D. Gene Kleinschmidt

D. Gene Kleinschmidt, age 83, of McCook, NE passed away Saturday, August 16, 2014 at Hillcrest Nursing Home in McCook.

Gene was born February 17, 1931 in Stratton, NE to parents Harry and Avilla Kleinschmidt. He grew up on the family farm north of Stratton, graduating from Stratton High School in 1948. Gene enlisted in the US Navy on August 28, 1950. He was honorably discharged in July1954.

On April 20, 1957 Gene married Marie Dickman in Penrose, CO. They lived on their farm near Stratton for 50 years. Gene could often be found enjoying his morning cup of coffee with other local famers. He raised sheep for many years and loved to farm. At the age of 70 he was diagnosed with Parkinson's and decided it was time to retire and rent out the land. In 2006, they sold their farm and moved to McCook.

Gene was very involved in his three daughters' lives and enjoyed attending their activities. Gene was adored by his eleven grandkids who called him "Grandpa K". He spent hours with his grandkids on the farm. He also attended many of their school functions and sports, and taught most of them how to drive.

While a young man, Gene accepted Christ as his Savior. Gene became a member of the United Methodist Church in Stratton in 1954. He enjoyed serving in many different areas within the church over the years. Gene lived a godly life; he was a humble, generous, serving and unselfish man. He showed unconditional love and dedication as a caregiver to his parents, mother-in-law and wife. He was a wonderful role model for his daughters, son-in-laws and grandkids.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents; and brother and sister-in-law, Bill (Betty) Kleinschmidt.

Gene is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marie Kleinschmidt of McCook; three daughters and their husbands, Ann (Vince) Cisar of Longmont, CO, Susan (Ben) Hardin of McCook and Nancy (Loran)Wach of Hayes Center, NE; eleven grandchildren, Isaac Cisar, Emma Cisar, Ryan (Sarah) Hardin, Ethan (Kelsey) Hardin, Betsy Hardin, Molly Hardin, Air Force 1LT Lance Wach, Alex Wach, Larissa Wach, Andrea Wach and Wesley Wach; brother-in-law Ralph (Sharon) Dickman; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A private family inurnment will be held at the Rose Hill Cemetery in Stratton, NE.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the McCook Christian Church on Wednesday, August 20, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. Central Time with Pastor Clark Bates officiating. Military Honors by the American Legion Post 0281. Everyone is invited for pie and coffee following the service.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Gideon's International, Hillcrest Nursing Home Chapel Fund or the charity of your choice.