Apfel Funeral Home - Cairo Obituaries

Welcome to Apfel Funeral Home - Cairo

The Apfel Funeral Home in Cairo, Nebraska offers a solemn sanctuary for loved ones to commemorate and celebrate the life of their departed. Nestled in the heart of the community at 604 S. High Street, Apfel provides a peaceful and respectful setting that has served the families of Cairo and its surrounding areas for many years. With a reputation built on compassionate service and professional care, this funeral home is a cornerstone of support during one's most challenging times.

Our History and Commitment to Cairo

Apfel Funeral Home carries a long history of serving families with dignity and respect. Founded on the principles of compassionate care and professionalism, our establishment has become a trusted place where memories are cherished and legacies honored. Our commitment to the Cairo community is unwavering, and we take great pride in offering personalized services to reflect the unique lives of those who have passed.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Kenneth Ray Simons - September 30, 1962 - June 25, 2023

Departed: 06/25/2023 (Cairo)

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Judith L Meves Kemptar - June 15, 1939 - May 01, 2023

Departed: 05/01/2023 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Judith Meves Kemptar, of Cairo died May 1, 2023, at her home.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 AM May 9, 2023, at First Baptist Church in Cairo with Pastor Jack Boling officiating. Interment will follow at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Cairo. Apfel Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Visitation will be from 4-7 PM on Monday, May 8, 2023, at First Baptist Church in Cairo. Memorials are suggested to the family, the Cairo Quick Response Team, or The Gathering Place.

Judy was born on June 15, 1939, in Grand Island, Nebraska to Detlef and Evelyn (Sheaff) Meves. She grew up in Grand Island and attended Grand Island Senior High where she graduated in 1957. She also attended Grand Island Business School and Duchesne College in Omaha.

Judy was united in marriage to Charles Elwood Kemptar on December 29, 1961, in Hebron, Nebraska. After which the couple lived on the Kemptar Ranch in Ravenna “St. Michael”, Nebraska. She spent her days on the ranch raising her four children. Charlie and Judy loved to play cards, dance, and bowled in a couple’s league.

She was a member of the Methodist Church but loved attending various Churches in Cairo. She was also a member of the Eastern Star, Job’s Daughters, Loup Valley Izaak Walton League, and the Hall County Extension Club. Judy enjoyed taking pictures of anyone who would smile for the camera, and she loved her grandchildren and many others who called her “Grandma Judy.” Judy and Charlie explored new hunting adventures when they went on several hunting trips to Colorado and Montana.

Judy is survived by her son, William (Kimberly) Kemptar of Ravenna, NE; daughters: Carla (John) Stokes of Cario, NE and Kristin (Rob) Schultz of Cairo; six grandchildren: Brandon (Liz) Blake, Tiffany (Jarrod) Jacobsen, Taylor (Kyle) Schultz, Paige Blake, Megan (Craig) Hudiburgh, and Trey Schultz; four great grandchildren: Greysen Blake, Bennett Blake, Oaklyn Jacobsen, and Eliana Blake; and sister, Jacquelyn Alms of Omaha, NE.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Charles Kemptar; parents, Detlef and Evelyn Meves; brother, John Meves; and daughter, Elizabeth Sattler.

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Jennifer Rose Sorensen - November 02, 1979 - December 16, 2022

Departed: 12/16/2022 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Jennifer Rose Sorenson of Cairo, NE died on December 16 at her home. Funeral service will be 10:30 A.M. Tuesday, December 27, 2022, at Sonlight Bible Fellowship in the Cairo Community Center. Pastor Darrell Holzinger will be officiating. Visitation will be Monday from 5-7 P.M. at Apfel Funeral Home in Grand Island. Memorials are suggested to the family.

Jennifer was born on November 2, 1979, in Rancho Cucamonga, CA to Robert and Brenda (Aufdenkamp) Sherwood. She grew up in Doniphan where she attended school and later attended Northeast Community College in Norfolk for a year. She was united in marriage to Wade Sorenson on May 28, 2002, after which the couple resided in Grand Island and later moved to Cairo.

Jennifer loved to draw as well as enjoyed listening to music and attending concerts. Her biggest loves were her two dogs, Maggie and Charlie.

Jennifer is survived by her husband, Wade Sorenson; parents, Bob and Brenda Sherwood; brother, Joshua Sherwood of Hastings; aunts: Donna (David) Fox of NE and Linda DelReal of CA; uncles: Jeffery Sherwood of NE and Don & Patty Aufdenkamp of CA; and her best friend Vickie Jenkins of Grand Island.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents: Donald and Elvaree Sherwood, Maggie Aufdenkamp, and Don (Mary) Aufdenkamp.

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George Burdett Bellamy - January 31, 1918 - March 04, 2022

Departed: 03/04/2022 (Cairo)

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Dorothy M Meyer - August 09, 1925 - January 14, 2020

Departed: 01/14/2020 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Dorothy M. Meyer, 94, of Grand Island formerly of rural Ravenna, died Tuesday, January 14, 2020, at Good Samaritan Village in Grand Island.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 18, 2020, at the Cairo United Methodist Church. The Rev. Dr. Trudy Kenyon-Anderson will officiate. Burial will follow at the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Cairo. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday at the Cairo United Methodist Church. Memorials are suggested to the Cairo Fire Department or the American Red Cross.

Dorothy Urbanek was born on August 9, 1925, in Ravenna where she grew up and graduated with the class of 1943. After graduation she moved to Grand Island where she worked at the telephone office for four years.

On September 17, 1946, Dorothy was united in marriage to Everett Meyer in Ravenna. The couple lived on a rural farm near Ravenna where they enjoyed their married life together and raised their family.

Dorothy was a member of the Senior Citizens Group in Cairo. She also enjoyed watching birds, working in her flower garden, playing cards, baking sugar cookies and kolaches, watching the Chicago Cubs and spending time with family and friends. After her husband's passing, Dorothy moved to Primrose Retirement Home in Grand Island, where she enjoyed the many activities offered and created new friendships.

Dorothy is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law Wayne and Diane Meyer of Cairo, and Larry and Barb Meyer of Riverdale; grandchildren, Jeff Meyer of Riverdale, Sherry Meyer of Houston, TX, Wendy (Cory) Schmidt of Wood River, and Angela (Willy) Foster of Osceola; great grandchildren, Grace Schmidt, Bailey (Lucas) Foster and Josh Peterson; six step great grandchildren; and brother-in-law, Alvin Meyer of Grand Island.

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Randall Lee Wetzel - December 07, 1962 - September 23, 2019

Departed: 09/23/2019 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Randall Lee Wetzel, 56, of Cairo died Monday, September 23, 2019 at his home in Cairo.

Memorial Services will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 27, 2019 at the First Baptist Church in Cairo. Rev. Jack Boling will officiate. Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday at the church. Apfel Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials are suggested to the Cairo QRT or the family for later designation.

Randy was born December 7, 1962 in Grand Island, NE to Jack L. and Janice (Guenther) Wetzel. He grew up in Grand Island and was educated at Grand Island Public Schools.

On October 13, 1981 he entered the U.S. Marine Corps and served until October 12, 1984.

He married Nancy J. Marcellus on March 20, 1986 at St. Patrick’s Church in O’Neill, NE. The couple lived in Cairo where he worked as a welder. He finished his career at Baasch & Sons after 20 years of employment.

Randy was a training officer for the Cairo Volunteer Fire Department.

He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, anything outdoors.

Survivors include wife, Nancy Wetzel of Cairo; son, Brian Wetzel (Mandy, Tristan, Braelynn and Ava) of Rockville; daughter, Samantha (Jason) Potter and Anna of Grand Island; father, Jack Wetzel of Boardman, OR; sisters, Tracy (Rick) VanPool of Beatrice and Kelly (Kevin) Salpas of Grand Island; halfsiblings; Phyllis, Pamela, Patricia and Hank; numerous nieces and nephews and two grandpuppies, Taz and Tara.

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Dick D. Osburn - July 30, 1934 - May 20, 2019

Departed: 05/20/2019 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Dick D. Osburn, 84, of Cairo died Monday, May 20, 2019 at his home.

Services will be Friday, May 24 at 10:30 AM at the Cairo United Methodist Church with Rev. Cat Love officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, May 23 from 4-7 PM at the Cairo United Methodist Church.

Dick was born July 30, 1934 in Sparks, Nebraska to Albert and Lillian Osburn. He was raised on the family farm in Sparks, NE and graduated from Valentine High School in 1953.

Dick married Louise Newland on December 14, 1955. They had five children: Wade, Randy, Chad, Bret and Nancy.

Dick worked various jobs in Valentine and Ainsworth before moving to Cairo in 1966 where he worked at the Ordnance Plant, Redman Mobile Homes and Centura Public Schools. He retired from Centura Schools in 1996 where he worked with his wife, Louise, for five years.

Dick enjoyed hunting and fishing. Making wood projects, and husker football (Go Big Red). he loved getting together with the family and especially enjoyed time with his grandkids and great grandkids. He was a head usher at the Cairo UMC for many years, a Boy Scout leader and a baseball coach.

Dick remarried in 2004 to Letha Kalenda. They enjoyed dancing and working on the ranch in South Dakota.

He is survived by his wife, Letha of South Dakota ; four sons, Wade (Amy) Osburn, Randy Osburn, Chad (Jodi) Osburn and Bret (Christy) Osburn; son-in-law, Dave Hardenberger; two sisters, Betty Copeland and Bonny Copeland; one brother, Ray Osburn; 16 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren with three on the way.

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Kathy K. Weber - February 22, 1959 - March 09, 2019

Departed: 03/09/2019 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Kathy Weber, 60, of Cairo, NE, lost her battle with cancer Saturday, March 9, 2019 at CHI St. Francis Medical Center. Memorial service will be 10:00 am Wednesday, March 13, 2019 at Cairo United Methodist Church. The Reverend Cathryn Love will officiate. Inurnment will be at a later date. Family will greet friends from 5-8 pm Tuesday at the church. Memorials are suggested to the Grace Foundation.

Kathy was born on February 22, 1959, in Beatrice, NE, to Doyle and Peggy (O’Neill) Brundage. She grew up in rural Cairo and Farwell area. In 1977, she graduated from Centura High School.

On February 23, 1985, she was united in marriage to Frank Weber at Wanamaker Nazarene Church in Topeka, KS. After which the couple lived in Cairo where Frank and Kathy worked side by side at the Cairo Lumber Company, providing home building and other services to the Cairo community and surrounding areas for a combined total of 28 years. Kathy also worked in customer service at Principal Financial Group and Skagway. For the last five years, Kathy had worked in the front office at Nebraska Medicine-IMA.

Kathy was a member of the Cairo United Methodist Church. She enjoyed all outdoor summer activities including golfing. Indoors she enjoyed bowling, crafts, decorating, and watching scary movies. Kathy’s greatest joy came from spending time with family and friends and watching her grandkid’s activities.

Survivors include: husband: Frank Weber of Cairo; children: Kim (Skeeter) Wooden of Cairo, Jamie Brundage of Omaha, NE, Eric (Sara) Weber of Hastings, NE; grandchildren: Noah, Eli, Kyra Wooden, Elizabeth and Sofia Weber; father: Doyle Brundage of St. Paul, NE; sister: Diane Andrews of Cairo, NE; and brother David (CiCi) Brundage of Worms, NE.

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Edna V. Maixner - January 24, 1932 - September 08, 2018

Departed: 09/08/2018 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Edna Violet Maixner, 86, of Cairo, NE died September 8, 2018 at Lincoln Heart Hospital. Funeral services will be Thursday, September 13th at 10:30AM at the First Baptist church in Cairo with Pastor Jack Boling officiating. Interment will be in Mount Pleasant Cemetery. Visitation will be held at Apfel Funeral Home in Grand Island on Wednesday, September 12th from 4PM to 7PM. Apfel Funeral Home is serving the family.

Edna was born January 24, 1932 in Pollock, SD to Gottlieb and Christina (Moser) Kerher. She grew up and graduated from high school in Pollock. She was united in marriage to Eugene Hehn and had 5 children in this marriage. As a military wife she traveled around the world and explored various cultures. In 1970, Edna married Frank Maixner. From this marriage they had one daughter in Texas and later moved to Cairo where they resided until their deaths.

She enjoyed crafting with her daughters, puzzles, shopping and time spent with her grandchildren. She frequently visited Fort Randall casino and had a love for BINGO.

She is survived by daughters Pam (Larry) LeGates of Milford, DE, Paula (Mark) Lammers of Onalaska, TX, Pennie (Tim) Eriksen of Boelus, Peggy (Tim) Lemburg of Dannebrog and Roxanne (Nick) Kolev of Omaha, 11 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren, sisters Donna of Bloomington, MN and Martha of Bridgewater, SD.

Edna is preceded in death by both husbands, son Jack, sister Lydia, brothers Jake and Irwin.

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Terry Patrick Gallagher - March 06, 1942 - August 26, 2018

Departed: 08/26/2018 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Terry P. Gallagher, 76 of Cairo, Nebraska died Sunday, August 26, 2018 at his home in Cairo.

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Ronald L. Harders - August 31, 1957 - May 28, 2018

Departed: 05/28/2018 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Ronald L. “Ron” Harders, 60 of Wood River, died Monday, May 28, 2018 peacefully in his sleep at his home in Wood River.

Services will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 2, 2018 at Christ Lutheran Church in Cairo, with the Rev. Brian Wright officiating. Burial will be in Berwick Cemetery in Cairo. Visitation hours will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, June 1, 2018 at Christ Lutheran Church in Cairo. Memorials are suggested to Cairo Fire Department or Christ Lutheran Church.

Ronald Leo Harders was born August 31, 1957 in Grand Island, Nebraska the son of Lyle & Frances (Runge) Harders. He grew up on the family farm west of Wood River and received his education from Wood River High School, graduating with the class of 1975.

He was united in marriage to Mary A. Preuss, February 14, 1987 at Christ Lutheran Church in Cairo. The couple made their home in Wood River where he farmed with his father and brother and later his sons.

He was a member of Christ Lutheran Church, Cairo, a past member of the Nebraska Tractor Pullers Association. He enjoyed working in his shop fixing and tinkering with things, riding his motorcycle, but above all he enjoyed farming with his sons.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Mary A. Harders of Wood River, two sons, Roger Harders of Cairo, and Ryan Harders of Cairo, his mother, Frances Harders of Wood River, his mother-in-law, Norma Preuss of Phillipsburg, Kansas, brother, William Harders, Wood River, one sister & brother-in-law, Jolene & Bob Peters of Cairo, brother and sister in law, Larry and Nancy Preuss of Marysville, Kansas.

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Keith K.C. Hinkson - March 22, 1919 - May 09, 2018

Departed: 05/09/2018 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Keith C. “K.C.” Hinkson, 99 of Cairo, died Wednesday, May 09, 2018 at Good Samaritan Society, Wood River, Nebraska.

Services will be 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 15, 2018 at Cairo United Methodist Church, Cairo, Nebraska with the Rev. Cathryn Love officiating. Burial will be in Cameron Cemetery, Wood River. Visitation hours will be 5-7 p.m. Monday, May 14, 2018 at Cairo United Methodist Church, Cairo. Memorials are suggested to Cameron Cemetery. Apfel Funeral Home of Grand Island is in charge of arrangements.

Keith Carlyle Hinkson was born March 22, 1919 in Cairo, Nebraska, the son of Preston & Arendse (Dehn) Hinkson. He grew up and received his early education at District 14 going thru the 8th grade and graduating from Wood River High School with the class of 1937.

Keith began his farming career with his brothers, Hugh & Preston Hinkson and continue his love of the land with his nephews, Arnie & Brian Hinkson. In his spare time Keith loved to travel.

He was a member of Cairo United Methodist Church, Cairo, NE, and a member of the Cameron Cemetery Board for 60 years. Those left to cherish his memory include, two nephews, Arnie & Dawn Hinkson of Cairo, NE, and their sons, Cameron & Natalia of Washington, D.C., Connor of Phoenix, Arizona & Devin of Lincoln, Brian & Lori Hinkson of Grand Island, NE, and their sons, Justin & Brock & (Mercedes Omps) all of Omaha, NE, other nieces & nephews, Jim & Shelley Larson of Pensacola, FL, Steve & Bobbi Larson of Inkom , ID, Susan Larson of Tucson, AZ, Roy & Skii McKeag of Santa Fe, NM, Barbara & Glenn Lust of Abernathy, TX, Carolyn & Charlie Pilgrim of Cottonwood, Falls, KS, Mike & Melinda Hinkson of Matfield Green, KS, Frank & Marilyn Hinkson of Emporia, KS, Alice & Doyle Hendrickson of Sedalia, Mo, Dale Hinkson of Sedalia, MO, Sally & Al Quick of Rogerville, MO

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Everett, Dean, Frank, Hugh & Preston, sisters, Alice & Helen and two nephews, Leon Hinkson & Gregory McKeag.

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Iva "Suzy" Lowry - November 23, 1922 - April 25, 2018

Departed: 04/25/2018 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Iva B. Suzy Lowry, 95 of Cairo, Nebraska died Wednesday, April 25, 2018 at CHI Health, St. Francis , Grand Island.

Memorial services will be 3:00 p.m. Saturday, April 28, 2018 at Cairo United Methodist Church, Cairo, Nebraska with the Rev. Cathryn Love officiating. Inurnment will be in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Cairo, NE. Visitation hours will be 5-7 p.m. Friday, April 27, 2018 at Cairo United Methodist Church, Cairo. Memorials are suggested to Cairo United Methodist Church or the American Red Cross. Apfel Funeral Home of Wood River is caring for the family.

Iva Belle Suzy Lowry was born November 23, 1922 in Friend, Nebraska the daughter of Joseph R. & Bessie E. (Blunt) Zajic. She grew up on farms near Friend and Dorchester, NE, graduating from Friend High School in 1938 and from Grand Island Business College in 1940. She was employed as a secretary/bookkeeper in York, NE.

On September 16, 1951 she was married to Robert W. Lowry in York, NE and lived near Cairo. She was a member of the Cairo United Methodist Church, a Past Worthy Matron of Eastern Star, serving at Grand Chapter, and the American Legion Auxiliary. For many years she was a Red Cross volunteer at the V.A. Hospital, the Bloodmobile and served on the local election board. She was an amateur genealogist and enjoyed golf, bridge, antiquing and traveling.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son & daughter-in-law, Michael & Denise Lowry of Cairo, daughter and son-in-law, JoEllen Joey and Tom Falch of Hayward, WI; two grandchildren, Susan and husband Hirotaka and their son Chuck Hiwatashi of Honolulu, HI, Nathan and wife Carrie of Lincoln, two step-grandchildren and five step-great-grandchildren all of Wisconsin.

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Gerald "Gerry" Stange - August 24, 1923 - September 08, 2017

Departed: 09/08/2017 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Gerald Gerry Adair Stange, 94, of Moorhead, MN passed away September 8, 2017 at Villa Maria in Fargo, ND.

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Janet Marie - March 10, 1935 - January 21, 2017

Departed: 01/21/2017 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Janet Marie was born in the middle of a dust storm on March 10, 1935 to Carl and Esther (Erickson) Lindquist of Funk, Nebraska. She graduated from Axtell High School in 1952 and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1956. She met Rex Meyer through their associations with Love Memorial Hall, FarmHouse Fraternity, and the Lutheran Student Association. They married in 1957 and moved to the family farm in Phillips where she lived until her recent hospitalization.

Jan taught high school home economics, first at Stromsburg and then in Aurora, where she established the home economics department. After her children were born, she worked as a substitute teacher, 4-H fair judge, and with Rex on the farm. She and Rex enjoyed several trips together and were particularly captivated by the sights of Hawaii. Jan continued to travel after his death in 1995, visiting more than 20 countries and sharing an appreciation for all cultures with her friends and family.

Jan didn't know the word "no" and thoroughly enjoyed her volunteer responsibilities at church and in the community whether it was teaching Confirmation, serving coffee hour, delivering homebound communion, playing piano for nursing home residents, pronouncing spelling words for the county spelling bee, or helping with the Red Cross bloodmobile and county election board.

She believed in youth education, and especially the 4-H program. In addition to leading her children's 4-H clubs, she judged at county fairs and the Nebraska State Fair for more than 50 years. She was a founding member of UNL Extension's Family, Youth, and Community Partners' advocacy efforts. She enjoyed serving on the Hamilton County Community Foundation Scholarship Committee, a commitment she kept for 52 years. She also served on the Mosaic Foundation Board of Directors and was especially proud of her family's ties to the original Bethphage Mission in Axtell.

But her grandchildren were always the priority and she planned her volunteer commitments around their activitieswhether those events were held at college or elementary school.

Janet passed away on January 21st after a short hospitalization and a brief stay at The Monarch in Lincoln. She showed an interest in those around her until the end and found something or someone in common with nearly every doctor, nurse, and aide she met. "Sweet" is the word medical staff used most frequently in their notes about her care.

She is survived by her daughter Karna (Ken) Converse of Storm Lake, Iowa; son Kevin (Denise) of Lincoln, and grandchildren Nathan, Geoffrey, and Ellen Converse of Storm Lake and Elsa and Owen Meyer of Lincoln. She is also survived by a sister-in-law and her husband, Joan (Wayne) White; nieces and nephew; and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rex.

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Lelia Christine Luhn - November 24, 1922 - November 01, 2016

Departed: 11/01/2016 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Lelia C. Luhn, 93 longtime resident of Cairo, passed away, Tuesday, November 1, 2016, at Good Samaritan Society, Grand Island. Services will be Saturday, November 5, 2016 at 10:30 AM at Christ Lutheran Church, Cairo, Nebraska with the Rev. Brian Wright officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 until 7 PM on Friday at Apfel Funeral Home in Cairo. Memorials have been suggested to Christ Lutheran Church. Apfel Funeral Home is serving the family.

Lelia Christine Luhn was born, November 24, 1922 in Hooper, Colorado the daughter of Jerry S. & Jessie I. (Ashton) Lincoln. She grew up and received her education in Hooper, Colorado, graduating from Hooper High School with the class of 1940. She was united in marriage to Wilford Luhn, May 23, 1941 in Toas, NM. The couple made their home in various locations while Wilford was serving in the armed forces. After this discharge they resided in Cairo, Nebraska where she was employed at the Cornhusker Army Ammunition Plant in Grand Island. She also owned her own ceramic shop, L&L Ceramics. She was a member of Christ Lutheran Church, Cairo, where she taught Bible School and volunteered, Ladies Aid and former member of the Bluff Center Club.

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Mabel I. Rasmussen - January 25, 1925 - March 23, 2014

Departed: 03/23/2014 (Cairo)

Obituary Preview: Mabel I. Rasmussen, 89 of Muskogee, Oklahoma formerly of Cairo, died Sunday, March 23, 2014 at her sons home in Muskogee, Oklahoma.

Services will be 2:00 P.M. Friday, March 28, 2014 at the Apfel Funeral Home in Cairo, with the Reverend Darrell Holzinger officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Cairo. Visitation hours will be from 4-7 P.M. Thursday at the Apfel Funeral Home, Cairo. Memorials are suggested to the city of Cairo for the upkeep of Rasmussen Park. Apfel Funeral Home is caring for the family.

Mabel I. Rasmussen was born January 25, 1925 in Cairo, Nebraska the daughter of Fred & Edna (Waddington) Mieth. She grew up in Cairo and received her education from Cairo High School graduating with the class of 1942. She was united in marriage to Donald A. Rasmussen, January 22, 1945 in Smith Center, Kansas. The couple made their home in Cairo where they farmed. She also worked part time at the Cairo Senior Center and doing volunteer work around Cairo. Her husband, Donald preceded her in death May 10, 2004.

She enjoyed her crafts and making cards.

She was a member of the Baptist Church.

Those left to cherish her memory include sons and daughters-in-law, Roy & Deb Rasmussen of Palmer, Nebraska, Lyle and Deena Rasmussen of Muskogee, Oklahoma, and Jean Rasmussen of Cairo, Nebraska; 12 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild.

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Services Tailored to Your Needs

Understanding that each life is unique, we at Apfel Funeral Home offer a range of services to accommodate your personal, cultural, and religious needs. From traditional funerals to contemporary celebrations of life, our attentive staff is here to ensure that every last detail is tailored to reflect the individual. We also offer pre-planning services for those who wish to alleviate the future burden on their families, ensuring that their final wishes are documented and respected.

Facilities Designed for Comfort and Solace

We have thoughtfully designed our facilities to provide a comfortable and serene environment for families and their guests. Our visitation rooms offer privacy for those wishing to pay their respects, and our chapel has been a host to countless services, welcoming people of all faiths and traditions. Accessibility is a priority, ensuring that all guests can navigate our home with ease during their time of reflection and remembrance.

Supporting You Through Grief

The journey through grief is a personal and challenging process. At Apfel Funeral Home, we understand the importance of ongoing support after the service. Our caring professionals can connect you with grief counseling resources and provide you with materials to help navigate your journey. The path of healing is one we are committed to walking alongside you, extending our support beyond the day of the funeral.

Celebrating Life with Honor and Respect

Each service at Apfel Funeral Home is a tribute to the individual it honors. Whether through traditional or more modern means, we strive to celebrate the unique story of your loved one. Our dedicated team can help arrange for video tributes, memorial websites, and personalized keepsakes that allow you to hold on to the precious memories that truly celebrate the life lived.

Expert Guidance Through Every Step

Organizing a funeral can be overwhelming, but you are not alone. Our experienced staff will guide you through each step, from selecting services that fit your vision to handling the logistics of obituaries, legal requirements, and coordinating with cemeteries. We are here to take on the burden, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: honoring your loved one's life and legacy.

Connecting Through Community and Tradition

Apfel Funeral Home is more than a facility; it's a place where community and tradition intersect. In times of loss, people seek the comfort of familiar rituals and the embrace of their community. We actively engage with the town of Cairo and its traditions, ensuring that every family feels the strength and support of their neighbors. Our relationship with local clergy, florists, and other service providers ensures a seamless experience that honors Cairo's close-knit spirit.

Accessible and Available When You Need Us Most

Our promise to the families of Cairo is to be accessible and available whenever we are needed. Loss can occur at any moment, and swift support can make a significant difference. We provide around-the-clock availability to answer your call, respond to your needs, and start the process of honoring your loved one with the utmost care and urgency. Apfel Funeral Home is here for you, day and night, in your moment of need.

Choosing Apfel Funeral Home - Cairo

Choosing Apfel Funeral Home means selecting a partner who will honor your loved one as you wish. We pledge to provide you with a memorable service that is both a fitting farewell and a comforting memory for all who attend. When you entrust us at this tender juncture, our family at Apfel Funeral Home commits to treating your family as our own, with all the dignity, respect, and compassion you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written announcement of someone's death, typically published in a newspaper or online. It includes information about the deceased's life, such as their significant achievements, family members, and information about the funeral or memorial services.

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

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's death, often just including the name, age, and date of death, with service information if applicable. An obituary is more detailed and usually includes a biography of the deceased.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform the community of a person's passing, celebrate their life, and announce funeral or memorial service details. They also provide an historical record and are often used in genealogical research.

Who typically writes an obituary?

Obituaries can be written by family members, friends, or funeral directors. Some people even pre-write their own obituaries to ensure their life is captured as they wish.

What should be included in an obituary?

An obituary should include the full name of the deceased, their date of birth and death, a brief overview of their life story, family members, any significant contributions or achievements, and funeral or memorial service details.

How can I submit an obituary to a newspaper or website?

Most newspapers have specific guidelines for submitting obituaries. You can typically find these guidelines on their website or by contacting the publication's obituary department. Similarly, websites may have online submission forms or contact information for submissions.

Is there a standard length for an obituary?

There is no standard length, as obituaries can vary greatly depending on the individual's life story and the space available in the publication. However, it's important to be concise while still honoring the person's life fully.

Can anyone submit an obituary?

Generally, yes, anyone who has relevant information and proper consent can submit an obituary, though some publications may require verification from a funeral home.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost to publish an obituary can vary widely depending on the length of the obituary and the publication. Some newspapers charge by the word or line, while others have flat rates.

What if I want to include a photograph with the obituary?

Many publications allow photographs to be included with obituaries, often for an additional fee. You should check the publication's guidelines for specific requirements regarding size and format.

What is the deadline for submitting an obituary?

Deadlines can vary, but many publications require obituaries be submitted several days before the desired publication date to allow time for editing and layout.

Can an obituary be published after the funeral?

Yes, an obituary can be published after the funeral, although it is more common to publish it beforehand to serve as a notice to the community.

How do I ensure accuracy in the obituary?

Ensure accuracy by double-checking all details with family members and by verifying dates and names. It may also help to have someone else review the obituary before submission.

What is the best way to start writing an obituary?

Start by collecting essential information about the deceased, such as their full name, age, date of birth, and date of death. Then, outline their life story, accomplishments, and the family members they are survived by. Include service details last.

Is it acceptable to include personal sentiments in an obituary?

Yes, personal sentiments can be included in an obituary to reflect the personality and life of the deceased. However, it's important to maintain a respectful and appropriate tone.

How can I make an obituary more personal?

To make an obituary more personal, include anecdotes, personal stories, or characteristic traits that capture the essence of the individual. This can provide a fuller picture of their life and the impact they had on others.

Should I mention the cause of death in an obituary?

Including the cause of death is a personal decision and not required. Some families choose to include this information for clarity or to raise awareness about certain health issues, while others prefer to keep it private.

What if I don't want to publish an obituary?

There is no obligation to publish an obituary. Some families opt for private services or choose to communicate the passing of a loved one through personal channels like phone calls or social media.

Can an obituary be updated after it is published?

In some cases, newspapers or online platforms may allow for corrections or updates to be made after publication, but typically this is avoided unless there is a significant error.

How can I respectfully honor a deceased loved one's request not to have an obituary published?

Respect their wishes by sharing the news of their passing through personal correspondence or at a private gathering. You can also consider a living tribute, such as a donation to a cause they cared about or a private memorial celebration.

What are some common phrases or words used in obituaries?

Common phrases include "passed away," "survived by," "preceded in death by," "cherished," "devoted," "a life well-lived," or "in loving memory." It's best to use language that sincerely reflects the individual's life and the sentiments of the family.