of Fremont formerly of Bancroft
Died Sunday December 4, 2011
at Nye Legacy in Fremont.
Herb was born on a farm north of Bancroft, NE. to his German immigrant parents, William and Bertha Ronnenkamp. Herb graduated from Bancroft High School in 1936. He did various types of work after graduation before joining the Citizen's Bank in 1941. He was with the bank for six months before he accepted a call to serve with the Army during World War II. He spent most of the war with an engineering outfit in New Guinea and the Philippines and was discharged as a Staff Sergeant in 1946 and returned home to Bancroft.
He wed Lydia Repschlaeger in 1950 and they had three children. He rejoined the Citizen's Bank after the war, where he worked for almost 40 years until his retirement in 1984. "Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would wind up in the banking business, but I can't say I would have rather done anything else." Herb also enjoyed his time outside of work. He was an enthusiastic outdoorsman and loved hunting (and his four hunting dogs), along with fishing and gardening.
An active community member, he served on the Village and Township Board and was mayor of Bancroft for a term in the 1960s. He was also involved with committee work and the council at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Bancroft (where Herb and Lydia were long-time members).
Herb also made the most of his post-retirement years. He continued his outdoor activities and loved dancing with Lydia on Saturday nights. Herb and his wife also became "Snow Birds" and spent 18 winters in the south - 15 of these on South Padre, Texas where they enjoyed the warm weather, the water, and the fresh seafood. In 1996, Herb and Lydia moved to Fremont where they have lived the past 15 years. They joined Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and became members of the Fremont YMCA where Herb continued to stay active and involved through regular workouts. He enjoyed coffee and discussion time with his Y buddies, along with three key interests: financial investing, politics, and cooking.
Herb is survived by Lydia, his loving wife of 61 years; oldest daughter Joan, son-in-law Glenn, and grandson Bennett in Seattle, WA.; son Bob in Fremont, NE.; and youngest daughter Sue in Austin, TX. Herb was very proud of his kids and son-in-law; and was very confident that his grandson will achieve great things. Herb is also survived by his younger brother, Lorenz and his wife Geraldine, in Bancroft.
Cards can be sent to Lydia at Nye Legacy, 3210 N. Clarkson, Fremont, NE 68025. Donations can be made in Herbert's name to the Salvation Army.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Condolences(5)
Larry & Lynette Harris
West Point, NE Wednesday, December 7, 2011 Lydia, Joan, Bob & Sue: Our sincere sympathy for your loss. Our good memories of Herb will be with us forever. And we are comforted by the knowledge that one day we will all be reunited. We are remembering you in our thoughts and prayers.Arna Farabee
Waukomis, OK Tuesday, December 6, 2011 I am sorry for your loss - makes me start thinking of times "way back when". Many years ago we did all have some good times - family gatherings - dances. Maybe it was the "young" part that made it all really fun. I know you and Herb had many good times through the years. You both were good "people" persons, so didn't meet many strangers. The photo is super - so happy and healthy. Love from my family. Arna , Kay & boys & grandkids. Hope to see you on next trip to NE.Rod and Marsha Repschlaeger
El Dorado, CA Tuesday, December 6, 2011 I remember a lot of good times when we were kids and the big family gatherings. I think most of Bancroft was related and everyone would always be there. Always lots of laughs and plenty of food to feed more than were there. Good Times to remember. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Love, Rod and MarshaHazel Winchell
Omaha, NE Monday, December 5, 2011 Lydia and family...I am sorry for your loss..may the love of Jesus comfort you. Sincerely, Hazel WinchellBarb Mason Kennedy
Boise, ID Monday, December 5, 2011 That photo and smile is how I will always remember Uncle Herb. I will always cherish the visit we were fortunate to have with him in July of this year. He was a great man, great uncle and has left the best of memories with our family.