Gilbert Walter Gierhan, 82, of Lexington, Nebraska, passed away Monday, January 20, 2014, at Plum Creek Healthcare Community in Lexington.
He was born February 18, 1931, in York, Nebraska, to Walter and Alma (Struempler) Gierhan. He moved to the family farm northwest of Lexington when he was one. Gilbert attended rural school and then graduated from Lexington High School with the class of 1948. He then went on to further his education at the University of Nebraska where he was a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity.
On December 1, 1951, Gilbert enlisted in the United States Air Force. He was honorably discharged on October 31, 1959. His rank was Staff Sargeant; and he was a mechanic on the B-36 airplane, The Peacemaker.
Gilbert was united in marriage to Ethel Brodin on December 10, 1955, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Four children were blessed to this marriage; Steven, Brenda, Coleen, and Alan.
He was a faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church, was a past member of the Dawson County Extension Board, Dawson County Feeder's Board, Lexington Co-op Board, 4-H Leader, and Plum Creek Area Barbershoppers. Gilbert enjoyed reading, visiting Air Force museums and air shows. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren; and talking farming with his sons and neighbors.
Gilbert is survived by his wife Ethel of 58 years; sons; Steven (Lori) Gierhan of Lexington, Nebraska; and, Alan Gierhan of Lexington, Nebraska; daughters; Brenda (Alan) Bucher of Allen, Texas; and, Coleen (Don) Pegler of Lincoln, Nebraska; three grandchildren, six step-grandchildren, three step-great-grandchildren, extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Dennis Gierhan; and, sister Carolyn Fisher.
Funeral Services will be held Friday, January 24, 2014, at 2:00 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington with Pastor Rob Kuefner officiating. Burial with Military Honors will be in the Hillside Cemetery northwest of Lexington. Visitation will be held Thursday, January 23, 2014, from 5-7 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington. Memorials are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church, the Lexington Volunteer Fire Department or the Donor's Choice. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is assisting the family. Please share online condolences with the family through: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.
