Leonard Ray Nelms, 89, of Wauneta, Ne., formerly of Hayes Center and North Platte, passed away Monday, October 23, 2017 at the Wauneta Care Center, Wauneta, Nebraska.

He was born on April 19, 1928 to Vernie and Etta (Lawson) Nelms, in Bartley, Nebraska. He graduated from Hayes Center High School. He married Iris Pinn on April 6, 1948. Leonard served in the United States Army from 1952 to 1954 and was Honorably Discharged at the rank of Cpl. After his discharge from the Army he started farming north of Maywood, Nebraska, later moving his farm and ranching operation to east of Hayes Center. Leonard was very active in youth baseball and 4-H programs. His love was raising Appaloosa and Quarter Horses. He raised many champions and his horses were sold and shown all over the U.S.

After retirement, he enjoyed golfing and focused on tying doll flies and making many different lures. He also self-taught himself in upholstery and making wood crafts. Leonard was a member of the American Legion. He enjoyed spending time with his family and his greatest joy was his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was always there to lend a hand to anyone.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Iris; parents; brothers-in-law Joe Vlasin and Roland Scott.

Survivors include, sisters, Doris Vlasin and Laverna Scott; daughter, Kristy (Jerry) Vapenik of Wauneta; sons, Casey (Wanda) of Sutherland and Jim Nelms of Franklin, Tennesee; grandchildren, Mindy Dann, Colt (Bethany), Chase (fiancé, Danielle), Justin (Lisa), Jesi, and Seth Vapenik, Jess (Danielle) Vapenik, Dirk (Roseanna) Vapenik, Bryn (Clay) Jordan and Shelby Brandon. Great grandchildren, Briana, Kinsley and Jaycelyn Vapenik, Avery Vapenik, Jaxyn, Corbyn and Brekkan Jordan, Whitney, Julian and Alayna Nelms, Treton  Dowling, Lilian Nelms, Parker and Camden Nelms, Caysen and Hudsen Nelms.

Cremation was chosen. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 27, at Hayes Center Congregational Church in Hayes Center, Ne, with Pastor Jean Miller officiating.  Inurnment will follow at Hayes Center Cemetery. Online condolences may be shared at carpentermemorial.com. Carpenter Memorial Chapel is in care of arrangements.