Stories from Friday, May 30, 2025

GERING, Neb. — A rainy and disturbing day one at the state tournament was not about to dampen what McCook High’s golfers have been all about these past four seasons. Sure enough, the Bison came out on fire for day two of Class B play at Monument Shadows Golf Course...

COLUMBUS, Neb. — Cambridge junior Micah Gerlach erased two strokes on the final 36th hole, but Creighton’s Calvin Willmes won a playoff to take home that Class D state golf title Thursday afternoon. Both top contenders totaled 154 during this two-day ultimate finale with Gerlach showing amazing consistency at 77-77...

Terry K. Vontz Feb. 14, 1953 - May 23, 2025 McCOOK, Neb. — Terry K. Vontz, age 72, of McCook, a man known for his steady hands, generous heart, and boundless love for his family, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 23, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and devotion. He was cherished by many, especially his family and family friends, who will forever hold his memory close...

Edith Luanne “Lu” (Wright) DeVoll Dec. 13, 1937 - May 26, 2025 OMAHA, Neb. — Edith Luanne “Lu” (Wright) DeVoll died May 26, 2025 in Omaha. She was born Dec. 13, 1937, in McCook, Neb., to Robert “Whitey” and Edith Mae Wright. Visitation is Tuesday, June 3, 2025, 9-10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bellevue, Neb. Funeral services will follow at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. The full obituary can be viewed at https://www.arborsociety.org/obituaries/Edith-Luanne-Devoll?obId=42679276...

Not sure where I heard this axiom, but its significance to me is important: A person dies twice; once when they take their last breath, again when their name is spoken for the last time. The second time is held at bay by genealogy research, local museums and organizations like DAR or SAR. I say that since each of those heralds the lives of many people, not just the famous or infamous in this world...

McCOOK, Neb. – Several events were discussed at the McCook Chamber of Commerce monthly meeting, including the upcoming “Bash on the Bricks.” Details were finalized at the meeting for the Chamber’s signature summer event, “Bash on the Bricks,” according to Chamber director Sarah Schneider. After being held at the golf course last year, the event is returning to downtown McCook, Schneider said. Taking place Saturday, June 28, the free event will fill C Street between Norris Avenue and West First...

The rhythms of spring play out in classic form as a pair of geese guide goslings to one of the many ponds at Barnett Park

GOTHENBURG, Neb. — All area best results from the recent Nebraska State Junior Track-Field Meet. BOYS Teams: 1. Columbus Scotus 45.5, 2. Gretna 38, 3. Elkhorn Valley View 28, 4. Archbishop Bergan 23; 8. Broken Bow 16; 12. Chase County 13, McCook 3...

OGALLALA, Neb. — The “K” in Kale Sattler was on full display as McCook First Central Bank’s pitcher struck out 13 during a 16-1 no-hit victory on Tuesday. Sattler only needed 15 outs with 90 pitches to complete this five-inning road victory for coach Konor Rakes’ strong returning FCB team...

McCOOK, Neb. — It’s been 66 years since the McCook Braves captured a Nebraska state championship with future Major League baseball greats Phil Niekro, Ron Hunt and Elrod Hendricks. On Tuesday night, professional baseball makes its first appearance since then as the North Platte 80s will host a Pecos League contest against the Santa Fe Fuego...

McCOOK, Neb. — The Ed Thomas YMCA of McCook leadership is excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2025 Summer Slam Adult Disc Golf Tournament. The deadline to register for the tournament is Thursday, June 12. Registration fees are $30 per person for both YMCA and community members...

It’s not too soon to start thinking about the next election cycle. These things have a way of sneaking up on us. November 3, 2026, may feel a long way off—but for incumbents on the ballot; the clock is already ticking. If our math and memory are correct, the next election will include three seats each for city council and school board, with two seats available on the county board. ...

Clifford E. Prince McCOOK, Neb. — Clifford E. Prince, of Stratton, Neb., passed away on Friday, May 30, 2025 at Community Hospital in McCook. Upcoming service information and a full obituary will be added when information becomes available. Carpenter Breland Funeral Home, Monuments and Cremation Services has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please visit our website at www.carpenterbreland.net to sign the online guestbook for the family...

McCOOK, Neb. - On Wednesday, the McCook Gazette joined others in a conversation with Bellevue University representatives Todd Lardenoit, Director of Community College Transfer, and Katy Denny, Relationship Manager. Lardenoit and Denny were on hand to discuss the ability to earn bachelor’s degrees and higher in Southwest Nebraska...