Gary Garland Townsend, 73, of Tekamah NE

Gary Garland Townsend 73 of Tekamah, Nebraska, passed away at his home surrounded by his family October 13, 2017. Gary was born February 25, 1944 in Sioux City, Iowa.

Gary lived most of his childhood in Sioux City. In 1961, he enlisted in the Army. While serving 6 years in the army he spent three years of that in Germany before returning to the states. While stationed in Fort Knox, Kentucky, he met his future wife and on June 15, 1966, Gary married Alta Carman. Together the couple raised seven children.

Gary worked as a diesel mechanic most of his life which brought the family to Tekamah in 1974. He also worked as a farm hand for many years after he retired. He also had a bait shop business that he enjoyed for many years at summit lake. He enjoyed fishing, playing cards and eating candy. Gary never met a stranger. He could always be found with friends or family telling a good story or joke. Gary also enjoyed gambling.

Gary was preceded in death by parents, Richard and Udith; brothers: William, Kurt and Marvin; sister, Roxanne; sons: Norman and George; daughter, Theanna; and three grandchildren.

He is survived by his sons: Robert (Kelly) Camron of Omaha, NE, Leroy Townsend of Tekamah; daughters: Linda Sergio of Texas, Udith (Art) Johnson of Craig, NE; brothers: Kevin Dickerson of Sioux City, Dick Dickerson and Kruse Dickerson both of Kentucky; sisters: Deb Mead and Delores (Jim) Browne both of Sioux City; twenty grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; and his partner, Vineta Knudsen.

MEMORIAL SERVICE

First Baptist Church, Tekamah12th & K Streets
Tekamah, Nebraska 68061

Military Honors will be held at the Tekamah Cemetery.

Burial is in the Tekamah Cemetery.

Memorials suggested to the family for future designation.

Pelan Funeral Services is in charge of arrangements.

Gary Townsend