Vernice Spears

Vernice Spears

Aug. 12, 1915-Dec. 22, 2010

BENKELMAN, Nebraska -- Vernice Spears, 95, died Wednesday (Dec. 22, 2010), at Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman, Nebraska.

She was born Aug. 12, 1915, to Richard and Myrtle (Myers) Gerdes in Rawlins County, Kansas. She spent her youth on the family farm and attended country school near her home.

On June 12, 1934, she married Glenn A. Spears at Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman, Nebraska, where they were lifelong members.

During their early years of marriage, they farmed in the Haigler, Nebraska area. In 1946 they moved to Benkelman and began farming south of Max near the state line. At the same time they began designing and building their home where they raised their family and lived until their retirement. She worked for McDonald IGA grocery store for 25 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; infant sister, Irene; and a grandson, Ronald King.

Survivors include daughters, Letitia King and husband, Dale of Yuma, Colorado, and Marceia Weaver of Goodland, Kansas; son, Lynn Spears and wife, Karen of Cedaredge, Colorado; sister, Florence Fern Cross of Benkelman; brothers-in-law, Bob Spears and wife, Joan of Boonsville, California, Eldon Spears and wife, Donna of Arvada, Colorado, and Les Stretch of Hamlet, Nebraska; sister-in-law, Mable Spears of Benkelman; seven grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were today at Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman, with Rev. George Matthews officiating. Interment followed services at the Benkelman Cemetery.

Memorials may be given in her name.

Arrangements are under the direction of Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman.