Marie Krejdle

Notes:

(Research):Census Lisitings:

1900 Census
Nebraska, Fillmore County, Glengary Twp
Enumerated 4 June 1900\\SD 4 ED 26 Sheet 4A Stamped 136
66-68
Bartu, Mary Hd W F Aug 1854 45 W 6/5 Bohemia Bohemia Bohemi
a 1875
Bartu, Ernie Son W M Mar 1879 21 S Neb Bohemia Bohemia Farmer
Bartu, Joseph Son W M Oct 1882 17 S Neb Bohemia Bohemia Farm Laborer
Bartu, Tena Dtr W F Dec 1886 13 S Neb Bohemia Bohemia At School
Bartu, Antonette Dtr W F July 1887 12 S Neb Bohemia Bohemia At School
Bartu, Rosie Dtr W F Oct 1890 9 S Neb Bohemia Bohemia At School

Marie married Peter Bartu on 1 Feb 1876 in Saline County, Nebraska. Peter (son of Pavel "Paul" Bartu and Anna Svoboda) was born in 1854 in Dacice, Dacice, Moravia; died on 2 Nov 1896 in Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian Brethren Cemetery (AKA Cesky Bratri Cemetery), Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Marie married Frantisek "Frank" Elznic about 1893 in Nebraska. Frantisek was born on 14 Mar 1863 in Trtice, Nov? Stra?ec?, Bohemia; died on 12 Jun 1937; was buried in Bohemian Brethren Cemetery (AKA Cesky Bratri Cemetery), Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Emil Bartu of Saline County, Nebraska completed a WWI draft registration card. His address was c/o Mary Bartus.

Notes:

Albert died when he was 14. (Milligan, p 191).

Christina married Charles Kovanda on 9 Oct 1902. Charles was born about 1874; died on 27 Dec 1966 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Antonia married Frank P. Hornik before 1908. Frank was born on 4 Dec 1879 in Illinois; died in Jan 1971 in Hooper, Dodge County, Nebraska; was buried in Hooper Cemetery, Dodge County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Per the Farmer's Directory of Verdigre Precinct as found in the 1920 Atlas, Knox County, Nebraska (The Anderson Publishing Company, page 48): Bicek, Joseph. Wf. Rose; ch. Helen, Mildred, Clarence, Goldie, Viola. P. O. Verdigre. O. 119.44 ac., sec. 18; O. 99.68 ac., sec. 19. (43.) (Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

(Research):

Census Listings:

1910 Census
Nebraska, Knox County, Verdigree Twp
Enumerated 7 May 1910 Albert Pavlik
SD 3 ED 130 Sheet 6B
12-12
Bicek, Joseph Hd M W 33 M1 0 Neb AustBoh AustBoh English Farmer
Bicek, Rosie B. Wf F W 19 m1 0 1/1 Neb AustBoh AustBoh English
Bicek, Deliala Dtr F W 1/12 S Neb Neb Neb

1920 Census
Nebraska, Knox County, Verdigree Twp
Enumerated 6 Feb 1920 by Alva E. Reed
SD 198 ED 126 Sheet 14A
Fm 63-6
Joe Bicek Hd M W 43 M Neb Austria Bohemian Austria L.C. Farmer
Rosa Bicek Wif F W 29 M Neb Aust Bohemian Aust L.C. None
Helen Bicek, Dtr F W 4 9/12 S Neb Neb Neb
Mildred Bicek Dtr F W 7 11/12 S Neb Neb Neb
Clarence Bicek Son M W 6 9/12 S Neb Neb Neb
Golda Bicek Dtr 4 1/12
Viola Bicek Dtr F W 7/12 S Neb Neb Neb
Lukas? Bicek Father M W 77 W AustBohemian Aus L.C.
Joe Bartu Brother M W 30 S Neb Aust L.C. Aust L.C.

1930 Census
Nebraska, Knox County, Verdigre Twp
Enumerated 9-10 ------ 1930 by George J Vondicek
ED 54-36 SD 2 Sheet 3-A Stamped 295
Joseph Bicek Hd M W 53 M 32 Neb Czech Czech Farmer
Rosie Bicek Wf F W 39 M 18 Neb Czech Czech
Helen Bicek Dtr F W 20 S Neb Neb Neb
Mildred Bicek Dtr F W 18 S Neb Neb Neb
Clarence Bicek Son M W 16 S Neb Neb Neb
Goldie Bicek Dtr F W 14 S Neb Neb Neb
Viola Bicek Dtr F W 11 S Neb Neb Neb
Joseph Bicek Son M W 9 S Neb Neb Neb

Rose married Joseph O. Bicek about 1909. Joseph was born on 10 Nov 1876 in Verdigre, Knox County, Nebraska; died on 4 May 1958; was buried in Hillcrest Cemetery, Verdigre, Knox County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

SSDI:

FRANK ELZNIC 14 Oct 1893 Dec 1965 (Nebraska) (none specified) 506-24-1930 Nebraska

Family/Spouse: Ida Dehner. Ida was born on 4 Feb 1896; died in Feb 1974 in Exeter, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

He attended rural school #85 in Saline County. As a young man, he earned his living by working on threshing crews and corn shelling crews. During the harvest time, the hired men slept in a hayloft or hay rack. On 5 September 1918, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was a private in the Model Machine Gun Company A, 163rd Battalion and was stationed at Camp Hancoda in Georgia. During basic training, he contracted the influenza that was sieging the country, and was unable to embark overseas with this company. He received an honorable discharge at Camp Dodge, Iowa on February 28, 1919. After his discharge, he engaged in farming west of Geneva. Anton worked with horses, and had many scars that resulted when he was breaking the young colts. He was in a threshing crew with the Spicka brothers, Joseph Herynk and Ed Kuss. To supplement the farm income during the depression, he used his team of horses to help with WPA road construction in Saline County (Milligan, pp 265-266).

Anton married Mary Paroubek on 19 Jan 1926 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. Mary was born on 22 Aug 1908 in Plzen, Bohemia; died on 25 Jul 1996 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried on 29 Jul 1996 in Bohemian Brethren Cemetery (AKA Cesky Bratri Cemetery), Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: John Stofer. John was born after 1896. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Tragedy hit the Elznic family on September 9, 1911, while they were living on the John Luzum farm in Glengary Towship. Joie, age 12, and William, a younger brother, went to play in the nearby sand pits. After the boys were there a short time, the wet sand caved in on them. Joie was completely covered and William was covered up to his shoulders. Even with great rescue efforts by the family and neighbors, the wet sand had taken its toll. William was dug out safely, but when Joie was reached, he was already dead from the weight of the sand on him. (Milligan, p 266).

Mamie married Joseph John Cudly on 3 Mar 1919. Joseph (son of Jan "John" Cudly and Marie "Mary" Buzek) was born on 27 Aug 1895 in Saline County, Nebraska; died on 9 Jan 1976 in Saline County, Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Tragedy hit the Elznic family on September 9, 1911, while they were living on the John Luzum farm in Glengary Towship. Joie, age 12, and William, a younger brother, went to play in the nearby sand pits. After the boys were there a short time, the wet sand caved in on them. Joie was completely covered and William was covered up to his shoulders. Even with great rescue efforts by the family and neighbors, the wet sand had taken its toll. William was dug out safely, but when Joie was reached, he was already dead from the weight of the sand on him. (Milligan, p 266).

(Research):Census Listings:

1930 Federal Census
Nebraska, Fillmore County, Chelsea Twp
ED 30-6 SD 11 Sheet 3B
83-83
Elznic, William Hd M W 27 M@21 Neb Czech Neb Farmer
Elznic, Lillie Wf F W 24 M@19 Neb Neb Neb
Elznic, Charles Son M W 5 S Neb Neb Neb
84-84
Baloun, Fred and Minnie

William married Lillie Baloun on 18 Feb 1925 in Belleville, Republic County, Kansas. Lillie was born on 14 Feb 1906 in Nebraska; died on 15 May 1978 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Obituary, from the Lincoln Journal Star Archives, courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy

Vojta - Georgia A., 92, Milligan, widow of James, died Thursday (5/1/97) in Geneva. Born, Milligan. Survivors: daughter, son-in-law, Norma and Arnold Nadherny, Milligan; sisters, brothers-in-law, Alyce and Ben Fussell, Agnes and Charles Stofer, all Geneva, Emilye Zenisek, Milligan, Mildred Nemeskal, Ord; three grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.

Services: 10:30 a.m. Monday, Farmer & Son Funeral Home, Kotas Chapel, Milligan. The Rev. Melanie Adams. Graveside services: Bohemian National Cemetery, Milligan. Visitation: begins 2 p.m. Sunday, funeral home. Memorials to Milligan Rescue Unit

Family/Spouse: James Vojta. James (son of Peter Vojta and Marie Jansky) was born after 1903. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Agnes Kral. Agnes was born on 26 Apr 1905; died on 13 May 1991 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried in Geneva Public Cemetery, Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Alyce Helen Fussell, 98, Geneva, died Wednesday (3/21/07). Born, Dec. 18,1908, in Milligan to Frank and Marie (Bartu) Elznic. Survivors: husband, Ben; son, daughter-in-law, Del and Lynne, Parker, Colo.; daughter, Jo Ann Heath, Geneva; grandchildren, spouses, Steve and Amy Heath, Geneva, Cynthia and Greg Schwaninger, Hallam, Kathleen and Mark Viola-Press, Agoura Hills, Calif., Susan and Dave Spangler, St. Paul, Minn., Craig Smith, Fremont, Calif.; great-grandchildren, Ben Heath, Geneva, Adam and Brett Schwaninger, Hallam, Meagan Smith, Fremont, Calif., Josh Beeman, Bartlesville, Okla., Margaret Jane Maffin, Geneva; sisters, Emilye Zenisek, Milligan, Mildred Nemeskal, Ord, Agnes Stofer, Geneva. Services: 11 a.m. Saturday, United Methodist Church, Geneva. The Rev. Ron Harris. Private family committal, Geneva Public Cemetery. No visitation. Memorials to the United Methodist Church. Published in the Lincoln Journal Star on 3/23/2007.

Family/Spouse: Benjamin "Ben" Dean Fussell. Benjamin was born on 28 Sep 1910 in Missouri; died on 29 Nov 2010 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried in Geneva Public Cemetery, Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Vencil Joseph Zenisek. Vencil (son of Joseph F. Zenisek and Emma Radil) was born on 18 Feb 1912; died on 25 Jul 1979. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Mildred Nemeskal, 90 of Ord died Tuesday, September 13, 2011, at the Valley View Living Center in Ord.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, September 16, 2011, at the Ord Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Jeff Wulf officiating. Burial will be in the Douglas Grove Cemetery in Comstock. Visitation will be on Thursday from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Ord Memorial Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the Family's Choice. Ord Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Mildred was born August 7, 1917, in Fillmore County, Nebraska to Frank and Marie (Bartu) Elznic. She was baptized at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Milligan on November 1, 1917. She received her education at District #76 Country School and helped on the family farm.

On March 27, 1940, Mildred was united in marriage to Lumire Nemeskal at Broken Bow, NE. This this union one son, Richard was born. The family lived on a farm near Comstock and in 1951, they moved west of Ord. In August of 1973, their son passed away as a result of an auto accident. Following his death they moved into Ord. Mildred did office and domestic work and also worked in a cafe.

Mr. Nemeskal passed away on November 25, 1973. Mildred has continued to make her home in Ord until her passing.

She enjoyed gardening, flowers, crocheting and fancy work. She was willing to be of help to anyone in need.

She is survived by two sisters; Agnes Stofer of Geneva, and Emilye Zenisek of Milligan; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Lumire; a son, Richard; 4 sisters, Maymie, Anna, Georgia and Alyce; and six brothers, Frank, Bill, Joe, James, Anton and Louis.

(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

Mildred married Lumir Nemeskal on 27 Mar 1940 in Broken Bow, Custer County, Nebraska. Lumir was born before 1915; died on 25 Nov 1973. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Living. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Alice married Edmen Motis on 9 Aug 1927. Edmen (son of Frank Motis and Christinia Matejka) was born on 19 Jul 1902 in Nebraska; died on 1 Aug 1992 in Friend, Saline County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Mamie H. Zeleny. Mamie (daughter of Josef "Joseph" Zeleny and Anna Bures) was born on 21 Sep 1905 in Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 26 Mar 1995 in Exeter, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Helen married Frank Motis on 9 Aug 1927. Frank (son of Frank Motis and Christinia Matejka) was born on 23 Oct 1904 in Iowa; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

William "Bill" Kovanda

William "Bill" Kovanda 97, Milligan died Sunday (11/2/08) in Friend, Neb. Born on March 13, 1911 at Exeter, Neb. to Charles & Christina (Bartu) Kovanda. Survivors: daughter, Darlene & Harold Kubicek Jr., Milligan; sisters, Maxine Svec, Friend; Clarabelle & Walter Smith, Exeter; nieces & nephews. Funeral Service 1:30 p.m. Wednesday (11/5/08) at Farmer & Son Funeral Home - Kotas Chapel, Milligan, Neb. Revs. Tim & Ginny Adams officiating. Graveside Services: Bohemian National Cemetery, Milligan. Visitation from 1 p.m. until 8 p.m. Tuesday (11/4/08) at the Farmer & Son Funeral Home - Kotas Chapel in Milligan. Memorials are directed to the Milligan Rescue Unit.

(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

Family/Spouse: Unknown. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Ernest Svec. Ernest (son of Josef "Joseph" Svec and Amelia Laun) was born on 14 Sep 1911 in Saline County, Nebraska; died on 14 Feb 1996 in Exeter, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Maxine Irene Svec, of Friend, was boirn to Charles and Christina (Bartu) Kovanda on October 5, 1920 at her parents farm home near Exeter, Nebraska in Fillmore County, the eighth of nine children, and passed away on Saturday, December 24, 2010, at the Friend Manor in Friend, Nebraska, at the age of 90 years 2 months and 20 days. As a young girl, Maxine attended Country School District #5 and graduated from the 8th grade. She began her life-time work as a cook at the hotel in Geneva. She then was employed at the Fairmont Airbase, the Fitzsimons Hospital in Aurora, Colorado and retired after 23 years from the Warren Memorial Hospital in Friend.

Maxine was united in marriage to James Shank on June 12, 1946 and he passed away on February 5, 1949, after a lengthy illness. She was then blessed with a second marriage to Henry Svec on August 15, 1953 and to this union two daughters, Phyllis and Sharon were born. Together they made their home on a farm southwest of Friend until Henry's death in 1978. During the years they lived on the farm, Maxine was a busy farm wife and mother, raising chickens and a large garden to feed her family. After Henry died she moved to Friend where she lived with her daughter, Sharon, until her recent illness.

Maxine was an exceptional baker, especially her Kolaches and twists which she always made sure were available for her grandsons when they came to visit. She also enjoyed gardening especially raising flowers. Maxine was a member of the Friend Garden Club, the Friend Golden Agers and enjoyed playing cards.

She is survived by her daughters and son-in-law, Phyllis and Tom Lenagh, Farmington, MN, Sharon Svec , Friend, two grandsons, Patrick Lenagh, Ashland, WI, Shawn Lenagh, Milwaukee, WI, sister, Clarabell Smith, Exeter, NE, brothers-in-law, Alfred Krupicka, Leo Soukup, Exeter, nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, both husbands, James Shank and Henry Svec, sisters, Alice Motis, Helen Motis, Mary Svec, brothers, Edward, Charles, Anton and William Kovanda.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 29, 2010, at Lauber-Moore Funeral Home. Interment will be in the Bohemian National Cemetery, Milligan. Visitation will be from 1-8 pm on Tuesday, at the funeral home. Memorials are directed in care of the family for later designation.

(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

Maxine married Henry Svec on 15 Aug 1953. Henry (son of Josef "Joseph" Svec and Amelia Laun) was born on 30 Dec 1916 in Saline County, Nebraska; died in Nov 1978 in Friend, Saline County, Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Living. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

In the 2011 obituary of her sister, Helen Hornik, she was referred to as Rose EVERETT of Marshalltown, Iowa.

Notes:

Obituary
Fremont (NE) Tribune
November 28, 2011
(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

Helen A. Hornik, 99, of Hooper died Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2011, at A.J. Merrick Manor in Fremont.
Helen was born Dec. 29, 1911, in Verdigre to Frank and Antoni Bartue Hornik. She grew up on her family's homestead. She was baptized on April 28, 1912, at St. Wenceslaus Church in Verdigre. She attended Verdigre High School and moved to Hooper in 1935. She was employed by Doctor Hauser for a number of years, later at Stroh's Meat Market and then at the Campbell Soup factory in Fremont until she retired in 1975.

Helen was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Hooper.

Survivors include: two sisters, Rose Everett of Marshalltown, Iowa, and Blanche Bloemker of Fremont; and five nieces and nephews.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Ed and Otto Hornik; a sister, Elsie Hornik; and two brothers-in-law.

The funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Hooper with the Rev. Damien Wee officiating. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday at Ludvigsen's Hooper Funeral Chapel with a rosary service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to service time Wednesday at the church. Burial will be in Hooper Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to St. Rose or the donor's choice.

An online guest book may be signed at .

Notes:

Elsie M. Hornik

Elsie M. Hornik, 90, of Hooper died Monday, April 27, 2009, at Good Samaritan Center in Scribner.

She was born March 8, 1919, in Verdigre to Frank P. and Antoni (Bartu) Hornik. She grew up in Verdigre and was a 1938 graduate of Verdigre High School. She moved to Hooper in 1941 and then lived in Valley, Colorado and Fremont until returning to Hooper in 1981. She had been employed at the former Kindler's Cafe in Fremont for 20 years.

She was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Hooper.
Survivors include: three sisters, Helen Hornik of Hooper, Blanche Bloemker of Fremont and Rose Everett of Marshalltown, Iowa; special friends, Mike Steen of LaQuinta, Calif., and Eunice Erickson of Scribner; and three generations of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Edward and Otto Hornik.

The funeral will be 11 a.m. Friday at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Hooper with the Rev. Mike Eckley officiating. Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. today at Moser Memorial Chapel in Fremont with family receiving friends from 7-8 p.m. A vigil service/rosary will be at

7:30 p.m. today at the funeral home. Visitation will continue one hour prior to service time Friday at the church. Burial will be 1 p.m. Friday at Hooper Cemetery.

Memorials have been established to St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Good Samaritan Center and Fremont Area Medical Center Hospice.

Online condolences may be left at www.mosermemorialchapels.com

Notes:

She appears to have been listed as Delilia at the time of the 1910 Knox County census. She appears to have married a KRUPA.

Notes:

Submitted by Doris Counts
Gaskill, Mildred M Bicek
Feb 8,2007 and Feb 15,2007, Holt County Independent
MILDRED M GASKILL
born March 25,1912 in Verdigre daughter of Joseph and Rose Bartu Bicek married Eldrey Gaskill on Sept 21,1936 in O'Neill. He died Jan 28,1987. (She) died Friday, Feb 2,2007 in Burnsville, Minn. Funeral Feb 10,2007 Biglin's Mortuary, O'Neill. Children: Mardie Byrnes of Burnsville, Minn; Richard. Sisters: Jane (Helen) Krupa; Gloria (Goldie) Bennett; Viola Burroughs.
brothers: Clarence; Joseph

Mildred married Eldrey Gaskill on 21 Sep 1936 in O'Neill, Holt County, Nebraska. Eldrey was born on 20 Aug 1916; died on 28 Jan 1987 in O'Neill, Holt County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Also called Gloria? She appears to have married a BENNETT.

Notes:

SSDI:

VIOLA M BURROUGHS 26 Jun 1919 22 Feb 2001 (V) 94549 (Lafayette, Contra Costa, CA) (none specified) 506-18-8542 Nebraska

Clarence married Evelyn Madison in 1943. Evelyn (daughter of Clarence Madison and Mary Hlina) was born on 1 Dec 1923 in Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 1 Jan 2022 in Fairmont, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Died as an infant.

Notes:

Lenoris graduated from Tobias High School in 1949. She attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and has a Masters' in Education. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma and delegate to their International Convention in Indianapolis. (Milligan, 277).She married a Girmus. (Milligan, p. 362).

Lenoris married Rudolph "Rudy" Girmus on 16 Feb 1952. Rudolph (son of James J. Girmus and Anna "Annie" May Matejka) was born on 16 Nov 1927 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 16 Feb 1998 in Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

"Lorene E. Elznic Kottas was born near Tobias, Nebraska on 19 July 1937. Her parents were Anton F. and Mary Paroubek Elznic. Lorene attended Tobias Public School for three and one half years and thenthe family moved and she attended District #89 in Saline County through the eighth grade, returning to the Tobias Public School, graduating in 1955. Her family included two brothers, Leo Elznic who died at birth, Larry Elznic, and one sister, Lenoris Girmus." (Milligan, p 232).

Lorene Buzek moved to Milligan on July 1, 2003. She bought the house that was previously owned by R. D. and Nancy Gentry. Lorene is still active in the American Legion Auxiliary. As of this writing, she is the President of the Auxiliary. She enjoys helping working a the bar when needed both at the American Legion and the Milligan Auditorium. At this time she has seven grandchildren, Dillon STEINACHER; Jason SRAJHANS and his wife Ashley; Jo SRAJHANS and his wife, Christina; Michelle FUNK, Melissa SIEBER and her husband, Troy SIEBER, Shawn KOTTAS and Sharlene (Kottas) HARRE and her husband, Justin. She also has five great-grandchildren: Trenton SRAJHANS, Treygan SRAJHANS, Taylor SIEBER, Carsen SIEBER, and Lily SRAJHANS. (Milligan, 1988-2008, p. 131).

OBITUARY

Lorene E. Buzek

A Funeral Service for Lorene will be held on Tuesday, August 1, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at the Milligan Auditorium in Milligan, Nebraska. Kim Dunker will preside over the Funeral Service.

A Graveside Service will be held in the Bohemian National Cemetery in Milligan, Nebraska following the Funeral Service.

Public visitation will be held on Monday, July 31, 2023 from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Farmer & Son Funeral Home in Milligan, Nebraska.

Memorials are suggested to the Milligan American Legion Auxiliary or the Milligan or Fairmont Fire & Rescue Squads.

Lorene E. (Elznic) Kottas - Buzek was born near Tobias, Nebraska on July 19, 1937 and passed away at Fairview Manor in Fairmont, Nebraska, on July 27, 2023 at the age of 86 years, and 8 days. Her parents were Anton F. & Mary (Paroubek) Elznic. She attended Tobias Public School for 3 ? years. Then the family moved and she attended Dist. #89 in Saline County through the 8th grade. She then returned to Tobias Public School and graduated in 1955.

Her family included two brothers, Leo, who died at birth, & Larry, and one sister Lenoris Girmus.

Lorene married Edward Frank Kottas on October 11, 1955 at York, Ne. They had 4 children: Marilyn, Beverly, Robert, & Richard. After Ed's passing on July 20, 1984, Lorene married Wesley Buzek on September 25, 1985.

Lorene was a homemaker. She enjoyed working on the farm, gardening, raising chickens, ducks, turkeys and guineas. She would always lend a helping hand in the field wherever needed. In later years, she worked at various jobs including; Ron's Tavern, Bunker's Inn, Food Basket, The Frosty Mug, Bev's Bar & Grill, Bubba's Anytime, Heritage Crossings, and Dollar General.

She enjoyed visits from her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She worked many Stags where she enjoyed dealing Blackjack as well as tending bar. She tended bar at the Milligan auditorium as well when needed.

She held various offices in the Milligan Legion Auxiliary HSSK Post #240. She was instrumental in lining up many casino trips, as well as trips to Branson, Missouri, with bus driver Jim Suda.

Preceding Lorene in death, were her husbands Edward F. Kottas and Wesley E. Buzek; son Robert E. Kottas and daughter-in-law Rose M. Kottas; parents Anton & Mary Elznic; and siblings, Leo Elznic, sister Lenoris Girmus and husband Rudy, & Larry Elznic.

Lorene is survived by her children, Marilyn and husband Brian Srajhans of Tobias, Nebraska, Beverly Mohlman of Strang, Nebraska, and Richard Kottas of Exeter, Nebraska; grandchildren, Jason & Ashley Srajhans of Milligan, Nebraska; Joseph & Christina Srajhans of Geneva, Nebraska; Michelle Funk & Shawn Brooks of Davenport, Nebraska; Melissa & Troy Sieber of Davenport, Nebraska; Dillon & Haeli Steinacher of Exeter, Nebraska; Shawn & Lyndsey Kottas of Geneva, Nebraska; and Sharlene & Justin Harre of Exeter, Nebraska; great grandchildren, Trenton, Treygan, and Trevan Srajhans; Lilly & Riley Srajhans; Taylor, Carson & Tinley Sieber; Koby Steinacher; and Cohen & Braxton Harre; sister-in-law, Sharon Elznic; sister-in-law & brother-in-law Lorene & Don Sluka; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and neighbors. Lorene was well-loved and will be deeply missed by family, friends, and community.

Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy, from Farmer & Son

Lorene married Edward Frank Kottas on 11 Oct 1955 in York, York County, Nebraska. Edward (son of Frank E. Kottas and Emma V. Herynk) was born on 23 Jan 1925 in Nebraska; died on 20 Jul 1984 in Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Lorene married Wesley E. Buzek on 25 Sep 1985 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. Wesley (son of Edward Buzek and Mollie Placek) was born on 10 Mar 1929 in Exeter, Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 3 Jan 2003 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Obituary, Copied from Find A Grave Memorial ID 112648066

Larry James Elznic was born Jan. 11, 1945 near Tobias to Anton F. and Mary (Paroubek Elznic. Larry passed away while working near Ohiowa on Dec. 14, 1999, at the age of 54 years, 11 months, and 3 days. He was one of four children in the family.

Larry moved several times during his life, two places near Tobias and four different places in Chelsea Township. Because the original Star No. 89 school house had burn, Larry started to school in a chicken house Northwest of Tobias. In the spring of 1954, Larry moved with his parents to Chelsea Township, and attended District 32 through the 8th grade. He attended Geneva High School, and graduated in 1963.

Larry was married to Sharon Kay Taylor of Geneva on July 21, 1963 at the United Methodist Church in Geneva. They made their home on the Lewis farm in Chelsea Township until they moved to their present home on Jan. 1, 1979. To this union four children were born, David James, DeAnn Kay, Donna Leigh, and Dale Lee.

he started farming at the age of 16 with his father, Anton. Larry and Sharon took over the family farming operation after their marriage. In 1984, he started a custom windrowing and baling business with the help of sons. He also worked for Cornhusker Farms for three years, from 1984 to 1987.

Larry enjoyed farming and livestock all his life. He didn't like the chores that went along with the livestock, so he could always find something else that needed to be done at chore time. Larry enjoyed repairing and working on his own machinery and vehicles. He spent many hours in his shop pondering over a project until he figured it out.

Larry was not a person for change, if it wasn't broken, don't fix it. If it was broken, fix it yourself instead of taking it to town. His passion was attending farm and consignment sales, sometimes more than one a week. He would be the first person to tell you that if he thought he could use it someday, he just couldn't bring himself to throw it away.

Larry loved sitting around the kitchen table and visiting with family and friends. He always enjoyed telling stories and jokes, reminiscing, playing cards, and family gatherings, especially the Elznic Reunion. A hobby of Larry's was reading, he could read newspapers, magazines or books all afternoon. He loved history, anything he could find to read or watch about past events like the Civil War. Larry also loved the Old Western Channel on cable. He was not a sports fan, bu he enjoyed attending his childrens baseball and softball games.

Larry was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather. The joy of his life were his grandsons. Either babysitting with them, taking them to garage sales, coffee at Elaines and Bunkers or going to Burress for pop and candy. Larry also like telling stories about the things the grandsons had done, like playing in the goose pond.

Larry was the caretaker of the Chelsea Cemetery for a number of years, and a Hoegemeyer Hybrids Seed Dealer of 32 years.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Anton and Mary; infant brother Leo; sister and brother-in-law Lenoris and Rudy Girmus; brother-in-law, Edward Kottas and his mother-in-law, Wilma Taylor.

Larry is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sharon; sons, David (Karen) Elznic; and Dale (Becky) Elznic; and daughters DeAnn (David) Carpenter, and Donna (Rodney) Norrie; 5 gransons, and 2 step-granddaughters; sister Lorene (Wes)Buzek; father-in-law John Taylor Sr.; sister-in-law Shirley(Ed) Sluka, and Sandy Peterson and fiancee Norm Girmus; brother-in-law John Taylor Jr. and host of family and friends.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Dec. 17, 1999, from the Farmer and Son Funeral Home-Kotas Chapel in Milligan with Rev. Brian Kottas officiating. Nancy Cradduck accompanied Gaylord Cradduck, who sang "Beyond the Sunset" and "Amazing Grace."

Casket bearers were nephews Robert Kottas, Richard Kottas, Brian Srajhans, Roger Sluka, Mike Sluka and Seth Petersen.

Interment was in the Ceski Bratri (North) Cemetery.

The Nebraska Signal December 22, 1999 page 16

Family/Spouse: Living. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

"... Mylo died from injuries sustained in a car accident on July 25, 1939." Other sources show that he died in 1937, and FindAGrave shows this as in 1938.

Notes:

Maresh, Mildred Mamie, age 89, Lincoln, died March 12, 2010 in Lincoln. Born Milligan on February 17, 1921 to Joseph and Mamie (Elznic) Cudly. Former employee, Russell Stover Candies, University of Nebraska (dietary department). 64 year member Milligan American Legion Auxiliary.

SURVIVORS
Daughter & son-in-law: Carolyn and Gary Schmalken, Lincoln
Son and daughter-in-law: Larry and Peggy Maresh, Lincoln
Grandchildren, spouses: Steve and Tammy Schmalken, Malcolm
Debra and Danny Kage, LaVista
Jeff and Melanie Schmalken, Lincoln
Brian and Tiffany Schmalken, Fort Worth, TX
Brent and Jana Maresh, Lincoln
8 Great Grandchildren
1 Great Great Granddaughter
Brother-in-law: Lumir Svec, Crete
Sister-in-law: Ruth Maresh, Geneva

PRECEDED IN DEATH BY: Parents; Husband, Edward M. Maresh; Brothers, Milo and Joseph Cudly; Sisters, Marian Svec, Helen Ahlschwede

FUNERAL SERVICES
10:00 am, Tuesday, Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, 6800 South 14th Street, Lincoln. Visitation, 3 pm to 8 pm Sunday; 9 am to 8 pm Monday; one hour before services Tuesday, all at the funeral home. Memorials in lieu of flowers in care of Gramercy Hill, 6800 "A" Street, Lincoln, NE 68510. Condolences may be sent to lincolnfh.com

(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

Mildred married Edward M. Maresh on 19 Sep 1940. Edward (son of Josef "Joseph" Maresh and Anna Betkova) was born on 24 Feb 1916 in Nebraska; died on 27 Apr 1983 in Lincoln, Lancaster County, Nebraska; was buried in Lincoln Memorial Park, Lincoln, Lancaster County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

US NAVY WORLD WAR II, KOREA

Joseph married Esther Mae Renner on 24 Jun 1951. Esther was born on 13 Oct 1924; died on 24 Sep 2007 in Lincoln, Lancaster County, Nebraska; was buried in Lincoln Memorial Park, Lincoln, Lancaster County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Helen married Frederich R. Ahlschwede on 5 May 1959. Frederich was born on 4 Oct 1932; died in Jul 1985 in Crete, Saline County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Marian married Lumir Frank Svec on 9 Aug 1949. Lumir (son of Emil Svec and Helen Fujan) was born on 11 Sep 1928 in Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 20 Mar 2016 in Crete, Saline County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Elznic - Charles Eugene "Chuck," 72, Fullerton, widower of Violet Lang, died Thursday (6/5/97). Born, Geneva (4/20/25). Employee, then retired as vice president, Schweitz Equipment Co., 21 years. Survivors: second wife, Juanita; sons, Alvin, Madison, Tom, Renner, S.D.; daughters, Diana Keto, Phoenix, Charlotte Elznic, Vancouver, Wash; stepson, Chuck Delancey, Fullerton; brother, Ronald, Lincoln; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren.

Services: 10 a.m. Monday, Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, Fullerton. Fullerton Cemetery.

Visitation: today, 4-8 p.m., Palmer Funeral Home, Fullerton. Memorials to Nebraska Chapter of the National Kidney Foundation

(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

Charles married Juanita Lucille Brown on 26 Oct 1974. Juanita was born on 12 Oct 1919 in Lake Charles, Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana; died on 22 Sep 2015 in Fullerton, Nance County, Nebraska; was buried in Fullerton Cemetery, Fullerton, Nance County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Ronald D. "Ron" Elznic

Ronald D. "Ron" Elznic 78, Lincoln, died Monday (1/5/09) in Lincoln, Neb. Ron was born on a farm in Chelsea Township, southeast of Geneva, Neb. to William & Lillie (Baloun) Elznic on August 12, 1930. After graduating from Geneva High School, he devoted his early life to farming. He also worked as a carpenter & woodworker. He was an excellent craftsman & always a perfectionist in every endeavor.

On August 20, 1950, he married Elveda Montgomery of Geneva. The couple lived on farms in Stanton & Chelsea townships where they raised their 3 children. Ron & Elveda moved to Geneva in 1992. Upon retiring as a Territory Representative after 20 years with Nebraska Engineering Company of Omaha. He also sold farm supply equipment for several other companies. Ron drove a school bus for Geneva Public Schools & St. Patrick School in Havelock. In 2003, he began employment at Lincoln/Lancaster Community Blood Bank as a courier. Ron's memberships included: Odd Fellows & Rebekah Lodges, Fillmore County Extension Board, Fillmore County Fair Board, 4H Sheep Club Leader, 50 year member of Geneva United Methodist Church, recent member of St. Luke United Methodist Church. Ron's volunteer work included: The Salvation Army, Lincoln/Lancaster Habitat Humanity, Lancaster County Election Board precinct worker.

Survivors: wife, Elveda Elznic, Lincoln; son & daughter-in-law, Robert & Barbara Elznic, Coffeyville, Kan.; daughters & son-in-law, Patricia & Dennis Nun, Lincoln; Anne Kastl, Lincoln; 10 grandchildren; five in-law grandchildren; four great grandchildren; beloved dog, Jenny. Preceded in death by: parents, William & Lillie Elznic; grandson, Ryan Elznic; infant sister, Elizabeth Elznic; brother, Charles Elznic.

Funeral services 3 p.m. Wednesday (1/7/09) at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, 6800 S. 14th Street. Burial: Lincoln Memorial Park. Visitation: 6-8 p.m. Tuesday (1/6/09) with family greeting friends & relatives; and 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Wednesday. All at the funeral home. Memorials, in lieu of flowers, to Habitat for Humanity.

(Lincoln, Nebraska JournalStar.com Obituaries, courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

Family/Spouse: Elveda Montgomery. Elveda was born on 6 Dec 1930 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 22 Oct 2021 in Lincoln, Lancaster County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Donald J. Elznic Sr.

Geneva resident Donald J. Elznic Sr., 72, died Thursday, July 27, 2000, in Geneva.
Services are 2 p.m. Tuesday at Farmer & Son Funeral Home in Geneva with the Rev. Kim Dunker officiating. Burial will be in the Geneva Public Cemetery. Visitation began at noon today at the funeral home.

Mr. Elznic was born May 3, 1928, to James and Agnes (Kral) Elznic in Geneva. He served in the Korean War. His wife, Lois, preceded him in death.

Survivors are three sons, Donald J. Jr. of Salem, Ore., and Tim and Joe, both of Geneva; one daughter, Karla Slezak of Grand Island; one brother, Gary of Geneva; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be given to the family.


Obituary for his wife, Lois, Maiden name unknown.


Elznic -- Lois V., 63, Geneva, died Monday (12/29/97) in Lincoln. Born, Sutton [ca 1934].
Survivors: husband, Donald J. Sr.; sons, Donald J. Elznic Jr., Salem, Ore., Tim Elznic , York, Joe Elznic , Geneva; daughter, Karla Slezak, Grand Island; sister, Margaret Staberg, Lincoln; six grand- children. Services: 2 p.m. Friday, Farmer & Son Funeral Home, Geneva. Geneva Public Cemetery. Visitation: begins 2 p.m. Thursday, funeral home. Memorials in care of family.

(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

Family/Spouse: Lois Vera Klein. Lois was born on 4 Nov 1934 in Sutton, Clay County, Nebraska; died on 29 Dec 1997 in Lincoln, Lancaster County, Nebraska; was buried in Geneva Public Cemetery, Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Gary L. Elznic, 72, Geneva died Monday, September 27 2010. Born to James and Agnes (Kral) Elznic in Geneva.

Survivors: son, James Lee Elznic, Geneva; daughter, Cynthia Dawn Elznic, Geneva; seven grandchildren.

Services; 10 a.m., Friday, Farmer & Son Funeral Home, Geneva. Graveside services; Geneva Public Cemetery, Geneva. Visitation; Thursday, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., family to greet friends, 6 to 8 p.m., Farmer & Son Funeral Home, Geneva. Memorials to the family.

(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

(Research):Dennis Belohlavy also provided this obituary for Gary's daughter-in-law, Joyce Lee Elznic.

Joyce Marie Elznic was born to Jerry Clyde Lee and Hazel Dalton on January 2, 1971, at Denton, Texas, and passed away on December 25, 2011 at the Fillmore County Hospital Emergency Room in Geneva, Nebraska at the age of 40 years, 11 months, and 24 days. Joyce grew up around Denton, Texas and spent most of her young adult life there. In 1997 she moved to Nebraska where she met James Elznic. They were married on September 9, 2006. One child was born to James and Joyce, a daughter Victoria. James and Joyce were together until her unexpected death. Joyce spent her days raising her four children and grandchild. She valued her time with family and friends. She enjoyed walking through the woods, waterfalls, fishing, and camping with her family. She also enjoyed music and dancing. Joyce is survived by her husband James Lee Elznic; parents Jerry & Brenda Lee; Hazel and Keith Rhoades; son Samuel Hickman; daughters Causha Wilkey and fianc? Sang Xayavong, Cheyenne Wilkey, and Victoria Elznic; grandson Elliot Xayavong; brothers Gerald Lee, James DeHay, Joshua Underwood and Willy Underwood; sisters Sheila DeHay and Kathy Hilliard. ?i?

?/i?

Notes:

Glen R. Fussell

Geneva

Glen R. Fussell, 72, Geneva, died Friday (1/27/06). Born to Ben and Alyce (Elznic) Fussell on April 22, 1933, in Geneva.

Survivors: parents; brother, sister-in-law, Del and Lynne, Park, Colo.; sister, JoAnn Heath, Geneva; nieces; nephews.

Services: 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, United Methodist Church, Geneva. The Rev. Ron Harris. Geneva Public Cemetery. Visitation: 1-8 p.m. Monday, Farmer & Son Funeral Home, Geneva. Memorials to Geneva Rescue Unit.

From the Lincoln Journal Star archives, courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy

SSN: 506-48-6811

Notes:

November 4, 1939 - December 17, 2018

David Vencil Zenisek, 79, passed away peacefully at his home in Eagle on Monday, December 17, 2018, the son of Vencil and Emilye (Elznic) Zenisek of Milligan (deceased).
Survived by his wife Colleen Zenisek, daughter Tammy (John) Albers of Eagle, and grandchildren Danielle and Brandon Albers of Sturgis, S.D.

Memorial service will be held at 1:30 pm Dec. 22 at Eagle Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1009 G Street, Eagle. Internment at Eagle Cemetery. A celebration of life will follow at the Albers home, 1414 S 202nd St., Eagle. Memorials can be sent to the family for a donation to be made in Dave's memory at a later date.

Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy, copied from the 20 Dec 2018 Lincoln Journal Star

Notes:

Alan Joseph Zenisek reunited with his wife Patricia Ann Hraban June 24, 2014.

Alan will be greatly missed by his daughter Ann Marie Zenisek of Aurora, Colorado, son Joseph Vencil Zenisek of Boulder, Cororado, grandchildren, Emilye and Ryan Zenisek, brother David Zenisek and wife Colleen of Eagle, Nebraska, mother-in-law Dorothy Hraban of Seward, Nebraska, and brother-in-law Ken and Sue Hraban of Lincoln.

Alan and Pat owned a family electronics business for 40 plus years in Boulder, Colorado which they retired from in 2010.

Alan loved spending time with his family and grandchildren. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, working at his shop, restoring antique radios and playing cards with his grandchildren. Alan will be missed by all.

Memorial services will be conducted from the Farmer & Son Funeral Home ? Kotas Chapel in Milligan, Nebraska at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 5, 2014. Interment will be in the Seward Cemetery next to his wife Pat at 3:00 p.m. following a lunch at the Milligan Legion.

Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy

Family/Spouse: Patricia A. Hraban. Patricia was born on 16 Jun 1947 in Seward, Seward County, Nebraska; died on 2 Jun 2011 in Boulder, Boulder County, Colorado; was buried in Seward Cemetery, Seward, Seward County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Living married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Edmund Raymond Motis, 85, passed away Jan. 7, 2016, at his home in Babson Park, Fla. Born Sept. 4, 1930, in Exeter to the late Edmen and Alice (Kovanda) Motis. He had been a resident of the Lake Wales, Fla., area for 29 years, moving there from Friend. He was a parts manager for Chemical Containers and served his country in the U.S. Air Force as a flight line radio technician and fought in the Korean War. Member of the Church of the Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, and the American Legion Post 183 in Friend. He loved to water ski, was a fisherman, a duck hunter and a wood worker. Also an avid Nebraska Cornhuskers fan and held onto season tickets even after moving to Florida. He would not give them up.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Motis and a son, Matt Motis. Survivors include his sons, Michael Motis and wife, Regina, John Motis and his wife, Laura, David Motis and his wife, Jeanette, all of Babson Park; daughter-in-law, Rhonda Motis of Lake Wales. Sisters: Goldie Motis Quinn of Lincoln and Marjorie Motis Johansen of Friend; 19 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, at Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd with The Rev. Fr. Thomas C. Seitz, Rev. Joan Brawley and Deacon John Motis. In lieu of flowers, memorials suggested to American Legion Post 183, Main Street, Friend, NE 68359. Arrangements by Marion Nelson Funeral Home.

(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

Family/Spouse: Ruth Bulwan. Ruth was born on 25 Jan 1935 in Lincoln, Lancaster County, Nebraska; died on 13 Sep 2014 in Florida. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Mel D. Motis, 75, of Geneva, died July 15, 2014 in Friend. Born June 17, 1939 to Frank & Helen (Kovanda) Motis.

Survivors: sons, Mike & Brenda Motis, Geneva, Doug & Lori Motis, Exeter, Jim & Natalie Motis, Geneva; eight grandchildren.

Funeral: 2 p.m. Friday, United Church of Christ, Exeter; Pastor Kenn Leischner. Visitation: 1-8 p.m. with family present 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Farmer & Son Funeral Home, Geneva. Cremation will follow the funeral service. Memorials directed to the family to be designated later. Condolences, www.farmerandsonfuneralhome.com

From 16 July 2914 issue of the Lincoln Journal Star, Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy

Melvin Dean Motis was born to Frank Motis and Helen Kovanda Motis on June 17, 1939, at Exeter, and passed away on Tuesday, July 15, at Warren Memorial Hospital in Friend, at the age of 75 years.

Mel grew up in Exeter and graduated from Exeter Public High School in 1957. He married Carol Jean Hughes on April 23, 1966, and to them three sons were born; Mike, Doug and Jim.

Following graduation, Mel served in the US Army and competed on the Army Rifle team, before going to work for Burlington Northern Railroad. After a few years he came back to the family farm and continued to farm with his father, raising crops, hogs and cattle until 1984 when the farm economy began to struggle. During this time Mel served for 8 years on the Exeter School board. With three growing boys to feed, Mel was forced to work off the farm at various jobs, including Volkmer Construction, Horizontal Boring and Jacques Seed. In 1988 Mel took a job with Boeing Aviation in Wichita, KS, and worked there until the death of his wife, Carol, in 1993. Mel moved back to the family farm and started M and M Tree Service, which he continued to operate until his health began to fail in 2004. Despite his failing physical strength, Melvin continued to help many neighbors and friends with field work in the spring, and with harvest in the fall. He came to love swathing hay for Jason Oldehoeft, and would never turn down an opportunity to mow hay, a beloved activity he continued until May of this year.

Throughout much of his life, Mel was known for his trap shooting skills, and spent many weekends and weeknights shooting with some of his closest friends. Family vacations often included the State Trap Shoot in Doniphan. Over the years, the mass of trophies, guns and other winnings were enough to fill a whole room. He spent many nights reloading shells after working all day, and would always make it to a shoot the next day, wherever it may be.

Mel was an avid hunter and wildlife lover. Many a time he could be found near his canary grass plot watching the pheasants fly in. Growing up he never missed a hunting season, and he passed that passion on to his three boys. Many winter days he could be found cruising the countryside with all three boys in the truck, looking for pheasant, rabbit or quail. For a little sporting fun, he would even take the boys on an occasional coyote hunt on Sundays, despite missing church services.

Mel was also a devoted sports fan, many Saturdays were spent watching college football with his grandsons, but he was especially proud to watch his grand kids in all their sporting events never missing a chance to attend a football, softball, basketball game or wrestling match.

You could always find Mel at an auction, coin sale, having coffee, or just putting around in the "silver bullet" he refused to quit driving. He spent a lot of time at his grandkids' trap shoots, all of which followed in their granddad's footsteps, taking up an interest in the sport.

He loved the Fillmore County Fair hog show, and you could find him sitting somewhere in the stands. He enjoyed watching Thane, Caroline, Gatlin, and Travien show their pigs, and he would never miss one of their shows, regardless of what else needed to be done. He had the best seat in the house this year having passed on the day of the Fillmore County Fair hog show. He was watching from above as they drove several pigs to champion honors.

In his retirement, Mel found a love of cooking and canning, specializing in pickles, pork and beans, and jaternice, which he was proud to share with family and friends. He spent many hours playing pitch, poker, or any game of chance, and enjoyed riding along on any road trip with the boys, whatever the activity or destination.

Over the years Mel met many people that he was blessed to know, a source of great pride for him. Wherever he went someone knew him.

Mel will be remembered for being just a little bit stubborn and stuck in his ways, maybe a little too quick to complain. But he always said, "If you don't tell someone what they are doing wrong, they won't get better."

Mel was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Helen; wife, Carol; sister, Marlene VanPatte; and brother-in-law William "Blackie" VanPatten.

He is survived by sons, Mike and Brenda, Geneva; Doug and Lori, Exeter; and Jim and Natalie, Geneva; grandsons, Thane, Preston, Colton, Wyatt, Trevian, and Gatlin; granddaughters, Caroline and Toni; brother, Ernest; sister-in-law, Betty Motis; aunt, Clarabelle Smith; and many nieces and nephews.

Family/Spouse: Living. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]