The Pony Express basically followed the Oregon Trail up to and along the Platte River. It dipped down into Colorado at Julesburg before heading up into the Nebraska Panhandle, however. The trail passed by significant land marks, such as Scotts Bluff and Chimney Rock.
The USPS Nebraska Sesquicentennial stamp will be on all the Re-Ride letters
Statehood Day in Lincoln, Nebraska, on March 1, 2017, celebrated Nebraska’s 150th birthday! The Nebraska Division of the National Pony Express Association was proud and privileged to be a big part of the day’s ceremonies.
Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts greets Mary Cone at the Statehood Celebration
24 Pony Riders carried a copy of the original 1867 statehood document, which was signed by President Andrew Johnson, to Governor Pete Ricketts. Governor Ricketts and First Lady Susanne Shore greeted the Pony Riders on the west side of the State Capitol Building at 1:15pm. The Governor asked if we had ridden all the way from St. Joe. We hadn’t. Our trailer parking/staging area was in a state-owned parking lot, located just a few blocks from the Capitol. We had processed by two’s from there, completely circling the Capitol Building, which is set on 4 square city blocks. Two City of Lincoln Police cruisers escorted the group, front and back, for safe passage.
Governor Pete Ricketts and Nebraska NPEA President Lyle Gronewold
The front pair of Pony Riders carried the United States (Dick Heinrichs) and Nebraska (Audie Taylor) Flags. The third pair back carried the yellow XP Flag (Todd Heinrichs) and the Red 150th XP Flag (Alissa Overy). The second pair was Lyle Gronewold, who rode the 1991 National Re-Ride Mochila and carried the Statehood Day Proclamation and XP print, and Mary Cone, who rode the banner behind her saddle which graced the National Capitol lawn in Washington, DC, on April 3, 2010, while on a horse behind then-NPEA President Les Bennington’s saddle. Betty Taylor rode the Nebraska 150th mochila that was specially made by the Nebraska Division for 2010. The Pony Riders were a fine and noble sight and stirred tremendous excitement in the hearts of the mostly city-dwelling crowd. The horses seemed to sense that it was a special occasion and behaved most admirably.
Pony Riders in front of the Capitol
NPEA, Nebraska Division, Lyle Gronewold of Gothenburg, presented the Governor with the proclamation. This document would be read by the Nebraska Secretary of State during the official ceremony at 2:00pm inside the Capitol building. Lyle then presented the Governor and First Lady with an official 150th XP Kohler Print from the 2010 Pony Express Sesquicentennial Celebration. He explained the significance of the print to Pony Express history. He also gave the First Couple a map of the XP Route that was printed in 2010, to also celebrate The Pony’s 150th year anniversary. Lyle shared that his daughter, Stepheanie, had artfully recreated some of the old XP station pictures that are found around the map’s border. The original station pictures were not available in a reproducible form, so these needed to be drawn by hand.
Mary Cone presents a framed Re-Ride letter to the Governor
Mary Cone, Nebraska Trail Captain from Roscoe, then presented the Governor and First Lady with a specially framed 2017 Re-Ride Letter and Envelope. The Governor commented that his son is named Roscoe and that they had once stopped and taken a picture under the highway sign! Though not carried over the 1966-mile Pony Express National Historic Trail, this framed letter became the first 2017 Re-Ride Letter to be “delivered” by the Pony Express. Mary explained the significance of the letter to the Governor and First Lady, telling of how 1000-1100 letters will be carried from St. Joe to Sacramento from June 5-15 this year. Of great interest to them was the obvious presence of the USPS Nebraska Sesquicentennial Forever Stamp, which will adorn each letter that will be carried during the Re-Ride in June.
Audie Taylor carried the Nebraska State Flag
A picture of Chimney Rock is also on the envelope, as well as a picture of the Re-Ride Pin (which will also feature Chimney Rock). The Re-Ride Pin will be in blue and gold, to complement the Nebraska Sesquicentennial Logo colors. The Re-Ride Letter is a narrative about The Great Platte River Road through Nebraska and also mentions Chimney Rock, to tie in with the 2017 special year’s theme. Both the river and consummate trail icon are pictured in the Official Nebraska Sesquicentennial Seal.
Alissa Overy carrying the Red 150th XP Flag
The Governor asked where everyone was from and shouts hailed from the Pony Riders: Blue Hill, Roca, Hebron, Endicott, Chester, Snyder, Gothenburg, Fairbury, Cozad, Steele City, Glenvil, Brady. He then thanked us warmly for participating in the special day, and departed off to the Capitol Building for the official Statehood Day Celebration Ceremony inside the Legislative Chambers.
On Statehood Day in Lincoln on March 1, 2017, some young Pony Riders rode to the Capitol instead of attending their
Lyle presents the poster to the Governor
school classes for the day. But, they were treated to a unique personal learning experience of a different sort that they will not soon forget. Mary Cone was one of those young Pony Riders 50 years ago, when Nebraska celebrated its Centennial in 1967 (long before NPEA was formed in 1978). To celebrate, a Pony Express Re-Ride was held across the state in August of that year. Many towns supplied riders from local horse clubs and 4-H groups. As a then-young 4-Her, I still remember and hold the experience dear and close to my heart.
Lyle shows the Pony Express Map and Stations to the Governor and First Lady
What a fabulous day for all of those who participated.
Thanks to everyone, and especially the support people on foot who helped with logistics, brought food, talked with the crowd and scooped poop up off the streets behind the horses! It was indeed a special day for all involved.
Danny Marten, age 77, of Aurora, formerly of Gothenburg, passed away on Monday, December 15, 2025 at Memorial Community Care.
Danny’s wishes were to be cremated. A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Monday, December 22nd at Monroe Evangelical Free Church at Phillips. Mike Brill officiating with Pastor Joe Mullarkey assisting. Visitation will be from 5 – 7 P.M. Sunday at Higby-McQuiston Mortuary in Aurora. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for future designation. Condolences may be sent to the family through the mortuary website at www.higbymortuary.com.
Danny Lee Marten, the son of Philip John and Vera Augusta (Matzke) Marten was born at Canova, South Dakota on December 27, 1947, and passed away in Aurora, Nebraska on December 15, 2025, at the age of 77.
Danny graduated from Canova High School in 1966. He received a degree in animal science from South Dakota State. Danny began his cattle career at Fall River Feedyard in Hot Springs, South Dakota, then moved onto Farr Farms in Greeley, Colorado where he met his future wife working there as a secretary.
Danny married Kathleen Dugan on October 19, 1974 at Greeley, Colorado. Danny was a feedlot manager in Wellington, Colorado; cattle buyer for Wilson Foods in Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Tama Pack in Marshalltown, Iowa, Sterling Beef in McCook, NE and National Beef also in McCook, NE and IBP/Tyson in Gothenburg, NE. Shortly before retirement they moved to an acreage in Custer County, where he loved to raise horses and teach his grandkids how to ride. They moved to Aurora to be closer to family.
Danny was a member of the National Pony Express Association and served as the Nebraska Division treasurer, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and National Rifle Assoc. He enjoyed camping and traveling in their motorhome. Danny was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels. He loved to go elk hunting in the mountains on horseback.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Sheryl Yahner; brother-in-law, Jim Dugan; in-laws, John & Elva Dugan and granddaughter, Hunter Hohm.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife Kathy of Aurora; son, Jon Marten of Defuniak Springs, Florida; daughter, Miranda (Ryan) Hohm of Aurora; 8 grandchildren, Korah (David) Carlson, Sophia, Ava, Olivia, Emma Marten, Layton, Karsten and Emmersen Hohm; 3 great-grandsons; brother-in-law, Mike (Amy) Dugan, other family members and friends.
Danny was a follower of Jesus who enjoyed his time with fellow believers in the early morning Bible studies at the Ivy. He loved his family, his Lord and had a playful infectious sense of humor and brought levity everywhere he went.
Coy William Fleming
July 28, 2004 – April 28, 2025
Coy was born on July 28, 2004, in Alliance, Nebraska to Jeff and Keele (Loomis) Fleming.
Coy is survived by his mother Keele Martinez and step father Griff Martinez; Coy’s brother Corbyn, aunt Linle and uncle Shawn, uncle Justin; cousins Shawn Teppert, Jr. and Natalie Teppert; grandparents Everett and Pam Loomis, Ed and Dee Fleming and Carol Martinez.
Coy was preceded in death by his father Jeff Fleming and grandpa Lee Martinez.
Coy’s journey was far too brief, ending on April 28, 2025, but in his short time with us, he left an indelible mark on our hearts and lives.
Coy was a vibrant soul, full of passion and energy. From a young age, he found joy in the world around him whether it was the thrill of rodeo, the camaraderie of friends, or the love of family. He was truly a product of his environment growing up surrounded by the values of God, family, and hard work. He embraced life with open arms, approaching each day as an adventure waiting to unfold.
His love for the rodeo was evident from the beginning. Coy didn’t just participate; he thrived from mutton busting as a little boy to steer wrestling and roped as a teenager, the arena was his second home. Coy cherished the time spent at Rodeo Bible Camp, where he not only honed his skills but also deepened his faith and forged lifelong friendships. Coy’s love for horses was matched only by the thrill of the competition, and whether he was racing in the Rubber Check Race, Pony Express, or branding cattle, he was always in his element. Coy was not just a cowboy; he was a true ranch hand embodying the spirit of hard work and dedication. His involvement in FFA and 4-H showcased his commitment to agriculture and community.
Coy was a proud to be an alter boy, serving his church with the same enthusiasm he brought to everything else in his life outside of the arena.
Coy was a talented athlete. He wrestled, played football and track meets with unmatched determination for the Bridgeport Bulldogs, attending football camp to perfect his skills, always pushing himself to be the best he could be. His love for sports mirrored his love for adventure; he cherished the road trips taken with friends and family, making memories that will last a lifetime.
As a fireman he loved the adrenaline rush. But due to his injury it left him impaired hoping one day things would be different.
Coy had a special connection to music, often found listening to his favorite bands and had a soft spot for classic shows like The Lone Ranger and Walker Texas Ranger. Each worn out episode reminded him of the values of courage and justice, ideals he embodied throughout his life. He was not just a friend to many, he was a brother, a son, a grandson and a mentor.
Coy had a big heart and a generous spirit, always willing to lend a hand whether it was helping a neighbor or caring for his brother, his legacy is not only in the memories we hold dear but in the lives he touched.
Coy’s final wish to be an organ donor speaks volumes about his character, even in passing he wanted to give the gift of life to others, a testament to the selflessness that defined him.
Let us remember Coy not with sadness, but with gratitude for the time we shared. Let us honor him by carrying forward the values he cherished. Faith, family, friendship, hard work, and a love for life. May we find comfort in the memories we hold and the lessons he taught us.
Coy Fleming may no longer walk among us, but his spirit will forever ride alongside us, in the whispers of the wind, in the laughter of friends, and in the hearts of all who loved him.
Cowboys, cowgirls, family and friends, we will gather Monday, May 19, 2025, at 10 a.m., at the Prairie Winds Community Center in Bridgeport to celebrate the life of a remarkable young man, Coy William Fleming. Burial will follow at the Angora Cemetery. Please wear Hawaiian or Pink shirts in memory of Coy. Friends may visit www.bridgeportmemorialchapel.com to view the obituary, share stories and condolences with the family. Bridgeport Memorial Chapel is assisting the family with services.
Coy Fleming may no longer walk among us, but his spirit will forever ride alongside us, in the whispers of the wind, in the laughter of friends, and in the hearts of all who loved him.
Rest in peace, dear friend. You will be missed but not forgotten.
WE WILL SEE YOU AGAIN. “COWBOY”
CAROL LYNN ANDERSON
November 1, 1942 – February 3, 2025
Carol Lynn Anderson, daughter of Clarence and Daisy Farver, was born November 1,
1942 in Nora, Nebraska at the Farver farm. She departed this life on February 3, 2025 at
CHI Health St. Francis Hospital in Grand Island, Nebraska.
Carol Lynn was baptized on May 6th, 1948 at the Methodist Church in Nelson.
She attended the Country School in Nora where she acquired her taste for riding horses
with her older brother Jack Farver, and her older sister Janet Larson. She then attended
Nelson High School where she stayed with her grandmother in town through the rest of her
high school career.
During her time in high school she started to date Jerry Anderson who had just returned
from Korea and was living in Oak.
They were married March 25th, 1962 in Nelson at the Methodist church. Not long after the
marriage Carol purchased her first horse. This union was blessed with three children,
daughter Gayle, son JD, and daughter Carrie. A second son Jamyn was added to the
family by adoption when he was 3 years old.
Carol started working at the Nuckolls County Courthouse in Nelson at the welfare office.
Carol moved to Deshler with Jerry when the mail route moved from Nelson to Deshler. A
few years later she applied for a job as a clerk in the Deshler Post Office, working part
time. She held a second job in the Thayer County Courthouse working with Paul Grupe for
a few years until she started working full time at the Post Office in Deshler as a clerk. In
the evenings she would drive one of the mail routes to Lincoln with her first two kids Gayle
and JD riding along with her delivering the mail.
When the horse races started up at Thayer County Downs she worked as an exercise rider
galloping horses and during race days was the Paddock Official verifying lip tattoos before
the races. Carol also worked as a sub for the Postal Service in Nelson, Shickley, and
Carleton. She later became Postmaster in Chester, working there until the Postmaster job
in Deshler opened up. She worked as Postmaster in Deshler for 10 years. She took
retirement from the Postal Service after 30 years of service and started to work more with
her horses, living her dream of breeding, showing and racing them with much success.
Carol was also a member of the National Pony Express Association Re-ride which she
joined and rode with in 1962 and then again from 1990 to present day.
Carol enjoyed spending her time with her family riding, training and showing horses, as
well as traveling to racetracks in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas to watch
her horses run. She also spent a lot of time with Jerry at local weddings giving rides to the
newlyweds in their buggy pulled by their beloved driving horse Joe, and later Penny.
Later in life Carol spent time helping raise her grandkids, working with 4-H kids, attending
school events, taking care of her horses and helping with Jerry’s goats and chickens. Carol
grew in life surviving tornadoes, fires and floods. She was very active in the church,
helping with bible studies, Awana, Bible school and church lunches. Her positive
contribution to other peoples' lives was immeasurable.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents Clarence and Daisy Farver, grandson baby
boy Knigge and her son Jamyn Anderson.
Left to cherish her memory are her husband Jerry Anderson of Deshler, daughter Gayle
and husband John Knigge of Deshler, son JD Anderson of Deshler, daughter Carrie
Anderson-Grimes of Deshler and daughter-in-law Alissa Anderson of Lincoln,
grandchildren including Abigail and her husband Timothy Burnette of Canton, North
Carolina, grandson Xander Anderson of Deshler, and Kaylan, Trevon and Jett Anderson
of Lincoln, her sister Janet and husband Leonard Larson of Lincoln, brother Jack Farver of
Hampton, Missouri, brother and sister in laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, many friends and
all of her beloved animals.
Memorials are designated to the Family's Choice.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the
Hebron Bible Church, 145 South 4th Street, Hebron, with Pastor Jeff Friesen officiating.
A Luncheon will follow the service at noon at the Thayer County Activity Center
Howard Main
1960 — 2024
Howard Brian Main, 64, of North Platte, NE, passed away November 1, 2024, at his home. He was born June 27, 1960, to Francis and Wilma Erickson Main in Sioux Falls, SD.
Howard attended Ellis District #87 elementary school in Ellis, SD. He graduated in 1978 from West Central High School in Hartford, SD. He graduated from Iowa State University with an agronomy degree. Howard worked for 30 years as a soil scientist for the US Government. Soil surveys took him to Montana, New Mexico, and Nebraska. Howard enjoyed reading, writing poetry, playing guitar, writing songs, and recording music at home. He will be remembered as a lifelong fan of the Beatles and Dylan. Howard had a passion for the Old West. He studied it, lived it, and breathed it. He participated in a 17-day trail ride from Ft. Pierre to Deadwood, SD; Custer State Park buffalo roundups; Little Big Horn Battle reenactments at Hardin, MT. Howard was an extra in western movie productions in NM. He rode his horse Scout in Pony Express Re-Rides in NE. Howard was an old west history buff especially The Battle of Little Big Horn. Howard loved hunting big game in the Snowy Mountains of MT. His love of the old west led him to build a forge and a leather workshop. Howard’s family would like to thank his many caregivers.
Howard had a great love for his horses and his dogs. In lieu of flowers please donate in his memory to your local animal shelter.
Howard is survived by siblings: Tom (Susan) Main, Chester, SD, Jan (Don) Ewoldt, Hartford, SD, Barb McHugh, Minneapolis, MN, Linda Main, Henderson, NV, Julie Main-Glaser, Sioux Falls, SD. Special friends, Angie Elg, Isle, MN, Mary Rita, Jeremey, and Adam Tiesman, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and neighbors.
Howard was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Donna Lueth, and nephew Michael McHugh.
A family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
“God, give us more summer nights together, either now or sometime of your favor, take us back to them days of old Ellis, and this time, I’ll listen closer, to what them stars tried to tell us.” HB Main
“I’ll see ya on down the line”
Mary Jane Houchin
March 22, 1927 — June 24, 2024
Mary Jane Houchin, 97, of Eddyville, Nebraska, passed away on June 24, 2024, at the Callaway District Hospital in Callaway.
She was born on March 22, 1927, to James B. Kile and Amelia C. Kile (Specht). She grew up in Eddyville, Nebraska and graduated from Eddyville High School with the class of 1945. She married Daniel W. Houchin on November 22, 1948. She devoted her life to raising her children and embracing the farming and ranching lifestyle in the Eddyville area.
Mary Jane is survived by her children, Steven Houchin and Debora (Dennis) McLaughlin; grandchildren, Michael and Jill Houchin, Tricia Houchin and Tyson Christensen, Matthew Houchin and Kristin Houchin, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, James B. Kile and Amelia C. Kile and her husband, Daniel Houchin.
A memorial book signing will take place on Friday, July 12, 2024, from 5-7 p.m. at the Eddyville Community Center in Eddyville.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at the Eddyville Community Center in Eddyville with Pastor Ryan Findley, officiating.
Burial will be held at Viola Cemetery.
Memorials are kindly suggested to the Oconto Volunteer Fire Department, Eddyville Volunteer Fire Department or to the Viola Cemetery Fund.
Timm-Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Callaway is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com
Douglas Max
June 30, 1956 — May 17, 2024
Douglas E. Max, 67, of rural Gothenburg, passed away May 17, 2024 at Gothenburg Health after battling complications of surgery following a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in April of 2023. Doug was born June 30, 1956 to Floyd “Earl” and Eunice “Jeanne” Max. The family resided in Cozad until Doug was in the 2nd grade and then they moved to Brady at that time. Doug attended Brady Public Schools graduating with the class of 1974. He excelled in football, basketball, and track receiving many accolades during his high school career. Doug went on to attend Mid Plains Community College receiving his associates degree in construction technology in 1976.
Doug married the love of his life Crystal Wilson (Crystie to him) on July 14, 1979 in Gothenburg. The couple moved to their farm home southwest of Gothenburg in January 1981 and have resided there until his passing. To this union, three children were welcomed, Amanda in 1983, Shane in 1985, and Emily in 1991.
In 1977, Doug began his long career at Central NE Public Power and Irrigation District. He operated heavy equipment for many years, and then as the supply canal superintendent, a job he thoroughly enjoyed. Doug continued to work full time for Central up to this last March, when his health left him unable to do his job.
Doug and Crys started a cow/calf operation in 1997 using 4-H bucket calves as their first cows. The herd was soon a family project.
Doug was a longtime member of Banner Church southwest of Gothenburg. He loved the Lord and served his church in many roles and on many committees. Doug loved his family and loved doing things with and for them. They were the center of his life, His greatest joys were his five grandsons.
Doug was proceeded in death by his father Earl Max, grandparents Ernest and Mary Bailey and August and Gladys Max, his mother-in-law Glenda Wilson, and his sister-in-law Lisa Wilson.
Left to cherish Doug’s memory are his loving wife of 44 years, Crys, daughters Amanda (Travis) Barkmeier of Lexington and Emily (Trent) Prather of Omaha, son, Shane (Kelsey) Max of Gothenburg. Grandsons, Kaden and Kooper Barkmeier, August, Tucker, and Quinten Max, and baby boy Prather due in June. Other survivors include Doug’s mom, Jeanne Max of Gothenburg, his brothers, Marty (Becky) Max of Minnesota, and Steve (Jill) Max of Ogallala, father-in-law Robert Wilson of Gothenburg, and brother-in-law Matt Wilson of Gothenburg. He is also survived by many nephews, nieces, cousins, and other extended family, as well as many special friends and co-workers.
Visitation will be held at Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel, Gothenburg, Nebraska; Thursday, May 23, 2024, 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm with the family present from 4:00-6:00 pm.
Funeral Services will be held at Cornerstone Bible Church, Friday, May 24, 2024 at 10:30 am with Pastor Clarence Houser officiating.
Burial will follow in the Peckham Cemetery, Gothenburg, Nebraska.
Memorials may be given to the Banner Church, 43997 East Banner Road, Gothenburg, NE 69138, My Bridge Radio or donors choice.
Zora Adela Yoder (Anderson)
1933 – 2024
Zora A Yoder was a long time member of the Pony Express, approximately 33 years- and we will miss seeing her on the trail!
Zora Adela Yoder, the youngest child of eight born to Charles Renwick Sr. and Mary Alice (Sherrard) Anderson, passed away on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at their farm near Blue Hill, NE.
Zora was born November 3, 1933 near Wilsonville, NE. She attended “Anderson” Rural School near Wilsonville, NE. Following graduation from Wilsonville High School in 1951, she attended Lincoln General School of Nursing graduating in 1952.
Chester A Yoder and Zora were married on August 9, 1952 in Pasadena, CA at her grandmother, Dora Sherrard’s, home. Into their family they welcomed Brady L. and Cheryl A. Yoder. Their family and many friends helped them celebrate their 70th anniversary in 2022. They were blessed with 71 years of marriage.
Zora worked as an office nurse in Cambridge, a nurse at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, and a part-time night nurse supervisor at the Broken Bow Community Hospital. Following her nursing career, she attended Kearney State College receiving a B.A in English and a minor in Physical Education. In 1964, Zora began teaching at Blue Hill Community Schools and taught English and Physical Education, coached the volleyball team (getting 2nd at State in 1972), and mentored students as Guidance Counselor. In 1965, she also attended summer school at the University of Guadalajara, in Mexico. Following six consecutive summers, Zora graduated from the University of Nebraska with a Master in Education and a minor in Educational Psychology. After 30 years of distinguished service, Zora retired from Blue Hill Community schools in May 1994.
Zora grew up with horses from a young age and continued her passion a barrel racer. In 1970, she started competing in the Nebraska Cowgirls Rodeo Association (NCRA), where she was awarded the year end champion in 1972, placed as the Finals winner in 1994. She also held the position of President of the NCRA for several years. Zora also won numerous buckles in the National Barrel Horses Association and rodeos. Her proudest moment was when she won the Shootout saddle at the 6th Annual Barrel Mania barrel race. Another proud moment was carrying the Olympic torch in 1992 during the Pony Express Ride.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers and sisters-in-law Charles R Jr (Johanna) Anderson, R Howard (Dorothy) Anderson, and Frank N Anderson; sisters and brothers-in-law Dora A (Donell) Sylvester, Melva B (Theodore) Anderson, Alice M (Merlyn) Babbitt and Audry A Anderson.
Survivors include her husband, Chester; her son Brady L. (Bonnie) Yoder and her daughter Cheryl A. (Kenny) Wallace; grandchildren Brian J. (Keather) Yoder, Brad D. (April) Yoder, Bruce A. (Elisha) Yoder, Benjamin A. (Alicia) Yoder and Colt R (Jessica) Wallace; great-grandchildren Elizabeth P. and Xavier N. Yoder; Logan L., Elijah and Jake J. Yoder; Anna R. and Adalynn R. Yoder; Roy S. and Terra E. Yoder and Rifle R. Wallace.
Private family graveside will be held at Fort McPherson National Cemetery, Maxwell, Nebraska at a later date. There will be no viewing or visitation as her wishes were to be cremated. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.mertenbutlermortuary.com. Merten-Butler Mortuary, Blue Hill, Nebraska is in charge of arrangements.
We are sad to announce that on September 29, 2023 we had to say goodbye to Wilbur P. Petersen of Minden, Nebraska. Leave a sympathy message to the family in the guestbook on this memorial page of Wilbur P. Petersen to show support.
He was predeceased by: his parents, Harold Petersen and Florence Petersen (Rients); his siblings, Linda Slade and Lance Petersen; and his brothers-in-law, Randy Petersen, Frank Griffith and Lee Slade.
He is survived by: his wife Nancy Mitchell; his sons, James “Jim” Petersen (Hydie Shiers) of Minden and John Petersen (Pam) of Blair; his grandchildren, Ali Holmes (Sabastien) of Blair and Evan Petersen (Karsen Winn) of Lincoln; and his siblings, Warren Petersen (Christy) of Minden, Ric Petersen (Dawn) of Boynton Beach, FL, Margaret Griffith of Neligh, Joy Sinsel (Randy) of Minden and Ada Petersen of Minden. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, extended relatives and close friends.
Message from Cathy Stevens : Bill Petersen was a friend and helper to Gene Hunt of Ft Kearny State Historical Park, a Pony Express exchange site. For many years Bill had assisted with the preparation and serving of an early breakfast for the Pony express riders along the National Historical Trail. Bill and Gene collaborated on placing miles and miles of signage along the trail in Nebraska.
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PLANT A TREE
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Robert F. Keiser
September 12, 1936 — July 25, 2023
Robert F. Keiser, 86, of Gothenburg, NE, passed away July 25, 2023 at Meadowlark Pointe in Cozad, NE.
He was born September 12, 1936 to Edwin and Gladys (Duis) Keiser in Gothenburg, NE. Robert graduated with the class of 1954.
Robert started at the young age of 17 driving a truck for Harry Wilson. He got the bug of driving and drove for Harry, James O Block, and he eventually drove with his brother Willard, buying out Harry Wilson, and combined the trucking and farming. He bought a second truck from Milford Lammers. He enjoyed trucking so much. After semi-retiring he helped out local farmers during harvest by hauling grain.
Robert married Elaine Martin on July 17,1960 and to this union three children were born, Jeff, Tim, Angie.
They loved family get togethers, going south for the winter and doing lots of camping in the summer. Robert will be missed by family and friends.
Robert also rode for the National Pony Express Association, from 1988 to 2002, for a total of 14 years of service. His son Tim rode with him several years as well. Robert also participated in the Olympic Torch Relay Ride in 1996 and served as Trail Captain for the Brady to Cozad trail section until 2002.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Elaine of Gothenburg, NE; son, Jeff (Tracey) Keiser, and their children, Jessica (Marion) Rotz and their boys, Lukas and Linkon Rotz, Johanna Keiser. Tim (Shanna) Keiser, and their children Jayde (Beau) Johnson and their children Riggs, Maggie, and Jed Johnson, TJ (Timilynn) Keiser and their children Rachel and baby “K” due in August. Daughter, Angie (Ron) Mannel and their children Shelby (Tyson) Miller and their children, Frankie and Nellie Miller, Kati Mannel and William Mannel. Brother, Willard (Laura) Keiser, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held at Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel 620 10th St, Gothenburg, Nebraska; Thursday, July 27, 2023, 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm, with family present from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm.
Services will be held at American Lutheran Church, Friday, July 28, 2023 at 2:00 pm with Doug Hjelmstad Officiating. Interment will follow in the American Lutheran Cemetery.
Memorials may be given to the family for later designation.
