Valerian Kucera

Valerian Adrian Kucera, the son of William Henry and Stella Helen (Mixiner) Kucera, was born April 30, 1932, at Deweese, Neb. He died Sept. 26, 2022, at Brodstone Healthcare Hospital in Superior, at the age of 90 years, 4 months and 26 days.

A lifelong resident of the area, Val received his formal education attending a rural school near Deweese. A veteran of the United States Army, he served his country during the Korean War enlisting on Dec. 3, 1952, and was honorably discharged on Nov. 10, 1954. Following his military service, he was employed in construction work.

He was united in marriage with Bonnie Hesman on Sept. 25, 1956. The family returned to the farm at Deweese to live. This union was blessed with eight children. This marriage later ended in divorce.

Val farmed and worked for a period of time with Western Land Roller and later with Dutton Lainson Company both in Hastings. In the 1970s he farmed for Gary Shuck at Edgar. Val was employed for 20 years with Mary Lanning Hospital in Hastings.

In 1999, Val was married to Virginia (Hake) Gilbert at the Wesleyan Church in Red Cloud. Together they enjoyed sharing a love for dancing, music and daily exercising. Virginia died on Nov. 15, 2018.

In his leisure time Val enjoyed working in his yard. He possessed a strong work ethic and was happiest when he was busy. After retirement, he still treasured the time he spent on the farm and checking the crops. He was a member of the Lawrence American Legion Post.

Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife, Virginia; a son, Larry Kucera in 2014; and a brother, Wencil and wife, Anita, Kucera.

Left to cherish his memory are his children: Kathy Kucera of Hastings; Susan Cleveland of Tonganoxie, Kan.; Debbie Alber and husband, Dan, of Blue Hill, Neb; Lori Rine and husband, Dave, of Columbus, Neb.; Randy Kucera of Deweese, Neb.; Bill Kucera of Norfolk, Neb.; John Kucera of North Platte, Neb., and daughter-in-law, Kim Kucera of Deweese;15 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; a sister, Agnes Miller, and husband, Alfred, of Superior; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A family graveside service was held Friday, Sept. 30, at the Guide Rock Cemetery with the Rev. Dan Benedict officiating.