Norbert R. Lechner

Norbert R. Lechner, age 81 of Nebraska City, NE passed away on Thursday, October 17, 2013 at his home.

Norbert Ralph Lechner was born on July 11, 1932 in Nebraska City, NE; the son of Carl Frank and Viola Elma (Tucker) Lechner.  He attended District #30 Country School thru the 8th Grade and then attended Nebraska City High School, graduating with the Class of 1951.

He entered the United States Army on January 15, 1953 and served during the Korean War.  He was honorably discharged on December 23, 1954.  After coming home from the war, Norbert was united in marriage to Joella Jean Clark on July 28, 1956 at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Nebraska City.

Norbert worked hard all his life; working at many jobs.  Before entering the service he worked for the railroad.  After returning home, he worked at Otoe Concrete and later at  Otoe Foods/Morton House Kitchen/ Lipton for 27 years primarily in maintenance.  Following the closing of the factory, he worked a short time for Rhinehart Electric and then started work at American Meter for 15 years before retiring in 1997.
He was a long-time member of Amercian Legion Post #8 in Nebr. City and St. Mary's Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Joella Lechner of Nebr. City, NE; five children:  Chris Kohout and husband Kim of Nebr. City, NE; Lori Anderson of Richardson, TX; Amy Malmberg of Nebr. City, NE; Clark Lechner and wife Lori of Lakewood, CO and Scott Lechner and wife Linda of Lincoln, NE; three siblings:  Arnold Lechner and wife Birdean of San Antonio, TX; Kathleen Griepenstroh and husband Arlen of Nebr. City, NE and Jean Godak and husband Frank of Norfolk, VA; other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son Jerry Lee Lechner on Aug. 20, 2000 and a grandson Rick Anderson.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2013 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Nebraska City with Fr. Michael McCabe officiating.  Inurnment will take place at a later date at St. Benedict’s Cemetery in Nebr. City.

A Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday evening at Gude Mortuary in Nebraska City, followed by the family greeting friends.

Memorials may be given to the family.

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