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Myron Earnest Walker

Myron Earnest Walker, 85, of North Platte, passed away at home
surrounded by his family on Monday, December 31, 2018.

Myron was born in Lewis, Iowa, on February 1, 1933, to Joe and Eva Marie
(Moriarty) Walker.  He grew up in Missouri and Lone Wolf, Oklahoma until
he was 13 years old at which time he and his brother, Joe, moved to
Colorado to work on a turkey farm near Brush.  By the time he was 16,
Myron and Joe moved to North Platte to live with their mother.

Myron was a hard worker and worked hard.  He did odd jobs until selling
his only pickup to buy a tractor so he could start his own business of
cutting down trees and landscaping.  He continued doing odd jobs to earn
extra money then hired on with the Union Pacific Railroad in 1949 and
worked as a Carman.

In April of 1953 Myron was drafted into the U.S. Army and served with
the 566th Transportation Company, Fort Eustis, Virginia. Following his
discharge in ’55, he returned to North Platte and went to work for
farmers, did hay contracting, and owned his own business baling and
hauling hay.  After selling his farm and ranch, Myron started a rental
business with old hotels, apartments and houses.

In 1950 Myron was united in marriage to Marilyn May Stearns in Ogallala.
They lived in North Platte then when he served in the Army, Marilyn
followed him from base to base until he was stationed overseas at which
time she returned to North Platte.

Myron liked collecting antique cars, which he showed and enjoyed driving
in parades, but most importantly he loved his family.

He is survived by his daughters, Cheryl Walker, Beth Hampton and Mashell
Anderson (Craig Lush), and sister, Patricia (Donald) Payton, all of
North Platte; six grandchildren, Andrew Chessmore (Rebecca), Christina
Chessmore, Justin Chessmore, Kyle Mercer (Nellie), Bryan Mercer (Nicole)
and Rebecca Baker; 19 great-grandchildren, Brittanya, Geoffery,
Brooklynn, Gillian, Brenden and Gwendolen Allen, Ryan and Noah
Chessmore, Ashton and Harper Knoles, Matthew, Ashley, Seth and Brooke
Knotts, Johnathen and Riley Bremenkamp, Jacob and Caleb Mercer, Damian
and Jediah VanMeter-Mercer, Triden and Orlando VanMeter, and Lucas
Baker; great great-granddaughter, Jasmine Roth; as well as other family.

Myron was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn; parents, Joe and Eva;
brother, Joe, Jr.; and sisters, JoAnn and Shirley Walker.

Funeral Service will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, January 4, 2019, at Odean
Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore with Pastor Bill Reeves officiating.
Burial with Military Honors will follow in Fort McPherson National
Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday at Odean
Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore.  Online condolences may be shared at
odeanchapel.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the
North Platte Opportunity Center or the North Platte Baptist Church.

Larry Leo Rief

Larry Leo Rief, 76, of North Platte, died Tuesday, January 1, 2019, at
Great Plains Health.

Larry was born on June 19, 1942, to Francis Leo and Delores (Emanuel)
Rief in Wisner, Nebraska, where he grew up.  He graduated from Wisner
High School in 1960 then went on to graduate from Regis College in
Denver, Colorado in 1964.  Larry went to work for C.I.T. and Gates
Rubber Company before going into banking, working in mortgage lending,
and he had his Colorado real estate license.

Larry moved to North Platte in 1979 and owned Larry’s Liquor until 1990
when he returned to Wisner and went into business with his brother who
owned a feed lot.  After a short time, Larry moved back to North Platte
and worked for Mid-Nebraska Ice for 25 years until retiring in 2015.

During the 1960’s, Larry joined the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve and served
six years until his honorable discharge in October 1970. He married
Diane Sandberg in Colorado in 1973, they had two children and later
divorced.

Larry was an active member of Eagles Aries #2839, serving as President
and Trustee.  He went on to serve as State President in 2003 then State
Trustee.  In his free time, Larry enjoyed hunting, fishing and gambling.

He is survived by his children, Brian Rief, and Jodi (Bill) Simants, and
their mother, Diane Kirsch, all of North Platte; grandsons, Grady and
Koby; brothers, Mike (Kathy) Rief, of Shelby and Tom (Brenda) Rief, of
Seward; sister, Judy (Bob) Feller, of Wisner; as well as lots of other
family and friends.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Delores.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, January 4,
2019, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church with Celebrant Father Josh
Brown.  Burial will follow in Floral Lawns Memorial Gardens.  Visitation
will be Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. followed by a Rosary Service at 7
p.m. at Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore, which is in charge of
arrangements.  Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com.
Memorials are suggested to Team Jack in honor of Larry’s grandson, Grady.

NPCC Volleyball represented well in World Herald All-Nebraska team

North Platte – Four members of the North Platte Community College Knights volleyball team were named to the Omaha World Herald All-Nebraska Two-Year College volleyball team.

Luisa Hernandez Marin, from Yuma, Colo., was named to the first team. Taylin McNair, from Imperial;, Sydney Mullin, from Maxwell, and Bailey Chintala, from Fleming, Colo, were named honorable mention.

Hernandez Marin, a sophomore outside hitter, led the Knights in kills with 404. She also had 468 defensive digs and 29 service aces on the season Hernandez Marin was named to the All-Region IX Division II team and the Region IX Division II All-Tournament team.

McNair, a sophomore setter, led the Knights in set assists with 752 and service aces with 47. McNair also had 297 defensive digs. McNair was also named to the Region IX Division II All-Tournament team.

Mullin, a freshman middle blocker, led the Knights in total blocks for the season with 98 and was fourth in kills with 245.  Mullin also had a .231 kill efficiency which led the Knights. Mullin was named to the All-Region IX Division II team.

Chintala, a freshman libero, led the Knights with 563 defensive digs. She also had 75 set assists.

The Knights were crowned the National Junior College Athletic Association Region IX Division II champions in November.

Troopers arrest 2 following pursuit, search in Omaha

Two men have been arrested following an early morning pursuit and search by multiple agencies in Omaha.

The incident began at approximately 4:30 a.m. Thursday when a trooper attempted to stop a Volkswagen Jetta for speeding on Interstate 680 near Pacific. The vehicle came to a stop, but then fled before the trooper could make contact. The trooper pursued the suspect vehicle until it came to a stop near 108th and Pacific. Two suspects then fled the scene on foot.

Additional troopers and investigators from Nebraska State Patrol, officers with the Omaha Police Department, and deputies from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office arrived on the scene and conducted a search of the area. The two suspects were taken into custody a short time later without further incident near 108th and Center.

During a search of the vehicle and surrounding area, law enforcement officials found two firearms, ammunition, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

The driver, Maleka Goodwin, 20, and passenger, Deonte Temple, 18, both of Omaha, were arrested for felony flight to avoid arrest, obstructing, possession of a weapon during the commission of a felony, and possession of marijuana – less than one ounce.

Both men were lodged in Douglas County Corrections.

Sheryl Lou “Sherry” Bryant

Sheryl Lou “Sherry” Bryant, of North Platte passed away on the morning of Friday, December 28, 2018 at the age of 62 after a long and courageous battle with cancer surrounded by her family.  Sherry was born in Covina, CA to Ronald (RK) Kent and Marjorie (Marge) Carol Thompson on November 17, 1956.  She spent her childhood years in California before moving to North Platte in 1971.  She married David Andrew Garrick on August 7, 1976 and to this union two children, Lindsay Kay and Jason Andrew, were born.  On October 18, 1982 Sherry married the love of her life and best friend, James (JJ) Bryant, Jr. who had a son from a prior marriage, James (JJ) Joseph III.  Together they had one child, Jeffrey Gage.

Sherry was an absolutely incredible wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend.  Her favorite activity included being with her family, she always took great pride in the fact that her home was a gathering place filled with love and faith for all those who entered.  Sherry had a deep passion for the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and an unwavering faith.  As an active member of her church, she welcomed parishioners at Harvest Christian Fellowship with warmth, kindness, and a great big smile as part of the greeting ministry.  In her spare time, her favorite hobbies were camping at the lake with loved ones and hiking in the mountains.

Survivors include children, James J. III (Dawna) Bryant of Littleton, CO, Lindsay (Levi) Caudy of North Platte, Jason Bryant of North Platte, and Jeffrey Bryant of Littleton, CO; mother, Marge Thompson of North Platte, sister, Debbie (Bruce) Holm of Wallace; father-in-law, James J. Bryant Sr. of North Platte; brothers and sisters-in-law, Teresa (Mark) Crewdson, Teri (Bill) Kummer, and Don (Pam) Garrick all of North Platte, Lynda Beach of Grand Terrace, CA, Jerry (Dusty) Gustin of Tulsa, OK, Susan Selby of Fort Collins, CO, and Patricia Selby of Omaha, NE; grandchildren, Conner, Treven, Jaycee, Kinlee, Evan, Ian, Ibaleen, Aroque, Andrew, Javen, Addysen, Kaylee, Cassady, Sonny, and Shady; great-grandchildren, DayLynn and Ronen; many uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws who all loved her so very much.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David in 1982; husband, JJ in 2016; father, RK Thompson; mother-in-law, Joanne Bryant; mother-in-law, Helen Garrick; father-in-law, John Garrick; grandparents; and many more beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Memorials may be made in her name and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.

Services will be held 1:00 p.m. Friday, January 4, 2019 at Harvest Christian Fellowship in North Platte with Pastor Jeremy Rinke officiating.    Cremation was chosen those wishing to sign the register book may do so 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Thursday at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.

 

Gary Lee ‘Bud’ Cotton


Gary Lee ‘Bud’ Cotton, Sr., 71, of North Platte, passed away on Sunday,
December 30, 2018, while under hospice care.

Gary was born along with his twin brother, Jerry, on May 26, 1947, in
Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Fredrick LeRoy and Betty Jane (Zarr) Cotton.  The
family lived in Cheyenne where the boys attended Cheyenne East High
School and graduated in 1965.

After graduating, Gary hired on with the Union Pacific Railroad and
worked in the Mechanical Department.  He moved to North Platte in 1969
and transferred to the Transportation Department where he worked as an
Engineer for 3rd District.  After working for over 40 years, Gary
retired in 2007.

Gary wed Phyllis Homan in 1966 and Maria Nehls in 1996.  He loved
spending time with Jerry fishing, hunting and doing lawn work at North
Shore, Lake McConaughy where they met and enjoyed the company of many
friends.  Gary especially loved and spoiled his dog, Whisper.

Gary is survived by his son, Shayne Cotton, twin brother, Jerry (Judy)
Cotton, brother, Keith (Cindy) Cotton and sister, Carol Cotton, all of
North Platte; granddaughter, Rylie Cotton; great-grandson, Bennett
Cotton; three nieces; other family and his numerous friends at North
Shore, Lake McConaughy.

He was preceded in death by his son, Gary, Jr.; parents, Fred and Betty;
nieces, Lori Lynn and Lisa Marie; and great-niece, Tiara Jade.

At Gary’s request cremation was chosen and there will be no services.
The memorial book may be signed at odeanchapel.com. Odean Colonial
Chapel at C & Sycamore is in charge of arrangements.

Andrew Wayne Butrick

Andrew Wayne Butrick, 46, of Hershey passed away December 12, 2018 near Akron, CO as a result of an automobile accident.  Andy was born on August 23, 1972 to William Dennis and Marcia A. (Vollbrecht) Butrick in North Platte, NE.  He grew up in Hershey, Ne, graduating from Hershey High School.  On January 25, 2002 he was united in marriage to Daniela Honegger in Ruti, Switzerland, to this union on e child was born, Janis Shay Butrick.  On July 15, 2016 he was united in marriage to Julia Fischer in Hershey, NE.

Andy was a talented carpenter, a true free spirit, his love for life’s natural wonders was astounding.  He loved music and was a creative writer of songs.  He devoted his life to his daughter Janis.

He is survived by his daughter, Janis; step-son, Gene Honegger; step-daughter, Jocelyn Honegger; step-son, Austin Barner; mother, Marcia (Richard) Fugate; brother, Scott W. (Holly) Butrick; and a grandmother, Vera Butrick.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Dennis Butrick; grandfather, Woodrow Butrick; and grandparents, Wayne and Kathleen Vollbrecht.

Online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.

Private Celebration of Life and Services will be held.  Adams & Swanson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Nebraska January outdoor calendar

LINCOLN, Neb. – The following is a listing of Nebraska Game and Parks Commission events and important dates in January. Get more event details at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov. Visit OutdoorNebraska.org for a list of hunter education classes and boating safety classes.

Jan. 1 – First Day Hike, Mormon Island State Recreation Area (SRA), Doniphan; Indian Cave State Park (SP), Shubert; Ash Hollow State Historical Park (SHP), Lewellen; Platte River SP, Louisville; Wagon Train SRA, Hickman; Chadron SP, Chadron; Eugene T. Mahoney SP, Ashland; Red Willow Reservoir SRA, McCook; Ponca SP, Ponca; Wildcat Hills Nature Center, Gering; Johnson Lake SRA, Elwood; Smith Falls SP, Valentine; Fort Kearny SRA, Kearney; Calamus Reservoir SRA, Burwell; Fort Hartsuff SHP, Burwell; Fremont Lakes SRA, Fremont; and Lake Ogallala, Ogallala

Jan. 2 – Application period begins for Super Tag and Combo multispecies lottery permits

Jan. 2 – Big game informational meeting, Cabela’s, Sidney

Jan. 3 – Big game informational meeting, Community Center, Wymore

Jan. 3 – Big game informational meeting, Hooker County Library, Mullen

Jan. 6 – Duck and coot hunting seasons close in Zone 3, Low Plains and High Plains Units

Jan. 7-27 – Duck and coot hunting seasons in Zones 2 and 3, High Plains Unit

Jan. 8 – Big game informational meeting, Schilling Wildlife Management Area, Plattsmouth

Jan. 9 – Prescribed burn training workshop, Broken Bow

Jan. 10 – Prescribed burn training workshop, Curtis

Jan. 12 – Discover Ice-Fishing Clinic, Holmes Lake, Lincoln

Jan. 12 – Flying WILD Educator Workshop, Wildlife Safari Park, Ashland

Jan. 13 – Crow hunting season opens statewide

Jan. 14 – First day of spring turkey hunting permit sales

Jan. 15 – Youth, Landowner, Season Choice and River Antlerless, and Gifford Point WMA deer hunting seasons close

Jan. 15 – Birds and Books workshop, Elkhorn Valley Museum, Norfolk

Jan. 15 – Antlerless elk season closes

Jan. 16 – Prescribed burn training workshop, Stockville

Jan. 17 – Prescribed burn training workshop, Wayne and Grand Island

Jan. 18 – Dark goose hunting season closes in North Central Unit

Jan. 18 – Nebraska Game and Parks Commission meeting, Lincoln

Jan. 19 – Discover Ice-Fishing workshop, Yanney Park, Kearney

Jan. 19-Feb. 10 – Statewide light goose and white-fronted goose hunting seasons

Jan. 20 – Discover Ice-Fishing Clinic, Fort Kearny SRA Lake No. 6, Kearney

Jan. 23 – Prescribed burn training workshop, Alma

Jan. 23 – Prescribed burn training workshop, Niobrara

Jan. 24 – Prescribed burn training workshop, Lincoln

Jan. 28 – Prescribed burn training workshop, Rushville

Jan. 29 – Prescribed burn training workshop, Scottsbluff

Jan. 29 – Insect Investigations Educator Workshop, Elkhorn Valley Museum, Norfolk

Jan. 30 – Prescribed burn training workshop, Imperial

Jan. 31 – Hunting seasons close for November late doe/fawn antelope, fall turkey, pheasant, quail, partridge, grouse and squirrel

Insurer settles parents’ claim in Omaha boy’s death

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The parents of an Omaha Public Schools student struck and killed by a school bus have settled their claim with the bus fleet’s insurer.

Officials say National Interstate Insurance agreed to the settlement of more than $263,000 with the parents of Haji Mohamed while still denying any liability.

Omaha police say the bus had stopped April 9 to let off the 8-year-old boy and several other students. As the driver resumed her westbound route, Haji tried to run across the street ahead of the bus but was fatally hit.

Prosecutors decided not to charge the bus driver after determining there was nothing criminal about the accident.

The boy was a second-grader at Springville Elementary School.

Troopers remove 64 impaired drivers from Nebraska roads

Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) worked diligently over the final weeks of 2018 to remove dozens of impaired drivers from Nebraska roads. The annual holidays “You Drink & Drive, You Lose” campaign resulted in 64 arrests for drunk or drugged driving.

During the enforcement, which ran from December 14 through January 1, troopers and dispatchers worked overtime hours in the effort to keep Nebraska roads safe for all travelers. The operation resulted in 61 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol and three arrests for driving under the influence of drugs. The effort included high visibility patrols in all parts of Nebraska.

“The holidays should be filled with positive memories,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Impaired driving not only puts yourself at risk of injury or death but also poses a risk to everyone else on the road. Our troopers and dispatchers worked hard over the last several weeks to take impaired drivers off the road, and ensure safe roads for all of Nebraska.”

In addition to the drunk and drugged driving arrests, NSP issued citations for speeding (1,055), driving under suspension (75), no proof of insurance (54), minor in possession (13), open container (35), no seat belt (57), and improper child restraint (15). Troopers also arrested 66 people for possession of drugs and six for reckless driving.

During the campaign, troopers helped 787 motorists in need of assistance, many coming during the strong snowstorm that struck Nebraska last week.

The “You Drink & Drive, You Lose” campaign is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $25,000 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

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