Joe J. Laumann

Joseph J. Laumann

May 12, 1938 - Jan. 22, 2012

BENKELMAN, Nebraska -- Joseph J. Laumann, age 73, of Benkelman, passed away Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in Benkelman.

Joe was born May 12, 1938, to Antoinette (Faimon) and Albert Laumann in Hitchcock County, Nebraska. He attended county school and later graduated from Stratton High School in 1957. The year following his graduation, Joe lived in Colorado where he drove a gravel truck. He then returned to the Stratton area to farm. Joe kept busy raising cattle and hogs as well as planting corn and wheat.

Joe enjoyed spending his evening with his buddies. They often met up at the local pool hall to socialize. Joe also enjoyed Cornhusker football and the Dallas Cowboys. During the summer, he could be found fishing at Swanson Reservoir. Another one of Joe's favorite past times was coming into town about mid morning each day to have coffee with the guys at the Grandview Center.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Alton and Eugene.

Joe is survived by his brother, Ted and wife, Joan Laumann of Sterling, Colorado; sister, Joanne Laumann of Stratton, Nebraska; two nieces, Christie Crall and Joni Paxton; and one nephew, Steven Laumann. Also surviving is a host of numerous relatives, friends, and neighbors.

Visitation will be today, Jan. 25, 2012, from 3 -- 6 p.m. (MT) at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman.

Rosary will be held Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012, at 9:45 a.m. (CT) at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Stratton.

Mass of Christian Burial will also be held Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012, at 10:30 a.m. (CT) at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Celebrant Tom Wiedel officiating. Graveside will follow in the Benkelman Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. (CT)

Memorials may be given in Joe's name and designated to the St. Joseph Catholic Church elevator building fund.

Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman and Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook are in charge of the arrangements.