Eldon Hardwick

Eldon Eugene Hardwick

July 14, 1943 - Aug. 25, 2013

BENKELMAN, Nebraska -- Eldon Eugene Hardwick, age 70, passed away at his home in Benkelman on Sunday, Aug. 25, 2013.

Eldon was born in Benkelman in July 14, 1943, to Frances Leon and Norma Eilene (Crook) Hardwick. He graduated from Park High School in 1961.

Eldon was on active duty in the U.S. Navy from February 1962 until December 1964 and received an Honorable Discharge in February 1968. After his service he resided in California for a short time. He then returned to Parks where he farmed and was a seed corn dealer until his retirement in 2002.

On Sept. 13, 1986, he married Elsie Mae Clouse at State Line, Nevada.

He was a member of the Methodist Church in Parks and Benkelman. Eldon was an active member and held several positions within the American Legion Post No. 65. He loved golfing, traveling, gardening and was an avid Husker fan. He was a devoted grandfather attending all of his grandchildren's activities.

Survivors include his wife, Elsie of Benkelman; son, Troy Hardwick and wife, Laura of Ogallala; daughter, Tami Wells and husband, Jay of Omaha; sister, Charlene Hoover and husband, Russ of Chiloquin, Oregon; brother, John Hardwick and wife, Karen of Roseville, California; step-daughters, Tami Cline and husband, Marty Cline of Callaway, Michelle Baney and husband, Brad of Benkelman; step-son, Scott Thompson of Gretna; grandchildren, Kristina, Justin and Cody Hardwick, Rianna and Raegen Wells, Tanner Cline, Connor Thompson, Brayden and McKinzie Baney; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant sister, Jerilynn; and brother, Richard Hardwick.

Memorial services will be Saturday, Aug. 31, 2013, 10 MDT at the United Methodist Church in Benkelman with Rev. Sheila Taylor officiating. Inurnment will follow in the Benkelman Cemetery.

Memorials may be given in his name and will be used to establish an Agriculture Scholarship for high school students.

Friends may send condolences online at www.carpenterbreland.com.

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.