Marie Ziskova

Marie married Josef Fujan about 1858 in Bohemia. Josef was born on 22 Oct 1839 in Hadacek, Kralovice, Bohemia; died about 1868. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Marie married Vaclav Andel about 1868 in Bohemia. Vaclav was born about 1835 in Miresov, Bohemia; died before 1922 in Kralovice, Plzen-Sever, Plzensk? kraj, Bohemia. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Anna married Joseph Frank Kaderabek before 1879 in Bohemia. Joseph was born before 1855 in Bohemia. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Josefa Fujan, daughter of Frank and Mary Ziska Fujan, was born at Hinze, Krah Plzen, Okres Kralovice, Bohemia on February 17, 1862. She came to this country with Mr. and Mrs. Frank Holzinger and her brother, John Fujan, reaching the United States on Good Friday in 1879. Her parents, brothers Jim, Frank, and sister, Mary Kaderabek stayed in Czechoslovakia. A half brother, Tom Andel and half sister, Marie Andel, came to America at another time. Tom stayed in Chicago and Marie married Frank's brother Cyril.

She was a member of Lodge Cechie #122 ZCBJ of Milligan (Milligan, p 201)

Ken Chromy isntead shows her place of birth as Hlinci, Bohemia.

Josefa married Frantisek "Frank" Bernasek on 6 Nov 1883 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. Frantisek (son of Josef Frantisek Bernasek and Josefa Urbankova) was born on 28 Nov 1862 in Bohy, Plzen-Sever, Plzensk? Kraj, Bohemia; died on 16 Apr 1952 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian Brethren Cemetery (AKA Cesky Bratri Cemetery), Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Jan married Mary Sieber on 14 Dec 1886 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. Mary (daughter of Frantisek "Frank" Sieber and Helena Heinova) was born on 22 Jun 1864 in Hermanice, Bohemia; died on 6 Mar 1894 in Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried in Glengary Pioneer Cemetery, Ohiowas, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

She came to America on June 9, 1888, stopping first in Chicago. She was a well read woman, giving readings from Bohemian literature. (Milligan, p 199). She had a brother named Tom Andel, and several half siblings, John, Josefa, Jim and Frank Fujan and Mary Kaderabek. Her half-sister, Josefa, married her brother-in-law, Frank Bernasek. (Milligan, p 201). The name of her parents, as reported on her marriage license, were Jim Urbanek and Mary Zekes. Robert Nohavec instead shows them as Vaclav ANDEL and Marie ZISKOVA. The supplementary Milligan History book, 1988-2008, lists them as Vaclav Andel and Marie Ziska.

During World War I, ladies in the Milligan area knit warm clothing for the soldier boys through the Red Cross. Marie was a champion knitter. She received letters from soldiers stationed at Fort Omaha thanking her for the socks. They had found her name in the socks. (Milligan, p 200)

Marie took her life on May 12, 1922, at the age of 52 years. (Milligan, p 200)

Marie married Cyril Bernasek on 16 May 1889 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. Cyril (son of Josef Frantisek Bernasek and Josefa Urbankova) was born on 10 Jul 1865 in Bohy, Plzen-Sever, Plzensk? Kraj, Bohemia; died on 21 Oct 1958 in Crete, Saline County, Nebraska; was buried on 24 Oct 1958 in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Louis was born to Joseph KADERBEK and Anna FUJAN. He immigrated to Chicago when he was 13, where he lived with his Uncle and worked in a butcher shop. He came to Milligan in 1900, and lived with the BERNASEK family. In the early 1900's he homesteaded south of Lawton, Oklahoma. He later returned to the Ohiowa-Milligan area, were he was a livestock buyer and farmer. (Milligan, p 323).

Alois married Agnes Koca on 8 Oct 1927 in York, York County, Nebraska. Agnes (daughter of Josef Koca and Marie Chlup) was born on 26 Nov 1893 in Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 11 Apr 1985 in Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Marie married Frank Laun on 2 Jan 1906. Frank (son of Isidor Laun and Anna Dlouhy) was born on 20 May 1883 in Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 21 Sep 1965 in Crete, Saline County, Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Kristina married Charles L. Krupicka on 25 Jul 1904 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. Charles was born on 12 Mar 1884 in Saline County, Nebraska; died on 8 Nov 1966 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried on 10 Nov 1966 in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Joseph was deeded the land he was born on in 1920, in consideration for $1 and one third of the crops. He took great pride in his horses and his favorite pastime was fishing. (Milligan, p 203).

Joseph married Frantiska "Frances" Cudly on 9 Feb 1926 in York, York County, Nebraska. Frantiska (daughter of Jan "John" Cudly and Marie "Mary" Buzek) was born on 10 Oct 1898 in Saline County, Nebraska; died on 28 Jul 1982 in Friend, Saline County, Nebraska; was buried on 31 Jul 1982 in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Born on his parents farm, he was drafted due to the First World War after attending District #67 school. He took his training at Camp Funsten, Kansas. He served overseas with Company M, 355th Infantry and was wounded in the Battle of Chateau Thierry. He was honorably discharged on 28 January 1918, at the rank of Private First Class. (Milligan, p 201)

Frank married Matilda Kotas on 10 Aug 1926 in York, York County, Nebraska. Matilda (daughter of Anton Kotas, Sr. and Antonie Volmut) was born on 26 Apr 1902 in Glengary Township, Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 9 Jan 2000 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried on 12 Jan 2000 in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

SSDI:

EMMA F HOUSER 18 Jun 1897 13 May 1991 (V) 68338 (Daykin, Jefferson, NE ) (none specified) 505-86-3112 Nebraska

Emma married Frank L. Houser on 4 Mar 1919 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. Frank was born on 1 Jan 1891 in Swanton, Saline County, Nebraska; died on 4 Dec 1981 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried on 7 Dec 1981 in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

It is ASSUMED this is him on the SSDI: JAMES F BERNASEK 16 Sep 1901 19 Jul 1991 (not specified) (none specified) Nebraska

James married Alice M. Kohler on 18 Jun 1924 in Belleville, Republic County, Kansas. Alice (daughter of Emil Koahler and Rose Bedlan) was born on 3 Oct 1901 in Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 22 Dec 2003 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried on 26 Dec 2003 in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

CYRIL M BERNASEK 22 Feb 1890 08 Nov 1993 68361 (Geneva, Fillmore, NE) (none specified) 505-44-9176 Nebraska

(Research):

Census Listings:

1920 Census
Nebraska, Fillmore County, Chelsea Twp
Enumerated 23 Jan 1920
SD 4 ED 23 Sheet 5B
103-103
Bernasek, Cyril M Hd M W 29 M Neb Bohemia/Bohemian Bohemia/Bohemian Farmer
Bernasek, Helen Wf F W 25 M Nebraska Bohemia/Bohemian Bohemia/Bohemian
Bernasek, Elsie Elizabeth Dtr F W 2 7/12 S Neb Neb Neb
Bernasek, Lillian A. Dtr F W 6/12 S Neb Neb Neb

Cyril married Helen Votipka on 23 Feb 1916 in Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. Helen was born on 30 Jun 1894 in Fairmont, Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 2 Oct 1953 in Lincoln, Lancaster County, Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

James married Alba Fujan on 25 Oct 1932 in Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska. Alba (daughter of Frank Fujan, Jr. and Anna Pribyl) was born on 22 Feb 1901 in Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 30 Jul 1985 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried on 1 Aug 1985 in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Marie married John Edward Sluka on 16 Mar 1920 in York County, Nebraska. John (son of James Sluka and Marie "Mary" Janda) was born on 10 May 1899 in Liberty Township, Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 23 Jun 1983 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried on 25 Jun 1983 in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Her year of birth is shown in the first Milligan History Book as 1898, and in the subsequent supplement as in 1897. The SSDI lists her birthdate as 29 Nov 1897.

Alba married Frank Fujan, III on 28 Mar 1921 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. Frank (son of Frank Fujan, Jr. and Anna Pribyl) was born on 24 Oct 1897 in Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 9 Feb 1967 in Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Stillborn.

Notes:

EMIL BERNASEK 09 Apr 1906 Nov 1968 (not specified) (none specified) 506-48-0080 Nebraska

Emil married Rose Sieber on 1 Jun 1927 in Clay Center, Clay County, Nebraska. Rose (daughter of John Henry Sieber and Mary Anna Schelbitzki) was born on 1 Jul 1907 in Ohiowas, Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 23 Jun 1990 in Lincoln, Lancaster County, Nebraska; was buried on 27 Jun 1990 in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Living married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

He graduated from Ohiowa High School in 1951, later attending Milford Trade School. Joseph joined the Army in 1955, being stationed in Taiwan for 16 months. After his discharge, he stared farming in in Ohiowa. (MIlligan, p 323).

His obituary, excerpted belows from the Farmer and Son Funeral home websited, noted he was discharged from the military in June 1960 at the rank of Sargeant, and that he and his wife Shirley lived their entire married life on the Family Farm. Joe supplemented his income in the winter months by driving trucks to the West Coast and Texas. He and Shirley adopted three children.

Joseph married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

A 1924 graduate of Tobias High School, she taught in rural schools in Saline, Fillmore and Jefferson Counties for 23 years before retiring. She learned to play the button accordian at the age of four. She sat on her father's knee playing the lyrics. Her dad held the accordian and played the bass. (Milligan, p 196).

Mamie married Felix Bedlan on 1 Sep 1926. Felix was born on 14 Jan 1900 in Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 29 Nov 1989 in Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Ken Chromy instead has her place of death as David City, Butler County, Nebraska.

Hazel married Albert Koca on 28 Nov 1933 in Nebraska. Albert (son of Albert Koca and Ruzena "Rosie" Simic) was born on 29 Jul 1907 in Glengary Township, Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 3 Aug 1997 in Columbus, Platte County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Charles married Anna Koca on 2 Sep 1930 in Nebraska. Anna (daughter of Albert Koca and Ruzena "Rosie" Simic) was born on 28 Mar 1913 in Glengary Township, Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 30 Jul 2020 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

A Funeral Service for Alfred will be held on Friday, February 22, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. at Farmer & Son Funeral Home - Kotas Chapel in Milligan. Kim Dunker will officiate the service.

A Graveside Service with Military Rites will be held in the Bohemian National Cemetery following the Funeral Service.

Visitation will be held on Thursday from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m with family present from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Farmer & Son Funeral Home - Kotas Chapel in Milligan.

Memorials are suggested to the Milligan American Legion HSSK Post 240 or the Fairview Manor in Fairmont.

Alfred James Krupicka of Exeter, Nebraska was born on May 27, 1915 to Kristina Bernasek Krupicka and Charles Krupicka Sr. on a farm southeast of Milligan, Nebraska. He was the fourth of five children. Alfred passed away at the Fairview Manor in Fairmont at the age of 103 years, 8 months and 23 days. He attended Milligan Public School through the 10th grade when he began his farming career working for his brother-in-law, Felix Bedlan Sr. for 50 cents a day. He then partnered with his brother, Charles, on a farm near Geneva. From there Alfred worked for Ewalt Amusement Company and Peter Kiewit Construction. Following the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Alfred volunteered for service in the Coast Guard in February 1942. Alfred received basic training at the Algiers Naval training station, which was across the river from New Orleans. He was then assigned to the Naval Shipyard at Portsmouth, New Hampshire, where he served until, he was honorably discharged in November 1943. After leaving the service, Alfred worked for "Swede" Bulin as a mechanic in the service station at the corner of Maple and Main Street in Milligan, Nebraska before purchasing the property and starting the Club Loyal in the basement.

Alfred met Irene Svec at a dance held in the Milligan Auditorium. They were married on August 24, 1948 at the Fillmore County courthouse. Their wedding dance was held in Burress, Nebraska, and the Steinacher Family Harmony Knights band provided the entertainment.

In their first year of marriage Alfred and Irene lived in Milligan next door to Alfred's parents. Irene and Alfred were employed at the Horseshoe Inn where Irene worked as a waitress and cook, and Alfred was a bartender. The couple then moved to Fairbury where Alfred worked in retail sales at Gambles. From Fairbury, Alfred and Irene went back to farming and rented farms northeast of Milligan and north of Grafton and Fairmont for several years. They moved to Exeter around 1955, where they spent the rest of their married life together. Alfred worked for Mumby's service station in Fairmont for several years, as well as, operating his own service station for 3 years in Fairmont. Alfred and Irene also operated a drive-in called the Frosty Inn located in Exeter. Alfred finished his career working for the Nebraska Department of Roads until he retired.

In 1965, Alfred started a polka band with his two sons, Larry and David, called the 3K's. In time, his daughters Carolyn and Judy joined the group. They entertained at many establishments throughout the area, including Milligan, KOLN-TV, and the Nebraska State Fair. Alfred and his son David continued to entertain at various events around the area for many years.

Alfred was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather who would do anything for his family. He was an accomplished mechanic and carpenter. In addition to performing mechanical work on farm machinery and the family cars, he built the house at Exeter from the ground up with his father's help. Alfred's greatest love was his family and entertaining with his accordion playing Czech music. Alfred was always looking for opportunities to see many family members together for holiday events. The more the better.

Alfred was a lifetime member of American Legion Post 240 in Milligan for 77 years.

He was preceded in death by his wife Irene of 60 years; his parents Charles and Kristina; brothers and sisters.

He is survived in life by sons Larry (Debby) of Lakewood, Colorado and David (Linda) of Exeter, Nebraska; daughters Carolyn (Mark) Brock of Sidney, Nebraska and Judy (Scott) Hulse of York, Nebraska; Grandchildren Jeff (Stasha) Krupicka of Paris, Texas, Jason (Kelley) Krupicka of Denver, Colorado, Jennifer (Todd) Sheffield of Pella, Iowa, Amanda Brock of Portsmouth, Virginia, Andrew Brock of Sidney, NE, Mariah and Mitchel Hulse of York, Nebraska; and Great Grandchildren Emma and James Krupicka of Denver, Colorado.

(Courtesy Dennis Belohlavy)

Alfred married Irene Josephine Svec on 24 Aug 1948 in Fillmore County, Nebraska. Irene (daughter of Josef "Joseph" Svec and Amelia Laun) was born on 18 Mar 1923 in Saline County, Nebraska; died on 18 Apr 2008; was buried in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Obituary for Louis A. Krupicka

Funeral services for Louis will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. at the Farmer & Son Funeral Home - Kotas Chapel in Milligan. Kim Dunker will officiate the services.

Graveside services will follow the funeral in the Bohemian National Cemetery, Milligan, Nebraska.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, September 15, 2015 from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Farmer & Son Funeral Home - Kotas Chapel.

Memorials are directed to the family.

Louis Alfred Krupicka was born to Charles Krupicka and Kristina Bernasek Krupicka on May 22, 1917 at Tobias, Nebraska and passed away September 13, 2015 at the Friend Manor in Friend, Nebraska at the age of 98 years. He was one of 5 children in the family.

Louis met his lifelong partner Elsie June Luzum at Sunset Dance Hall in Lincoln. They were united in marriage November 2, 1944 at the courthouse in Wilber, Nebraska. A reception followed the ceremony at Tabor Hall with a dance by the U-Neta Orchestra. This marriage was blessed with 2 children.

Louis and Elsie resided on a farm near rural Milligan for the first 6 years of marriage. They then purchased their farm near McCool Junction and remained there until 1991 when they purchased a house in the town of McCool Junction. Louis was a very wonderful accordion player. He learned to play the accordion at the age of 8 years old, and played the accordion at many polka dances and family get togethers.

Louis enjoyed farming; he planted milo and soybeans in fields and had cattle, hogs and sheep. Louis and Elsie also raised chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys.

Louis was preceded in death by is parents Charles and Kristina Krupicka of Milligan, wife Elsie, sisters Mamie Bedlan of Milligan and Hazel Koca of Shelby and brother Charles Krupicka Jr. of Geneva.

He is survived by his son Lavern Krupicka of McCool Junction, daughter and son-in-law Kathy and Gary Vodicka of Fairmont, Nebraska, grandchildren Shelley (Vodicka) Timmermans and husband Mike of Hampton, Randy Vodicka of Fairmont, great grandchildren Zachary and Mikaela Timmermans of Hampton, and brother Alfred Krupicka of Fairmont.

(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

Louis married Elsie June Luzum on 2 Nov 1944 in Wilber, Saline County, Nebraska. Elsie was born on 1 Jun 1925 in Friend, Saline County, Nebraska; died on 11 Nov 2010 in Henderson, York County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

A graduate of District #71 High School in Milligan. Served in Korea with the 176th Armored Field Artillery Battalion from 1951 through 1953. (Milligan, p 200)

ERVIN BERNASEK 20 Oct 1928 20 Apr 1999 (V) 68416 (Ohiowa, Fillmore, NE) (none specified) 507-42-0602 Nebraska

Ervin married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Living married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

A Funeral Service for Czech will be held on Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at the Milligan Auditorium in Milligan, Nebraska. Kim Dunker will preside over the Funeral Service.

A Graveside Service will be held in the Bohemian National Cemetery following the Funeral Service.

A Public Visitation will be held at Farmer & Son Funeral Home in Geneva on Tuesday, February 1, 2022 from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with family present from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Memorials are suggested to the Geneva Rescue Squad.

Norris Dean "Czech" Bernasek was born to Jim & Alice (Kohler) Bernasek on June 5, 1935 in Glengary Township, Fillmore County on a farmstead. He passed away on Saturday, January 29, 2022 at Fillmore County Hospital at the age of 86 years, 7 months, and 24 days. He was the only child born to this union.

Norris attended Country School District 34, just off of Highway 41 when he was 4 years old. He graduated from Geneva High School in 1952. He played high school sports, including football, basketball, and baseball. After high school, Norris attended Hastings College on a football scholarship. Norris joined the Army a few years later but was released in early 1959 to come home and help his father with the farm.

Norris married Lois on May 18, 1958. Through their union of marriage, 4 children were born: Cindi, Kevin, Michelle, and Tami.

Norris and Lois divorced and Norris married Nancy Kalvoda on October 12, 1988 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Through marriage, He acquired two step children: Christina and Cassandra, who he raised like his own.

Norris loved music. In his younger years, he played drums in various bands, including the Platte Valley Countrymen Band.

In their time together, Norris and Nancy enjoyed dancing, fishing, boating, and camping in luxury at Kansas Lakes Lovewell and Glen Elder. Gambling was another activity they both enjoyed doing together. Norris also enjoyed gardening including tilling the ground, planting, watering, and watching his crops grow. Norris was always a lover of animals, going so far as to name his cattle, with his favorite being "Shakey." Norris was also a huge sports fan and hardly missed a game by his favorite teams, often sitting in his recliner watching intently.

Norris was preceded in death by his parents, Jim & Alice Bernasek; and granddaughters Brittany Rainey and Anasthasta Rainey.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Kalvoda; children Cynthia (Bernasek) & Mike Andreasen, Kevin Bernasek & significant other Karen Hoffman, Michelle (Bernasek) Lemke, Tami (Bernasek) & Ken Vodicka, Christina (Kalvoda) & Tod Davenport and Cassandra (Kalvoda) Wilkerson; and grandchildren Danny, Jeff, Jill, Charlotte, Allie, Sydney, Tyler, Trevor, Tristian, Dylan, Sarah, Anna, Maddison, Davis, Harper, Tristan, Hunter, Dominic, Savannah, and Blakely; and great grandchildren Boden, Hayden, Codie, Riley, Ryan, Brenden, Link, Clara, Mila, Bristol, Katherine and Kaden.


(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy, from Farmer & Son Funeral Home)

Notes:

ELSIE L DUNGAN 17 May 1917 19 May 2007 (V) 98115 (Seattle, King, WA ) (none specified) 508-09-9289 Nebraska

Notes:

Ken Chromy instead shows her place of death as Seattle, Washington. Said to have married Bill DAVIS.

Notes:

She was married to Leo RYCHECKY and later Telmar ROLFSTAD, both now deceased. Helen lives in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. (Milligan, 1988-2008, p. 112).

Obituary
Helen Rychecky Rolfstad

Helen Rychecky Rolfstad, 89, of Scottsbluff, died Wednesday, July 20, 2011, at Heritage Estates in Gering.

Her memorial service will be held 10 a.m. Monday, July 25, 2011, at Dugan-Kramer Funeral Chapel in Scottsbluff with Pastor Ron Nuss-Warren officiating. Interment will be in the Fairview Cemetery in Scottsbluff.

Memorials may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.

Helen was born on a family farm near the Town of Ohiowa, Nebr. on Sunday, May 28, 1922, to Cyril M. and Helen V. Bernasek. Helen was the youngest of three daughters. She was baptized at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Milligan. When Helen was three years old the family moved to their farm on the Geneva route in Chelsea Township. Helen attended Chelsea School, district 32, through the eighth grade and attended Sunday school and church at the Chelsea United Bretheran Church.

Helen graduated from Geneva High School in 1939, and took Normal training to prepare her for a teaching career. In the fall of 1939 she began teaching in a rural school. After a few years she enrolled in Teachers College the University of Nebraska from which she received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. She became a member of the Phi Lambda Theta, a teachers' honorary society.

When she was 17, Helen met her future husband, Leo Rychecky, at a dance she attended in Saline Center. They were married October 6, 1945, in Alliance, Nebr., where Helen was teaching in the Alliance Public Schools. They couple moved to Leo's home area of Wilber, Nebr., and it was here that a son Jack was born in 1949.

In 1951 the family moved to Scottsbluff where Leo continued his auctioneering and real estate business, and Helen went back to teaching. She found every day of her career was a joy. Her biography was printed in Who's Who in Education in the early 1990s.

After Leo's death, Helen moved around a bit and made contact with a former beau, Telmar Folfstad, she had met during World War II when he was stationed at the Alliance Air Base. After a separation of 50 years the couple married. They lived in Willston, N. Dak.

After Telmar's death, Helen decided to move back to Scottsbluff to be closer to family and friends. She rejoined the First Presbyterian Church of which she had been a member many years before. She was a member of the Woman's Circle, an Elder, a Deacon, A Sunday School teacher, and a church librarian.

During her life Helen traveled throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Africa. She was a fabulous baker and made the best Czech kolache this side of heaven.

Survivors are loving son, Jack Rychecky and his caring wife Ann of Littleton, Colo., grandchildren and their spouses, Jill (Wes) Schrader of Littleton, Colo., Thom (Natalie) Rychecky of Edmond, Okla., Helen (Whitney) Hite of Madison, Wisc., and LTJG Per Rychecky of Whidbey Island Navel Air Station, Wash., great granddaughter Lena Rose Rychecky of Edmond, step children, Tom (Dana) Rolfstad of Williston, N. Dak., Dorothy Rolfstad of Mandan, N. Dak., and John Rolfstad of Seattle, Wash; step grandchildren T.C. (Kelci) Rolfstad of Portland, Ore. and Anne Rolfstad of Mandan, N. Dak.; and her extended family and special cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Leo Rychecky (1988) and Telmar Rolfstad (1999); sisters and their spouses Elsie (Bill) Dungan and Lillian (Bill) Davis

Helen married Leo Rychecky on 6 Oct 1945 in Alliance, Box Butte County, Nebraska. Leo was born on 17 Jun 1918; died on 26 Jun 1988 in Scottsbluff, Scotts Bluff County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Helen married Telmar E. Rolfstad after 1988. Telmar was born on 13 Jun 1918; died on 2 Mar 1999 in Williams County, North Dakota. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Obituary
(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

A public Funeral Service for Jean will be held on Friday, June 26, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at the Fairmont Community Church in Fairmont, Nebraska. Pastor Seungli You will officiate the service.

There will be no public visitation per Jean's wishes. Following the Funeral Service, Jean will be cremated and her ashes will be interred at the Fairmont Public Cemetery at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to the Neil Priefert Scholarship Fund or the Fairmont Community Church.

Due to the Covid 19 Epidemic, we will be practicing social distancing guidelines at the Funeral Service.

Jean (Bernasek) Priefert was born March 1, 1935 in Geneva, NE to James and Alba (Fujan) Bernasek. She passed away on June 21, 2020 at her home near Fairmont, Nebraska at the age of 85 years, 3 months, and 20 days.

She graduated from Geneva High School. On September 5, 1954 she married Neil Priefert at the United Brethren Church in Geneva. Neil and Jean were married for 63 years. Four daughters filled their home with activity; Mary, Carol, Linda and Susan.

Jean was a 50-year member of the Fairmont Federated Women's Club. She enjoyed the camaraderie as well as the community mindedness of this group of women. Jean was also an active member of WIFE, Women Involved in Farm Economics. Her task for the weekend of her death was getting a newsletter article written for them. Jean was a founding member of the Nebraska Poll-ettes and served on the National Poll-ette Cookbook Committee typing sections of the cookbook with recipes submitted from around the nation on a Royal manual typewriter at the kitchen table. In 2017 she was honored as the National Hereford Woman of the Year at the American Royal in Kansas City, MO.

Jean enjoyed the outdoors and her animals. Every morning and every evening you could find her "doing chores," feeding cats, dogs, letting the chickens out and feeding grain to the cows. While spending years in the registered cattle business, it wasn't unusual to find a calf being warmed in the bathtub, or a chicken being nurtured back to health after falling in the oil pit. While many used the Sunbeam electric skillet to fry chicken on the kitchen counter, Jean hatched baby chicks in hers. The story had been told of Jean, classmates Elaine and Helen Carol, being caught with a kitten hidden in a box in their Home Ec class by Miss Betty Christiancy. Betty Christiancy went on to be Betty Betka, who was Jean's daughters 4-H leader.

The registered cattle herd was an integral part of Jean's life on the farm. Hours were spent at the kitchen table filling out registration forms, recording birth weights, and weaning weights. The neighborhood party line let callers know when Jean wasn't home and let Jean know someone was looking for a bull. Life-long friendships developed as the family spent time each summer attending cattle tours with the Riffel family, county and state fairs, Junior Nationals and AK-SAR-BEN, auctions in the winter, and progress shows in the spring. Jean and Neil enjoyed traveling the country to the Standard of Perfection Shows in Kansas City, Denver, Fort Worth and Portland. Neil and Jean were avid supporters of young people in the beef industry, hence the Neil Priefert Scholarship for a member of the Nebraska Junior Hereford Association. In recent years, Jean and Neil were staples at the Sutton sale barn for lunch on Fridays. They recorded the lot number, weight and price of every animal that went thru the ring.

Jean farmed right along side her husband. It wasn't unusual to see her on the tractor, headed to the field. She also made many parts runs for Neil. It is quite possible some of those parts were to repair equipment she'd been using. Tractors didn't always have cabs then, but Jean was happy if the tractor had a radio so she could listen to polkas, KRVN and baseball games on KFAB.

Jean coached countless innings of girls' softball in Fairmont. Playing catch in the yard with her daughters was a normal part of summers. She played many seasons on the Fairmont Lion's Club women's team. She could be counted on to try a bunt and steal a base. The women's team's season culminated at the Strang Tournament where the team won the coveted trophy several successive seasons. Her pregnancy with youngest daughter Susan was kept a secret from everyone so Grandma Bernasek wouldn't be upset to see Jean continuing to catch behind home plate with Bonnie Nelson on the mound.

Jean spent her working career as a Cottage Parent at YRTC in Geneva. Following her retirement from YRTC, she drove for Eichman's transport company in York. She transported Epworth Village residents and clients to school and varioius appointments. Any unwholesome conversations or arguments between students brought them an exposure to Jean's Czech heritage as she turned up her polka music on the radio.

Jean was a pioneer in her own right. She was concerned about ground water, soil conditions, and proper care of animals. She was an avid gardener, promoting nutrition to her family before it was a public health initiative. What would be called family bonding time today, took place on the back step as Jean and the girls snapped 5-gallon buckets of green beans while swatting mosquitos. Jean was a tireless supporter of the beef industry and providing home-raised beef for her family. She spent many years supporting youth, sitting on the bleachers watching ballgames and cattle shows after her own family was raised. She spoke her mind and was proud of her heritage. She cared deeply about sports opportunities and education for girls. She truly was ahead of her time.

Jean was proceeded in death by her husband Neil, her parents, James and Alba Bernasek and in-laws Elmer and Margaret Priefert.

Those who remain are: Daughters: Mary (Dana) Scott of York, NE; Carol (David Wentworth) Priefert of Centennial, WY; Linda (Kirby) Zuerlein of Fairmont, NE. Grandchildren: Zac (Amanda) Scott of York, NE; Nick (Kelsey) Scott of Norfolk, NE; Ryan (Sara Stearns) Scott of York, NE; Adam (Anna) Scott of Lincoln, Curtis (Sydney) Scott of Gretna, NE; Lindsey Carroll of Lincoln; Danielle (Dakota) Cooper of York, NE; and Leslie Carroll of Fairmont, NE. Great-grandchildren: Jane Scott, Ethan Stearns, Hudson and Wyatt Scott, and Dominic, Derek & Dusty Cooper.

Jean married Neil E. Priefert on 5 Sep 1954 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. Neil was born on 24 Apr 1929 in Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 27 Jan 2019 in Fairmont, Fillmore County, Nebraska; was buried in Fairmont Public Cemetery, Fairmont, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Obituary for Mildred I. Sluka

A Graveside Service for Mildred will be held on Monday, April 24, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the Bohemian National Cemetery in Milligan, Nebraska with Kim Dunker presiding.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 23, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with family present from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Farmer & Son Funeral Home in Geneva, Nebraska.

Memorials are to be directed to the family to be designated at a later date.

Mildred Sluka passed away on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 at the Fairview Nursing Home at the age of 102 years old. Mildred was born on January 7, 1921 on their family farm near Burress, Nebraska to John E. and Marie (Bernasek) Sluka. She was one of two children in the family.

Mildred attended rural school and then took care of her father for many years on their farm. After he passed away Mildred moved to Geneva where she cleaned businesses and homes. She also baby-sat for many years. Mildred then moved to the assisted living at the Fairview Manor in Fairmont, Nebraska.

Mildred loved children and her nieces adored her. She would sit on the floor and play with them for hours in her late 80's. Mildred had an intellectual mind, and could remember facts from years ago. She shared numerous stories with us. She loved her Czech heritage, eating kolaches and listening to Shandra Reinsch play her accordion for her. She also enjoyed her special visits from Linda Korbelik.

Mildred was preceded in death by her parents, John E. and Marie Sluka and her sister, Evelyn Stoldorf.

She is survived by her nephew, Rick Stoldorf and his wife Jan, and her nieces, Lindsey and Tori Stoldorf.

(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)
...

Notes:

Evelyn M. Stoldorf, age 90, of Geneva, died Friday, April 10, 2015 in Geneva. Born June 6, 1924 in Geneva to John & Marie (Bernasek) Sluka.

Survivors: son, Rick & wife Jan of Grafton; sister, Mildred Sluka of Fairmont; two granddaughters, Lindsey Stoldorf & Tori Stoldorf.

Funeral: 10:30 a.m. Monday at United Methodist Church in Geneva. Visitation will begin at 1 pm until 8 pm Sunday at Farmer & Son Funeral Home in Geneva. Memorials to the United Methodist Church or VFW Auxiliary. Graveside services: Geneva Public Cemetery. Condolences, www.farmerandsonfuneralhome.com

Expanded obituary

Evelyn Marie (Sluka) Stoldorf passed away on Friday, April 10, 2015 at Heritage Crossings. Evelyn was born on June 6, 1924 near Burress to John E. and Marie (Bernasek) Sluka. She was one of two children in the family.

Evelyn attended rural school, and graduated from Geneva High School in 1941. Evelyn began courting Dean Stoldorf after they met at a dance in Burress. They were married on August 14, 1946, and to this union two children were born,, Debra and Rick.

Evelyn enjoyed living on the family farm west of Geneva until May 1983. At this time she moved to Geneva and resided in her home until going to Heritage Crossings.

Evelyn was a faithful member of the Geneva United Methodist Church for 67 years. She enjoyed her church circle activities and volunteering. She was also a member of the VFW Woman's Auxiliary. She enjoyed polka music, gardening, helping on the farm and raising her children. She was very proud of her grandchildren and all their accomplishments.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents; husband Dean; and daughter Debra; sister-in-law Hazel and Jim Murray; brother-in-law Harold and Vivian Stoldorf.

She is survived by her son Rick and Jan Stoldorf; grandchildren, Lindsey and Tori; and sister Mildred Sluka.

Funeral services were conducted by Pastor Michelle Gowin and Kim Dunker at the United Methodist Church on Monday, April 13, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. Sondra Myers accompanied Delwin Myers who sang How Great Thou Art and Amazing Grace. Pallbearers were Larry Murray, Don Reinsch, Lambert Hopken, Roger Pittard, Donald Sluka and Ron Boyes. Interment was in the Geneva Public Cemetery. Memorials are directed to the Geneva United Methodist Church or the VFW Woman's Auxiliary. Farmer & Son Funeral Home conducted the services.


(Courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy)

Evelyn married Dean Lavern Stoldorf on 14 Aug 1946 in Nebraska. Dean was born on 26 Sep 1917 in Grafton, Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 27 Mar 1992 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Erma married Joseph F. Maresh on 14 Jan 1942. Joseph (son of Josef "Joseph" Maresh and Anna Betkova) was born on 6 Oct 1914 in Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska; died on 3 Nov 1974 in Friend, Saline County, Nebraska; was buried in Bohemian National Cemetery (Milligan South), Milligan, Fillmore County, Nebraska. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Carolyn married Ernest Gerald "Jerry" Erickson on 7 Jul 1962 in Geneva, Fillmore County, Nebraska. Ernest was born on 13 Jun 1933 in Lindsborg, McPherson County, Kansas; died on 9 Apr 1994 in Bennington, Ottawa County, Kansas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Rodney A. Bernasek

Rodney A. Bernasek 69, Lakewood, Colorado, passed away on October 1, 2007 at St. Luke's Presbyterian Hospital in Denver. Survivors: wife, Jo Anne; children, Jason Bernasek, Monica (Gayle) Tomlinson; grandchild, Hanah Tomlinson, all of Lakewood; step-daughters, Pam (John) Price of Deer Trail, Colo., Patty (Tim) Noel of Denver; sister Kathy (Ken) Chromy of Ohiowa; mother-in-law, Glenola Southard of Lakewood. Celebration of Life: Tuesday, October 9, at 3 p.m. at The Den at Fox Hollow, 13410 W. Morrison Road, Lakewood. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to American Kidney Fund, 6110 Executive Blvd. Suite 1010, Rockville, MD 20852. Obituary information at www.horanandmcconaty.com.

Published in the Lincoln Journal Star on 10/5/2007, courtesy of Dennis Belohlavy.

Living married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]