Clifford Geiken

Clifford Lee Geiken, 96, of Gothenburg, Nebraska, passed away February 26, 2015 at Hilltop Estates in Gothenburg, NE.

Cliff was born November 9, 1918, northeast of Gothenburg to George and Estella (Fairbank) Geiken.

Cliff grew up northeast of Gothenburg and attended rural school and then Gothenburg High School where he graduated in 1935. He helped on the family farm until he enlisted in the Army in February 1941.

Cliff served in World War II in the European Theater with the 134th Infantry 35th Division and the Army Band until he was discharged in 1945. On March 2, 1947, he married Doris Brenner and to this union two children arrived: Carole Ann and David Lee. Cliff was a life-long farmer, living south of Gothenburg following his marriage.

Cliff was a member of the Banner United Methodist Church until 1970 when he joined the Gothenburg United Methodist Church. He had been a Methodist for over 60 years and a faithful member of the choir. Cliff and Doris provided their gift of singing for many funerals in this area.

He was a member of the election board, the VFW, and the American Legion for 60 years. From 1949 to June 2007, he was the Commander for the Gothenburg Honor Guard and was involved in many parades with them and also many funerals at Fort McPherson and around the Gothenburg area. He was proud of the Honor Guard and strived to make them proud of themselves and the services that they provided to our area veterans and their families. Cliff enjoyed the Gothenburg Senior Center and the Wellness Center.

Cliff will be missed by his wife Doris, daughter Carole Ann Coates of Cozad; two grandchildren: Jennifer (Darrell) Chancellor of Gothenburg and Elizabeth (Tom) Kehler of Culbertson; four great-grandchildren Skyler and Abigail Chancellor, Robert and Reid Kehler and extended family and numerous friends.

He was preceded in death by his son David on Oct. 2, 2004, his son-in-law Gary Coates, his parents, sister Lucille Jobman and infant brother Clarence.

Visitation will be held at Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel, Gothenburg, Nebraska; Monday, March 2, 2015, 1:00 pm - 8:00 pm.

Funeral services will be held at First United Methodist Church, March 3, 2015 at 11:00 am with Pastor Joel Plisek officiating.

Interment will follow at 1:30 in the Fort McPherson National Cemetery, Maxwell, Nebraska.

Memorials may be given to the First United Methodist Church, 1401 Lake Ave, Gothenburg, NE 69138 or Gothenburg Senior Center, 410 20th Street, Gothenburg, NE 69138.  To sign the online guest book, go to www.blasestrauser.com.