Eldon Eugene Hardwick

Eldon Eugene Hardwick, age 70, passed away at his home in Benkelman on Sunday, August 25, 2013.

Eldon was born in Benkelman, NE on July 14, 1943 to Frances Leon and Norma Eilene (Crook) Hardwick. He graduated from Parks High School in 1961.

Eldon was on active duty in the U.S. Navy from February 1962 until December 1964 and received an Honorable Discharge in February 1968. After his service he resided in California for a short time. He then returned to Parks where he farmed and was a seed corn dealer. In 1986, he moved to Benkelman and continued to farm until his retirement in 2002.

On September 13, 1986 he married Elsie Mae Clouse at State Line, Nevada.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Parks and Benkelman. Eldon was an active member and held several positions within the American Legion Post #65. Eldon was a devoted grandpa and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and attending their activities. Eldon had a passion for golf and spent many years playing in the Benkelman Golf League and traveling around the area to participate in tournaments. Following his retirement, Eldon got to spend even more time traveling across the country to see new places and to visit family and friends. Gardening was a favorite hobby for him and he always had a bountiful crop to share. Playing cards with family and friends was a favorite pastime. An avid Husker fan, Eldon was always ready for game day to cheer his team to victory.

Survivors include his wife, Elsie of Benkelman; son, Troy Hardwick and wife, Laura of Ogallala; daughter, Tami Wells and husband, Jay of Omaha; sister, Charlene Hoover and husband, Russ of Chiloquin, OR; brother, John Hardwick and wife, Karen of Roseville, CA; step-daughters, Tami Cline and husband, Marty of Callaway, Michelle Baney and husband, Brad of Benkelman; step-son, Scott Thompson of Gretna; grandchildren, Kristina, Justin and Cody Hardwick, Rianna and Raegen Wells, Tanner Cline, Connor Thompson, Brayden and McKinzie Baney; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant sister, Jerilynn; and brother, Richard Hardwick.

Memorial services will be Saturday, August 31, 2013, 10:00 MDT at the United Methodist Church in Benkelman with Rev. Sheila Taylor officiating. Inurnment will follow in the Benkelman Cemetery.

Memorials may be given in his name and will be used to establish an Agriculture Scholarship for high school students.