Rowen J. Kempf Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Shickley, Nebraska resident Rowen J. Kempf, age 90, passed away Wednesday August 5, 2020 in Deshler, Nebraska surrounded by his family. Rowen was born on a farm near Shickley, Nebraska to Jay W. and Fauna M. (Young) Kempf on January 5, 1930. He had one sister, Marilyn, who is deceased. He married Lila Hendrickson on August 6, 1950 and would have celebrated 70 years of marriage the day after his passing. The loving couple had three children, Michael (deceased), Mark, and Jody. Rowen followed his passion and was a lifelong farmer. He lived his entire life on a farm in the Shickley area. His early school days were at “District 58” country school before coming to Shickley High School, where he graduated from in 1947. He was baptized, confirmed and spent the rest of his life as a member of the United Methodist Church in Shickley. He loved the game of football and enjoyed an outstanding high school career. He was a lifelong follower of the Huskers and became a devout New England Patriots fan the last 20 years of his life. In the second half of his life, he took up golf and became completely hooked on the game. He spent many hours on the links with friends and family. Rowen and Lila enjoyed traveling and spent time each winter for 30 years in Port Aransas, Texas where they formed many lifelong friendships. They enjoyed fishing, golfing, and hosting family while there. Rowen was preceded in death by his parents, sister, and son Michael. Survivors include his wife Lila of Shickley, children and spouses Mark and Janet Kempf, and Jody and Steve Heinrichs of Shickley, 8 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, and 2 additional great grandchildren on the way. Rowen was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather and will be dearly missed. He was known for his loyalty to friends and family, his work ethic, and his infectious laugh that will be remembered by all who knew him. A private family Funeral Service for Rowen was held on Tuesday, August 11, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Shickley, Nebraska. Pastor Martin Leeper officiated the services. Marti Alfs provided the prelude and postlude music and she also accompanied Steph Thayer in the singing of “How Great Thou Art” and “Gift Of Love.” Pallbearers for the service included Mikaela Eitzmann, Danielle Kempf-Horwart, Haylee Williams, Mallory Elting, Greg Heinrichs, Jesse Kempf, Jered Kempf, and Cody Kempf. Interment was held in the Shickley Cemetery following the Funeral Service. Farmer & Son Funeral Home was in care of the funeral arrangements and online condolences can be left at www.farmerandsonfuneralhome.com Memorials are suggested to the United Methodist Church and the Shickley Cemetery.

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Rowen J. Kempf

January 5, 1930 - August 5, 2020