Rudolph Hraban
May 02, 1925 - June 24, 2014
Obituary
Rudolph Raymond Hraban of Billings, Montana formerly of Gering, NE peacefully left this world for his heavenly reward on Tuesday, June 24, 2014. A memorial service and Rosary will be conducted by Father Wayne Pittard on Friday, June 27th at 1:00 p.m. at Dahl Funeral Chapel in Billings, Montana. Graveside services will be conducted by Fr. Gerald Harr of Christ the King Catholic Church at the West Lawn Cemetery in Gering, NE on Monday, June 30th at 11:00 a.m. Rudy was born to James and Anna (Vondra) Hraban on May 2, 1925 in Bee, NE. He graduated from Greenwood High School in Greenwood, NE. He served in the Navy aboard the most decorated ship of World War II, the USS Enterprise Aircraft Carrier. He received the Good Conduct Medal, Victory Medal, American Theatre Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal - eleven stars, Philippine Liberation Medal - two stars and a Commendation by the Commanding Officer. Rudy was proud of his service to his country. Rudy graduated with a degree in Agriculture from the University of Nebraska. He was employed by the USDA, Soil Conservation Service for 38 years, retiring in 1987. He received honors and awards for Dedicated Service and Leadership in the Management of Nebraska Soil and Water Resources, Outstanding Achievement in Soil and Water Conservation Stewardship, and in Recognition of Recruitment Efforts to further the EEO Program. Rudy enjoyed many years of working with the agricultural community – farmers, ranchers and USDA staff. Rudy married Maxine Tharnish on June 16, 1952 in Lincoln, NE and just recently celebrated their 62nd anniversary. Together they raised seven children. Their children are: David Lee (deceased); Judy Shipman (Bob) of Eldridge, IA; Tom Hraban (Diane) of Billings, MT; Linda Martin (Russ) of Grand Junction, CO; Mike Hraban (Valerie) of Billings, MT; Jerry Hraban (Janet) of Windsor, CO; and Chrissie Douglas (Don), Sidney, NE. Rudy has 22 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Family gatherings have always been cherished times for the Hraban family. Rudy had many interests which included gardening, hunting, fishing, and traveling which always included family or friends. Rudy was an active member of Christ the King Catholic Church where he served in a variety of ways including the church council for over 20 years. Faith, Family and Friends were central to Rudy's life. Rudy was preceded in death by infant son David, granddaughter Jennifer, parents James and Anna, his brothers Frank, Jim, and George and sister Leona Schroeder. Memorials can be made in Rudy's name to Christ the King Catholic Church.
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Memories
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Gary & Lisa Rimington
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When I moved my family to Gering, Nebraska almost ten years ago we didn't know a soul. I remember helping my wife organize our children on a warm Sunday morning so we could celebrating our first mass at Christ the King. Rudy was the first person to make it a point to extend his hand after mass and welcome us to Gering. He was a wonderful kind soul. We always admired the way he lived his life. Gary & Lisa Rimington
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peggy fegler
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In the summer I would go for walks. Part of my circuit was the alley behind Rudy's and Maxine's house Frequently I would visit with Rudy about gardens and his dog. He always shared his rhubarb but the smiles were the best gift. Peggy Fegler
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Nancy Schroeder Blacksmith
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Uncle Rudy was not only my uncle, but also my godfather. He always made me feel loved and special. I haven't seen much of him in recent years - I live in Michigan - but I've always been comforted to know that this good man existed. Love you Uncle Rudy and miss you! Nancy Schroeder Blacksmith