Helen Louise Rowland, age 82, of Sutherland, NE, passed away Saturday, December 5, 2015, at the North Platte Care Center.

Helen was born May 28, 1933, to Emmett Ray and Irene Douglas Thompson at Terre Haute, IN. She grew up in California and in later years moved to Sutherland where she worked at the Rodeo Bar before retiring.

Helen liked playing Keno at the bar and loved her grandkids. She enjoyed giving them candy and appreciated the support she received from her granddaughter, Wendy Rhoden, who was with her during her last moments.

She leaves behind her children, Raymond “Buster” Nitsche, Darrell “Bud” (Julie) Gamble and Sherry Bowman, all of Sutherland, and Cindy Nitsche, of Alaska; daughter-in-law, Dawn (Jay) Longacre, of Sutherland; her grandson, Billy Ray, whom she helped raise, as well as 11 other grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; a sister, Norma (Nick) Taylor, of Ventura, CA; brothers, Patrick and Donald Kelly of California, Ronald Kelly of Tennessee, and Michael (Barbara) Kelly of Idaho; and other family.

She was preceded in death by her son, Gordon “Butch” Gamble, Jr.; and parents, Emmett and Irene.

Cremation was chosen and there will be no service. Her cremains will be scattered in Colorado near the home of her grandson, J.D. Bowman. Condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com. Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore is in charge of arrangements.