Apfel Funeral Home - Kenesaw Obituaries

Welcome to Apfel Funeral Home - Kenesaw

Apfel Funeral Home has been serving the Kenesaw community and surrounding areas with compassionate care and professional service for many years. Located at 209 N Smith Avenue in Kenesaw, Nebraska, this funeral home has become a cornerstone of the community, offering comfort and assistance to families during some of their most difficult times.

Our History and Commitment

Rooted deeply in the history of Kenesaw, the staff at Apfel Funeral Home have dedicated their lives to providing a supportive and nurturing environment for those navigating the loss of a loved one. Our commitment to service is reflected in every aspect of our work, from the lovingly maintained premises to the tailored services that honor the wishes of each family we serve.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Judy K. Muller - March 30, 1945 - August 05, 2023

Departed: 08/05/2023 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview:

View Full Obituary

Patricia C. Gizinski - May 03, 1941 - May 12, 2023

Departed: 05/12/2023 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Patricia C. Gizinski, 82, of Kenesaw, Nebraska died on Friday, May 12, 2023, at Premier Estates of Kenesaw. Memorial Services will be 10 AM, Thursday, May 18, 2023, at Apfel Funeral Home in Hastings, Nebraska with Pastor Dale Phillips officiating. Burial will be at Kenesaw Cemetery in Kenesaw, Nebraska. Her family will be present for visitation from 5 PM to 7 PM on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at Apfel Funeral Home in Hastings.

Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. Apfel Funeral Home is in care of the family.

Patricia was born on May 3, 1941, in Roseland, Nebraska to Vergil and Edith (Wermeskerch) Means. She grew up in Glenvil and received her education at Glenvil High School. She was united in marriage to Raymond Arandus in 1961 at Omaha, Nebraska. The couple had three children, Tim, Terry, and Shelly. In 1991, Patricia married Ken Gizinzki in Hastings, Nebraska. She has lived in Kenesaw since 1970 and retired from the Adams County Assessor's Office in Hastings after 26 years. She is survived by her husband Ken, sons Tim Arandus of Lincoln, NE, Terry Arandus, of Hastings, NE, daughter Shelly

(Steve) Richardson of Hastings, and two grandchildren, Kiya Harpham of Lincoln, NE, and Miranda (Austin) Dunbar of Hastings.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Judie Weber, Virginia Ginter, brother, Larry Means, stepson, Steve Gizinski, infant son Roger Arandus.

View Full Obituary

Fern E. Augustin - March 15, 1928 - May 08, 2023

Departed: 05/08/2023 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Fern Esther (Stade) Augustin, 95, of Kenesaw died Monday May 8, 2023, at Mary Lanning Hospital in Hastings.

Services will be Monday May 15, 2023; 10:30am at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Kenesaw, with the Rev. Paul Duffy officiating. Burial will follow at Kenesaw Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to services. Apfel Funeral Home is in care of the family.

Fern was born March. 15, 1928, at Denman to Fred and Mary Stade. Fern attended Denman school until 10th grade and graduated from Shelton High School in 1945. She married Karl Bernhard Augustin on May 19, 1957, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Lowell. They lived in Kenesaw, attending St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, where Fern served as church bookkeeper for many years.

Survivors of the immediate family include a son and daughter-in-law, Ryan and Lori Augustin of Juniata; a daughter and son-in-law, Gina and Jeffrey Lehmann of Buckeye, AZ. Granddaughter Rita (Dominik) Valdez of Phoenix, AZ; nephews Lee (Pam) Rockefeller, of Kenesaw, David Stade of Shelton, niece Deb Stade of Grand Island, sister-in-law, Mildred Stade. Special friend and caregiver, Barb Roberts of Kenesaw and many family members and friends.

Fern is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bernhard; a brother, Leonard Stade; and sister and brother-in-law, Bernard and Dora Rockefeller.

Memorials are suggested to St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Kenesaw.

View Full Obituary

Dale M. Finnigsmier - September 24, 1929 - April 19, 2023

Departed: 04/19/2023 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Lifetime Kenesaw resident Dale Martin Finnigsmier was called home by his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. Services will be at 10:30 am on Friday, April 21, 2023 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Kenesaw with Pastor Paul Duffy

officiating.

Memorials may be given to the Kenesaw Fire Department or the Kenesaw Heritage Museum.

Dale was born on September 24, 1929, at the family farm in Kenesaw, to Henry Martin and Emma (Meyer) Finnigsmier, their 6th child. He was baptized, confirmed, and married at St Paul’s Lutheran Church.

Dale attended Kenesaw Public School 1st through 12th grade and graduated in 1949. He married the love of his life, Harriette Ernst, on June 4, 1950. Dale joined his dad on the family farm and then was drafted in the US Army. He served from August 27, 1953 to June 18, 1955. Hattie joined him during those years when she could and they had some great stories to tell. They had some rough times, burying two infants, but returned home to the family farm in Kenesaw, resumed their farming operation, and were blessed with three healthy girls, Valerie, Sally, and Ann.

Dale was a very successful farmer and loved tilling the soil, planting, watering, and most of all harvest. Harvest signaled a time of completion and some much needed rest. Together, Dale and Hattie enjoyed life and were blessed with many years together. They provided for their three girls and loved boating, camping, vacations, and just having fun. Later in life, Dale took up toy collecting and built four Model T’s. They completed 49 model T tours and made many lasting friendships along the way. Dale loved to “tinker” in his shop and continued this hobby until his move to Edgewood Vista of Hastings in October of 2021. If there was one comment Dale might make to you it would be “Do you have a hobby in mind for retirement?” He did, and his years of retirement were blessed with good health and many dear friends.

Dale’s faith, family, and friends were very important to him. His favorite bible verse is from Ephesians 2: 8-9. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and it is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast.

Dale is survived by his three daughters, Valerie (Brent) Schirmer of Kenesaw, Sally (Steve) Theesen of Castle Rock, CO, and Ann (Mark) Utter of Kenesaw, six grandchildren, Sarah (Christian) Kroos, Tim (Samantha) Schirmer, Melissa (John) Striebel, Rachel (Brian) Harris, Vincent (Libby) Utter, Ross (Mackenzie) Theesen, ten great grandchildren, Bridger, McKinnley, Lottie, Cooper, Hattie, Isabelle, Owen, Hazel, Colin, and Rhett, nieces, extended family, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Hattie, infant daughter, and infant son Tommy Dale.

View Full Obituary

Clifford "Raye" Woodman - June 08, 1934 - April 09, 2023

Departed: 04/09/2023 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Clifford Raye Woodman, 88, died on Sunday, April 9, 2023 in Kenesaw.

To honor Raye’s wishes, his body was gifted to the Nebraska Anatomical Board (UNMC). A celebration of life will be held in honor of Raye at 11 AM on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at the Shelton United Methodist Church with pastor Michelle Byerly officiating. Burial will take place in the Shelton Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be held on Friday, April 21st from 5 to 7 PM at the church. Instead of sending flowers, please make memorials out to the Shelton Public Schools FFA chapter in honor of Raye.

Raye was born on June 8, 1934 on the farm in Hall County Martin Township to Clifford R. and Odessa R. (Thomas) Woodman. He grew up in the Denman Community and received his education from Shelton Public Schools graduating with the Class of 1952. He then went on and attended the University of Nebraska for two years.

He was united in marriage to Carolyn Kroll on March 11, 1956. Following their marriage, they lived on the family farm. Raye received the Nebraska Pioneer Farm Award in 1999.

He was a member of the Shelton United Methodist Church, and served on the Shelton School Board, and as a board of director on the Southern Power District.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Carolyn; children, Doug (Cheryl) Woodman of Shelton, Denis Woodman, Ken Woodman and K.C. (Shari) Woodman all of Kenesaw; four granddaughters and their children: Carrie (Richard) Rogers and children: Wyatt, Kylie and Emily of Kenesaw, Ashley (Micah) Yeackley; children, Ella and Jack of Champaign, IL, Danielle (Adam) Burmood; children: Riley, Connor, and Jack of Lincoln, and Amy (Brent) Penny; children: Lyla and Kyler of Grand Island; brothers, Tom Woodman of Lincoln and Stephan (Margery) Woodman of Omaha; sister-in-law, Dena Woodman of Kenesaw; brother-in-law, Bill (Sharon) Kroll; and sister-in-law, Dorothy (Russ) Jensen.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Scott Woodman, sister, Patsy Waddington, brother-in-law Ronald Waddington and sister-in-law, Barbara Woodman.

View Full Obituary

Marilyn R Dittrick - August 23, 1936 - September 27, 2022

Departed: 09/27/2022 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview:

View Full Obituary

Orville Steven Crom - January 10, 1939 - June 18, 2022

Departed: 06/18/2022 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Orville Steven Crom, 83, of Kenesaw, NE died on June 18, 2022 at home surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 am on Friday, June 24, 2022 at the Juniata Community Church with Reverends Tom Murray and Richard Vader officiating. Burial will follow in the Kenesaw Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm on Thursday, June 23rd at the church. Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation.

Orville was born on January 10, 1939 in Tekamah, NE to Charles “Dorman” and Daisy Eunice (Brown) Crom. He grew up in Decatur, NE and received his education at Decatur Public Schools. He entered the United States Army on June 27, 1962 serving until he was honorably discharged on June 26, 1964. He was united in marriage to Virginia Mae Jones on July 31, 1960 in West Point, NE. After which the couple lived in West Point where Orville was employed by Cumming County Rural Public Power as a lineman. He had also lived in Tillicum, WA during his draft service and in Seward, NE where he was employed by the Seward County Rural Public Power as a foreman and later the operations superintendent. Between Cumming county and Seward county REA's Orville served over 40 years in the rural electric association. In retirement the couple made Kenesaw home.

He was a member of the Christian Motorcycle Association, Brothers of the Third Wheel, attended West Point Baptist Church and Seward Evangelical Free Church. He loved to fish, camp, spoil his grandchildren and play 10-point pitch with his family. One of his proud accomplishments was that from his humble beginnings during his time in West Point he built four houses while still working full time.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Virginia Crom; daughter, Michelle Crom; honorary daughters, Donna (Crom) Hinrickson and Robin Saatmann; granddaughter, Alandria Crom; honorary grandchildren, Joey Candelarie, Danielle Hinrickson Stratman and Sierra Hinrickson Cunningham.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Charles Crom; honorary grandchild, Derek Candelarie and nephew, Greg Saatmann.

View Full Obituary

Georgianna Klusman - February 11, 1937 - September 07, 2021

Departed: 09/07/2021 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Georgianna (Eighmy) Klusman, 84, of Kenesaw, Nebraska passed away Tuesday, September 7, 2021, at Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital. Funeral Services will be 10:00 am, Saturday, September 11, 2021, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Kenesaw, with Pastor Paul Duffy officiating. Burial will follow the service at Kenesaw Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 – 8:00 pm, Friday, September 10, 2021, at Apfel Funeral Home in Kenesaw. Memorials will be designated by family at a later date.

Georgianna was born February 11, 1937, in Heartwell, Nebraska to Frank and Freda (Johansen) Eighmy. She graduated from Minden High School in 1956. She was united in marriage to Merlin D. Klusman on September 15, 1957, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Minden, NE. After which the couple lived in the Holstein and Roseland area.

Georgianna is survived by her children, Darrell and Lois (Halte) Klusman of Holstein, NE, Dale and Diana Harrifeld of Blue Hill, NE, Russell and Shirley (Gentert) Klusman of Omaha, NE and Douglas and Kim (Porterfield) Klusman of Kenesaw, NE; Grand Children, Cody (Shonda) Klusman, Ryan (Susan) Klusman, Kade Klusman and significant other Tina Reed, Ashley Klusman and Emily Harrifeld; Great-Grand Children, Clayton, Cameron, Kaylee Klusman, Nolan Klusman and Ashlynn and Cortlen Klusman; Sisters and Brother, Marilyn Fischer of Kenesaw, NE, Charles Eighmy of Lincoln, NE and Brenda Farrow of Minden, NE; Sisters-in-law/Brothers-in-law, Janet Schardt of Columbus, NE, Carol Poppe of Omaha, NE and John Klusman of Holstein, NE; and many nieces and nephews.

View Full Obituary

Joyce Ardell (Riese) Hadenfeldt - December 01, 1936 - April 10, 2021

Departed: 04/10/2021 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Kenesaw resident, Joyce Ardell (Riese) Hadenfeldt, 84, passed away, April 10, 2021 at her home.

Services will be 2 pm Thursday, April 15, 2021 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Kenesaw with Pastor Paul Duffy officiating. Burial will be in the Kenesaw Cemetery, Kenesaw. Visitation will be Wednesday April 14, 2021 from 5 pm to 7 pm at Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw. Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw is in care of the family.

Memorials may be given to the family, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Kenesaw or the Nebraska Children’s Home.

Joyce Ardell was born December 1, 1936 in Kenesaw to Julius and Esther (Jacobitz) Riese. She was baptized on December 13, 1936 at St Paul’s Lutheran Church and confirmed June 10, 1951 at St. Paul’s Lutheran in Holstein. She grew up on a farm near Norman, NE and graduated from the Minden High School on May 19, 1955.

She was united in marriage to Gayle Hadenfeldt on June 12, 1955 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Holstein. After they were married, they lived in various places in Nebraska and settled in Kenesaw where they spent the majority of their lives. Joyce was a house wife and mother the morjority of her life and later worked as the village clerk and as a bookkeeper.

She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Kenesaw, Ladies Aid, Sunday School Teacher, and Ladies Bible Study.

Joyce enjoyed traveling and spending time at the lake home at Harlan. She was very family oriented and enjoyed hosting large family gatherings at the lake. She loved watching her birds and squirrels out her windows.

She is surived by her children, Ronda (Kim) Ehly and Conda (Mike) Quackenbush all of Kenesaw, three grandchildren, Brett (Becky) Ehly, Blake (Reba) Ehly and Philip Quackenbush all of Kenesaw, four great grandchildren, Olivia, Layne, Landyn and Layla Ehly all of Kenesaw, brother-in-law, Myron Hadenfelt and two sister-in-laws, Ellen (Bill) Nabower and Sharon Riese, special friend and caregiver, Barb Roberts and many nieces and nephews.

View Full Obituary

Billie Lee Kimiec - July 10, 1941 - January 27, 2021

Departed: 01/27/2021 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Juniata resident, Billie Lee Kmiec, 79 passed away from cancer Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital, Hastings, NE

Services will be Monday, February 1, 2021 at 2 PM at Christ Lutheran Church, near Prosser with Pastor Greg Volzke officiating. Book signing will be Sunday, January 31, 2021 from 2 PM to 6 PM at the Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw. Burial will be in the Concordia Cemetery, near Prosser. Condolences may be sent to the family from www.apfelfuneralhome.com. Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw is in care of the family.

Memorials may be given to Christ Lutheran School, near Prosser.

Billie was born July 10, 1941 to Joe and Anna (Bennefeld) Kmiec in rural, Walnut, KS. He was baptized and confirmed at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, Hepler, KS. He attended Immanuel Lutheran Church school, Hepler, KS and graduated from Girard High School in Girard, KS. He graduated from St. Johns College in Winfield, KS and Concordia University in Seward, NE. Billie taught school from 1963 to 1966 at Christ Lutheran School, near Juniata, from 1966 to 1973 he taught school and was principle at Zion Lutheran in Fairmont, OK and then from 1973 to 1974 Juniata Public Grade School in Juniata. He also had worked at Sherman Service Center and Scherbarth, both in Hastings. He married Madeline Hoffmann on May 29, 1996 at Christ Lutheran near Juniata.

He was a member of the Christ Lutheran Church, near Prosser. He is survived by his wife Madeline of Juniata, son, Jerold Kmiec of Las Vegas, NV, siblings,

Paul Kmiec, Doris (Irvin) Weber, Gene (Verna) Kmiec, and Joe A. Kmiec all of Girard, KS, Grace Pasley of Silver Lake, KS, Carolyn (Bob) Rice of Colleyvillie, TX, Sharen (Steve) Dooley of Topeka, KS, Bob (Rhonda) Kmiec of Walnut, KS and Dan (Linda) Kmiec of Colorado Springs, CO.

View Full Obituary

Elmer "Nicky" A. Necklace - September 10, 1949 - January 08, 2021

Departed: 01/08/2021 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Kenesaw resident, Elmer “Nicky” A. Necklace, passed away Friday, January 8, 2021 at Mary Lanning Memorial HealthCare, Hastings.

Memorial service will be Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 11:00 am at Apfel Funeral Home, Hastings with Pastor John Mueller officiating. Burial will be in the Kenesaw Cemetery, with military rites by the Hastings Veterans Service. Visitation will be Wednesday, January 13, 2021 from 3-7 PM at the Apfel Funeral Home, Hastings. Apfel Funeral Home, Hastings is in care of the family. Condolences may be sent to the family from www.apfelfuneralhome.com.

Memorials may be given to the Shriners Hospital.

Nicky was born September 10, 1949 to Elmer A. and Irene (Whipple) Necklace Sr. in St. Paul, MN. He graduated in 1969 from the Niobrara High School in Niobrara, NE. He then attended the McCook Jr. College for three years and the University of Nebraska, Lincoln for one year. He served in the United States Army 4th Infantry from July 27, 1972 to July 25, 1975 and retired as staff sergeant in the Nebraska National Guards in 1996. Nicky had received a Good Conduct Metal and had served in Vietnam and Iraq receiving his Nation Defense Medal with oak leaf clusters.

Elmer was a proud member of the Santee Sioux Nation of Nebraska and the Yankton Sioux Tribe of S.D. He loved to attend pow-wows and spending time with childhood friends, and relatives on the reservation.

He enjoyed all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He loved the Nebraska Huskers, movies, his horses, dogs and birds. He loved to go fishing and camping with his family. He loved eating at Perkins and giving the servers a fun hard time and they would give it to him right back. He was sure a fun-loving person.

He was a member of the Lincoln – American Legion and Eagles Aries Club #2769, in McCook.

He is survived by his wife Judy, and three daughters, Corrie Ann Necklace (Brandon Hay) of Concordia, KS, Melanie Deaton Friesen of Grand Island, NE and Melissa Ackles (Nathan)of Grand Island, NE, grandchildren, Rhiannon Necklace, Destiny Utter (Bryan Millspaugh), Jordan Rewolinski, Savannah Polen, Robert Polen, Shayla Polen, Brayden VanderBloeman, Alexis Ackles, Zachary Ackles, and Bryanna Ackles, Great grandchildren, Delaney Utter, Ryker Millspaugh, and Ava Polen, one sister, Elrene (Louie) Montanez of Denver, CO and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Godmother, Blanche Zembower, Jackie Zembower-Schutte and Lynda Joy Clark. Nephew, Bob Honea, Nashville, TN and very close friends of the family, Rick and Terri Deaton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Billy Dunkaburger, and sister, Audrey Warnet.

View Full Obituary

Douglas G. Nienhueser - December 06, 1957 - December 31, 2020

Departed: 12/31/2020 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Rural Juniata resident Douglas G. Nienhueser, 63, passed away from cancer, Thursday, December 31, 2020 at his home.

Services will be Saturday, January 9, 2021 at 10:30 am at the Zion Wanda Lutheran Church, Juniata with Pastor Lon Landsmann officiating. Burial will be in the Zion Wanda Lutheran Churchyard Cemetery. Book signing will be Friday, January 8, 2021 from 2 pm to 7 pm at the Apfel Funeral Home, Hastings. Apfel Funeral Home, Hastings is in care of the family. Condolences may be sent to the family from www.apfelfuneralhome.com. The service will be live streamed from the Apfel Funeral Home Facebook page.

Memorials may be given to the Hastings Kiwanis (Hearts and Hands Against Hunger) or the Zion Wanda Lutheran Church – Cemetery Fund or General Fund.

Doug was born December 6, 1957 to Eugene and Marilyn (Schukei) Nienhueser in Hastings. He graduated from Adam Central High School in 1976 and then received his Associates Degree in Horticulture in 1979 from Central Community College Hastings Campus. Doug worked at the Flower Cart in Kenesaw for 6 years, then was the manager for Earl May Garden Center in Columbus and Hastings for 26 years. He worked for Jackson-Wilson Funeral Home from 2011 to 2013 and Apfel Funeral Home, Hastings, Harvard and Kenesaw from 2013 to present as a funeral assistant. Doug was the owner of Southwest Winds Floral and Gifts in Kenesaw from 2011 to 2020.

Doug was a member of the Zion Wanda Lutheran Church, Juniata, Hastings Kiwanis and Hastings Chamber of Commerce Agriculture Committee. He was also a 4-H Leader and was on the 4-H Council.

He is survived by one sister, Pamela (Rick) Henderson of Kearney, two brothers, Darrin (Karen) Nienhueser of Juniata and Noel (Joan) Nienhueser of Juniata, five nephews, William Henderson, Jacob (Megan) Nienhueser, Joshua Nienhueser, Jonathan Nienhueser, and Jaden Nienhueser, two nieces, Desirae Nienhueser, and Melinda Nienhueser and family and friends.

View Full Obituary

Merrie Kay Stade - January 25, 1945 - December 29, 2020

Departed: 12/29/2020 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Former Kenesaw resident, Merrie “Kay” Stade, 75, passed away peacefully Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at her home in Gretna, NE.

Visitation will be Sunday, January 3, 2021 from 4 pm to 7 pm with family present at the Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw. A private family service will be held Monday, January 4, 2021 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Lowell, NE with Pastor Paul Duffy officiating. Burial will be in the St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery, Lowell. Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw is in care of the family. Condolences may be sent to the family from www.apfelfuneralhome.com. Masks will be required at the visitation and the service.

The service for Merrie will be LIVE on Facebook starting at 10:15 am, Monday on the Apfel Funeral Home facebook site.

View Full Obituary

Georgia June Osler - February 24, 1929 - December 12, 2020

Departed: 12/12/2020 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Georgia June Osler, 91, left this world to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on December 12, 2020. She was born February 24, 1929 in Kenesaw, Nebraska, to Reinhold and Margaret (Dudden) Hinz. She graduated from Kenesaw High School in 1947 and married Leonard Osler on June 12, 1948. They farmed and had five sons, Alvin, Douglas, Kenneth, David and Bruce.

Georgia was a loving and caring wife, mother and grandmother, and was integral in helping to grow the farm. Faith, Family, and Service were her priorities throughout her life. As a child and teenager, she was both baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church — Missouri Synod. Prior to marriage, she worked at a local restaurant, as an operator on the switchboard, and completed 1 year of normal schoolteacher training after high school. Their family attended the United Methodist Church in Kenesaw where she served in the following capacities: church board, women’s circle club, organized Bible school in the summer, and helped with serving many lunches for potlucks, funerals, weddings and other special events. Outside of church, she was part of the county extension club, and helped with local, state, and national elections.

She was active in canning and freezing fruits and vegetables, cooking many delicious meals, doing multitudes of laundry and unselfishly assisting her husband and sons in numerous chores, tasks, and activities. She was competitive and enjoyed playing various card and board games with family and friends, adults and children alike. She enjoyed traveling with her family, and later in life, her husband, and with friends. Reading was her favorite hobby and she would follow Nebraska football. One of her passions that brought her joy was having cats, and cats outdoors. At one time, she raised Siamese cats. She encouraged education, and her boys have 8 college degrees between them.

Georgia was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years; her parents; sister and husband, Ramona and Harvey Hofman; son Douglas Osler and grandson Luke Osler; her sister-in-laws and their husbands, Lillian and Don Baumann and Neta and Charles Westing; and nephew Walter Baumann.

Family members left to cherish her memory include: Alvin & Dianne Osler, Marilyn (Osler) Wagner, Kenneth & Kris Osler, David Osler, and Bruce & Heather Osler; 8 grandchildren and spouses; 12 great-grandchildren; and nieces, nephews, cousins and other family and friends.

Special thanks to the following who helped our mother: David Osler, Kay & Dale Sidders, Mary Ramsey, Catie Blessin, Dan Fisher, Rachel Payne, Kenesaw Volunteer Fire Department, and family, neighbors, and friends that stopped by to visit.

Visitation will be on Sunday, December 20, from 4 pm to 6 pm at the Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw with family present. Graveside services will be in the Kenesaw Cemetery on Monday, December 21, at 10 a.m. A memorial service will follow the burial at 11 am at the Juniata Methodist Church with Pastor Kathy Uldrich officiating. Mask will be mandatory at the church. Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw is in care of the family. Condolences may be sent to the family from www.apfelfuneralhome.com.

View Full Obituary

Larry James Snell - January 02, 1945 - November 13, 2020

Departed: 11/13/2020 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Kenesaw resident, Larry J. Snell, 75, passed away Friday, November 13, 2020 at Mary Lanning HealthCare in Hastings, Nebraska. It was Larry’s wishes to be cremated and there will be no visitation. Private family burial will be at a later date at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery. Apfel Funeral Home of Hastings is in care of the family. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.apfelfuneralhome.com

Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association or the donor’s choice.

Larry was born January 2, 1945 on a farm north of Phillipsburg, Kansas to Leonard and Helen (Faubian) Snell. He attended country school in Phillipsburg until the family moved to Guide Rock, Nebraska. He graduated from Guide Rock High School in 1963. Larry attended Universal Trade School in Omaha for two years until being drafted into the Army in 1965. He spent 14 months in Viet Nam before being discharged in 1967.

Larry moved to Hastings when he was discharged and went to work for Hastings Irrigation. In 1969 Larry started working for then Kansas-Nebraska Natural Gas Company on the maintenance crew. K N sent Larry to Hastings Central Community College for pipeline welding and became the college’s first pipeline welding student. He then became a certified pipeline welder and later a crew chief. Larry worked for K N 25 years before his heart condition forced him to go on disability. Larry married Sandy Smith on May 24, 1969 in Hastings at the Grace United Methodist Church. They moved to Kenesaw in November 1969.

Larry was an avid camper and for years spent many weeks in the summer as a campground host at Niobrara State Park. In 2014 Larry was presented the Friend of the Trail Award from the Oregon-California Trails Association for his efforts in preserving and maintaining the Susan Haile grave near Kenesaw. On March 15, 2020 he received a 50-year Certificate of Continuous Membership award from the American Legion Post 268 of Kenesaw. Larry loved going to his grandchildren’s activities and rarely missed any of their events.

He is survived by his wife, Sandy, children Corey Snell and life partner LaDawna Richards of Gibbon and Amy (John) Walker of Johnson Lake, grandchildren Tanner Snell and significant other Lauren Kolb of Gibbon, Bradyn Snell and fiancé Myah Sloan of Omaha and Ellie Snell of Kearney; great-grandson, Bowdey Snell of Gibbon; sister Wanda Reimers of Grand Island, brother in law Robert GeBauer of Kenesaw and numerous nieces and nephews.

View Full Obituary

John Francis Martin - March 18, 1927 - October 25, 2020

Departed: 10/25/2020 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: John Francis Martin, 93, of Kenesaw died Sunday, Oct. 25, 2020, at the Central Nebraska Veterans Home in Kearney.

Memorial service will be, Friday March 19, 2021 at 10 am the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Kenesaw with Father Adam Sughrowe officiating. There will be no visitation. Fond memories of John can be sent to the family and will be shared at his memorial service at that time. Please send those to Lila Gamble, 3355 N. Shiloh Ave., Kenesaw, NE 68956. Apfel Funeral Home of Kenesaw is in charge of arrangements.

John was born March 18, 1927, to Walter and Anna (McCormick) Martin in Kenesaw. He graduated from Kenesaw High School in 1944. He served in the United States Army from March 1951 to March 1953 during the Korean conflict. John had lived and farmed in Kenesaw all his life.

John was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Kenesaw and the VFW and Eagles Aries 592, both in Hastings. He enjoyed working on his farm.

View Full Obituary

Orville Arthur Wiese - February 26, 1950 - August 25, 2020

Departed: 08/25/2020 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Kenesaw resident, Orville Arthur Wiese, 70 passed away Tuesday, August 25, 2020 at his home.

Services will be Friday, August 28, 2020 at 11 am at the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Kenesaw with Pastor Paul Duffy officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, August 27, 2020 from 5 pm to 7 pm, with family present at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Kenesaw. A second service will be held Monday, August 31, 2020 at 10 am at the Rexwinkle Funeral Home in Le Mars, IA. Burial will be Monday, August 31, 2020 at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Sioux City, IA following the service. Condolences may be sent to the family from www.apfelfuneralhome.com. Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw is in care of the family.

Memorials may be given to the family.

Orville was born February 26, 1950 to Howard Orville and Bertha Lucile (Wynia) Wiese in Le Mars, IA. He graduated from Le Mars, IA High School in 1969. He married Kathleen Woitaszewski Wagoner on June 18, 1988 in Hastings, NE. He worked at Shafts John Deere in IA, Western Land Roller in Hastings, Ag-tronic Inc, Coleman Powermate, Haven Home, Double O Trucking and retiring from Gottsch Feedyards.

Orville was a member of the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Kenesaw. His greatest love was his wife Kathy, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He loved to build, his last project he completed was building his wife a church in their yard. His hobbies were, tractor collecting, classic cars, 4 wheelers, camping, bowling, hunting, horses and storytelling. He is survived by his wife Kathy, 8 children, Amanda, Diego, Angelo, Esperanza, JR and Eva Wiese all of Kenesaw, Lisa Wise and significant other, Bryan Noll of Sioux City, IA and Robert (Karen) Wiese of Brunsville, IA, 3 step-children, Tami (Dave) Spiehs of Cairo, NE

Chad (Jessie) Wagoner and Jason (Jaci) Wagoner, all of Kenesaw, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and many friends that grew to be family.

View Full Obituary

Robert Ray Mack - April 28, 1921 - February 06, 2020

Departed: 02/06/2020 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Former Kenesaw resident, Robert R. Mack, 98, passed away Thursday, February 6, 2020 at the Sandhills Care Center, Ainsworth, NE.

Services will be Thursday, February 13th, 2020 at 10:30 am at the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Kenesaw with Pastor Paul Duffy officiating. Burial will be in the Kenesaw Cemetery, Kenesaw with military rites by the Hastings Veterans Assoc. Visitation will be Wednesday, February 12, 2020 from 5 pm to 7 pm with family present at the Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw. Condolences may be sent to the family from www.apfelfuneralhome.com. Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw is in care of the family.

Memorials may be given to the Kenesaw American Legion.

Robert was born April 28, 1921 to Ray and Esta (Preston) Mack in Kenesaw. He was very small at birth and was wrapped in towels, put in a shoe box and placed in the oven to keep him warm. Starting out so small no one would have imagined he would enjoy robust health all his life and live to be 98. He attended school in Kenesaw and graduated in 1940 from the Kenesaw High School. His father passed away when Robert was a teenager so to help support the family, he hauled coal on Saturdays during the school year and delivered ice in the summertime. Robert married Ruth Louise Steiner on April 24, 1942. To this union were born two daughters, Rita and Roanne.

Robert served in the United States Army from August 3, 1942 to November 3, 1945. Ruth was able to go with him as long as he were stationed stateside. They lived in San Diego, Riverside CA, Camp Pickett, Virginia and Fort Dix, NJ. He was shipped overseas on “The Queen Mary” and served during the European Theater. His job was to drive a tractor pulling a 90 mm anti-aircraft gun.

Upon returning to Kenesaw Robert worked various jobs, hauling bricks, owning a soda fountain, working on the railroad, working as a mechanic and was part owner of a well drilling business. He moved his family to a farm near Heartwell where they farmed until he retired in 1990.

Robert enjoyed mechanics, farming and yard work.

He is survived by his two daughters, Rita (Roland) Paddock of Ainsworth, NE and Roanne Mack of Lincoln, NE, two grandchildren, Andrew (Christy) Paddock of Ainsworth, NE and Amy Jo (Robert) Gillam of Independence, MO and four great grandchildren, Shylo and Emmett Paddock and Alyssa and Alex Gillam.

View Full Obituary

Steven Frank Jackson - November 18, 1952 - October 10, 2019

Departed: 10/10/2019 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Steven Frank Jackson passed away in the early morning hours of Thursday, October 10, 2019, in Hastings, NE, just over a month from his 67th birthday.

He is survived by his son Justin of Austin, Texas; his daughters Jessica (Chad) Wagoner of Kenesaw and Shannon (Andrew) Jackson of Portland, Oregon; his grandson Murphy Yolland; and his siblings Robert, Terry and Deanna. He is also survived by his dog Chance.

Steve’s parents, brother Wayne (Jack) and brother David Jackson preceded him in death.

Steve was born in Hastings in 1952 to Wayne and Dorothy (Burgeson) Jackson. He graduated from Kenesaw High School and worked for UPS for 30 years. Steve will always be remembered for his love for his family, friends, his sense of humor and his love of the outdoors.

The family would like to thank the staff at Morrison Cancer Center and Mary Lanning Hospital for their kind and compassionate care during Steve’s illness.

View Full Obituary

Dennis "Denny" Lee Burr - May 16, 1939 - October 01, 2019

Departed: 10/01/2019 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Rural Juniata resident, Dennis “Denny” Lee Burr, 80, passed away, Tuesday, October 1, 2019 at his home.

Memorial services will be Friday, October 4, 2019 at 10:30 am at Christ Lutheran Church in rural Juniata. Burial will be in the Kenesaw Cemetery, Kenesaw with Pastor Greg Volzke officiating. Book signing with family present will be Thursday, October 3, 2019 from 5 pm to 7 pm at the Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw. Condolences may be sent to the family from www.apfelfuneralhome.com. Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw is in care of the family.

Memorials may be given to the Lutheran Hour, Orphan Grain Train or the Christ Lutheran Church, Juniata.

Denny was born May 16, 1939 to Richard and Leda (Hinrikus) Burr in Hastings. He was baptized on June 14, 1939 and confirmed in 1953. He grew up on a farm outside of Juniata. He attended grade school at District #29 and Christ Lutheran and graduated from Kenesaw High School in 1957. He served in the United States Army from October 7, 1957 to July 6, 1959 deployed in the pentagon and then he served in the Army Reserves. He married Charlotte Uden on November 19, 1960 at the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Kenesaw. Denny was a farmer all his life in rural Juniata raising cattle. He was County Supervisor for Adams County from 1976 to 1984 and was also on the Kenesaw School Board.

He was a member of the Christ Lutheran Church in Juniata. Denny enjoyed his horses Star and Barboy. He is survived by his wife Charlotte of Juniata, 2 daughters, Melanie (Arlen) Gangwish of Shelton and Marcy Jacobsen of Omaha, and one son, Mark (Marcy) Burr of Juniata, 11 grandchildren, Jason (Bridgette) Kirkover Megan (Mitch) Ebner Jeff Gangwish Amber Kirkover Joseph (Liz) Gangwish Jena (Levi) Ochsner Whitney (Bo) Morgan Kelsey(Jamie) Brisbin Justin (Jamie) Burr Gabrielle Jacobsen And Caleb (Kristina) Jacobsen 1 brother, David (Janet) Burr 2 sisters, Joan Bockstadter and Linda Wadman And 3 sisters-in-law, DeAnn Burr, Rosie (Leonard) Schroeder and Alice (Mike) Goodman 3 great granddaughters and 12 great grandsons

View Full Obituary

Jaquelyn J Rowe - March 01, 1934 - July 25, 2019

Departed: 07/25/2019 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Sun City, AZ resident, Jaquelyn J. Rowe, 85, passed away July 25, 2019 in Sun City, AZ.

Graveside service will be Friday, August 2, 2019 at 10 AM at the Kenesaw Cemetery, Kenesaw with Rev. Berke Landrum officiating. There will be no visitation. Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw is in care of the family. Condolences may be sent to the family from www.apfelfuneralhome.com.

Memorials may be given to the family.

Jaquelyn was born March 1, 1934 to Carroll (Duane) and Maxine (Lippincot) Parker in Hastings, NE. She graduated from the Kearney High School. She married Charles R. Rowe in 1951 in Alma, NE. Jaquelyn was an animal care giver and showed and trained dogs worldwide until 2003.

She is survived by her husband Charles of Sun City, AZ, two sons, Dirk (Donna) Rowe of Huntington Beach, CA and Tim Rowe of San Diego, CA, two granddaughters, and four great grandchildren.

View Full Obituary

Theodor "Ted" Augustin - April 21, 1927 - May 15, 2019

Departed: 05/15/2019 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Kenesaw resident, Theodor “Ted” Augustin, 92, passed away Wednesday, May 15, 2019 at the Lakeside Hospital, Omaha.

Services will be Monday, May 20, 2019 at 11:00AM at the Christ Lutheran Church, rural Juniata with Reverend Greg Volzke officiating. Burial will be at the Concordia Cemetery, rural Juniata. Visitation will be Sunday, May 19, 2019 at the Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw from 2-4PM. Condolences may be sent to the family from www.apfelfuneralhome.com. Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw is in care of the family.

The family requests that memorials to go to Christ Lutheran Church or Christ Lutheran School; In Lieu of flowers.

Ted was born to George and Minna (Kuehn) Augustin on April 21, 1927 in Kenesaw, Nebraska. He graduated from Kenesaw High School in 1945. Ted married Evelyn Plautz on February 22, 1953. Evelyn passed away September 13, 2006. He farmed in the Kenesaw area until he retired in 1992.

Ted enjoyed crossword puzzles, weed control, telling stories and gardening.

He is survived by daughter, Kathryn Shurigar, Oklahoma City, OK; son, Bradley (Mary) Augustin, daughter Sandra (Bruce) Mack both of Kenesaw. Granchildren; Amy Henson, Jennifer (Dustin) Struss, Abigail Schley, Eric (Christa) Augustin, Trevor Augustin, Natalie Augustin, Kevin (Lacey) Mack, Sarah Mack, Kelli Mack, 11 Great grandchildren, one Sister-In Law Fern Augustin.

View Full Obituary

C.J.D. "Dick" Looye - March 20, 1926 - May 12, 2019

Departed: 05/12/2019 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Hastings resident, Cornelis Johannes Dirk “Dick” Looye, 93, passed away, Sunday, May 12, 2019 at the Kensington, Hastings, NE.

Services will be Wednesday, May 15, 2019 at 10 am at the Christ Lutheran Church, Juniata with Pastor Greg Volske officiating. Burial will be in the Concordia Cemetery, Juniata. Visitation will be Tuesday, May 14, 2019 from 4 pm to 7 pm with the family present at the Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw. Condolences may be sent to the family from www.apfelfuneralhome.com. Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw is in care of the family.

Memorials may be given to Christ Lutheran School, Juniata.

Dick was born March 20, 1926, to Willem Marinus and Johanna (van Tol) Looye in Loosdeune, The Hague, Netherlands. He attended school and trade school in the Netherlands. He was a Seargent in the Dutch Army. He was naturalized as an American citizen June 14, 1965. He married Janiece Katzberg on March 12, 1977 at Christ Lutheran, Juniata, she passed away December 3, 2001. He owned Dick Looye Construction, and was a building contractor, retiring in 1991.

He enjoyed woodworking and yard work. He is survived by one son, Willem “Bill” (Linda) Looye of Lincoln, three daughters, Elisabeth “Elsje” Ground of Estes Park, CO, Johanna Looye of Cincinnati, Ohio and Pauline (Terry) Jones of Lenoir City, TN, six grandchildren

Erica Niver, Christopher Looye, Sara Beth (Chuck) Hammond, Amy (Daniel) Leaming, Wendi Ground and LeighAnna Jones and six great grandchildren, brothers and sisters in law, Ron (Evelyn) Katzberg, Neal (Gloria) Katzberg, Darrel (Paula) Katzberg, Jerald Katzberg, Bev Kral and one sister, Wilhelmina van den Berg.

View Full Obituary

Charles D. Westing - March 13, 1925 - April 18, 2019

Departed: 04/18/2019 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Rural Prosser resident, Charles D. Westing, 94, passed away, Thursday, April 18, 2019 at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital, Lincoln, NE.

Services will be at 11 am, Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at the United Methodist Church, Kenesaw with Rev. Dr. Lee Wigert officiating. Burial will be in the Kenesaw Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday, April 22, 2019 from 5 PM to 8 PM with family present from 6 PM to 8 PM at the Apfel Funeral Home, Hastings. Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw is in care of the family. Condolences may be sent to the family from www.apfelfuneralhome.com.

Memorials may be given to the Kenesaw United Methodist Church or the YMCA.

Charles was born March 13, 1925 to Glenn and Sadie (Lippincott) Westing in rural Kenesaw. He attended school in Kenesaw and Shiloh, a rural school and graduated from Kenesaw in 1943. He enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps, Nov 2, 1943 and took his basic training at Jefferson Barracks, MO. He served in the African Middle East Theater stationed in Cairo, Egypt. He served 32 months. He returned to the farm near Denman for two years. Charles married Waunetta J. Osler at the Kenesaw United Methodist Church, June 6, 1948. They resided on a farm in Buffalo County, where he farmed for 4 years. They then moved in 1952 to their farm near Prosser where he farmed, raised sheep and cattle and at the time of his death he still resided there.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Kenesaw where he was a member of the choir, Methodist Men and the lay leader and ad council. Charles helped organize the 4-H Blue Devils Livestock Club in Admas County in 1956 and was one of the leaders for 16 years. He was a member of the Nebraska Sheep Council and Chairman of the Predator Committee. He was on the Board of Directors of the Midwest Wool Growers at Hutchinson, KS. He was active in the YMCA until declining health.

He is survived by his son, Rev. Duane (Linda) Westing of Pawnee City, NE and daughter, Nancy (Don) Wellensiek of Kenesaw. Grandchildren Lance (Charlotte) Westing of Cordova, Alaska Jill (Jess) Collicott of Omaha, NE Julie (Jonathon) Adams of Denver, CO And Kelli (Stephen) Foreman of Kodiak, Alaska, two step grandchildren, Annie (Zachariah Bryan) and Rachel Valenziano. and ten great grandchildren, Makenna, Liam and Regan Collicott, Greyson, Landry and Fletcher Foreman. J.J., and Melody Joy Adams and Sierra and Drake Westing

View Full Obituary

Eugene A. (Gene) Nienhueser - April 12, 1928 - April 17, 2019

Departed: 04/17/2019 (Kenesaw)

Obituary Preview: Former Juniata resident and current Hastings resident, Eugene (Gene) A. Nienhueser, 91, passed away Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at Mary Lanning Memorial HealthCare, Hastings.

Services will be Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at 10:30 am at the Wanda Zion Lutheran Church, near Juniata, NE with Rev. Lon Landsmann officiating. Burial will be in the Wanda Zion Lutheran Churchyard Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday, April 22, 2019 from 4 pm to 7 pm at the Apfel Funeral Home, Hastings, NE. Apfel Funeral Home, Kenesaw is in care of the family. Condolences may be sent to the family from www.apfelfuneralhome.com.

View Full Obituary

12

Services Offered by Apfel Funeral Home

Understanding that each life is unique, Apfel Funeral Home offers a variety of funeral services designed to celebrate individual lives. From traditional funeral services to more contemporary celebrations, the professional team at Apfel is ready to cater to the specific needs and customs of our clients. This includes, but is not limited to, traditional funerals, memorial services, cremation services, and pre-planning options.

The Apfel Funeral Home Facilities

The facilities at 209 N Smith Avenue are designed to create a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere for families and their guests. With visitation rooms that offer a serene environment for reflection, to the chapel where services can be held, every detail has been considered to ensure a respectful and comforting experience for all.

Personalized Care and Support

At Apfel Funeral Home, personal care goes beyond the services themselves. The staff provides emotional support and guidance through every step of the process, including assistance with funeral arrangements, help with paperwork and legal requirements, and support with grief resources. Our aim is to ease the burden during life's most challenging transitions.

Pre-Planning Services

For those looking to make arrangements in advance, Apfel Funeral Home offers comprehensive pre-planning services. This thoughtful preparation allows individuals to express their own wishes for their final farewell, alleviates the decision-making pressure on loved ones, and can provide financial benefits. Our knowledgeable staff can guide you through every aspect of pre-planning.

A Community-Focused Approach

True to the small-town values of Kenesaw, Apfel Funeral Home prides itself on being an integral part of the local community. We not only help families during times of loss but also participate in community events, support local organizations, and engage with residents in meaningful ways. We believe in building lasting relationships and providing a pillar of support to the Kenesaw area and its people.

Honoring the Legacy of Loved Ones

Every service at Apfel Funeral Home is carried out with the utmost respect for the deceased and their legacy. Our staff is adept at capturing the essence of a person's life and memorializing it in a way that resonates with family and friends. Whether through traditional means or unique personal touches, we are here to help commemorate lives in a manner that truly reflects each individual's life story.

Contact Information and Accessibility

For those in need of funeral services, pre-planning advice, or simply have questions about our offerings, Apfel Funeral Home is available to provide assistance. We understand that questions often arise outside of regular hours, and our dedicated staff can be reached for support when you need it most. The accessibility of our services and our readiness to help in times of need are part of what makes us a trusted partner in the Kenesaw community.

Closing Thoughts

At Apfel Funeral Home, we recognize that dealing with the death of a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences life has to offer. Our entire team is devoted to providing the understanding, care, and professionalism necessary to guide you through this time. We are committed to honoring your loved one's memory with services that are as unique and meaningful as the life they lived. When choosing Apfel Funeral Home, you can trust that you and your family will be handled with empathy, dignity, and respect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a notice of someone's death, usually published in a newspaper or online, which often includes a brief biography and information about the funeral services. Its nature is both to inform the community of the loss and to honor the life of the deceased.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a simple and straightforward announcement of someone’s passing, often including the date of death, survivor details, and funeral service information if applicable. An obituary, by contrast, provides a more detailed biography of the deceased, recounting achievements, personal qualities, and significant life events.

Who writes obituaries?

Obituaries are typically written by family members or close friends, though sometimes funeral home staff or professional writers may assist in crafting the content. In the case of notable figures, journalists often write obituaries in advance of their passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a method of acknowledging someone's death, celebrating their life, informing the community of their passing, and inviting people to participate in any associated memorial events. They also stand as historical records for family members, genealogists, and researchers.

What kind of information is included in an obituary?

An obituary typically includes the full name of the deceased, dates of birth and death, a brief summary of their life story, family details, educational and career highlights, personal interests, achievements, funeral or memorial service details, and sometimes a photo.

How long is a typical obituary?

The length of an obituary can vary greatly, from a short notice of a few sentences to a detailed account that spans several paragraphs. It often depends on the preferences of the family, the life story of the deceased, and the policies or cost considerations of the publication where it will appear.

Where are obituaries published?

Obituaries are commonly published in local newspapers, on funeral home websites, and on dedicated obituary platforms online. In some cases, national newspapers may publish obituaries for prominent figures.

Is there a standard format for writing an obituary?

While there is no one-size-fits-all format for an obituary, many follow a common structure that includes an announcement of death, biographical sketch, surviving family members, details about the funeral or memorial services, and any special messages or acknowledgments.

How can I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

To submit an obituary to a newspaper, contact the paper's obituary department for submission guidelines, fees, and deadlines. Obituaries can often be submitted online, via email, or in person. Always review your submission carefully, as changes can be difficult to make once printed.

Are obituaries free to publish?

While some publications may offer free death notices, most charge a fee for obituary placements. The price can vary depending on the length of the obituary, any included images, and whether the obituary is to be published in print, online, or both.

What should I do if I find a factual error in an obituary?

If you find a factual error in an obituary, promptly contact the publication or website where it appeared. Corrections may be possible, particularly if the error relates to key details like dates, names, or event information.

Can an obituary be updated after being published?

Once an obituary is published in print, it cannot typically be updated. However, online obituaries may be updated or corrected if necessary. Contact the publication or website directly to discuss possible updates.

Are online obituaries becoming more popular than print obituaries?

Online obituaries are becoming increasingly popular due to their wider accessibility, potential for interactivity, and cost-effectiveness. They can be easily shared on social media, allowing for a broader announcement of someone's passing.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to write your own obituary. This can be a way to share your life story in your own words and ensure that the details and memories you value most are highlighted.

Is a photo necessary in an obituary?

A photo is not necessary, but it can help readers connect more personally with the obituary. It's a chance to memorialize the individual visually and can be especially comforting to those who may not have seen the person in recent years.

What if there are no known relatives of the deceased?

If no relatives are known, an obituary can be written by close friends, caregivers, or even community members. In such cases, it may focus more on the deceased's life story and impact on others rather than personal survivor details.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

Sensitive information, such as the cause of death or complex family dynamics, should be handled with care. It's not necessary to disclose the cause of death if privacy is desired. When discussing family, it's important to strive for accuracy while respecting living relatives' wishes.

Should I mention charitable donations in an obituary?

If the deceased was passionate about a cause or charity, it's a thoughtful gesture to invite donations in their memory. Provide the name and, if possible, contact information or a website so that readers know where to contribute.

Can an obituary be rejected or edited by a newspaper?

Newspapers reserve the right to reject or edit obituaries for reasons including length, content, and appropriateness. It's important to review the submission guidelines beforehand and work with the publication for any necessary edits.

What cultural considerations should I keep in mind when writing an obituary?

Cultural considerations are important as traditions and expectations around death vary widely. Be mindful of cultural sensitivities, religious customs, and any specific language that should be included or avoided to respect both the deceased and the bereaved.

Is it okay to use humor in an obituary?

Humor can be appropriate if it suits the personality of the deceased and is used respectfully. Anecdotes and light-hearted memories that celebrate the person's character can bring comfort and reflect the unique spirit of the loved one who has passed away.