Stanley C. Schelkopf

Stanley Curtis Schelkopf was born September 30, 1935 in Geneva, Nebraska to Isaac and Lena (Schrock) Schelkopf. He was one of eight children born in the family. Stanley passed away on March 20, 2013 at the Fairview Manor in Fairmont, Nebraska at the age of 77 years, 5 months, and 20 days. Stanley attended country school District 93 and graduated from Shickley High School in 1953. After attending the University of Nebraska for a short time, he enlisted in the United States Army. In 1957, Stanley returned to the family farm to work with his father, Isaac, and brother, Bob, in the grain and cattle operation. On October 12, 1958, he married Donna Koahler and they lived on a rented place near the family farm. To this union two children were born; Kim and Scott. Stanley farrowed his first six sows in a chicken house that winter. After spending a cold bitter night in his ‘farrowing house,’ he walked back to the farmhouse at daylight. He sat down with a cup of coffee and said to Donna, “Someday I want to own a herd of 1000 sows. That is my goal.” In the fall of 1959, Stanley and Donna purchased 80 acres of land directly north of the main Schelkopf farm and this became their home. The Schelkopf brothers formed Cornhusker Farms, known nationally for its SPF Swine herds. They also were involved with the cattle operation which had grown to well over 3000 exotic cattle, making it the largest exotic cattle breeding herd in the nation. Stanley’s biggest milestone in his career was reached in 1974 when he had obtained a herd of 1000 sows. In 1978, Stanley and nine other investors built Cornhusker Pig of Geneva, a 500 sow farrow to finish unit. In the early 1980’s, he could see that the swine industry was rapidly changing, so he incorporated many new blood lines for his expanding operation. At this time, he also remodeled existing buildings and added many new facilities. Kim and Scott became a part in this new era. Kim was a graduate of UNL in Marketing and Advertisement and Scott a graduate of UNL in Agricultural Business, and they both brought many new ideas to the breeding stock business. The Cornhusker Farms and Cornhusker Cattle Company attained their success with the help of family and many loyal employees such as Donnie Labenz and the Labenz brothers. Stanley was a member of the United Methodist Church in Geneva, The Lion’s Club, and the Hidden Hills Country Club. Stanley and Donna were avid Husker fans too. His happiest times were attending his grandchildren’s competitions and programs, family vacations, and celebrating surprise birthday and anniversary parties. Stanley and Donna also enjoyed many travel experiences together. Stanley will be remembered by his family and friends for his positive attitude, friendliness and generosity. Stanley was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Mary Wythers; and his brothers, Conly, Dean, Russell and Robert. He is survived by his wife Donna of Geneva; daughter and son-in-law Kim & Luke Lemke and their children Taylor, Lauren, Libby, and Noah all of Columbus, Nebraska; son and daughter-in-law Scott & Jana Schelkopf and their children Conrad, Chandler, and Cooper all of Geneva, Nebraska; brother Sterling Schelkopf of Long Pine, Nebraska; sister and brother-in-law Sharol & Dewaine Cisney of Tempe, Arizona; and sisters-in-law Berni Schelkopf of Sycamore, Illinois and Beverly Schelkopf Epp of Henderson, Nebraska. Funeral services for Stanley were held on Monday, March 25, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Geneva. Pastor Ron Harris officiated the services. Ben Kaye Skinner accompanied the congregation in the singing of “Lead On, O King Eternal” and “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.” He also accompanied Ray & Margaret Nichols, Ron & Sue Rickert, and Liz Kaye Skinner in the singing of “How Great Thou Art” and “Amazing Grace.” Pallbearers for the service included Stanley’s grandchildren: Taylor Lemke, Lauren Lemke, Libby Lemke, Noah Lemke, Conrad Schelkopf, Chandler Schelkopf, and Cooper Schelkopf. Honorary pallbearers included Donald Labenz and the Past & Present Employees of Cornhusker Farms. Interment was held in the Geneva Public Cemetery. Memorials are directed to the United Methodist Church in Geneva. Farmer & Son Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

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Stanley C. Schelkopf

September 30, 1935 - March 20, 2013