Forch Funeral Home changes ownership

Courtesy/Luke Folk/Benkelman Post Michael Liewer of Liewer Funeral Homes in Imperial and Wauneta has purchased the Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman. Shown from left is Michael Swanson and his wife, Angie, of Liewer Funeral Home, Charlene Forch and Michael and Cindy Liewer.

BENKELMAN, Nebraska -- Michael Liewer of Liewer Funeral Home of Imperial and Wauneta has purchased Forch Funeral Home in Benkelman, Nebraska, according to a story by Luke Folk in Benkelman Post.

Larry Forch and his family first purchased the Jones' Funeral home in 1999 and re-named it as Forch Funeral Home. It offered services to Benklelman and other towns in Dundy County.

Larry passed away in February 2012 after a battle with cancer. His mother, Charlene Forch, partnered with Michael Liewer of Liewer Funeral Homes and continued to run the business. After a year, Charlene Forch decided to sell the business to Liewer.

The funeral home will now be known as Benkelman Memorial Chapel.

"We will normally answer the phone 'Benkelman Memorial Chapel,' but sometimes we slip up and say, 'Liewer Funeral Home.' If that happens, don't be alarmed. You have the right place," Liewer said.

Liewer has been a licensed funeral director for approximately 30 years and has resided and offered funeral services in Imperial for 22 years. He and his wife, Cindy, have four children, ranging in ages from 20 to 33.

Michael Swanson joined the Liewer firm in May of 2011. He and his wife, Angie, also live in Imperial with their two daughters.

The funeral home will be at the same location with the same facilities, but will be known as Benkelman Memorial Chapel.

Charlene Forch will still be assisting with visitations and services.

"We will continue to provide the same, quality service that Mrs. Forch has for the last 14 years," Liewer said.