Henry Christian Kjar, 89, of Ralston, Nebraska, formerly of Lexington, Nebraska, died Friday, October 12, 2007, at his home in Ralston, Nebraska.

He was born October 19, 1917, at Lexington, Nebraska, to Hans and Agnes (Lauby) Kjar. He attended rural school and graduated from Lexington High School in 1935. He helped his father, Hans Kjar, operate the family’s silver fox farm on the family homestead about eight miles west of Lexington.

Henry was in the Army Air Corps during WWII and trained as an airplane mechanic. He was eventually stationed at Bakersfield, California where he inspected the repair and testing of military aircraft. After the war, he returned to Lexington and he and his father built the Lexington Animal Clinic. Henry managed the veterinary practice for his brother, Dr. Harold Kjar, for twenty years. He obtained his pilot’s license and flew his brother into cattle ranches to treat and vaccinate the stock. After the clinic was sold, Henry worked for Valley Sales as a quality inspector until his retirement.

Henry married Elizabeth (Betty) Knutzen of Ashton, Nebraska, who taught in the city and Dawson County rural schools for over twenty years. Henry was an avid country singer and is especially remembered for his yodeling ability. In his younger days, he and his country band would perform at Plum Creek Days. In addition to his love for flying and his love for his Martin guitar, Henry loved dancing, fishing, bowling, and all sports, especially the Atlanta Braves and Creighton Bluejays.

He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, and was active in the St. Ann parish and school. He and his wife did extended traveling throughout the United States and in seven countries of Europe.

Survivors include his loving wife: Betty Kjar of Ralston, Nebraska

Two sons: Thomas C. and wife Christi Kjar of Ralston, Nebraska
Daniel J. and wife Gerene Kjar of Alta Loma, California

One daughter: Rita K. and husband Larry Troudt of Papillion, Nebraska

One brother: Harold Kjar of Auburn, Alabama

Two sisters: Agnes Wilhelm of Denver, Colorado
Evelyn Cochran of Fremont, Nebraska

Nine grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Bill and Art and one sister, Martha.

Henry’s body was cremated

A Memorial Mass will be held Wednesday, October 17, 2007, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Lexington, Nebraska with Reverend Paul Colling officiating.

Inurnment will be in the St. Ann’s Cemetery at Lexington.

A Rosary will be recited Tuesday, October 16, 2007, at 6:00 p.m. at St. Ann’s Catholic Church.

Memorials are kindly requested to St. Ann’s Catholic Church.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements.