert. 

She died Jan. 13, 2015 after a nine year battle with cancer. 

Memorial service was held at Oregon Trail Veterans Cemetery Chapel at 2:00 p.m., Friday, Jan. 16, 2015. 

Betty grew up in Lexington, with her three sisters, Darlene, Joyce and Jeannie and three brothers, Marvin, Jerry and Junior. 

She spent most of her adult life in Casper, Wyo.

She graduated from Lexington High School in 1956 and attended Casper Community College. 

Betty was a bookkeeper and devoted mother of two daughters. She enjoyed antiquing, was a Master Gardener, and played many sports. She also enjoyed reading, gemology, sewing, painting, and learning French. 

She is survived by her husband, H. Leon Sanders of Casper, Wyo., and daughter, Tierney Loberg of Colorado; brothers, Marvin (Lois) Reichert of Elm Creek, Junior (Heidi) Reichert and Jerry (Rhodora) Reichert, all of California; sisters, Joyce (Gordon) Rimpley of Lexington, Jeannie (Ron) Gregory of Riverton, Wyo.; nieces and nephews. 

Betty is preceded in death by her daughter, Tracy Bruizeman, her parents and sister, Darlene Whitlock. 

Memorials may be sent to Bustards Funeral home, Casper, Wyo. Condolences for the family may be left at bustardsfuneralhome.com.

Date Posted: 2006-12-17
Maiden Name: Hammond

Barbara J. Reed, 68, of St. Paul, died Sunday, Dec. 17, 2006, as the result of an automobile accident near Greeley.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 21, 2006, at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in St. Paul.Services will be at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Dec. 22, 2006, at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in St. Paul, with the Revs. Thomas Hyde and Ray Kosmicki officiating. Burial will be in the Elmwood Cemetery at St. Paul. Peters Funeral Home of St. Paul is in charge of arrangements.    

She is survived by one son, Richard Reed and his friend, Diane, of St. Paul; three daughters, Peggy (Dan) Griffin of Elba, Penny (Howard) Beck of St. Paul, and Pam (John) Baxa of Grand Island; her parents, Walter and Myrene Hammond of Lexington; one brother, Gary (Barbara) Hammond of Lexington; 11 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a former daughter-in-law, Karen Reed of St. Paul.     

Barbara was born on Nov. 30, 1938, at Lexington, to Walter and Myrene (Kincheloe) Hammond. She grew up on the family farm and attended Dist. No. 17 Dawson County rural school and was a 1956 graduate of Lexington High School. She then worked at the Thomas Bakery in Lexington.     

She was united in marriage to Richard Reed on Dec. 22, 1957, at Lexington. The couple farmed near Lexington until 1967 when they moved to a farm in the Midway area near St. Paul. In 1994, they moved to Farwell and in 2004, they moved to St. Paul.     

Barbara worked at various places in the St. Paul community, including Hamil's Ostrich Farm, Howard County Community Hospital, Super 8 Motel, Pump and Pantry and she and Donna Williams ran the B & D Lunch Wagon at area auctions for many years. Before her death, she was employed at the Howard County Medical Clinic.     

She was a member of the Methodist faith, was a past 4-H leader, was a member of extension clubs in Lexington and St. Paul, and served on the Farwell election board.

Memorials are suggested to the family's choice.

-Obituary obtained from www.lexch.com

Date Posted: 2008-03-17
Maiden Name: Kugler

Lorretta R. (Kugler) Dewey, 68, of Cozad, Nebraska, died Monday, March 17, 2008, at Southview Manor Golden Living Center in Cozad. She was born July 9, 1939, at Lexington, Nebraska, to Carl and Helen (Resch) Kugler.   

Lorretta was raised in Lexington and graduated from Lexington High School with the class of 1956, she graduated with Honors at the top of her class. She then served three years in the Army WAC Division. Following her time in the service, she returned to the Lexington area. In her later years, she spent many happy times at Parkview Villa in Gothenburg and later at the Golden Living Center in Cozad.   

She enjoyed crafts, socializing, sewing, playing the piano and being with her family.   

Survivors include two daughters: Deborah & Wendell Tobaben of Cozad, Nebraska Marilyn & Rich Twehous of Lincoln, Nebraska. Two sisters: June & Don Coover of Lexington, Nebraska Paulette & Virgil Gardner of Granbury, Texas. Two grandchildren: Carly & Will Twehous of Lincoln, Nebraska. Lorretta was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, JoAnn and one brother, Richard Kugler.   

Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, March 19, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Lexington, Nebraska with Father Paul Colling officiating. Burial will be in St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery.   

Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 18, 2008, from 4-6 p.m. with Wake Service to follow at 6:00 p.m. all held at the Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington.   

A Memorial has been established, for Mass Intentions to St. Ann's Catholic Church or North American Martyrs Catholic Church in Lincoln, Nebraska.   Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements.

Date Posted: 2008-04-30

C. Duane White, 69, of Gering, died Wednesday, April 30, 2008, at Regional West Medical Center with his loving family by his side. His funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Monday, May 5, at the Dugan-Kramer Funeral Chapel with Pastor Ed Hunzeker officiating. Interment will follow at West Lawn Cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m. at the chapel.   

Duane was born June 12, 1938, in Ft. Collins, Colo., to Ora and Violet (Parker) White. He graduated from Lexington High School in 1956, and married Frances Marie Potter in Lexington, Neb., in 1957. He sold insurance for several years in Wahoo, Neb. They moved to Scottsbluff in 1977, where they owned the Trail Motel. He owned and operated Homestake Coins since 1979. He had attained his Life Masters in American Contract Bridge League.     

Duane made a lot of close friends throughout the years he played bridge. He loved coins and was a member of Numismatic Assoc. He loved to play golf and loved the Denver Broncos and Nebraska Football. Duane spent many hours in the last few years watching his favorite programs. He was very loving and caring and helped many people throughout his lifetime. He will be sadly missed by his devoted wife, Fran, of 51 years and family.     

Survivors include his wife, Fran; children, Mikel White of Morrill; daughter, Kim (Michael) Gutierrez of Scottsbluff; grandchildren, Jas, Ashleigh and Chance White, Lacey Fleenor, Kacey Fleenor and fiancee Kayla Salazar (who is expecting Duane's first great-grandchild), and Amalie Gutierrez; sister, Lois Shoop of Cozad, Neb.; longtime family friend, Marc Harbour, lifetime friend, Al Chandler and good friend and neighbor, Arnold Mendoza; sisters-in-law, Brothers-in-law, uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and lifelong friend (called themselves avid brothers) Bill Rosengren.

Memorials may be given to the family to be designated later.

Date Posted: 2009-04-20
Maiden Name: Rupe

Karen R. Darby, 70, of Lexington, Nebraska, died suddenly at her home, Monday, April 20, 2009, in Lexington, Nebraska.

She was born October 27, 1938, at Eustis, Nebraska, to Ray A. and Neva B. (Hess) Rupe.

Karen's primary education was in Eustis, Nebraska and then graduated from Lexington High School with the class of 1956.

She was united in marriage to Philip E. Darby, Jr. on July 22, 1956, at the United Methodist Church in Lexington. Six beautiful daughters were blessed to this marriage; Sara Jane, Jennifer Jo, Luanne Rae, Linda Kae, Patricia Ann and Karla Lynn.   

Following her marriage Karen was employed at Kjar Hay & Grain, the United Methodist Church, the City of Lexington as assistant City Clerk and then Shoe Mart, which she opened with her daughter, Linda in 1988. It was a joy walking in to Shoe Mart and seeing Karen's smiling face.   

Karen was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church for 50+ years as well as the Methodist Choir. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Business and Professional Women, Musicale, Studio 25 and Tri-County Hospital Auxiliary.   

Karen absolutely loved life, she loved her family, especially the grandchildren, traveling with Ed and her friends, music, Nebraska football, reading, volunteering at church, art and working in her yard. She will be eternally beautiful in Heaven's light. 

Survivors include her husband: Philip E. "Ed" Darby of Lexington, Nebraska. Six daughters: Sara Jane Darby of Omaha, Nebraska, Jennifer Jo and Scott Mitchell of Grand Island, Nebraska, Luanne Rae Gesell of Norfolk, Nebraska, Linda Kae and Rick Petet of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Patricia Ann Reiners of Lincoln, Nebraska, Karla Lynn & Roger Schmidt of Grand Island, Nebraska. One sister: Gloria & Harold Benzel of Dixon, California   Eight grandchildren: Liza Jo & Chad Lorenz of Washington, DC, Clair Olivia Schmidt of Grand Island, Nebraska, Philip Payton Schmidt of Kearney, Nebraska, Cameron Lee Petet of Durango, Colorado, Erin Darby Gesell of Omaha, Nebraska, Darby Linn Reiners of Lincoln, Nebraska, Sydney Kae Reiners of Lincoln, Nebraska, Tanner John Gesell of Norfolk, Nebraska. One great-granddaughter: Tatum Kay Kime of Grand Island, Nebraska as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.   

Karen was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Donna Linn.   

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Friday, April 24, 2009, at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Lexington, Nebraska with Reverend Todd Karges officiating. Karen's body will not be present at the church. Visitation will be Thursday, April 23, 2009, from 4-7 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington. Karen's body will then be cremated. Inurnment will be held at a later date in the Methodist Church Columbarium.   

Memorials are suggested to the Lexington Community Foundation, the First United Methodist Church or the Donor's Choice.   

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

Date Posted: 2012-07-30

Keith Russell Schwarz, 74, of Arapahoe, Nebraska, passed away Monday, July 30, 2012, in a semi-truck accident near Loomis, Nebraska.

He was born January 16, 1938, in Smithfield, Nebraska to Frank and Dorothy (Woodside) Schwarz. Keith was a 1956 graduate of Lexington High School.

He served his Country in the United States Navy from May 24, 1957, until being Honorably discharged on February 21, 1961.

He was united in marriage to Shelby Parks on August 17, 1957, at Lexington, Nebraska. The marriage ended in divorce and he then married Cindy Vrbas on April 16, 1988, in Phoenix, Arizona. Keith and Cindy moved to Arapahoe in 2005.     

Keith's working years were as diverse in occupation as was his fun-loving spirit. He worked on a chicken farm, bowling alley, attended Barber School in Lincoln, Nebraska and worked as a barber for several years, he sold insurance for Banker's Life, and was an accountant for Schwarz Brothers Construction and AmericaWest Airlines. After his so-called retirement, he drove semi for RSK Trucking hauling corn.   

Keith had a heart of gold and loved his large family very much. He enjoyed fishing, golfing, playing cards, playing in the family band The Country Lads, and telling jokes. Some of his favorite times were spent on the "all boy" annual camping trip with his sons and grandsons. He will be truly missed.     

Keith was a member of St. Germanus Catholic Church in Arapahoe.   

Survivors include his wife: Cindy Schwarz of Arapahoe, Nebraska, Children and spouses: Rick (Amy) Schwarz of Lincoln, NE; Sandy Schwarz of Topeka, KS; Dan (Berni) Schwarz of Bertrand, NE; Carm (John) Anders of Bertrand, NE; Scott (Stacie) Schwarz of Bertrand, NE; Russ (Gina) Schwarz of Omaha, NE; Amber (James) Bridges of Phoenix, AZ; and Stacy (Arnold) Diaz of Greenwood, MO. Brothers and Sisters: Martin "Mike" Schwarz of Lexington, NE; Kenny (Shirley) Schwarz of Elwood, NE; Eugene (Nancy) Schwarz of Ft. Collins, CO; Carl Schwarz of Lexington, NE; Martha (Wally) Hubbard of Lexington, NE; and Alice Wenburg of Lexington, NE. Sisters-in-law: Helen Schwarz of Lexington, NE; Phyllis Schwarz of Ft. Collins, CO, and Judy Schwarz of Lexington, NE. Twenty-eight, grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, as well as nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.     

Keith was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Raymond, Harry and Bob; sisters-in-law, Sandra Schwarz and brother-in-law, Floyd Wenburg.     

Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, August 3, 2012, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Lexington, Nebraska with Reverends Robert Barnhill and Neal Nollette, con-celebrating. Burial with Military Honors will be in St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery at Lexington. Visitation will be held Thursday, August 2, 2012, from 3-5 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington with Wake Service to follow at 7:00 p.m. at St. Ann's Catholic Church. Memorials are suggested to the American Diabetes Association 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: 2013-09-21
Maiden Name: Phillippi

Janice Ann Phillippi Gulden, age 74, of Lexington, Nebraska, passed away peacefully September 21, 2013, at her daughter's home in Ogallala, surrounded by her eternal family.      

Janice was born January 10, 1939, in Lexington to Leslie I. and Esther L. (Passage) Phillippi of Smithfield, Nebraska; she was the third of five children. Her childhood was happy and filled with love.     

She attended a rural school near their farm house in Gosper County, attended fifth grade in Smithfield, then attended the Lutheran Parochial School for grades 6, 7, & 8 in Lexington. She graduated from Lexington High School in 1956.     

Following her graduation, she worked as a nurse's aide, waitress at the Cornland Hotel and then worked for Northwestern Bell Telephone at the Lexington office.     

She married Darryn W. Gulden of Lexington on June 22, 1958. Four daughters were blessed to this happy union: Pam, Kristy, Robin and Penny.     

Being a wife and mother was central to Janice's life. She was a constant example of Christ, especially evident in the nurturing of her husband, daughters and their spouses, her grandchildren, friends and relatives.     

Her devotion to her husband was apparent to those who knew her best. She shared many things with him including farming, gardening, canning, traveling, cooking, sewing & knitting, hunting, fishing, and crafts.     

She was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Lexington and most recently, following her relocation to Ogallala, was active in the United Methodist Church at Ogallala.     

She was involved in Hospice, Relay for Life, Deacon, a Sunday School teacher, Prayer Shawl group, Reach for Recovery, Regular Bunko group member, UMC Circle, numerous Bible studies, babysitting four of her favorite kids; Andrea, Aaron, Joseph, and Whitney, and together, with her husband, was her grandchildren's biggest fans to all activities and endeavors.     

Janice's legacy will be best remembered in her fight with breast cancer in the 80's. She aided research by volunteering to become a bone marrow transplant recipient in its infant stages – before stem cell research advanced. She continued to contribute research in the long-term study (ies) of its effects. She was one of a minority number of breast cancer victims to survive the procedure during that period of research; science and Faith afforded her twenty-seven years of quality life following her initial diagnosis. She has since been an advocate for a cure to breast cancer through her active involvement in Reach for Recovery and Relay for Life. Above all, she was an inspiration to many facing a similar challenge.     

Survivors include her four daughters and their husbands; Pam (Mike) Abbott of Ogallala, Nebraska, Kristy (Jerry) Acton of Firth, Nebraska; Robin (Rod) Ford of Bertrand, Nebraska; and, Penny (Shayne) Hite of Grant, Nebraska; two brothers, Boyd (JoAnn) Phillippi of Cozad, Nebraska; and, Robert (Beverly) Phillippi of Johnson Lake, Nebraska; one sister, Veronica (Darrel) LaVene of Bertrand, Nebraska; two sisters-in-law, Dorothy (the late Don) Phillippi of Elwood Reservoir, and, Carolyn (Leon) Malzahn of Johnson Lake; an aunt by marriage; Eva Kirkpatrick of Lexington, Nebraska; nine grandchildren; Harrison, Maggie and Emily Abbott, Nathan and Courtney Acton, Philip Ford, MacKenzie, Quinton, and Triston Hite; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.     

Janice was preceded in death by her husband, parents, a brother, father and mother-in-law, and one granddaughter.     

Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be Tuesday, September 24, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Lexington with Reverend Caroline Vickery officiating.     

Interment will be held prior at 9:30 a.m. in the Greenwood Cemetery at Lexington. All are welcome to attend.     

Visitation will be held Monday, September 23, 2013, from 5-8 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Chapel in Lexington.     

Memorials are suggested to UNMC Cancer Research Support Fund, your local Hospice or the Donor's Choice.     

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

Date Posted: 2014-08-09
Maiden Name: Renken

Karline Kay Renken, 76, of Overton, Nebraska, passed away Saturday, August 9, 2014, at her home in Overton.    

She was born September 23, 1938, in Lexington, Nebraska to Conrad and Allie (Kugler) Renken.     

Kay attended school in Lexington, graduating with the class of 1956. She worked many years as an Avon Representative, a job she dearly loved as she was able to visit with her many customers. She also worked at Burns Brothers Truck Stop at Overton, Casey's General Store and Wal-Mart in Lexington.     

She enjoyed talking with people and loved animals, especially cats, and was always taking care of a bunch of them. She was a great story-teller. Kay was quite the character and had a one-of-a-kind personality. She will be dearly missed by her loving family and friends.     

Kay is survived by one brother; Tom (Brenda) Renken of Lexington, Nebraska; niece, Sarah (Dan) Neben of Bertrand, Nebraska; nephew, Mike (Lara) Renken of Bellevue, Nebraska; grand-nephews; Brian, Jordan, and Evan Neben; and, grand-nieces, Sydney and Maria Neben; as well as many cousins and friends.     

She was preceded in death by her parents.     

The family has chosen cremation.     

A Memorial Service will be held Monday, August 18, 2014, at 2:00 p.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Chapel in Lexington.     

Register Book signing and visiting with the family will be held Sunday, August 17, 2014, from 2-4 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Funeral Chapel.     

Inurnment will be held prior to the memorial service in Greenwood Cemetery at Lexington.     

Memorials are requested, in lieu of flowers please, to the First United Methodist Church or the Donor's Choice.     

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