Maynard H.A. Kempke was born on June 25, 1922 in Otoe, Nebraska to William H. and Emma (Burr) Kempke. He passed away on Thursday, September 23, 2010 at the Gold Crest Nursing Home in Adams, Nebraska at the age of 88 years, 2 months and 29 days.

Maynard married Velda Winter, at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church, in Crete, Nebraska on November 30, 1943. They shared 66 years of married life together. Maynard and Veldah raised 3 sons, Merlin, Melvin, and Michael. Maynard worked as a farmer and a Elevator Manager for Farmland Industries. He later worked for Maverick Media as a truck driver. Maynard was a member of Luther Memorial and also belonged to the Lutheran Brotherhood. He was a past Elk Member. Maynard enjoyed polka music, reading, and watching westerns.

He is survived by Wife: Velda Kempke of Syracuse, NE; 3 Sons: Merlin Kempke and wife Merna of Fremont, NE; Melvin Kempke and wife Nyhlia of North Platte, NE; Michael Kempke of Lincoln, NE; 4 Grandchildren and 8 Great Grandchildren, Sister: Verena Schutz of Unadilla, NE; He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Maynard was preceded in death by his parents and sister Merna Ropers.

Funeral Services will be Saturday, September 25, 2010 at 10:30 A.M. at the Luther Memorial Lutheran Church in Syracuse, Nebraska with Rev. Mike Widner officiating.

Burial will be in Park Hill Cemetery, Syracuse, Nebraska.

Family suggests memorials to Luther Memorial Church.

Visitation will be Friday, September 24, 2010 from 2 P.M. until 9 P.M. at the funeral home.

Pallbearers: Dennis Schutz ~ Richard Johns ~ Ronald Johns ~ Dale Young ~ David Dickman ~ Albert Lee Ropers

Honorary Pallbearers: Edward Kempke ~ Howard Johns ~ Irving Stubbendick ~ Howard Engelbrecht ~ Victor Liesemeyer

Fusselman Allen Harvey Funeral Home, 644 Park Street, Syracuse, Nebraska 269-2441 is in charge of arrangements.