Jerry Ann Kaufman, age 76 of North Platte, NE passed away Thursday September 5, 2013 in Kearney.
Jerry was born on August 15, 1937 in North Platte to Joseph E. and Pearl (Booth) Hendersen. She graduated from North Platte High School in 1955 and married Ervin Kaufman on January 29, 1956 at the 1st Christian Church. The couple made their home in North Platte where she was the manager of the music department at W.T. Grants. After the children were in school she became manager at the Skelly Truck Stop Restaurant. The couple moved to Denver, CO where they retired and then back to North Platte in 2003. She belonged to, and was a past president of, the German Russian Club.
Jerry is survived by her husband Ervin of North Platte, NE; 2 sons Randy Kaufman of Ft. Collins, CO and Rod (Karen) Kaufman of Cedar Hill, TX; grandchildren Ashley (Jarid) Brown and Kevin (Holly) Kaufman both of Ft. Collins, CO; and great grandchildren Avery and Ellie Brown.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Memorials are suggested to the American Heart Association and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com. Cremation was chosen and those wishing to do so may sign the register book 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Monday September 9, 2013, with the family receiving friends from 6:00 to 8:00, and 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m Tuesday and Wednesday at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.

Fred John Bouzek, age 75 of North Platte, passed away September 5, 2013 at his home. Cremation was chosen and a graveside memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday September 9th at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery with full military honors. Those wishing to do so may sign the register book from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Monday before the service at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.

Carolyn Pearson, 78, of Brady, Nebraska, died September 5, 2013 at her home in Brady following a courageous battle with cancer.

Esther Carolyn (Foster) Pearson was born July 4, 1935 to Benjamin and Carrie (Hoff) Foster in Benkelman Nebraska.

Carolyn grew up on the family farm near Benkelman. She graduated from Benkelman High School in 1952. After graduation, Carolyn attended McCook Junior College and then started her teaching career.
She taught in the near-by rural schools, Cozad and North Platte. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Kearney State Teacher’s College in 1959.

On August 7, 1960, she married Willard Pearson at the United Methodist Church in Benkelman. This union was blessed with four children: Mary, Richard, Edward, and Ruth. Carolyn and Willard lived in Wild Horse Valley north of Brady, NE for over 50 years.

Carolyn was a loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Holiday dinners were a special time for Carolyn to show her love for her family by creating favorite dishes and decorated birthday cakes. For many years, Carolyn enjoyed growing large vegetable and flower gardens. She was also active with her children in their 4-H projects. Carolyn cherished being a grandmother and attended her grandchildren’s activities whenever possible. She made an embroidered baby quilt for each grandchild.

One of her favorite pastimes was reading her Bible which brought her joy and comfort. Carolyn faithfully attended church and was active teaching Sunday School, Bible School and AWANA classes. She also participated in the Women’s mission organizations.

Carolyn is survived by her husband, Willard Pearson, Brady NE; children – Mary (Douglas) Hartman, Omaha, NE; Richard (Sharon) Pearson, Brady, NE; Edward (Catherine) Pearson, Seward, NE; Ruth (Toby) White, Des Moines, IA; grandchildren – Joshua and Brooke Hartman, Trina Pearson, Aleah, Calia, and Zakary White; sister-in- law; Hildur Malm, Maxwell NE; along with several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Benjamin and Carrie Foster; sisters – Dorothea Foster and Bernice Jensen; brothers – Harry, Lloyd, Donald, Leonard Foster, and three infant brothers. She was also preceded in death by her sister-in-law Marjorie Foster; niece Carrie Gallington; nephew Leonard Malm; brother-in-laws Duane Malm and Robert Jensen.

Visitation will be held at Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel, Gothenburg, Nebraska; Monday, September 09, 2013 1:00 pm – 8:00 pm. with family present from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm.

Funeral Services will be held at Evangelical Free Church, 1721 Lake Ave, Gothenburg, NE; September 10, 2013 at 11:00 am with Pastor Robert Litzenberger officiating.

Interment will follow at 1:30 PM in Fort McPherson National Cemetery, Maxwell, Nebraska.

Memorials may be given to the Central Plains Hospice, PO Box 108, Cozad, NE 69130; , The Gideons International, PO Box 133, Gothenburg, NE 69138; Evangelical Free Church Missions.

To sign the online guest book, go to www.blasestrauser.com.

Michael Harold Hille, age 57 of North Platte, passed away September 4, 2013 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney.
Michael was born on August 24, 1956 in Freeport, IL to Harold and Mardell (Johnson) Hille. He grew up in Dayton, WY and graduated from Tongue River High School in 1974. After high school Michael received a BA in Education from Chadron State College where he was also a proud member of the football team. After college Michael married Cindy Koch-Hille on April 18, 1978. His employment career started with Swire Coco-Cola in Chadron, NE which led him to Cheyenne, WY and eventually to North Platte in 1991 where he took a job with Keenan’s Coco-Cola. While in North Platte Michael also worked for Arrowhead Distributing Co. and most recently at Bill Summer’s Ford. Approximately 4 years ago Michael had to quit working due to health reasons associated with his battle with diabetes. Michael enjoyed many outdoor activities throughout his life including hunting, fishing and ATV riding. In the most recent past, the majority of his joy in life focused around riding his ATV and spending time with his granddaughter Grace.
Michael is survived by his mother Mardell Hille of Freeport, IL; son and daughter-in-law Matthew and Katie Hille of Ames, IA; daughter and son-in-law Sarah and Derek Yendra of Kearney, NE; granddaughter Grace Marie Hille of Ames, IA; sister Sue Herdt of Minatare, NE; and niece Heather Brown of Cheyenne, WY.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents and his father Harold.
Memorials may be made in his name and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com., or mailed to his son Matthew at 4124 Harris St., Ames, IA 50014 who will then share them with the entire family. Cremation was chosen and a memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday September 7, 2013 at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home. Those wishing to do so may sign the register book Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until service time at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.

Peggy Ann Langford, age 64, passed away Tuesday, September 3, 2013 at home with her family by her side after a courageous and inspiring battle with cancer, in which she was a warrior to the end. Peggy was born August 15, 1949 in North Platte to Paul “Shorty” and Marian (Barker) Barraclough. She attended Catholic School at McDaid and St. Patrick’s and graduated from North Platte High School in 1967. On December 29, 1968 she was united in marriage to Jim Langford at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Peggy worked for Sears for a number of years before beginning a career at the North Platte Catholic Schools that lasted for over 25 years in various capacities. She had been the Strutters Dance Team coordinator since 1995, which was near and dear to her. She touched many young lives throughout her years. Peggy’s children and grandchildren were the center and loves of her life. Her family includes her husband; Jim Langford of North Platte, mother; Marian Barraclough of North Platte, children; Jason (Dawn) Langford of Grand Island, Travis (Susan) Langford of Lincoln, and Jacque Langford of Elkhorn, brothers; Jack Barraclough of North Platte and Steve (Debra) Barraclough of Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada, seven grandchildren; Joley, Addison, Landon, Maci, Jack, Cody, and Ryder, numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, her father, Paul “Shorty” Barraclough, sister-in-law Linda Harrach. Peggy’s family would like to warmly thank Dr. Vaziri and Staff at the Cancer Center for all of the wonderful care given to her, with a special thank you to Pam Harvey for helping Peg fight from the beginning through her final hours. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, Sept. 6, 2013 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Burial will be at Floral Lawns Memorial Gardens. Rosary will be 7:00 p.m. Thursday at the church. Friends may sign the register book Wednesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Carpenter Memorial Chapel, which is in charge of arrangements. Memorials are suggested to the North Platte Catholic Schools Endowment or to the Callahan Cancer Center. Online condolences maybe shared at www.carpentermemorial.com

Maxine M. Abrams, 91, passed away on August 31, 2013 at Linden Court in North Platte, NE. She was born March 6, 1922 to Stephen and Nynon (Pearson) Clifford on a ranch in McPherson County. She attended school in Tryon, graduating in 1939 from McPherson County High School. Maxine attended college at Greeley State College in Greeley, Colorado and received her B.A. Degree in Elementary Education from Kearney State College. She taught school in McPherson County for eight years and in Stapleton elementary school for twenty-one years.
Maxine married Russell Abrams on July 1, 1945, in Oberlin, Kansas and to this union were born three children, Lana Jo, Denise Ann, and Michael Russ.
She was a member of the Presbyterian Church where she served as a long time organist and director of music. She also served her church as Sunday school teacher and librarian and the Presbyterian Women’s Association as a past president and secretary.
Maxine was a charter member of the Stapleton V.F.W. Auxiliary, a member of the American Legion Auxiliary,a past Worthy Matron of Eastern Star and a past member the Twilight Twelve Extension Club.
Her hobbies included music, picture embroidery and reading.
Survivors include two daughters, Lana (Darrell) Morken of Rockwood, TN and Denise (Brent) Skinner of Menomonie, WI, one son, Michael (Debra) Abrams of Lexington, NE, four grandchildren, Kimberly (William) Devin and Courtney Curry of Charlotte, NC and Brooke Skinner-(Matt) Drawz, Minnetonka, MN and Mitchell Skinner (Ahna Minge), St. Paul, MN, two step-grandchildren, Aaron Reimers, Lincoln, NE and Andrea (Phil) Lueking, Holdrege, NE and six great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Russell, her parents, four sisters and one brother.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30AM Thursday, September 5, 2013 at Cornerstone Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Stapleton, NE. Burial will be at 1:30 PM at Fort McPherson National Cemetery near Maxwell. Visitation will be from 9:00AM to 9:00 PM Wednesday at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home and at the church prior to services.
Memorials are suggested to Cornerstone Christian Women EPC, V.F.W. Auxiliary Scholarship Fund or the American Legion Auxiliary and online condolences can be made at www.adamsswanson.com. Adams & Swanson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Raymond W. Smith, age 71 of Lemoyne, formerly of North Platte, passed away August 29, 2013 at his home at Lake Mac surrounded by his family.
Ray was born on May 16, 1942 in North Platte to Phillip and Marie (Miller) Smith. He grew up in North Platte and graduated from NPHS in 1960. He married Sharon McKnight and to this union Tory, Trina and Tami were born. He worked construction before going to work for the UPRR in 1968 as a Carman. He also became a General Chairman for TCU. On January 26, 1985 he married Tressie Brake and Marcola and Kjay were joined into the family. He enjoyed shooting pool, hunting, fishing, golfing, boating, card games and playing poker. His family was the center of his life and he believed in everybody and was always forgiving and understanding.
Ray is survived by his wife Tressie; children Tory (Gayla), Trina (Ron), Tami (Wade), Marcola and Kjay; sisters Judy (Fred) and Carol (Woody); sister and brother in law Sami and Ron Testi of Erie, PA; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents Phil and Marie Smith; brother Leroy and sister-in-law Ginny; niece Lisa; grandson Quint; mother and father-in-law Coco and Louie Brake; and sister-in-law Doni and her significant other, Tom.
A memorial has been established in his name and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com. Christian Wake Service will be 7:00 p.m. Monday September 2, 2013 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday September 3, 2013 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church with Reverend Bryan Ernst officiating. Inurnment will be at the Lemoyne Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be Saturday August 31 through Monday September 2 from noon until 6:00 p.m. at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.

Mark Shane Sautter 54, of Mullen, NE, died August 27, 2013 at Mullen, NE. Memorial Funeral Services will be Saturday August 31, 2013 at 11:00 AM CDT at the Cairo United Methodist Church with Military Honors by the United Veterans Honor Guard of Grand Island. Memorials are suggested to the Chanda Plan Foundation % 1012 Birdie Blvd., Cairo, NE 68824. Inurnment will be at a later date by the family.
Mark was born August 8, 1959 In Grand Island, NE to Thomas and Nora (Sorensen) Sautter. He grew up in Cairo, NE and received his education at Centura High School. He entered the US Army in 1978 and was honorably discharged March 17, 1986. He married Wendy Stoeger on June 8, 1985 in Cairo, NE. The couple lived in Dannebrog, NE where he was employed by Case New Holland. He retired and moved to Mullen, NE. He was a member of Cairo United Methodist Church, was on the Dannebrog Volunteer Fire Department for 25 years, 15 of which he served as Fire Chief. He was a Village Board Member for 8 years. Mark’s hobbies were hunting, golfing and visiting Casinos. Survivors include special friend Kathie Hassett, Mullen, NE, step-sons Jon (Emily) Jones, C. J. Jones and Jacob Jones, daughter Jamye Sautter and significant other Ryan Anderson, step-daughter Megan Jones, 7 grandchildren, Brothers Earl (Penny) Sautter, twin Brother Dave (Brook) Sautter, Jim and John Sautter, Sister Janice (Dan) Trerice and Carrie (Rick) Anderson. He is preceded in death by his parents Thomas Sautter and Nora (Sorensen) Swanson, step-father Dick Swanson, step-sister Cozy Keys. Mullen Funeral Home in Charge of Arrangements

Dorothy R. Folchert, age 91 of North Platte, passed away August 28, 2013.
Dorothy was born on March 12, 1922 on the family farm north of Wellfleet to Ed and Katie (Greenwood) Folchert. She attended Community Center School, a country school, through the 8th grade, then North Platte Senior High graduating with the class of 1940. She taught schools for 9 years; 1 year at North 22, 1 year at Ash Grove, 3 years at Artley School south of Maywood, and 4 years at Somerset. In 1953 she moved to North Platte and worked at the W.T. Grant Store for 22 years until the company took out bankruptcy. In 1975 she went to work for her former manager, Merl Honerman, at the Ben Franklin Store for 10 years, retiring in 1985. She joined RSVP and spent the rest of her life volunteering at the Bargain Bin, Salvation Army, Veteran’s Memorial and St. Patrick’s Church. Dorothy also worked for the famous Canteen during WWII with her parents and little brother Larry when the town of Wellfleet served. She enjoyed writing to service men who wrote to the Canteen. She received letters from service men in 29 states, Japan and England. Through the years Dorothy had befriended many elderly people and visited them in the hospitals and rest homes. In 2004 she received the President’s award for her volunteer work. One of her hobbies was photography and many have received remembrances of her snapshots.
Dorothy is survived by her special brother Larry and his wife Virginia; special nephews and nieces David and Mauretta and Bob and Junnie Folchert who checked on her in her later years; many other nephews, nieces, cousins, extended family and friends; and her special care giver and friend April Legas.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers PFC Charles “Chuck” H. Folchert who was killed in WWII in the Philippines in 1945, Edward and Freda Folchert, Frank and Dorothy Folchert; a baby brother in 1920; and great nephews Gregory and Timothy Folchert.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the North Platte Catholic School Endowment and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com. Christian Wake Services will be held at 9:30 a.m. Saturday August 31, 2013 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church with the Reverend James Golka as Celebrant. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 a.m. Inurnment will follow at Wellfleet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Friday August 30, 2013 at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements, with the family receiving friends from 3:30 until 5:30.

Lois Ann Arterburn, 90, of North Platte, NE, passed away at her home on Wednesday, August 28, 2013.

Lois was born May 27, 1923, to Franz “Frank” Claudius Christian and Marietta Hasebrook Einspahr at Holstein, NE where she grew up. She graduated from Holstein High School in 1941.

On January 8, 1945, Lois married Delbert Edmund Arterburn in North Platte where they made their home. Lois stayed at home to raise their children and enjoyed baking and cooking for others.

She is survived by her son, Wayne (Sonia) Arterburn, of North Platte; a daughter, Karen Mew, of Largo, FL; daughter-in-law, Shirley Arterburn, of North Platte; two grandchildren, Josh Arterburn, of North Platte and Jessica Arterburn, of Greeley, CO; two great-grandchildren, Kayden and Damon Arterburn, of Greeley, CO; a brother, Eldean Einspahr, of Kansas City, MO; many nieces, nephews and other family.

Lois was preceded in death by her husband, Delbert; a son, Jimmy Lee Arterburn; her parents, Frank and Marietta Einspahr; four brothers, Duane, Donald, Gerald and Eugene Einspahr; and three sisters, Eunice Goelz, Loretta Baker and Shirley Einspahr.

A graveside service will be 2:30 p.m. Friday, August 30, 2013, at Fort McPherson National Cemetery with Pastor Richard Karr officiating. The casket will not be open. Those wishing to sign the memorial book may do so at odeanchapel.com or from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday at Odean Colonial Chapel At C & Sycamore which is in charge of arrangements.