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Grand Island man accused of driving through NP streets with woman hanging from vehicle

Richard Kumke
Richard Kumke

A 24-year-old Grand Island man was jailed on a felony charge after an apparent argument with a female ended with him driving through North Platte streets with the woman hanging from the side of his vehicle.

At around 12:42 a.m., on December 18, officers responded to a disturbance in the 900 block of South Bryan Avenue.

It was reported that a male and female were arguing when the male got into a pickup and drove off with the female hanging from the side.

Officers arrived in the area and followed a pickup that they believed was involved in the disturbance. When the vehicle pulled into a parking lot, a male subject, later identified as Richard Kumke, exited the vehicle and indicated that he had been involved in an argument with his girlfriend.

A short time later, the North Platte 911 Center received a call from the female, who told dispatchers that she had gotten into an argument with her boyfriend and was calling from a residence in the 1500 block of East Philip.  She stated that she had climbed onto the running board of the pickup in an attempt to prevent Kumke from driving because he had been drinking.

However, instead of stopping, Kumke allegedly continued to drive northbound on Bryan Avenue, then eastbound on Philip, with the female still clinging to the side.

At some point, the female fell off the vehicle, losing her phone.  Investigator John Deal says the woman ran to a stranger’s house and contacted the police.

According to Deal, officers investigated and found a disturbance in the snow near the intersection of Philip Avenue and Belmont Street. They also located the victim’s phone at this location and determined that this is the location where she had fallen off of the vehicle.

The victim was transported to Great Plains Health for the treatment of an injury to the back of her head.

Kumke, who reportedly failed a series of field sobriety tests, was transported to the Lincoln County Detention Center and charged with driving under the influence of liquor-2nd offense and felony leaving the scene of an accident.

The extent of the woman’s injuries is unknown.

Marcella Grace “Sally” Peters

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Marcella Grace “Sally” Peters, 85, of North Platte passed away December 17, 2016 at Great Plains Health.

Sally was born July 9, 1931 in Ashby, Nebraska to Harry and Lelia (Warner) Paige.  She graduated from Ashby High School in 1949, and was united in marriage to Richard Peters June 2, 1949.  The couple lived in various places, moving with the railroad, while living in a railroad car, before settling in the Ashby-Hyannis area where they owned and operated Dick’s Repair Shop.  To this union 3 children were born, Richard, Tammy, and Robert.

Sally moved to Alliance where she worked for Dayco until her retirement, then moved to North Platte where she spent her retirement years helping elderly people, volunteering to drive others to church and delivering meals.

She especially enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, camping, fishing, going to Hardee’s and Chinese food!

She was a member of the Riverside Baptist Church where she was very active in their ministries.

Survivors include her children, Richard (Risa) Peters of North Platte, Tammy DeVoogd, and Robert (Melody) Peters all of Alliance, NE; sisters, Hariett Bahl of North Platte, and Prudy Bills of Colorado; grandchildren, Fred (Dawn) Peters of Hershey, Becki (Gilbert) Peters of North Platte, Sandi (Devin) Ruff of Sutherland, Danielle DeVoogd of Alliance, Tara (Wil) Smith of Littleton, CO, and Christina (David) Bryant of Highlands Ranch, CO; 16 great-grandchildren; and a special friend, Sebastian Silos.

She was preceded in death by her parents; grandson, Waylon DeVoogd; and a brother, Gary Paige.

Memorials may be made to the Riverside Baptist Church and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.

Services will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 22, 2016 at the Riverside Baptist Church 1600 East 2nd, North Platte, NE with the Reverend Dwain Johnson officiating.  Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. MST at the Ashby Cemetery.  Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. with the family receiving friends 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Wednesday at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.

 

 

Eva E. Swedberg

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Eva E. Swedberg, age 86, of North Platte, went to Heaven on January 16, 2016 at Great Plains Health.  Eva was born on November 7, 1930 in North Platte, the fifth child of Ray and Hazel (Pittman) Eberly.

When growing up, Eva was her father’s helper, milking cows, doing chores, and even breaking horses. Her mother Hazel was a volunteer at the Canteen in North Platte and often took little Eva with her.  The soldiers would tell her mom about the little sisters they had at home, and loved to see Eva as she handed out apples to them.  Eva graduated with the class of 1947 from North Platte High School, and then continued her education at the Kearney State Teachers College for the 2 year teachers program from 1947-1948.  In high school, Eva had taken a class called Normal Training, which prepared her to teach in a country school.  She eventually taught the brother and sister of who would become her future husband. At a box social, a tall dark handsome man just back from WWII named Ruben bid on her lunch box.  That started a romance, and they were married on November 25, 1950 in North Platte at the Lutheran Church.  Eva taught at North 99 for four months, O’Fallons and Rosedale for one year. Ruben and Eva had five children, including Tommie J., and twins, Laverne and Lynette, all of whom died young and are buried at the feet of their grandfather, Jonas Swedberg.  Eva and Ruben built a Capp home north of North Platte on a piece of land that her parents had given them.  Eva’s work career consisted of working at Dalby’s Laundry, the Pawnee Hotel, and the North Platte Opportunity Center.

Throughout her life Eva was a dedicated community volunteer.  She volunteered taking tickets at many softball, volleyball, and basketball games.  She most recently volunteered her time at Jefferson School where her granddaughter Stevie teaches.  Eva was a 4-H leader, PTA president, and helped on the Election Board. She was an advocate for bringing Mid Plains Community College to North Platte and was a tireless volunteer during that process.  She was a lifelong learner and loved education, helping with Living History Day and the Lincoln County Historical Museum.   She loved her grandchildren and had many adventures with them.  She was especially grateful to recently attend an out of town wedding for her grandson Brady and to be present for the announcement of her granddaughter Stevie’s first baby that is due in the early summer.  Eva had a heart for people and through the years at the Buffalo Bill Manor where she tried to remember other people’s birthdays and events.  At Christmas time, she would often give each resident a Christmas card and a piece of fruit.  She had built many relationships with the residents there and will always be remembered by them.  Eva was a member of Grace Community Bible Church and above all was her love of God who gave her the strength in her life.

She is survived by her sons, Ben (Rae Jeanne) Swedberg, and Steve (Karen) Swedberg, all of North Platte; 4 grandchildren, Brock Swedberg of North Platte, Brady (Rebecca) Swedberg of Hershey, Brittni (Steven) Fleer of Ord, NE, and Stevie (Judd) Reed of North Platte; 4 great grandchildren, Sophia Swedberg, Mallorie, Mackenzie, and Kendall Fleer, and a baby Reed due in early summer.  She was preceded in death by her parents Ray and Hazel; her husband Ruben on June 24, 1985; children, Tommy J. and twins, LaVerne and Lynette; in laws, Jonas and Bertha Swedberg; great-granddaughter, Olivia Swedberg; sisters, Lois Pell, Jean Harris, and Esther Sack; and a brother, JR Eberly.

A memorial has been established to Grace Community Bible Church and online condolences can be made at www.adamsswanson.com.

Services will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 20, 2016 at the Grace Community Bible Church with the Pastor Mike Wing officiating.  Burial will be at Fort McPherson National Cemetery near Maxwell.  Visitation will be Sunday from 1-6 and Monday from 9-9.  Adams & Swanson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Tristin A. Sack

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Tristin A. Sack, 23, of Kearney, formerly of North Platte, passed away December 16, 2016 the result of an automobile accident.  She was born July 7, 1993 to Gerald “Jerry” Sack and Mary (Neuenschwander) Sack.  She graduated from North Platte High School with the class of 2012.  While in high school she qualified for state in shot put and later enjoyed weightlifting.  Tristin earned a degree in livestock management from the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis.  She worked on several ranches for Craig Phelps, Mike French, Dan and Mona Vinton.    She was currently employed as a brand inspector for the Nebraska Brand Committee.  She loved working with livestock, hunting and the outdoors.  She is survived by her father, Jerry (Justine Heidebrink) Sack; her mother, Mary Sack; her sister, Tanis Sack; her brother, Trevin Sack all of North Platte; her fiancé, Gary Rhamy of Kearney; aunts/uncles, Cindy Neuenschawander and Susan (Russ)Coon both of Mo., Sue Stoddard and Mary Lou (Art) Saathoff of North Platte, and many cousins and friends. Tristin was preceded in death by uncles Eugene Stoddard and Larry (Gail) Sack of North Platte. Online condolences may be shared at www.carpentermemorial.com.  A memorial has been established in her memory.  Cremation was chosen.  Those wishing to sign her memorial book may do so from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Mondayat Carpenter Memorial Chapel.  Services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home with Pastor Mike Wing officiating. The family request that everyone wear western wear or casual attire at the service.  Inurnment will be at Good Hope Cemetery.  Carpenter Memorial Chapel is in care of arrangements.

Betty Jean Rowland

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Betty Jean Rowland, age 92, of North Platte, NE, passed away on Saturday, December 17, 2016, at the North Platte Care Center.

Betty was born October 14, 1924, to Vernon E. and Stella Belle Ellenwood Kuhns at North Platte where she grew up. She graduated from North Platte High School in 1943 and later worked as a messenger for Western Union.

In June of 1946, Betty was united in marriage to the love of her life, Raymond Thomas Rowland. They made their home in North Platte and raised two sons. Betty worked for Dog-N-Suds and Dryen Drug before going to work for Westfield Pharmacy for 20 years.

Betty was a member of the First Evangelical Lutheran Church where she played the piano, sang in the choir and taught Sunday School. She had been an active member of AA for over 46 years, and was the oldest member in North Platte. Over the years she sponsored many individuals and helped them through the most difficult times of their lives.

Betty liked to bake and was famous for her chocolate brownies and cinnamon rolls. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandkids and taking them on trips. Betty was a kind, caring person who enjoyed helping others.

She is survived by her sons, Richard (Susan) Rowland, of Omaha, NE, and John (Sandy) Rowland, of North Platte; three grandchildren, Robert (Sheri) Rowland, Randy (Melissa) Rowland and Heather Rowland; great-grandson, Tyler Rowland; step great-grandchildren, Jessi and Jared; as well as several nieces, nephews and other family.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond; infant daughter, Mary; her parents, Vernon and Stella Kuhns; brothers, Richard and Jack Kuhns; and daughter-in-law, Mary Rowland.

Funeral Service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, December 21, 2016, at the First Evangelical Lutheran Church with Pastor Steve Berke officiating. Burial will follow in Fort McPherson National Cemetery. The casket will be closed at the church. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore, which is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may also be shared at odeanchapel.com. Memorials are to the Leukemia Foundation.

Donna Mae Mulholland

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Donna Mae Mulholland, age 84, formally of North Platte, Nebraska, passed away Monday, December 12, 2016, at Tiffany Square in Grand Island, Nebraska.

Donna was born June 17, 1932, to Edward and Lydia Schelpp in Saint Francis, Kansas. In 1948 she moved with her family to Greeley, Colorado.

In 1952, Donna was united in marriage to Glenn Mulholland in Greeley. She spent the next 20 years as an Air Force wife and raised two children, Linda and Steve. In 1970, Donna and Glenn moved to North Platte where they worked together and later owned Al’s Gun and Lock Shop. They had been married for over 60 years when Glenn passed away in 2014.

Donna was a member of the First Presbyterian Church. She enjoyed water exercise and playing cards. Donna could bring a smile to any group she was a part of.

She is survived by her children, Linda Sanders, of Grand Island and Steve (Vicki) Mulholland, of Tecumseh, Nebraska; five grandchildren, Jessica and Zachary Sanders, Michael (Sherry) Mulholland, Marissa (Mark) James and Megan Buckley; nine great-grandchildren; and other family.

Along with her husband, Glenn, Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Lydia Schlepp; two brothers and five sisters.

Cremation was chosen. Graveside Memorial Service will be 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 27, 2016, in Fort McPherson National Cemetery with Pastor Steve Nolfel officiating. The memorial book may be signed at odeanchapel.com or at the graveside. Memorials are to the First Presbyterian Church. Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore is in charge of arrangements.

North Platte Weather-December 19

forecast-graphic-december-19-2016Today
Sunny, with a high near 40. Wind chill values as low as -12. West southwest wind 5 to 9 mph.
Tonight
Partly cloudy, with a low around 16. South wind around 7 mph becoming west northwest after midnight.
Tuesday
Mostly sunny, with a high near 44. West northwest wind 5 to 8 mph becoming south southwest in the afternoon.
Tuesday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 25. South southwest wind 6 to 10 mph becoming west northwest after midnight.
Wednesday
Mostly sunny, with a high near 42. Breezy, with a northwest wind 9 to 14 mph increasing to 19 to 24 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 34 mph.
Wednesday Night
Mostly clear, with a low around 15.
Thursday
Sunny, with a high near 43.
Thursday Night
Partly cloudy, with a low around 20.
Friday
Mostly sunny, with a high near 44.
Friday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 19.
Saturday
A slight chance of snow. Partly sunny, with a high near 32.
Saturday Night
A chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 21.
Christmas Day
A chance of snow. Partly sunny, with a high near 30.

Uncertainty about Cabela’s jobs weighs on hometown economy

sidney-towerOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — All the questions about Cabela’s future in its Western Nebraska hometown after its planned merger with rival Bass Pro Shops next year are taking a toll on the local economy.

Business owners in Sidney are having a difficult time since the sale was announced this fall, and property values have plummeted because so many homes are on the market in the town of roughly 7,000.

Wendy Pemberton, who owns Della’s Cafe in Sidney says the town is on edge.

Bass Pro’s $4.5 billion deal to buy Cabela’s is expected to close sometime next year. The companies have said they plan to keep significant operations in Sidney, but it’s not clear how many of the roughly 2,000 jobs there will be lost.

 

Santa helps deliver Dad to North Platte family for holidays

good-newsNORTH PLATTE, Neb. (AP) — Santa delivered an early Christmas present when he helped surprise two young girls in North Platte by delivering their dad home for the holidays.

Jacob and Alleasha Ross decided to surprise their girls with their dad’s holiday leave with a little help from Santa. Jacob Ross is an Air Force staff sergeant who has been stationed in South Korea since May.

After 5-year-old Rylinn Ross told Santa Friday that she wanted her daddy home, he told her the elves had put something special in his sleigh. Then Jacob Ross stepped out to surprise his daughters.

Jacob Ross will be home for 28 days before returning to finish his deployment.

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