Ernest L. “Dean” Smidt, 83, of Cozad, passed away April 2, 2018, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney.

Ernest was born on April 20, 1934, in Cozad to Ernest H. and Opal I. (Chadwick) Smidt. He graduated from Cozad High School with the class of 1951 and entered the U.S. Navy. Following his honorable discharge, he worked on the dairy farm with his father.

On March 21, 1954, Ernest married Shirley Gilliland in North Platte. They were blessed with three sons, Steven, Michael and Randy, and one daughter, Shelly.

In 1970, Ernest became an insurance agent. He retired from the insurance business in 1990 and resided in Cozad until his death.

Ernest was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Keith Smidt and Maynard Smidt; and sister, Farrell Reier.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley of Cozad; sons, Steve (Judy) of Kansas; Michael (Brenda) of Lincoln; Randy (Bobbi) of North Platte; daughter, Shelly (Tom) Knobel of Texas; 12 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. Online condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com.

Services will be at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 6, at St. John Lutheran Church east of Cozad with Pastor Tim Eighmy officiating. The memorial book may be signed from noon to 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 5, at Berryman Funeral Home, Cozad, which is in charge of arrangements.