Ryan Groene
May 11, 1977 — February 10, 2016
Ryan Groene, 38, of Gothenburg, Nebraska, died February 10, 2016 at his home in Gothenburg, NE following a courageous battle with cancer.
He was born May 11, 1977 in Fremont, NE, son of Robin and Cathy (Vakiner) Groene.
Ryan grew up in Howells, NE. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Education at Wayne State College, Master of Arts in Educational Administration from the University of NE - Omaha. He taught science and coached at Fort Calhoun Community School from 2001 to 2008. He was the Junior High Principal and Curriculum Director at Gothenburg Public Schools from 2008 to 2016. Ryan was a member of the NSEA, NCSA, and active in the NSAA as a State Track official for 15 years, He was also a Gothenburg youth softball coach and attended the Crossing Fellowship.
Ryan married Ashley Mues on August 5, 2000 at Arapahoe, NE; to this union two children were born, Lunden and Beck. Ryan enjoyed spending time with his family; weekend getaways, time in the mountains and evening drives. He liked everything football, especially the Huskers, Buffaloes and Denver Broncos. He enjoyed attending sporting events, hiking in the Rocky Mountains and boating on the lake.
Surviving are wife, Ashley Groene of Gothenburg, NE; daughter, Lunden Groene; son, Beck Groene; parents Robin & Cathy Groene of Howells, NE; three sisters, Brenda (Dave) Hegemann of Howells, NE; Lisa (Tom) Holoubek of Clarkson, NE; Tara Groene of Estes Park, CO; parents-in-law, Noel Mues and Charlavee McCoy; brother-in-law, Brandon (Cherl) Mues of Fremont, NE; nieces & nephews, along with a host of extended family and friends.
Ryan was preceded in death by his grandparents, Elmer & Lila Groene, Clifford & Alice Vakiner; and mother-in-law, Vicki Mues.
There will be a fellowship and refreshments gathering with the family receiving visitors on Sunday, February 14, 2016 at the Gothenburg High School from 3:00 - 5:00 pm.
Celebration of Life Service will be held at Gothenburg High School, Sunday February 14, 2016 at 6:00 pm.
At Ryan's request, in lieu of flowers, memorials may be given for his children's education.