Hailee Ann Vlach

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of Hailee Ann Vlach, 22, of Palmer, who tragically left us on Nov. 19, 2024, as a result of a motor vehicle accident. In this profound moment of loss, we also mourn the passing of Hailee's unborn son, William Lee Vlach.

A memorial service to honor Hailee's memory was held at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, at the United Methodist Church in Palmer. Family and friends were invited to gather and remember Hailee's beautiful spirit during visitation hours from 4 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Nov 24, at the United Methodist Church in Palmer. Greenway-Dietz Funeral Home in Palmer assisted the family.

Hailee was born on Dec. 6, 2001, in Hastings, Nebraska, to Eric Wilford and Katie Vlach. She was a bright and passionate soul from the beginning. Hailee grew up in Grand Island and later in 7th grade moved to Palmer, where she attended school and graduated in 2020. She was a dedicated member of the FFA and Honor Band, and her love for animals led her to develop a passion for barrel racing and showing cattle through 4-H. Hailee had a heart for animals and she enjoyed her time when she was employed at the Countryside Vet Clinic in Fullerton, where she thrived in caring for and helping animals.

Above all, Hailee cherished her family. Her siblings held a special place in her heart, and the bond she shared with her dog, Olaf, was one of pure love and companionship. Hailee's warmth, her infectious laughter and her genuine kindness touched everyone she met. She lived with an open heart, always ready to share her love and support with those she cared for. Her vibrant spirit and deep love for life will continue to light the way for her family and friends, who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

Those left to cherish Hailee's memory include her parents, Eric (Nicole) Wilford of Crete and Katie Vlach (J.J. McGovern) of Palmer; her siblings, Ethan, Peyton, Charlotte, Augustus, Alex, Karter, and Brady; her grandparents, Todd and LeAnn Kucera of Palmer; step-grandparents, William and Renae Henrichs of Hastings; her great-grandparents, Bill and Donna Kucera of Palmer; her uncle, Cody Elkins of St. Paul; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Hailee is preceded in death with her baby boy, William Lee Vlach; and grandmother, Christine Straka.