OBITUARIES
April
16
2025
Mark A. Orent • United States Navy Veteran • Ord, NE Resident, 75
Mark A. Orent, of Ord passed away peacefully at his home in Ord on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at the age of 75.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wed., April 16, 2025, at the Ord First United Methodist Church. Reverend Spenser Johnson will officiate. Mark was a simple, casual guy; to honor him please wear Valley Rods tee shirts, car club tee shirts or casual attire. Inurnment will be in the Ord City Cemetery. Military Honors will be presented by the Ord VFW Post #7029, American Legion Post #38 and Sons of the American Legion Post #38.
Memorials are suggested to the Valley Rods Unlimited Car Club and Valley County Hospice. Ord Memorial Chapel is assisting with the arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.ordmemorialchapel.com.
Mark Allen was born July 9, 1949, at Loup City, NE to Laverne W. and Darlene (Bian) Orent. He was raised in Council Bluffs, IA and spent his summers helping his grandparents on their farm. He received his education at Lakeview Elementary School and graduated from Lewis Central High School in 1967.
Mark served in the United States Navy from October of 1969 to August of 1971. Following his discharge from the Navy he moved to Ord to help his grandmother, Anna Orent.
On April 10, 1987, Mark and Orilla Janicek were united in marriage at Ord. The couple made their home in Ord where they raised their family of five, Carrie, Stacy, Braden, Tye and Haylie.
Mark was a carpenter by trade and worked with his brother, Rick, at Orent Construction for many years. In 1988, he began his career with the United States Postal Service until his retirement in December of 2019.
Mark was a Charter Member of Valley Rods Unlimited Car Club. He enjoyed restoring vintage cars and attending car shows. He collected toys, hot wheels and spent time doing carpentry work of keepsake furniture for his children, grandchildren and friends. His greatest joys were his family, the Father’s Day Rod Run and the fellowship of longtime friends.
Survivors include his wife, Orilla of Ord; two sons, Braden and Natalie Orent and Tye Orent all of Lincoln; three daughters, Carrie Bode (Shawn Wilson), Stacy and Jay Steinman and Haylie and Joe Doughtery all of Lincoln; nine grandchildren, Brenna, Kason, Ellie, Nora, Jack, Jane, Scarlett, Cal and Jett; a brother, John and Susan Tangeman of Colorado and a sister, Debra Harck of Arizona.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother and sister-in-law, Rick and Vicky Orent and brother-in-law, Dale Harck.
Lisa J. Stethem • Ord, NE Resident, 49
Lisa J. Stethem, loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt and nurse passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Thurs., April 10, 2025, following an unexpected illness at the CHI Heart Institute in Lincoln, NE at the age of 49. Lisa’s legacy will live on as she generously was an organ donor.
Mass of Christian Burial was on Tues., April 15, 2025, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Ord, NE. Father Scott Harter will be the Mass Celebrant. Interment was in the Ord Catholic Cemetery.
To honor Lisa and her dedication to education, the family encourages gifts to be directed to a scholarship fund for her twins, Austin and Addison and future scholarships, in lieu of flowers. Condolences can be sent directly to the family: Tim Stethem, 604 South 15th Street, Ord, NE 68862
Ord Memorial Chapel was assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.ordmemorialchapel.com.
Lisa Jean was born Feb. 1, 1976, in Hastings, NE to Donald Edward and Marcia Jean (Augustin) Reznicek. In 1981, the family moved to Ord. Lisa received her elementary education at St. Mary’s Catholic School and graduated from Ord High School in 1994.
Following high school, Lisa continued her education at Central Community College in Grand Island where she obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing.
Lisa and Timothy Roger Stethem were united in marriage on July 26, 1997, at Ord. The couple was blessed with three children, Abbigail and twins, Austin and Addison.
Lisa began her career as a registered nurse at St. Francis in Grand Island in the Pediatric Department. She spent the following years at the Valley County Health System in Ord, first in the Specialty Clinic and was currently the Medical Clinic Nurse Manager. While at VCHS, she was involved in infection control, management team, safety committee and the decon team. Lisa was a devoted nurse for 29 years.
Lisa was a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church. She was involved in the OHS Sports Boosters and OHS Alumni Committee.
Lisa enjoyed shopping, traveling, going to the beach and jet-skiing. She cherished her family and supported her kids in their many activities.
Survivors include her husband, Tim of Ord; daughter, Abbigail Stethem and finance’ Cooper Tonniges of Lincoln; son, Austin Stethem of Ord; and daughter, Addison Stethem of Ord; her parents; Don and Marcia Reznicek of Ord; a brother and sister-in-law, Chad and Johanna Reznicek of Johnstown, CO; a sister and brother-in-law, Megan and Aaron Cargill of Ord; mother-in-law, Pat Stethem of Ord; two sisters-in-law, Jennifer (Jeff) Grooms of Ord and Tammi Knutson (Darci Jeffres) of Ord; and 10 nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Roger Stethem.
Larry G. Staab, Highland, IN Resident, 83
Larry Gene Staab left this world to meet his Lord and Savior face to face on Tues., April 8, 2025.
Funeral Services were held Sat., April 12, 2025 at Hyles Anderson College in the Evans Auditorium in Crown Point, IN. Private interment was held at Memory Lane Memorial Park.
Larry was born on July 21, 1941 in Berwyn, NE, to parents Rueben and Opal Staab. He was born into a family of nine children, and he was number eight. Larry’s siblings are Bernard (Patty) Staab, Ed (Roberta) Staab, Max (Lola) Staab, John (Samantha) Staab, Harry (Jo) Staab, Della (Dick) Gehrt, Rollie (Gloria) Staab, and Phyliss Samp.
Preceded in death were his parents, Rueben (Opal) Staab; siblings, Bernard Staab, Ed and Darlene Staab, Max Staab, and John (Samantha) Staab; and son-in-law, Bill Keith.
Larry graduated from Kearney State with a Bachelor Degree in Education. He was married to Priscilla Eloe on June 9, 1962. He taught eight years in the public school in Hastings, NE.
Larry, Priscilla and their four kids moved to Highland, IN in 1972 where Larry accepted a position to teach school at Hammond Baptist. He taught in the junior high and high school, and then became principal. During that time, they had three more children, for a total of seven. Then he transferred to the college and taught there until he retired.
Larry was a servant to all. He worked on a bus route, taught Sunday School for 52 years, served in R.U., volunteered at the Juvenile Center ministry for 17 years, served in the nursing home ministry, sang in the choir, and was faithful to his church.
Most importantly his first love was his Lord and Savior, which overflowed into every aspect of his life. He instilled a strong foundation of faith in his family. His family brought him so much joy even to his last day.
Anyone who knew Larry knew how passionate he was about sharing the Good News of Jesus with everyone he encountered. He also enjoyed gardening, going to sports games, and spending time with his family.
Larry is survived by his wife, Priscilla Staab; children, Scotte (BethAnn) Staab, Lori Keith, Shari (Dave) Kurtz, Vaughn (Sharlyn) Staab, Joi (Olympus) Zarris, Amy Staab, and Becky (John) Reynolds; grandchildren, Lauren Staab, Lexi Staab, Liam Staab, Luke Staab, Chelsea (Jonny) Zajac, Josh (Amanda ) Keith, Hannah (Brandon) Magdaleno, Ellie (James DeLange, Bay Kurtz, Kammi (Sean) McPhillips, Brad (Cailey) Kurtz, Georgia Kurtz, Brayden Kurtz, Brody Kurtz, Haden (Mahalet) Staab, Jade (Grant) Arnold, Dayn (Riley) Staab, Jett Staab, Ezra Staab, Scarlett Staab, Ash Staab, Zane (Savannah) Zarris, Aristotle Zarris, Kassi (Garrett) LaForest, Gabbi Cogdill, Kai Cogdill, Izzi Cogdill, Dalila Myers, JD (Katie) Reynolds, Rubi Reynolds, and Christian Reynolds; and great-grandchildren, Leif Staab, Massimo Staab, Zivah Staab, Kacey Keith, Lennox Keith, Fletcher Keith, Rhett Keith, Zeke Zajac, Zoe Zajac, Silas DeLange, Tovah Arnold, and Odette Staab.
Please spread the gospel through: Paper Partners at Source Of Light International. 1011 Mission Rd., Madison, GA 30650. Phone: 706-342-0397.
Ronald L. Upah, Ord, NE Resident, 84
Ronald L. Upah, of Ord passed away on Mon., April 7, 2025, at Arbor Care Center in Ord at the age of 84.
A Celebration of Life Service was held Fri., April 11, 2025, at the Ord Memorial Chapel. Private Inurnment was in the Ord Catholic Cemetery. Memorial are suggested to the Ord Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department. Ord Memorial Chapel was assisting with the arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.ordmemorialchapel.com.
Ronald L. was born July 27, 1940, to Floyd and Adeline (Kubu) Upah at Vining, IA. He grew up in Vining and Chelsea, IA and graduated from Chelsea High School in 1958.
On July 15, 1961, Ronald and Lynne E. Gard were united in marriage at Alma Center, WI. The couple resided in Merrillan, WI and Grinnell, IA. In 1967, they settled in Ord, NE. Ron spent his career with General Telephone and Electric Corporation. He also spent time helping his friends and family with construction and craft-woodworking projects.
Ron was a long-time and loyal member of the Ord Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department, which gave him great joy to be a part of.
Ron and Lynne spent much time crafting and woodworking together. Making beautiful pieces for family and friends to enjoy. Ron was always there to help anyone in need with either tools or talent. He and Lynne also enjoyed traveling to see their children and grandchildren.
Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Robin T. and Neil Lockman of Lincoln; three sons and daughters-in-law, Keith D. and Melody of El Dorado Hills, CA, Gary J. and Aileen of Grand Island and Michael J. and Barbara of Eagle Mountain, UT; nine grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Tom and Ellen Upah of Chelsea, IA; and two sisters and a brother-in-law, Loretta McNeely of Keno, OR and Flossie and Bob Pippert of Gladbrook, IA.
H e was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Lynne, who passed away on Nov.17, 2021; an infant son, Timothy Upah; brother, Mark Upah and a sister, Beverly Upah.
April
09
2025
Phyllis L. Twyman • Ord, NE Resident, 82
Phyllis L. Twyman, of Ord passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Thur., April 3, 2025, at Ord, NE at the age of 82.
Phyllis Lorene was born March 8, 1943, to Gerald and Ruth (Baker) Lockhart, at the old C. J. Miller Ord Hospital in Ord. She grew up on the farm four miles southeast of Ericson where she received her early education. In 1956, when Phyllis was in seventh grade her family moved to Fort Collins, CO. In 1961, she graduated from Fort Collins High School.
Following high school, Phyllis worked in the accounting department of a large department store in Fort Collins. At the age of 21, she moved to Denver and got a job at a Savings and Loan company in the accounting department. After two years, she transferred to a sister Savings and Loan facility in Boulder, CO, where she worked in the real estate loan department.
While working in Denver, Phyllis’ friend, whose husband was in the Navy, sent her name and address to his shipmate, James A. Twyman. They corresponded for a year prior to Jim’s discharge from the Navy in April of 1967. Jim traveled to Boulder to visit Phyllis and on July 15, 1967, the couple had a beautiful wedding in Fort Collins.
They made their first home in Boulder and Phyllis continued to work at Majestic Savings and Loan then relocated to Broomfield to be closer to Jim’s job. The couple was blessed with a daughter, Lisa Michelle, on Sept. 3, 1972. Phyllis became a stay-at-home mom and later had a son, Dave Mark, on Oct. 1, 1976.
Following retirement Jim and Phyllis settled in Ord on June 1, 2002, and purchased a beautiful Victorian home.
Phyllis was a dedicated piano and violin teacher and loved teaching her students for 43 years. She played the piano with the Fun Bunch country western band and also played the violin and accordion. Phyllis and Jim traveled a lot and went on many cruises.
She was a very active member at Bethel Baptist Church and was involved in the missions committee. Phyllis enjoyed quilting, belonged to many quilting groups and was instrumental in organizing the Ukraine Quilt group in 2007, making quilts in assorted sizes for people in Odessa, Ukraine.
Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Mike Wood Berthoud, CO; a son and daughter-in-law, David and Amber Twyman of Ord; three grandchildren, Courtney and Alec Bovee of Aurora, CoO, Alyssa Moos of Colorado Springs, CO and Justin Twyman of Ord; one expectant great-grandchild; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Gary and Jane Lockhart of Parker, CO and Gordon and Fran Warner of Eden Prairie, MN and a sister; Sharon Menard of Greeley, CO.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, James A. Twyman who passed away on June 22, 2019.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m. on Sat., April 12, 2025, at the Bethel Baptist Church in Ord. Pastor Kyle Campise will officiate. Memorials are suggested to the Bethel Baptist Church. Ord Memorial Chapel is assisting with arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.ordmemorialchapel.com.
​
Willis L. “Bill” Plate • North Loup, NE Resident, 81
Willis L. “Bill” Plate, of North Loup passed away on Fri., April 4, 2025, at the Community Memorial Health Center in Burwell, NE at the age of 81.
Willis L. was born July 20, 1943, to Willis D. and Rhoda (Miller) Plate, on his grandparents’, Miller’s farm northeast of Ord, NE. He was raised on the family farm east of Ord and received his early education at Sumter Country School then graduated from Ord High School in 1961. While in high school, Bill was very active in 4-H, FFA and track.
Bill attended Kearney State College for a year and was a member of the rodeo team. He returned to the family farm where he and his dad, Willis farmed and ranched together.
In 1964, Bill married Leila Stevens, the couple was blessed with four children, Stephanie, Christopher, James and Nicholas. In 1975, the family moved south of North Loup where Bill owned and operated a hog farm.
Later Bill was united in marriage to Karen Kriewald. The couple had two sons, Logan and Silas. They settled on the family farm east of Ord. Bill continued to farm and ranch until his health declined. Bill has been a resident of Community Memorial Health Center since June of 2023, where he had many friends and was voted as King last year.
Bill was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed the fall hunting trips to Wyoming with friends. He was a supporter of FFA and 4-H and was a past 4-H and BB Gun leader. His favorite pastimes were attending his children’s and grandchildren’s activities. He was very proud of his family, especially his grandkids.
Survivors include his wife, Karen of North Loup; a daughter, Stephanie of Grand Island; five sons and three daughters-in-law, Chris and Farrah Plate of Lincoln, Jim Plate of Kearney, Nick and Trisha Plate of Cairo, Logan and Jennifer Plate of What Cheer, IA and Silas Plate of North Loup; eight grandchildren, Ava and Ella Plate, Adrienne (Lance) Luehm, Alecsander, Delaney and Cambree Plate and Beckett and Amelia Plate; and four great-grandchildren, Elenor, Amelia, Audrey and Albrecht Luehm.
He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant sister, Deanna; and two brothers, Paul and Jim Plate.
Bill’s wishes were to be cremated. A private family service will be held. Memorials are suggested to the North Loup Methodist Church or Donor’s Choice. Condolences may be sent to Karen Plate, 81160 485th Avenue, North Loup, NE 68859. Ord Memorial Chapel is assisting with the arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.ordmemorialchapel.com.
Kristy Linn Goodsell • Former Ord, NE Resident, 65
Kristy Linn Goodsell, formerly of Ord, NE, passed away on March 26, 2025, at Emerald Care Nursing and Rehab in Cozad, NE at the age of 65 years.
Kristy Linn was born Sept. 3, 1959, in Burwell, NE to Richard L. “Dick” Goodsell and Kay L. Olcott. She grew up in Ord where she received her education and graduated from Ord High School in 1977.
On Aug. 7, 1976, Kristy and Gregg Wetzel were united in marriage. To this union, two sons were born, Nathan and Zach. During the 80s Kristy was a daycare provider until 1991, when she began working at First National Bank at Ord. She began as a teller and later worked in computer processing.
In 2001, Kristy relocated to Lincoln, Cairo and Kearney and continued working to work in various banking positions. As her health deteriorated, she settled in Cozad at Emerald Care in 2022, where she resided until she went to be with the Lord on March 26, 2025.
Kristy was a member of the E-Free Church of Kearney and a former member of the Ord Christian Church. She had a strong faith and spent many hours reading the Bible and spiritual books.
Kristy enjoyed vacations in Nisswa, MN. Her special times were spent at Cottonmill Park in Kearney with her grandchildren, where she also enjoyed watching the geese and reading.
She is survived by her two sons, Nathan Wetzel and Amy Peterson of Ord and Zach and Kelcey Wetzel of Kearney; five grandchildren, MiKayla Wetzel, Bailey Trofholz, Trina Wetzel, Baker Wetzel and Kade Wetzel; one great-granddaughter, Sophia Trofholz; two sisters, Terri Janicek and Lesli Goodsell both of Kearney; a step-brother, Shawn Leggett of Kearney; a niece, Shelby Goodsell; and three nephews, Jessie Janicek, Brandon Goodsell and Jaden Janicek.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and a granddaughter, Jordan Wetzel.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Fri., April 11, 2025, at the Christian Church in Ord. Pastor Doug Durre will officiate.
Memorials are suggested to the family, in care of Nathan Wetzel. Ord Memorial Chapel is assisting with the arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.ordmemorialchapel.com.
March
19
2025
Dolores A. Olson • Former Ord, NE Resident, 84
After a life richly lived in service and kindness, Dolores A. (Sobotka) Olson, 84, passed away in Fremont, NE March 1, 2025 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Known for her volunteerism, Dolores was a beacon of light and hope in every community she lived in, touching lives throughout Ord, Burwell, Ericson, O’Neill, Brewster, Dunning, Grand Island, Sargent, Stromsburg and Bassett.
Dori, as she was affectionately known, was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She is a beloved and cherished mother to David (Kiffany) Conner of Kearney, Christine Dumont of Omaha, Ann (Michael) Herbig of Central City and Doug (Kris) Conner of Kearney.
Dolores was born the only child to Joesph and Sophie (Kasper) Sobotka on a farm east of Ord on Feb. 2, 1941. She attended a one-room country school. She was an accomplished 4-H’er selected to go on to the Nebraska State Fair in many areas. She graduated from Ord High School in 1959. She attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joining the Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority until the death of her father at the tender age of 18. Later in life, this would spark a desire in Dori to promote cancer research as the Co-Chair of The Nebraska Cattlemen’s Ball in 1995 raising over $400,000 for the cause.
She was married to Darrell Conner on July 3, 1960. They were married for 25 years. Working the night shift, she would travel to Grand Island to work at the Cornhusker Army Ammunition Plant so she could be with her children during the day. As a dedicated mother to her four children, some of her greatest joys came from attending their activities.
She always had a passion to understand her Czech-Bohemian heritage, even taking a trip to visit her ancestor’s homeland.
Dori was a strong believer in opportunities that would empower the betterment and personal freedom for women and children. She was the Outreach Coordinator at Central Nebraska Community Services, volunteered at the Crisis Center, Ceders and Head Start programs.
In 1987 she married the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Olson and gained six more grown children. They moved to the Sandhills and they were ranchers. They shared a wonderful life together until his death in 2015 from Parkinson’s disease. She was a very loving, caring wife and grandmother.
Decorating was her talent. Her home was always exquisite at Christmas. She loved to make the things around her beautiful.
She had a beautiful smile and personality that could light up a room. She was a true beauty inside and out. She was the 1973 Valley County Centennial Queen. In 2017 she met her sweetheart Ed Hall (fiancé) and shared her remaining years with him in Bassett, NE.
Dori had been a member of the Valley County Health System Foundation Board, Ord Jaycees and a P.E.O. Sister of Chapter CW.
A Celebration of Life Event will be held Fri., March 21, 2025 at 11 a.m. at the Bassett United Methodist Church. Visitation will be the day prior on March 20 from 5-7:30 p.m. at the Ord First United Methodist Church.
Memorials have been suggested to the Eppley Cancer Research Center, 985950 Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, NE 68198.
Mildred C. Otto • Former Scotia, NE Resident, 95
Mildred Corrine (Barnes) Otto, 95, formerly of Kearney, NE, passed away peacefully March 13, 2025 at Arbor Care Center in Ord, NE. Services were held Tues., March 18, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. at Faith United Methodist Church in Kearney. Burial will be held in North Loup at a later date.
Memorials are suggested to Faith United Methodist Church or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Condolences may be shared online at osrfh.com. Services were entrusted to O’Brien Straatmann Redinger Funeral and Cremation Services.
Mildred was born on Jan. 18, 1930 on her family farm near Scotia, NE to George and Zena (Sautter) Barnes. She was the fifth of nine children born to the family. She attended Fish Creek School until 10th grade and finished her education at Scotia High School.
After graduation, Mildred went to work at St. Francis Hospital in Grand Island but returned home to help on the farm after her brother was injured.
She met Arthur Otto at a dance and the couple was married April 20, 1949 at the Methodist Church in Grand Island. To this union, four children were born: Robert, Roger, Marilyn and Barbara. The couple made their home around North Loup and the Mira Valley. In 1972, they sold their farm and moved to Fremont to work at the Masonic Home for Boys. The couple later moved to Kearney where Millie worked various jobs, always caring for people.
Arthur passed away October 2015 and Mildred continued to make her home in Kearney until she moved to Grandview Assisted & Independent Living in Ord in May 2023. Mildred was a member of the Faith United Methodist Church and received her 45 year member pin in March 2024. After fracturing her arm in a fall, she was moved to Arbor Care Center in July 2024, where she lived until her passing.
Mildred was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur; son, Robert; parents; and many relatives. Left to cherish her memories are her children, Roger (Vickie) Otto of Lexington, Marilyn (Mark) Kuhns of Geneva, and Barbara (Paul) Markowski of Ord; and daughter-in-law, Sharon Otto of Scotia. Millie had 14 grandchildren, 36 (soon to be 37) great-grandchildren and two (soon to be three) great-great grandchildren.
Sandra K. Ellis • Kearney, NE Resident, 76
Sandra “Sandi” K. Ellis, age 76, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2025, in Kearney, NE.
Please visit hlmkfuneral.com to leave a tribute or message of condolence. Horner Lieske McBride & Kuhl Funeral and Cremation Services in Kearney are in charge of arrangements.
Sandi dedicated many years of her career to the Hall County Sheriff’s Office and later spent three years working at Kearney State College. Known for her creativity and love of crafting, she always found joy in organizing raffles and holiday games for her nieces and nephews, who adored her dearly. Her warmth, generosity and sense of fun brought happiness to those around her.
She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Dorian and Isabelle Puckett of Savannah, GA; her sister, Cheryl Larkowski of Ord, NE; nieces, Karla (Jason) Ritterbush of Ord and Jaci (Cory) Kruse of Kearney; great-nephew, Jesse (Brooke) Ritterbush of Petersburg, NE; great-nieces, Jade (Mason) Dexter of Stuart, NE, Jordyn Kruse of Omaha, NE and Jenna Kruse of Kearney; and her great-great niece, London Dexter.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Dale Ellis; son, Develon Puckett; her parents, Raymond and Minnie Grabowski; and brother-in-law, Larry Larkowski.
Sandi’s fun spunk, creativity and love for her family will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
March
12
2025
Kenneth D. Cullers • Ord, NE Resident, 83
Kenneth D. Cullers of Ord passed away Sat., March 8, 2025 at Valley County Health System in Ord.
Mr. Cullers’ wishes were to be cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. on Fri., March 14, 2025 at the First United Methodist Church in Ord. Pastor Spenser Johnson will officiate. Inurnment will be held at a later date at the Whitney Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Ord Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department. Ord Memorial Chapel is assisting with the arrangements. Online condolences may be left at ordmemorialchapel.com.
Kenneth Dean was born June 29, 1941 in Alliance, NE to Cecil and Leta (Gobel) Cullers. He grew up in Whitney, NE where he received his early education and graduated from Chadron Prep High School in 1959.
On Feb. 19, 1961, Ken was united in marriage to Helen L. Avey in Crawford, NE. To this union three children were born, Shala, Randy and Lora.
While living in the Chadron area, Ken ranched and worked at various jobs, including Pioneer Skelgas, Kansas Nebraska Gas, Meat Animal Research Center and Nebraska Brand Committee. In 1984, the Cullers family moved to Ord. Ken was a brand inspector from 1972 until retirement in 2005.
Ken was a self-taught taxidermist; working out of his shop that he constructed on his own; all made with salvaged materials. He also did wood working and hand made many wood pieces for his family.
Ken was a member of the Ord First United Methodist Church and the National and Nebraska Taxidermy Associations; and was the recipient on the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Taxidermy Association.
Ken’s hobbies were woodworking, hunting and fishing. His favorite daily activities were going to coffee, visiting and driving around town.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Helen of Ord; a son and daughter-in-law, Randy and Kris Cullers of Chadron; two daughters and a son-in-law, Shala Chevalier (Lynn Shughart) of Hancock, IA and Lora and Scott Johnson of Grand Island; 11 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Richard and Vernon Cullers.
Dennis C. Cetak • Columbus, NE Resident, 74
Dennis Charles Cetak, 74, of Columbus, NE passed away March 3, 2025 in Lincoln, NE.
Celebration of Dennis’ faith and life was Sat., March 8, 2025 in Columbus.
Memorials are encouraged to the Columbus Community Hospital Foundation-Diabetes Program, Helping Hands Cancer Foundation, Columbus United Methodist Church or to the Columbus United Methodist Church-Youth Program.
Dennis was born Sept. 6, 1950 in Ord, NE to Joe and Alma (Dworak) Cetak. He was the youngest of the two children. He graduated from Ord High School and went on to a small school in Oklahoma, then in Fairbury, NE. He eventually transferred to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Dennis married his high school sweetheart, Judy Jamison on Dec. 12, 1970. He first worked as a Vocational Ag teacher/coach in Ewing, NE and eventually moved onto Columbus.
Dennis and Judy raised two children, Kimberly Claire and Kory Charles while in Columbus. Dennis worked at Husker Co-Op/Central Plains Milling where he retired after approximately 40 years. After retirement, Dennis did continue working part-time for Cooperative Co-Op, Lindsay Co-Op and McKown Funeral Home. He was a proud board member at the Agricultural Park (Ag Park) for years where he was eventually honored for his years of service. Dennis was also an instrumental part of the Race Committee (horse racing) and a huge supporter of the 4-H Livestock Sale.
Dennis will be deeply missed by his family and friends. He had a remarkable gift for connecting with people, never meeting a stranger wherever he went. Dennis was a passionate sports enthusiast throughout his life. In his younger years, he played football, basketball and track. Dennis was an avid Husker sports fan (especially football and baseball) and would always be listening to the games on his headset (even during weddings and dance recitals). He loved the Yankees, Dallas Cowboys, Chiefs, Royals and enjoyed horse racing which evolved into a love for NASCAR. Over time, his favorite sport was a toss-up between cheering on Nebraska baseball and attending his granddaughters' activities. No matter the event, Dennis was always engaging with those around him, offering encouragement and cheering for everyone.
He was a beloved son, husband, father and grandfather. He will be deeply missed.
Dennis is survived by, his wife, Judy Cetak; daughter, Kim Cetak of Lincoln; son, Kory (Kellie) Cetak of Lexington; granddaughters, Kayleigh, Kennedy and Keelyn Cetak; brother, Allen Joe (Linda) Cetak of Ord; sisters-in-law, Jean (Phil) Hood of Lincoln and Pris Jamison of Louisville, KS; and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by parents, Joe an Alma Cetak; brother-in-law, Gary Jamison; niece, Jennifer Jamison; and numerous aunts and uncles.
McKown Funeral Home was assisting the family (mckownfuneralhome.com).
Allan J. Schmidt Arcadia, NE Resident, 82
Allan Jay Schmidt, 82, of Arcadia, died Wed. March 5, 2025 at Brookefield Park in St. Paul.
Services were held Mon., March 10, 2025 at the Arcadia Methodist Church in Arcadia. Al’s lifelong friend, Rolen Sell officiated. Burial was in the Lee Park Cemetery, west of Arcadia. Memorials are suggested to the Arcadia Fire Department or to Lee Park Cemetery.
Peters Funeral Home of St. Paul was assisting the family.
Allan was born on Dec. 5, 1942, the youngest of five, to Hans and Cora (Greenland) Schmidt. He attended grade school at Riverview country school. He would go on to attend Arcadia Public School, graduating in 1961.
Upon graduation, Al worked for Bushman Construction Company working on the construction of the Arcadia Diversion Dam, Sherman Dam and the irrigation system of those dams. Little did he know at that time that those projects would become a huge part of his life.
On July 22, 1962, he married Demaris Bolli and they would journey through life together for nearly 60 years. In August 1963, Al and Demaris welcomed their first child, Shelley. They would welcome their second child, Todd, in October 1966.
In a twist of fate, in May 1965, Al started working for Farwell Irrigation District and the family moved to a home overlooking Sherman Dam. He would remain as watermaster until March of 1975 when he would be hired as manager of Middle Loup Irrigation District, which is connected to the Arcadia Diversion Dam. For the next 38, years, Al devoted his life to the irrigation system serving the area farmers; sometimes praying for rain and sometimes praying for it to stop; something his family would never out. During his career, Al was on the Board of Directors of the Nebraska Water Resources Association, Nebraska State Irrigation Association and the Loup Basin Surface Water Development Association. He also served on the Governor’s Water Policy Task Force from 2002 through 2009, which earned him the honor of the 2004 Headgate Award given by the Four States Irrigation Council. Al retired in December 2013 after almost 48 years of dedication to water resources and irrigation.
Al and Demaris purchased her father’s farm and built a larger cow/calf operation with some farming. As much as water was his career, his cows and land were his passion. He never sold his cattle on a rainy day because he didn’t want his cattle ‘all muddied up.’ He instilled in his family the importance of the land and never missed an opportunity to tell us, “The land will always be here and provide. No matter what, never sell the land.”
Al didn’t have many hobbies, as work and his cattle were what he enjoyed the most. He did however enjoy a candy bar and a good cookie washed down with a cold Coke. If given the choice, he would have the dessert rather than the meal. And he could always tell a really good joke.
Al is survived by his daughter, Shelley and husband, Dennis Heikel of Farwell; Lance, Marti and Emma Heikel of Pleasanton, Cinch Heikel of Arcadia, and Riggin Heikel of Harrison, NE; along with Dennis’ other children, Rich and Julie Gappa of Kearney, Tanya and Curt Munson of Elkhorn, Sloan and Bill Anderson of Omaha and Lindsay and Chad Murdock of Waterloo, and their children. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, along with many lifelong friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Demaris on May 20, 2022; son, Todd; and his brother and three sisters.
Condolences and memories may be shared with Al’s family by visiting petersfuneralhome.net.
As we move forward in this new life without him, may we remember his favorite saying, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”
Lannie L. Geiser, of Ord, NE, passed away peacefully Tues., Feb. 25, 2025 at the age of 73.
Lannie was born Nov. 3, 1951, in Arnold, NE to Lyle and Viola (Scott) Geiser. He was raised in Arnold where he received his education and graduated from Arnold High School in 1970.
Lannie continued his education at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, graduating in 1974 with a bachelor’s degree in Agronomy and Business Administration.
On Sept. 30, 1972, Lannie and Terri L. Sanders were united in marriage in Arnold. The couple was blessed with two sons, Matthew and Grant.
In 1980, the family made their home in Ord. Lannie worked for BASF as an Agronomy Chemical Sales Representative until retirement in 2020. Upon retirement Lannie and Terri moved to Laguna Vista, TX where they resided until 2024, when they returned to Ord.
Lannie was an avid golfer. He also enjoyed leather work, traveling and Husker football. Spending time with family and friends was most important to him, especially his six grandchildren.
Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Terri of Ord; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Matthew of Grand Island and Grant and Jodi of Ord; six grandchildren, Cade, Jace, Trajon, Grey, Isaac and Dakin; a brother and two sisters-in-law, Gary and Connie Geiser and Lisa Geiser.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Mitch Geiser.
Mr. Geiser’s wishes were to be cremated. To honor his wishes, private family services will be held. Memorials are suggested to the Nebraska Cancer Society or Dane Creek Golf Course. Condolences can be mailed to the Geiser Family, 81200 476th Ave., Ord, NE 68862.
Ord Memorial Chapel is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at ordmemorialchapel.com.
March
05
2025
Lannie L. Geiser • Ord, NE Resident, 73
​
​