Dale Lutz

Tuesday, January 9, 2007

Nov. 29, 1925 - Jan. 4, 2007

BENKELMAN --?Dale Lutz, 81, of Benkelman died with his family at his side on Thursday (Jan. 4, 2007) at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney.

He was born to Martin and Ella (Penn) Lutz of rural northwest Dundy County on Nov. 29, 1925. He attended rural schools in the area. As a young boy he took an active role in the family farm where he continued to work until he realized the dream of owning his own. Farming would become his lifelong passion.

On May 6, 1951, he was united in marriage with Jacquelyn McDowell at St Francis. They were blessed with three children Marty, Nan, and Mickey. The family farmed in the Benkelman area.

He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman.

Throughout his life, he had an affinity for hard work. He was known to frequently coin the phrase "nobody said it would be easy," a lesson he would impress upon his children. His aspirations in life were matched only by his desire to please others. One of his many attributes was his sense of humor and the warmth with which he shared it. Not only were his visits welcomed, they were eagerly awaited even if the visit was to be a mere brief encounter as he made his daily walk downtown. His entrance into a room would evoke smiles while his spirited discourse and kind words could brighten even the darkest of days. And though his family was the true joy of his life, and farming his passion, he found that his purpose in life was to be a friend to everyone. And so dear friends "cherish the memories but live your life."

True to character even in parting, he continues his mission of benevolence by offering comfort through the lyrics of his favorite song "if we never meet again this side of heaven, I'll leave this world loving you."

Preceding him in death are parents, Martin and Ella (Penn) Lutz; grandchildren, Jay and Matt Lutz; and brother, Leroy Lutz.

Survivors include his loving wife, Jackie of Benkelman; two sons, Marty and wife, Susan of Benkelman and Mickey and wife, Karen of Benkelman; one daughter, Nan Powell of Lakewood, Colo.; eight grandchildren, Corey and Trinity Powell of Colorado; Doug, Thad, Dayla, Laura, April, and Michaela Lutz of Benkelman; six great grandchildren, Logan, Addison, and Jacey Powell of Colorado; Trinity, Cade, and Maggie Lutz of Benkelman; four brothers, Linn Lutz of California, Marlin Lutz of Parks, Bobby Lutz of California, and Frankie Lutz of Benkelman; two sisters, Leanna Andres of California and Joan Jones of North Platte

His wishes were for cremation. Celebration of Life to be at a later date.

The family asks that memorials be presented to the charity of your choice.