Galen W. Kennel

A private Graveside Service for Galen was held in the Geneva Public Cemetery on Friday, July 3, 2026. Pastor Mike Row presided over the Graveside Service. Memorials are suggested to the family for future designation. Galen Warren Kennel was born to Harry Kennel and Sylvia (Lichti) Kennel on December 18, 1936, in Shickley, Nebraska, and passed away at Heritage Crossings Nursing Home in Geneva, Nebraska on June 27, 2026, at the age of 89 years. Galen was one of four children. He was baptized in 1949 at the Salem Mennonite Church. Galen graduated from Geneva High School in 1954. Galen had a strong work ethic and lived a life of dedication, strength and hard work. He worked at Kaneb Pipeline in Geneva for 47 years before retiring in 2005. He enjoyed raising cattle even after retirement. Galen delighted in driving around the countryside while eating an ice cream cone and reminiscing about the past. Galen always entertained his family with his quirky sayings. Stories about Grandpa at the holidays were never-ending, and he never lost his ornery streak. He could always be coaxed into helping with a project. Sleeping in his chair was a regular occurrence any time of day. He helped many of his grandchildren learn to drive. He was lovingly called “Grandpa Chicken” by his great-grandchildren. Galen married Marjorie Eichelberger of Shickley, Nebraska on December 20, 1956. They were loving parents to three children: Rex, Peg and Martin. He was blessed with 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Grandchildren Kerri and husband Scott Price, Kelli and husband Luke Dorris, Kimberly Kennel, Kaily and husband Jordan Stutzman, Alanna and husband Ron Kramer, Cameron Ward and fiancé Brianna, Anthony Kennel and wife Haley, Aaron Kennel, Lena Kennel and Gabriel Kennel. Great-grandchildren Madison, Carson and Jaxon Kramer; Lilly Fuehrer, Ella and Emery Steinacher; Wyatt, Savannah and Charlotte Dorris; and Wyatt Kennel. Galen was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie, son, Martin, parents Harry and Sylvia Kennel and two sisters Arla Rediger and Karen Santog. Left to mourn his passing: Rex and Lori Kennel, Dan and Peg Ward, Linda Kennel, Lana Sutton, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as extended family and friends.

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Galen W. Kennel

December 18, 1936 - June 27, 2026