Marjorie Naomi Ham

Marjorie Naomi Ham

April 30, 1922- Nov. 22, 2011

BENKELMAN, Nebraska --Lifetime Benkelman resident Marjorie Naomi Ham, age 89, died Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2011, at her home in rural Benkelman, Nebraska.

She was born April 30, 1922, in rural Benkelman, the daughter of Ray Oliver and Nellie Josephine (Foster) Ham. She attended District 8 and graduated from Benkelman High School in 1940.

Marjorie taught in rural schools in Dundy County for several years. During World War II, she enrolled in a school in Omaha where she studied electronics. After graduating from this school, she went to Chicago where she worked until 1945, at which time she returned to the Benkelman community.

Marjorie took care of her parents, she helped Marilyn Sandman, and worked in the kitchen at the Hester Home. She enjoyed her job as proofreader/historian for the Benkelman Post and looking up history for the subscribers. Marjorie gave to her community through her volunteerism to the United Methodist Church, Dundy County Alumni Association, Dundy County Senior Center, Hester Home, and Dundy County Museum. She spent countless hours researching many different topics. Because of this dedication, it wasn't unusual for an individual to come up to Marjorie and ask a question about someone or something related to Benkelman.

She was a 77 year member of the United Methodist Church. Her hobbies included playing cards, dominoes, board games, listening to the radio, reading, and going to town to visit with family and friends.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Ray and Nellie Ham; infant brother, Marvin Ham and brothers, Leon and Wayne Ham; infant sister, Hazel Ham and sister Doris Ham; and brother-in-law, Guy Fries.

Survivors include her sister, Melba Fries of Benkelman; brother, Ray Junior Ham and wife, Pat, of Humbolt, Texas; sister-in-law, Marjorie Belleau of Yuma, Colorado; goddaughter, Sara Todd Bardsley of Wauneta; numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, many relatives and a host of many friends.

A memorial has been established in her name to the Dundy County Senior Center, PO Box 409, Benkelman, NE, 69021.

Visitation will be held Monday, Nov. 28, from 5-7 p.m., at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2011, 10:30 a.m. at the Benkelman United Methodist Church with Rev. Brian Fong officiating. Burial will follow at the Benkelman Cemetery.

Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman is in charge of the arrangements.