Willard J. Roedel

Willard James Roedel, lifelong resident of McCook, NE, passed away Sunday, February 17, 2019 at Hillcrest Nursing Home, McCook. He was 82 years old.

Willard was born May 30, 1936 in McCook to parents Elmer F. and Magdelina A. (Hinz) Roedel.  He was one of four children born to this union.  Willard grew up in McCook where he attended school, graduating from McCook High School in 1954.

On April 4, 1965, Willard married the love of his life, Caroline (Akey) Roedel in McCook.  The couple made their home in McCook and were blessed with three children.  Over the years, Willard farmed southeast of McCook with his father, raising hogs and various crops.  In July 1971, Willard began a second career as a driver for UPS.  His route would take him to the Grant, Imperial and Venango communities. Willard retired in December 1999. As a family, they attended Peace Lutheran Church in McCook where Willard was also an active member.

Willard could often be found working in his yard or tending to his garden.  Dancing was a favorite past time he shared with Carol, and the two loved square dancing together.  Willard also volunteered for Habitat for Humanity as time allowed. In his final years at Hillcrest, Willard made it his goal to keep the staff in stitches with his witty sense of humor and fun loving pranks.

Willard was preceded in death by his parents; wife Carol; infant son; and two sisters Marilyn Dutton, and Donna Pflum.

Those left to mourn his passing include; two daughters Gina (Shane) Hatch of Lincoln, NE and Joni (Kevin) Stimits of Larkspur, CO; one sister Rhonda (Al) Nokes of Minden, NE; and four grandchildren, Andrew Hatch of Lincoln, Corey (Niki) Lupton of Tyler, TX, and Olivia and Haylie Stimits, both of Larkspur.  Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.