Johnnie Lee Ourada

Johnnie Lee Ourada

Jan. 6, 1954 -- Oct. 2, 2012

WAUNETA, Nebraska -- CE1 Johnnie Lee Ourada, (Ret.) 58, of Wauneta, died Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2012, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska.

He was born on Jan. 6, 1954 in Kearney, Nebraska. Johnnie grew up and graduated from Wauneta High School in 1972.

In October of 1974 he enlisted into the United States Navy. During his 30 years of service he received: 5th Good Conduct Medal; 2nd Navy Unit Commendation; M16 Marksman; Southwest Asia Service Medal; W/1 Bronze Star and Fleet Marine Force Insignia; 2nd Navy Battle "E" Ribbon; 6th Overseas Service Ribbon; 2nd National Defense Service Medal; Navy Achievement Medal; 6th Sea Service Deployment Ribbon; .45 Caliber Expert and Kuwait Liberation Medal. He was honorably discharged in November of 2004. After retirement Johnnie worked for Chase County Road Department and Enders Lake Golf Course.

Johnnie was a lifetime member of the VFW. He was also an avid golfer and hunter with his trusty bird dog "Spanky." Johnnie also enjoyed spending time with family and friends playing cards.

He is preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Glenn Wilson; uncles, Mike, Joe and Clyde Gerih; and grandparents, E.D. and Ruth Guthrie and Mike and Barbara Gerih.

Survivors include his parents, Frank and Dee Gerih of Wauneta; two sisters, Judee and husband Wes Easter of Hershey and Julee Wilson of McCook; two nieces, Kimberly and husband, Dallas Mues of Bartley and Mariah Easter of Hershey; great-niece, Kayla Mues and great-nephew, Dalton Mues, both of Bartley, as well as numerous family and friends locally and around the world.

Services and interment will be held at a later date as it was Johnnie's request to be cremated. Memorials may be given in his name and sent to 35060 Road 733A, Wauneta, NE 69045.