Robert Warnke

Ayr resident Robert L. “Bob” Warnke, 81, passed away Friday, April 20, 2018, at Mary Lanning Healthcare, Hastings, NE.

Services are 10 a.m. Thursday, April 26, at First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hastings with Pastor Joel Remmers officiating. Burial with military rites by Hastings Veterans Organizations will be in Parkview Cemetery in Hastings. Memorials may be given to First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Visitation is 9-7 p.m. with family present 5-7 p.m. Wednesday and one hour prior to service at the church.

Bob was born August 28, 1936, in Hastings, NE to Chris S. & Pauline I. (Krueger) Warnke. He graduated from Blue Hill High School in 1954. Bob served in the U.S. Army from April 6, 1959, to March 22, 1961. He married Doris Dieken in 1975; they later divorced. Bob married Charlene Watkins on March 25, 1983; she preceded him in death on June 22, 1991.

Bob farmed in the area and worked for Farmland Industries (now Equalizer) and Hastings Industries. He was a member of First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and Eagle’s Club. Bob enjoyed county and state fairs, rodeos, and Husker Harvest Days. He was happiest when he was in his tractor going down the field. Bob enjoyed attending agriculture appreciation events and collecting free merchandise. He also enjoyed attending fundraisers, auctions, and church. Bob enjoyed driving around the countryside and viewing all the different types of farming.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Charlene Warnke.

SURVIVORS:
Companion:
Reta Dillon - Ainsworth, NE
Brother & Spouse:
Dick & Doris Warnke – Ayr, NE
Step-Children:
Sandy Higer – Ayr, NE
Cynthia Whitaker – TN
Step-Grandchildren:
5
Aunt:
Alice Derr – Holdrege, NE
Several Cousins