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RICK DORNHOFF, 61, Heartwell & J-lake Mallard Cove (Brother to Julie Dornhoff of Sandy Point)

HEARTWELL - Rick Dornhoff, 61, of Heartwell died Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012, at his home.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at Holy Family Catholic Church in Heartwell with the Rev. Nicholas Baker officiating. Burial will be at Holy Family Catholic Cemetery near Heartwell.
Visitation will be until 1 p.m. today at Craig Funeral Home in Minden. Rosary will be at 5 p.m. today at the church.

He was born June 4, 1950, in Minden to Kenneth and Jacqueline (Hawes) Dornhoff. On March 24, 1979, he married Goldie Dornhoff in Heartwell.

Survivors include his wife; daughters, Jennifer tenBensel and her husband, Joe, of Campbell and Carrie Ann Geiger and her husband, Will, of Cozad; son, Matthew Dornhoff and his wife, Ashley, of Norman; grandchildren, Georgiann and Jaxon tenBensel and Emalyn Geiger; his father, Kenneth Dornhoff and his wife, Betty, of Minden; brothers, Ron Dornhoff and John Dornhoff, both of Heartwell; sister, Julie Dornhoff of Johnson Lake; and many nieces and nephews.

He grew up in the Heartwell area and graduated from Minden High School in 1968. He served in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1969 until 1975. He attended Kearney State College. He and Goldie lived and farmed near Heartwell.

Rick enjoyed hunting, fishing and being at the cabin. Most of all, he loved following his children and grandchildren in their activities. He was a life-long member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Heartwell.

He was preceded in death by his mother and grandparents. Memorials are suggested to the American Heart Association .

DONALD PHILLIPPI, 77, Elwood (Developer of the Reverie @ Elwood Reservoir and former operator of
Captain's Quarters at J-Lake, with wife Dottie)

Donald D. Phillippi, 77, of Elwood, Nebraska, passed away Saturday, January 21, 2012, at Plum Creek Care Center in Lexington.

He was born October 27, 1934, at Lexington, Nebraska to Leslie I. and Esther L. (Passage) Phillippi.

Don was a 1952 graduate of Lexington High School. He proudly served his Country in the United States Army from 1955 to 1957, serving in Germany. He then returned home and married Dorothy L. “Dottie” Wolfe on December 11, 1957, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington. Three children were blessed to this marriage; Phillip (who died as an infant), Nick and Brenda.

Don’s working years were spent farming, working for Cornland Dressed Beef, in Lexington and in Fort Morgan, Colorado. He then owned and operated The Reverie Campground and Fishing Lodge at Elwood Reservoir for many years, retiring in 1999.

Don enjoyed life, he loved having his grandchildren and great-grandchildren around to tease and teach them the fine art of fishing! He was an ornery cuss who could tell a good story to anyone who would listen. To say Don had a great sense of humor is an understatement, as he was teasing the nurses up to his last day on this earth. Don will be greatly missed.

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington, the VFW and American Legion.

Survivors include his wife of almost 55 years: Dorothy “Dottie” Phillippi of Elwood, Nebraska

Son: Nick and wife Tanna Phillippi of Andover, Kansas

Daughter: Brenda and husband David Marzolf of Madison, Nebraska

Two brothers: Boyd and wife Joan Phillippi of Lexington, Nebraska
Robert and wife Bev Phillippi of Johnson Lake, Nebraska

Two sisters: Janice Gulden of Lexington, Nebraska
Veronica and husband Darrell Lavene of Bertrand, Nebraska

Six grandchildren: Jacob and wife Jill Marzolf of Kearney, Nebraska; Ginnifer and husband Jason Murray of Bellevue, Nebraska; Nichole Marzolf of Madison, Nebraska; Trevor and wife Heather Phillippi of Wichita, Kansas; Tori Phillippi of Wichita, Kansas and Taylor Phillippi of Andover, Kansas

Seven great-grandchildren: Donminick, Lachlan, Broxtynn, Skylur, Ivy, Cruzynn and Annie, as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; son, Phillip; Sister-in-law, Sharon Phillippi and Brother-in-law, Daryn Gulden.

Funeral Services will be Tuesday, January 24, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington with Pastor Craig Whitson officiating.

Burial with Military Honors will be in the Robb Cemetery south of Lexington, Nebraska.

Visitation will be held Monday, January 23, 2012, from 5-7 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Funeral Chapel in Lexington.

Memorials are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church, Boys Town 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.

DONALD PHILLIPPI, 77, Elwood (Developer of the Reverie @ Elwood Reservoir and former operator of
Captain's Quarters at J-Lake, with wife Dottie)

Donald D. Phillippi, 77, of Elwood, Nebraska, passed away Saturday, January 21, 2012, at Plum Creek Care Center in Lexington.

He was born October 27, 1934, at Lexington, Nebraska to Leslie I. and Esther L. (Passage) Phillippi.

Don was a 1952 graduate of Lexington High School. He proudly served his Country in the United States Army from 1955 to 1957, serving in Germany. He then returned home and married Dorothy L. “Dottie” Wolfe on December 11, 1957, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington. Three children were blessed to this marriage; Phillip (who died as an infant), Nick and Brenda.

Don’s working years were spent farming, working for Cornland Dressed Beef, in Lexington and in Fort Morgan, Colorado. He then owned and operated The Reverie Campground and Fishing Lodge at Elwood Reservoir for many years, retiring in 1999.

Don enjoyed life, he loved having his grandchildren and great-grandchildren around to tease and teach them the fine art of fishing! Don gave to others in kindness and without expectation and many times their home had “guests”. He was an ornery cuss who could tell a good story to anyone who would listen. To say Don had a great sense of humor is an understatement, as he was teasing the nurses up to his last day on this earth. Don will be greatly missed.

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington and a strong Christian man.

Survivors include his wife of almost 55 years: Dorothy “Dottie” Phillippi of Elwood, Nebraska

Son: Nick and wife Tanna Phillippi of Andover, Kansas

Daughter: Brenda and husband David Marzolf of Madison, Nebraska

Two brothers: Boyd and wife Joan Phillippi of Lexington, Nebraska
Robert and wife Bev Phillippi of Johnson Lake, Nebraska

Two sisters: Janice Gulden of Lexington, Nebraska
Veronica and husband Darrell Lavene of Bertrand, Nebraska

Six grandchildren: Jacob and wife Jill Marzolf of Kearney, Nebraska; Ginnifer and husband Jason Murray of Bellevue, Nebraska; Nichole Marzolf of Madison, Nebraska; Trevor and wife Heather Phillippi of Wichita, Kansas; Tori Phillippi of Wichita, Kansas and Taylor Phillippi of Andover, Kansas

Seven great-grandchildren: Donminick, Lachlan, Broxtynn, Skylur, Ivy, Cruzynn and Annie, as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; son, Phillip; Sister-in-law, Sharon Phillippi and Brother-in-law, Daryn Gulden.

Funeral Services will be Tuesday, January 24, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington with Pastor Craig Whitson officiating.

Burial with Military Honors will be in the Robb Cemetery south of Lexington, Nebraska.

Visitation will be held Monday, January 23, 2012, from 5-7 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Funeral Chapel in Lexington.

Memorials are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church, Boys Town 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.

STEVEN WERGER, Bennet (Brother to the late, Mike Werger and brother-in-law to Deb Werger of BHP-Jlake)

Steven R. Werger, of Bennet, died March 4, 2012 in Lincoln.

Services will be held at Wyuka Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, March 7, 2012, at 2 p.m. Steve requested that camouflage be worn to the service. Online condolences may be left at www.wyuka.com

STEVEN WERGER,Bennet, Brother of the lake Mike Werger and Brother-in-law to Deb Werger of BHP,J-lake

STEVEN R. Werger, 56, of Bennet, died peacefully March 4, 2012 in Lincoln with his wife and children by his side. Steve was a Journeyman Plumber at Shanahan Mechanical and Electrical, and a graduate of Waverly High School. He was married to Terri, his high school sweetheart, for nearly 35 years. He was an avid outdoorsman and very proud of his three children.

Survivors include wife, Terri (Mangel) Werger; daughters and son-in-law, Dawnelle Werger of Lincoln, Tara and Chris Rutt of Mitchell; son and daughter-in-law, Jacob and Allison Werger of Bennet; mother, Kathryn Werger of Lincoln; brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Chris Werger of Eagle; sister, Joan Nelson of Lincoln; sisters-in-law, Deb Werger of Johnson Lake, Rondy Jordan of Dallas, Tami Pickett of Katy, Texas; brother-in-law and wife, Rick and Susan Mangel of Alma; brother-in-law and wife, Rod and Melissa Mangel of Omaha; mother-in-law, Ev Mangel of Waverly; father-in-law, Ron Mangel of Alma; many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his father, Gerald "Pete" Werger; brother, Mike Werger and grandparents.

Memorial services: 2 p.m Wednesday, March 7, 2012, at Wyuka Funeral Home. A celebration of life will follow the service at a family location near Eagle. Steve requested that camouflage be worn. Family requests memorials in lieu of flowers to Whitetails Unlimited. Online condolences may be left at www.wyuka.com. Arrangements by Wyuka Funeral Home, Lincoln.

BARB STERBA, 67, Mallard Beach at Johnson Lake

KEARNEY - Barb A. Sterba, 67, of Johnson Lake died Tuesday, March 6, 2012, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney.

Memorial services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday at Berryman Funeral Home Chapel in Cozad with the Rev. Don O'Brien officiating. A celebration of life was at 4 p.m. Saturday at the Holiday Inn Express Ball Room in Lexington. There will be no burial or visitation.

She was born July 18, 1944, at Fort Dodge, Iowa, to Barney and Mary (Butler) Nichless. On May 14, 1977, she married Bob Sterba at Norfolk.

Survivors include her husband; sons, Doug of Norfolk, Randy of Valencia, Calif., and Rollie Holbrook of Arvada, Colo.; daughters, Candy Krohn of Parkersburg, Iowa, Sue Went of Norfolk, Vicki Pitmon of Loveland, Colo., and Chris Helvie of Sterling, Colo.; brothers, John Nichless of O'Neill, Nick Nichless of Cincinnati, Douglas Johnson of Nebraska and Justin Nichless of Ainsworth; sisters, Mary Franzen of Cozad and Chrystal Mlnarik of Lincoln; 17 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and stepparents, Darlene and Leonard Mahllendorf of Norfolk.

BARB STERBA, 67, Mallard Beach at Johnson Lake

Barb Sterba, age 67 of Johnson Lake, passed away Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney. Barb was born July 18, 1944 at Fort Dodge, Iowa to Barney and Mary (Butler) Nickless. She graduated from Stuart High School at Stuart, Nebraska in 1962.

On May 14, 1977, Barb married Bob Sterba at Norfolk, Nebraska. The couple made their home in Norfolk for the next 5 years, where Barb managed McCory’s Restaurant. In 1983, the couple moved to Broomfield, Colorado, and later to the foothills of Coal Creek Canyon, where they resided for the next 14 years. They spent the subsequent 8 years of their lives travelling the United States together. In 2008, the couple decided to move to Johnson Lake, and by this time, Barb had visited all 50 states. While Barb and Bob resided at Johnson Lake they still thoroughly enjoyed travelling to Texas, where they spent their winters.
Barb’s family was always of great importance in her life. Many of her life’s travels were laced with family visits. In addition to her loving husband, Barb was nearly always accompanied by her adoring canine companion, Chester. She was an avid reader, and loved to crotchet.
Barb had a warm and welcoming soul; throughout her many travels, she never knew a stranger. Barb’s family and friends will remember with fondness the way that her smile and generosity underscored how she lived life.
A memorial has been established in her memory. Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Jimmie Allen Nickless.
Barb is survived by her husband, Bob Sterba of Johnson Lake; her children, Candy (Dale) Krohn of Parkersburg, IA, Doug Sterba of Norfolk, Randy (Nadine) Sterba of Valencia, CA, Sue Went of Norfolk, Vicki (Bob) Pitmon of Loveland, CO, Chris (Glenn) Helvie of Sterling, CO, Rollie Holbrook of Arvada, CO; 17 grandchildren; 8 great grand with 3 on the way; 2 sisters, Mary (Jim) Franzen of Cozad, Chrystal (Dave) Mlnarik of Lincoln; 4 brothers, John (Mary Jean) Nickless of O'Neill, Nick (Ruby) Nickless of Cincinnati, OH, Douglas Johnson of Nebraska, Justin (Geni) Nickless of Ainsworth; sister-in-law, Maxine Nickless of Ainsworth; step-parents, Darlene (Leonard) Mahllendorf of Norfolk; along with many other relatives and friends.
A memorial service was held on Saturday, March 10, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at the Berryman Funeral Home Chapel in Cozad with Father Don O’Brien officiating. There was no inurnment or visitation. A special celebration of Barb’s life took place at the Holiday Inn Express Ball Room in Lexington at 4 p.m. on Saturday.
Berryman Funeral Home in Cozad is in charge of arrangements.

PAULA JO ABRAMSON, 47, GOTHENBURD

Paula Jo Abramson, 47, of Gothenburg, passed away on March 15, 2012, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney after a courageous battle with cancer.
Paula was born on Dec. 10, 1964, the daughter of Gary Branson and JoAnn (Forbey) Branson in Calexico, Calif. She spent her early childhood in Southern California and Kansas before moving to Holdrege. She graduated from Holdrege High School in 1983. During her high school she participated in many school activities and spent time with dear friends that she kept until the time of her death.
She was united in marriage to Thomas J. Abramson on June 21, 1985, at the United Methodist Church in Holdrege. To this union three children were born, Ashley Jo, Aaron Thomas and Alexandra Paige.
In the same year that they wed, the couple moved to Gothenburg where she worked for Southview Manor and Gothenburg Memorial Hospital before forming a partnership with her husband at Abramson & Associates Insurance Agency.
Paula's greatest life passion was being a wife and mother. She was her children's biggest fan and supported them through life's every activity. She enjoyed summers at the cabin at Johnson Lake and snow skiing while visiting family in Colorado.
She cherished her time as a TeamMates Mentor and was an active member of the Gothenburg Methodist Church. She also enjoyed spending time with her friends playing Bunko and watching Husker football games. She will be remembered for her kind heart, warm smile and courageous spirit.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Rainie L. (Edith P.) Branson, Harry (Josie) Forbey, Alfred J. (Gladys F.) Cotton and Irene Bocock; stepfathers, Donald Couch and Wilson Parker; cousins, Michael Branson and Sam Veale.
Survivors include her husband, Thomas J., of Gothenburg; a son, Aaron T.; two daughters, Ashley J. and Alexandra P., all of Lincoln; father and stepmother, Gary (Alfreda) Branson, of Pottsboro, Texas; mother, JoAnn Parker, of Gothenburg; sisters, Sandy (Nick) Nicklasson, of Pleasanton, and Karen Drake, of Las Vegas, Nev.; brother, Wesley Parker, of Cozad; parents-in-law, Evald (MaryLou) Abramson, of Holdrege; sister-in-law, Kay (Bryce) Exstrom, of Fremont; brother-in-law, Mark Abramson, of Holdrege; nieces, Amanda Drake, Beth Abramson, Katelyn Exstrom and Rebeka Abramson, Mia Abramson; uncle, Larry (Dee) Branson; and auntie, Phyllis Veale; cousins, Glen (Debbie) Branson, Dana Branson, Jill (Barry) Veale-Broads, Jana Pearson, Sid (Debbie) Veale, Danny Branson; along with a large extended loving family members and friends.
Register book signing will be from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, March 19, at Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel, Gothenburg, with the family present from 6-8 p.m.
Services will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 20, at First United Methodist Church with Dr. Jeff Thurman officiating.
A memorial has been established c/o 2221 Ave I, Gothenburg, NE 69138. Online guest book may be signed at blasestrauser.com.
Blasé Strauser Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

JAY PATTON DILLARD, 63, ASHLAND (Brother to Brad of J-lake)

Jay Patton Dillard, 63, of Ashland, Nebraska, died Saturday, March 17, 2012, at BryanLGH East Medical Center in Lincoln, Nebraska. He was born June 14, 1948, in Lexington, Nebraska to Jehu J. “Jack” and Dorothy R. (Redell) Dillard.

Jay was a 1966 graduate of Lexington High School and the Wentworth Military Academy in Independence, Missouri, graduating as a 2nd Lieutenant. He then went onto further his education at Mississippi State University.

Following college, Jay returned to Lexington and worked for his father at Nebraska Alfalfa Farms. As Jay’s health declined, he eventually moved to the Ashland Care Center in Ashland, Nebraska, where he was residing at the time of his death.

He is survived by two brothers: Brian Dillard of Axtell, Nebraska and Brad (&Avis) Dillard of Johnson Lake, Nebraska

Two nephews: Jason Dillard of Kearney, Nebraska and John Dillard of Lincoln, Nebraska

Jay was preceded in death by his parents.

It was Jay’s wishes that his body be cremated. There will be a private inurnment at Greenwood Cemetery in Lexington, Nebraska at a later date.

The Family has requested all Memorials to the Ashland Care Center – 1700 Furnas St. Ashland, Nebraska 68803.

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

BETTY JO WICKS, 78, Johnson Lake - Elwood resident [Wife of Gerry Wicks]

Betty Jo “BJ” Wicks, 78, of Elwood, Nebraska, died Monday, March 26, 2012, at Lexington Regional Health Center in Lexington, Nebraska.

She was born January 9, 1934, in Callaway, Nebraska to James M. and Vera M. (Schukar) Liner. Betty Jo graduated from Callaway High School, where she cheered on her beloved Callaway Bears.

Betty Jo spent her working years with the telephone company as an operator, bookkeeper, she owned and operated an upholstery shop and worked for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Betty Jo was united in marriage to Gerald Wicks in 1979. They spent many wonderful years traveling, having fun playing cards and Keno. She loved horses, needlepoint, gardening, flowers and arts and crafts. She had a great sense of humor and enjoyed being with friends and family.
She was a member of St Peter’s in the Valley Episcopal Church at Lexington.

Survivors include her husband: Gerald Wicks of Elwood, Nebraska
One son: Chuck Whaley of Alliance, Nebraska
One daughter: Sonya Jo Whaley-Jones of Sandy, Utah

One stepson: Cole and wife Marilyn Wicks of Hastings, Nebraska
Two stepdaughters: Corrine and husband Doug Nuss of Sutton, Nebraska
Connie and husband Tony Scism of Aurora, Nebraska

Nine grandchildren: Chad, Mandy, Chet, Dustin, Samantha, Austin, Kyla, Morgan and Rachel; five great-grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren and five step-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Betty Jo was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Mitch Whaley; one infant son; one brother, Kenneth Liner and one sister, Barbara Lewis.

The Family has honored Betty’s wishes that her body be cremated. There will be no visitation.
Funeral Services will be Friday, March 30, 2012, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Peter’s in the Valley Episcopal Church in Lexington with Reverend Kay Knudson officiating. Inurnment will be in the Stop Table Cemetery at Callaway, Nebraska.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials are suggested to the Family – c/o Charles Whaley, 416 Snyder, Alliance, Nebraska 69301. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Please forward Online condolences to the family through: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.

ANN HANSON, 70, Johnson Lake East Shore {Wife of "J.R." Howard Hanson]

Virginia Ann (Braithwait) Hanson, 70, of Lexington, Nebraska, passed peacefully into the loving arms of Jesus on Wednesday, April 4, 2012, after a valiant battle with Amyotropic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease) with her family by her side in her home at Johnson Lake.

Ann was born on August 24, 1941, at the Lexington Community Hospital the only child of Maurice and Virginia (Tucker) Braithwait. In her first couple of years, she lived in Big Springs, NE and then moved back to Lexington.

She attended Bryan Elementary school and was a cheerleader and participated in various school plays. She worked part time after school and summers in the bookkeeping department at the Lexington State Bank. She attended Lexington Jr.-Sr. High School, graduating with the class of 1959. While in high school, she participated in pep club, band, pep band, speech and play productions. She enjoyed her years in high school hanging out with a group of girls, who called themselves “the baker’s dozen”. She was active in Job’s Daughters and earned the “Curved Bar” in Girl Scouts. She was active in the Presbyterian Church. During her senior year in high school she began dating her life-long soul mate, Howard “J.R.” Hanson. She attended Hastings College majoring in Elementary education and belonged to the Chi Omega Psi Sorority. At the end of her freshman year she transferred to Kearney State Teacher’s College to attend college with J.R. Upon graduation from Kearney State, they were married on July 20, 1963, at the First United Presbyterian Church in Lexington.

The couple lived in Axtell, Nebraska where Ann began her teaching career. Upon J.R.’s graduation, they moved to Broken Bow, NE and taught for two years. In 1966, they moved to Kearney while J.R. worked on his Master’s Degree. On June 8, 1967, she lost a son, David Bruce, at birth. They moved back to Broken Bow and on April 12, 1968, she had a new baby son, Thomas Albert. On November 8, 1969, she had a new daughter, Jennifer Ann. Their second daughter, Elizabeth Marie, was born on January 26, 1975.

In 1975, the couple moved to Kearney where Ann operated the Raggedy Ann Preschool for 6 years. In 1982, they located to North Platte where she substitute taught and owned the Hobby Horse Preschool. It was at this time she completed her English endorcement and taught 9th grade English for 4 years in the North Platte school system. While living in North Platte she would attend summer school in Kearney and live with her mother in Lexington. In 1983, she received her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education. In 1989, they moved to Greeley, Nebraska where she taught 7-12 English, Speech and Drama at the Ord Jr.-Sr. High School for 4 years. In 1993, they moved to Table Rock, NE where she was Librarian and Media Specialist for 7 years.

In 2000, they moved back to Johnson Lake and she was hired as the Elementary Media Specialist at the four elementary schools in Lexington. In 2003, she took early retirement under “Rule 85”. She was able to realize her dream to retire at Johnson Lake. Along with her husband, she helped plan and build the home of her dreams. She enjoyed the wildlife, sunsets and working in her flower beds, as well as, sewing, cooking and baking. She loved to knit, quilt, cross stitch and machine embroidery and lovingly made a quilt for each grandchild. Her love of sewing took her to work part-time in the fabric department at Walmart.

In 2005, Ann and J.R. decided to go back into teaching and taught for 3 years as the Media Specialist for Paxton Consolidated schools. She would spend weekends and summers at Johnson Lake. During the 2007-08 school year she started losing muscle control in her arms and fingers. It was determined in October of 2008 that she had ALS. On January 30, 2009, she became unresponsive at home and was placed on the ventilator at this time.

Ann received excellent care at her home from the medical people, home health nurses and caregivers on a 24/7 schedule. She was always proud of her children and grandchildren and cherished her husband. Time spent at Johnson Lake will always be cherished.

She was very proud of her affiliation with Chapter AN P.E.O. in Lexington. She enthusiastically cheered on her Nebraska Cornhusker football team, loved playing bridge and attending bible study groups.

Ann was an inspiration to her family, medical community and everyone who knew her. Knowing she had a terminal illness, she never gave up.

She is survived by her husband of 49 years: Howard “J.R. “ Hanson of Johnson Lake, NE; one son, Tom (Janni) Hanson of Seward, NE; two daughters, Jennifer (Ted) Piatt of Bloomington, IN; and Beth (Chris) Ericson of York, NE. Eight grandchildren-Abigail, Ashlyn, Alec and Amelia Hanson of Seward, NE; Betsy Piatt of Bloomington, IN; and Kaitlyn, Logan, and Maelynn Ericson of York, NE. She is also survived by a very close cousin, Joan Stuckey of Lexington, NE. Brothers-in-law; John Calwell of Rifle, CO, Jim Hanson of Plattsmouth, NE and, sister-in-law Sherry (Otis) Ward of Lexington, NE.

Other survivors include: Aunt, Winona Bosse of Omaha, NE; Uncle Richard and aunt Wauneta Bornemeier of Hastings, NE; cousins, Tom Tucker of Lexington, KY; Tom Bornemeier of Chapman, NE; Barbara Bornemeier-Lane of Atlanta, GA; Jon Bornemeier of Hastings, NE and Karen (Bosse) Butler of Omaha, NE. She will also be missed by a wealth of friends, family faculty and former students.
Ann was preceded in death by her infant son, David Bruce Hanson; parents, Maurice and Virginia Braithwait; her inlaws, Howard, sr. and Marie Hanson; her grandparents, Thomas and Bertha Braithwait and Overton “Squire” and Edna Tucker; sister-in-law, Colleen (Stevenson) Caldwell, as well as aunts and uncles.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, April 7, 2012, at 11:00 a.m.at First Presbyterian Church in Lexington, Nebraska with Reverend Caroline Vickery and Reverend Dr. Charles Olsen co- officiating. P.E.O. Remembrance Service by Chapter AN, Lexington.

Burial will be held, for relatives and close friends, prior to the Memorial Service at the Robb Cemetery near Lexington.

Visitation will be held Friday, April 6, 2012, from 4-7 p.m. with the family present at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes to receive memorials to the Ann Hanson Memorial Fund to be used at a later date.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family through: Virginia Ann (Braithwait) Hanson, 70, of Lexington, Nebraska, passed peacefully into the loving arms of Jesus on Wednesday, April 4, 2012, after a valiant battle with Amyotropic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease) with her family by her side in her home at Johnson Lake.

Ann was born on August 24, 1941, at the Lexington Community Hospital the only child of Maurice and Virginia (Tucker) Braithwait. In her first couple of years, she lived in Big Springs, NE and then moved back to Lexington.

She attended Bryan Elementary school and was a cheerleader and participated in various school plays. She worked part time after school and summers in the bookkeeping department at the Lexington State Bank. She attended Lexington Jr.-Sr. High School, graduating with the class of 1959. While in high school, she participated in pep club, band, pep band, speech and play productions. She enjoyed her years in high school hanging out with a group of girls, who called themselves “the baker’s dozen”. She was active in Job’s Daughters and earned the “Curved Bar” in Girl Scouts. She was active in the Presbyterian Church. During her senior year in high school she began dating her life-long soul mate, Howard “J.R.” Hanson. She attended Hastings College majoring in Elementary education and belonged to the Chi Omega Psi Sorority. At the end of her freshman year she transferred to Kearney State Teacher’s College to attend college with J.R. Upon graduation from Kearney State, they were married on July 20, 1963, at the First United Presbyterian Church in Lexington.

The couple lived in Axtell, Nebraska where Ann began her teaching career. Upon J.R.’s graduation, they moved to Broken Bow, NE and taught for two years. In 1966, they moved to Kearney while J.R. worked on his Master’s Degree. On June 8, 1967, she lost a son, David Bruce, at birth. They moved back to Broken Bow and on April 12, 1968, she had a new baby son, Thomas Albert. On November 8, 1969, she had a new daughter, Jennifer Ann. Their second daughter, Elizabeth Marie, was born on January 26, 1975.

In 1975, the couple moved to Kearney where Ann operated the Raggedy Ann Preschool for 6 years. In 1982, they located to North Platte where she substitute taught and owned the Hobby Horse Preschool. It was at this time she completed her English endorsement and taught 9th grade English for 4 years in the North Platte school system. While living in North Platte she would attend summer school in Kearney and live with her mother in Lexington. In 1983, she received her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education. In 1989, they moved to Greeley, Nebraska where she taught 7-12 English, Speech and Drama at the Ord Jr.-Sr. High School for 4 years. In 1993, they moved to Table Rock, NE where she was Librarian and Media Specialist for 7 years.

In 2000, they moved back to Johnson Lake and she was hired as the Elementary Media Specialist at the four elementary schools in Lexington. In 2003, she took early retirement under “Rule 85”. She was able to realize her dream to retire at Johnson Lake. Along with her husband, she helped plan and build the home of her dreams. She enjoyed the wildlife, sunsets and working in her flower beds, as well as, sewing, cooking and baking. She loved to knit, quilt, cross stitch and machine embroidery and lovingly made a quilt for each grandchild. Her love of sewing took her to work part-time in the fabric department at Walmart.

In 2005, Ann and J.R. decided to go back into teaching and taught for 3 years as the Media Specialist for Paxton Consolidated schools. She would spend weekends and summers at Johnson Lake. During the 2007-08 school year she started losing muscle control in her arms and fingers. It was determined in October of 2008 that she had ALS. On January 30, 2009, she became unresponsive at home and was placed on the ventilator at this time.

Ann received excellent care at her home from the medical people, home health nurses and caregivers on a 24/7 schedule. She was always proud of her children and grandchildren and cherished her husband. Time spent at Johnson Lake will always be cherished.

She was very proud of her affiliation with Chapter AN P.E.O. in Lexington. She enthusiastically cheered on her Nebraska Cornhusker football team, loved playing bridge and attending bible study groups.

Ann was an inspiration to her family, medical community and everyone who knew her. Knowing she had a terminal illness, she never gave up.

She is survived by her husband of 49 years: Howard “J.R. “ Hanson of Johnson Lake, NE; one son, Tom (Janni) Hanson of Seward, NE; two daughters, Jennifer (Ted) Piatt of Bloomington, IN; and Beth (Chris) Ericson of York, NE. Eight grandchildren-Abigail, Ashlyn, Alec and Amelia Hanson of Seward, NE; Betsy Piatt of Bloomington, IN; and Kaitlyn, Logan, and Maelynn Ericson of York, NE. She is also survived by a very close cousin, Joan Stuckey of Lexington, NE. Brothers-in-law; John Calwell of Rifle, CO, Jim Hanson of Plattsmouth, NE and, sister-in-law Sherry (Otis) Ward of Lexington, NE.

Other survivors include: Aunt, Winona Bosse of Omaha, NE; Uncle Richard and aunt Wauneta Bornemeier of Hastings, NE; cousins, Tom Tucker of Lexington, KY; Tom Bornemeier of Chapman, NE; Barbara Bornemeier-Lane of Atlanta, GA; Jon Bornemeier of Hastings, NE and Karen (Bosse) Butler of Omaha, NE. She will also be missed by a wealth of friends, family faculty and former students.
Ann was preceded in death by her infant son, David Bruce Hanson; parents, Maurice and Virginia Braithwait; her inlaws, Howard, sr. and Marie Hanson; her grandparents, Thomas and Bertha Braithwait and Overton “Squire” and Edna Tucker; sister-in-law, Colleen (Stevenson) Caldwell, as well as aunts and uncles.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, April 7, 2012, at 11:00 a.m.at First Presbyterian Church in Lexington, Nebraska with Reverend Caroline Vickery and Reverend Dr. Charles Olsen co- officiating. P.E.O. Remembrance Service by Chapter AN, Lexington.

Burial will be held, for relatives and close friends, prior to the Memorial Service at the Robb Cemetery near Lexington.

Visitation will be held Friday, April 6, 2012, from 4-7 p.m. with the family present at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes to receive memorials to the Ann Hanson Memorial Fund to be used at a later date.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family through: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.

JANICE GIVENS, 92, J-Lake Bass Bay and Lexington [Mother of Jill Williams (Mrs. Brad)]

Janice Givens, 92, of Lexington, passed away Thursday, April 12, 2012, at Plum Creek Care Center in Lexington. She was born February 5, 1920 in Lexington, graduating from Lexington High School in 1937. She attended Nebraska Wesleyan University for two years, studying elementary education and music, taking her first teaching job at Litchfield, where she met her future husband, Paul, they married on October 4, 1942 in Lexington and then moved to Litchfield where they farmed. In 1953 they moved to her parent's farm, where they farmed until their retirement. She was a 58 year member of Chapter AN PEO.

She is survived by daughters, Jill (Brad) Williams of Johnson Lake, and Robyn (Dave) Mowery of Sidney; grandchildren, Stuart (Kellie) Mowery of Sidney, and Sarah (Gary) Rothenburg of Cape Coral, Fla.; great grandchildren, Mason and Zoe Mowery of Sidney, Van and Max Rothenburg of Cape Coral, Fla., Toni Mowery, and great-great granddaughter, Carley of Alice, Texas. Janice was preceded in death by her husband Paul; parents, Ollie and Mayme Farley; brother, Vaughn Farley.

A funeral celebration of life service will be held Thursday, April 19, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Lexington with Reverend John Craig officiating with burial following at Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 18, 2012 from 5-7 p.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington. Memorials are suggested to the Lexington Community Foundation or First United Methodist Church. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Please forward online condolences to the family through reynoldslovefuneral home.com.

ALONZO JON DELARA,84, J-Lake Bullhead Point (Husband of Beth Delara)

GRAND ISLAND - Alonzo Jon DeLara, 84, of Johnson Lake died Thursday, April 5, 2012, at the Grand Island Veterans Home.

A memorial celebration of life will be at 11 a.m. Friday at First United Methodist Church in Lexington with the Rev. Tess Hufford officiating. Inurnment will be later in New Mexico.

There will be no visitation. The body was cremated.

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

He was born June 2, 1927, in Placitas, N.M., to Antonio and Florinda (Gurule) DeLara.

His first wife, Eleanor, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his present wife, Beth; daughter, Ava of Sacramento, Calif.; brothers, James and Bert, both of New Mexico; sisters, Jane Denney and Vi Duran, both of New Mexico, and Darlene Miller of Mission Viejo, Calif.; one granddaughter; stepsons,

Jim Kyle of 29 Palms, Calif., George Wright of Lincoln and Mike Wright of Johnson Lake; stepdaughters, Susan Williams of Gothenburg and Diana Kline of Sun City West, Ariz.; 12 stepgrandchildren; and 17 stepgreat-grandchildren.

HAROLD CARLILE WICKS, 83, Perry Iowa (Brother to Gerry Wicks of Johnson Lake)

Harold Carlile Wicks, 83, longtime Police Chief of Perry, died Thursday night at the Perry Lutheran Home. He is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife Elaine; daughters Jill Monroe (Tim) of Murray, Iowa and Jane Modlin (Steve) of Dawson; six grandchildren: Tammy DeWolfe (Eddie) of Westwood, MA; Jason Motsick of Long Beach, CA; Adam and Zach Modlin of Dawson, IA; Katie Jensen (Alan); and Aaron Monroe all of Leon, IA; five great-grandchildren: Jaggar DeWolfe of Westwood, MA; Lexi Jensen; Austin Jensen; Shyanne Brown; and Macey Monroe all of Leon, IA; brothers Dr. Raymond Wicks (Oweta) of Fresno, CA; and Gerald Wicks of Elwood, NE. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Keith and Peggy Elwood of FL; Janice Hixson of Melrose, IA; Carroll Elwood of Blue Earth, MN; Arlin and Pat Thorson of Lake Mills, IA; Colleen Elwood of Rake, IA; and Galen and Cindy Elwood of Gibbon, MN.

Services will be Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Hastings Funeral Home in Perry with burial in Violet Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be after 1 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home and the family will be present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials are suggested to the Perry Police Department or Iowa Hospice.

CAVLOVIC, Francis "Cork," D.D.S., 66, Omaha (Brother-in-law to Doris <Norm> Hoveling of J-Lake)

OMAHA "Cork" Cavlovic, D.D.S., Aug 5, 1945 – Apr 23, 2012
Preceded in death by father, John Francis Cavlovic. Survived by wife, Linda K. Cavlovic; son and daughter-in-law, David and Kerri Cavlovic; daughter and son-in-law, Sarah and Ken Heinrich; 8 grandsons: Colton, Henry, John, Clint, Trevor, Gavin, Kalvin, and Devin; mother, Eleanor Cavlovic; sisters: Suzanne Cavlovic, Cynthia Blake and husband Nicholas; sister-in-law, Doris Hoveling and husband Norm; nephews: Nicholas, Kirk and Kip; niece, Keri.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, 4pm to 7pm, with VIGIL SERVICE at 7pm at the West Center Chapel. MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL Thursday, 11 am, Holy Cross Catholic Church, 48th and Woolworth. Private Interment.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center or Nebraska Kidney Foundation. HEAFEY-HEAFEY-HOFFMANN
DWORAK-CUTLER
WEST CENTER CHAPEL
78th & West Center
402-391-3900
www.heafeyheafey.com

DENISE MOSIER, 57, (formerly Dennis McReynolds) Johnson Lake -- North Shore

Denise Kay (McReynolds) Mosier, 57, of Johnson Lake, Nebraska, died Thursday, April 26, 2012, at her home at Johnson Lake, surrounded by her loving family. She was born February 18, 1955, at Columbus, Nebraska to Leonard and Ilene (Shack) Mohr.

Denise was a 1973 graduate of Genoa High School. She was united in marriage to John Wilcox in 1974 at Columbus. Four children were blessed to this marriage; Alan, Heather, and twins, Dan & Don. This marriage later ended in divorce and she married Glen McReynolds on September 12, 1987, at Las Vegas. Glen passed away in 2008. Denise found love and happiness again by marrying Ben Mosier on May 8, 2010, at their home at Johnson Lake.

Denise spent her working career as a dispatcher for several trucking lines in Nebraska, California and Colorado. She returned to Nebraska and moved to Johnson Lake in 2001, when she went to work for Nebraska By-Products. She worked there until 2010, when she went to Orthman Manufacturing, where she was working at the time of her death.

She absolutely loved her family and her grandchildren. Denise was one of those gals who always had a smile and that sparkle in her eyes. She loved living at Johnson Lake where she enjoyed fishing, boating, cooking, baking and cross-stitching. Denise also loved going on cruises.

Survivors include her husband: Ben Mosier of Johnson Lake, Nebraska Three sons: Alan (Angie) Wilcox of Westminster, Colorado; Dan (Brittany) Wilcox of Denver, Colorado; and Don (Perpetua) Wilcox of Aurora, Colorado. One daughter: Heather Wilcox (fiancé-Justin VanWaardhuizen) of Eustis, NE. One brother: Marvin (Marti) Mohr of Albuquerque, New Mexico. One sister: Marcia (Larry) Mueller of Columbus, Nebraska. Ten grandchildren: Marcus, Austin, Sammy, Okie, Alexia, Sydnee, Thaddeus, Vince, Sawyer & Eve. Denise was preceded in death by her parents and two husbands, John Wilcox and Glen McReynolds.

Funeral Services will be Monday, April 30, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington with Reverend Bev Rautenberg-Panko officiating. Burial will be at 2:00 p.m. at the Columbus Cemetery in Columbus, Nebraska. Visitation will be held Sunday, April 29, 2012, from 2-4 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington.

Memorials are suggested to Cancer Sucks Chicago @ cancersuckschicago.com. or Cops fighting Cancer. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Please forward condolences online to the family through: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.

ELSIE TOWNSEND, 62, ARAPAHOE (FORMERLY OF ELWOOD RESERVOIR

Elsie Jane Townsend, age 62, of Arapahoe, Nebraska, died Wednesday, May 2, 2012 at her home. She was born February 18, 1950 at Omaha, Nebraska to Richard & Dorothy (Knapp) Jackson.
Elsie went to Omaha Technical High School where she met Eugene Townsend. They were united in marriage on December 31, 1966 in Irvington, Nebraska. To this marriage, they were blessed with 5 children. Elsie & Gene made their home in Arlington, Nebraska until moving to Elwood in 2000 where they ran The Reverie Cafe on Elwood Reservoir. Elsie enjoyed cooking, throwing darts, sewing, and spending time with family and friends. Elsie & Gene retired to Arapahoe in 2010. She was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church, at Arapahoe, Nebraska.

She is preceded in death by her parents, mother-in-law Shirley Townsend, brother Richard Jackson, sister Maureen Heywood, & brother-in-law Chuck Heywood. Survivors include husband Eugene Townsend of Arapahoe, Nebraska; Sons: Daniel & wife Penelope Townsend of Arapahoe, Nebraska; Gary & wife Heather Townsend of Fairfield, Nebraska; Adam & wife Gretchen Townsend of Wellington, Colorado; Kenneth & wife Nicole Townsend of Elwood, Nebraska; and James Townsend of Arapahoe, Nebraska. Brothers: David Jackson & Family of Omaha, Nebraska; Donald Jackson & Family of Harlan, Iowa; Frank Jackson & Family of Omaha, Nebraska; Eugene Jackson & Family of Omaha, Nebraska. Sisters: Linda Bestwick & Family of Omaha, Nebraska; and Judy Williamson & Family of Omaha, Nebraska. 11 Grandchildren, 2 Great Grandchildren. Special Friend: Peg Cozad of Omaha, Nebraska, along with many nieces and nephews.

Condolences or personal reflections can be left at www.wenburgfuneralhome.com. Funeral services will be Monday, May 7, at 1 PM at the Trinity Lutheran Church of Arapahoe, Nebraska with Rev. James Moshier & Pastor Duane Simonson, officiating. Burial will be at Arapahoe Cemetery, Arapahoe, Nebraska. Memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society or donor’s choice. Wenburg Funeral Home, of Arapahoe, Nebraska is in charge of arrangements.

JERRY FINLEY, 48, Johnson Lake Lakeview Acres

LEXINGTON - Jerry Finley, 48, of Johnson Lake died Monday, May 14, 2012, at Lexington Regional Health Center.

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

GARY CARPENTER, 51, November 28, 1960 - May 16, 2012 (Brother to Arlene DeLaet and son of Ken
Carpenter; both of Lincoln and J-Lake Mallard Beach South Bay)

Gary D. Carpenter, 51, of Elm Creek, NE died Wednesday, May 16, 2012 at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney.
Funeral services will be Monday, May 21, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at Horner Lieske McBride & Kuhl Funeral and Cremation Services in Kearney. Rev. Doug Shada will officiate and burial will be at the Kearney Cemetery. Visitaiton will be one hour prior to services Monday at the Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to the family for designation at a later date. A message of condolence may be left at www.hlmkfuneral.com. Horner Lieske McBride & Kuhl Funeral and Cremation Services of Kearney is in charge of arrangements.

Gary was born November 28, 1960 in Eads, Colorado to Kenneth E. and Janice M. (Williams) Carpenter. The family moved to Kearney in 1972 where Gary attended school and was a graduate of Kearney High School in 1979. Gary moved to Elm Creek and was employed as a product specialist at Cabela’s. He was a member of Pheasants Forever and Ducks Unlimited.

Surviving relatives include: Father and stepmother--Ken and Judy Carpenter of Lincoln; Sister--Arlene (Chancellor) DeLaet and her husband Doug of Lincoln;and 2 nephews--Drew and Cole Chancellor of Lincoln. Gary was preceded in death by his mother-Janice Carpenter on December 2, 2009 and his grandparents.

JERRY FINLEY, 48, Johnson Lake Lakeview Acres

Jerry D. “J.D.” Finley, 48, of Johnson Lake, Nebraska, passed away Monday, May 14, 2012, at the Lexington Regional Health Center in Lexington.

Jerry was born April 30, 1964, in Omaha, Nebraska, the son of loving adoptive parents, Jerry E. and B. Janice (Smith) Finley. Jerry was a 1983 high school graduate of Centennial High School near Utica, Nebraska. He enlisted in the United States Army serving courageously for his country during the Gulf War. He was united in marriage to Cynthia Hickmon on August 18, 1998, at York, Nebraska.

He enjoyed motorcycle riding and being a part of the Patriot Guard. He loved his family and spending time with them at family gatherings. His faithful companion, Emmitt, his pug, was never far from his side. Jerry had a wonderful sense of humor and loved beating the pants off the girls in a mean game of Hearts. A great man will be dearly missed.

Survivors include his wife: Cindy Finley of Johnson Lake, Nebraska. Four Children and four grandchildren: Justin (Melissa), and their children Tristan and Angelina, Misty (Cody) Romero and their children, Carlee & Chandler; Jacob & Shyanne all of Johnson Lake, Nebraska, as well as extended family and friends. Siblings: JerLene (Joel) Mosley of Omaha, Nebraska and James (Kara) Finley of New Zealand. Mother-in-law: Carolyn Rose of Johnson Lake, Nebraska.

He reconnected with his biological parents and family later in life: Gary Wiebulhaus and Karen Morris; Trent (Dawn) Wiebulaus; Corey (Evylnn) Wiebulaus; Michelle and their families all of Walthill, Nebraska.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents, Loyed & Carnie Finley and Harry & Nelda Smith; uncle, Rodger Smith and In-laws, Don Rose and Neoma & Ray Hastings.

The family has honored Jerry’s wishes that his body be cremated. There will be no visitation.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Monday, May 21, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. at the Chapel of the Lake at Johnson Lake with Pastor Dave Welch officiating. Military Honors will be conducted at the Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation.
Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Please forward online condolences to the family through: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.