Harvey Wesley William Lauer, age 93 of North Platte, passed away October 21, 2014 after a brief illness at home, surrounded by his loving wife Mary and oldest daughter Sara.
He was born May 28, 1921 in Macon, NE to Mana (Yelken) and William Lauer. He attended various schools in Lincoln, NE and graduated from Lincoln High where he acquired the nickname ‘Hook’ for his signature basketball shot. In the 1939-1940 season alone, he scored 73 points to take Lincoln High into the championship, and was named to the All State Tournament team for that year. In 1997 he was inducted into the Lincoln High Athletic Hall of Fame for his contribution to that championship team, and for his numerous contributions to the football and basketball teams. He attended the University of Nebraska, playing both football and basketball upon graduation from Lincoln High.
In 1942, he was called to serve his country in the Army as a Surgical Tech-Sergeant in the Pacific Theater stationed in the Philippines. He served from 1942 to 1945 and survived as a POW, and was granted an honorable discharge upon his return. Upon returning from the military, he started with the Union National Life Insurance Company, in a career that spanned over 65 years. He was an insurance man in North Platte for close to 60 years.
In 1948 he married Betty Jayne Bracken, and to this union were born: Sara, Bill, and David. In 1961 he married Elizabeth Ann Deibler and to this union was born son Fred. In 1971 he married Ruth Schuetz and to this union was born daughter Kelly. In 1982 after reconnecting at their 40th High School Reunion, he married Mary Agnes Pollock later that same year.
He was an avid Cornhuskers fan, and an avid golfer. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor and friend to many.
Harvey is survived by wife Mary; his sons and daughters: Sara Zimbelman (Mike) of Lincoln; Bill of Wyoming; Dr. David Lauer ( Kelly) of Lincoln; Fred (Eda) of Florida; and Kelly Milan (Leo) of Bennington; grandchildren: Zachary and Zane Zimbelman, Joshua (Pam), Jared, Jameson and Jackson Lauer, Brendan, Kira, Erynn, MacKenna, and Emma Milan; brother Walt Lauer of Rio Rancho, NM; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by parents Mana and William; daughter Mary Katherine; wife Betty Jayne; wife Elizabeth Ann; brothers, Richard and John; and sister, MaryAnn Buckingham.
Memorials are suggested to the Church of Our Savior in North Platte and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com. Memorial services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday November 1, 2014 at the Church of Our Savior (Episcopal), where he was a member, and served in multiple capacities, for over 65 years. Reverend Jeffrey Nelson will officiate. Those wishing to do so may sign the register book from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Wednesday thru Friday at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.