Howard J. Baumbach

Howard J. Baumbach

June 1, 1918 - Oct. 2, 2013

INDIANOLA, Nebraska -- Howard Joseph Baumbach was born June 1, 1918, at home in the Ash Creek Community South West of Indianola, the son of William Frederick and Lillian Marie (Junker) Baumbach. He passed away Oct. 2, 2013, in the hospital at Cambridge, Nebraska, at the age of 95.

At the age of 13, he had to quit school to help on the farm. In 1942, at the age of 24, he enlisted in the Army Air Force during World War II. He was stationed at the Roswell Army Air Field in Roswell, New Mexico, as an airplane engine mechanic until Sept. 25, 1945 when he was discharged and returned home to Nebraska. While stationed in Roswell he met his wife, Nell Lois Harless. They were married June 19, 1943, in Roswell, New Mexico. After returning to Nebraska, they lived and farmed in Ash Creek community until 1948, when they moved to Indianola. Howard spent most of his life there until his later years and was very active in the community. He served on the Indianola School Board and served 22 years on the City Council and Mayor of Indianola.

Howard was a stern man with a great sense of humor. He was a member of the Elks, Eagles and V.F.W. through the years. Howard was also very active in the baseball program in Indianola. His passion was collecting and restoring old tractors and flying airplanes.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Nell on Oct. 17, 1988; one daughter, Judy Perez in 2008; two sisters, Virginia Stinson and Lucille Ireland; and special friend, Anna Slater.

Survivors are his two sons, Bill and wife, Lynda Baumbach of Indianola, Joey and wife, Kim Baumbach of McCook; son-in-law, Ernie Perez of McCook; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials will be given to the Indianola City Park Playground equipment fund.

Visitation will be Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013, from 1-6 p.m. with the family greeting friends from 6 to 8 p.m. at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home in McCook.

Rosary will be Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013, at 7 p.m. at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, Oct. 4, 2013, 2 p.m. at St. Catherine's Catholic Church in Indianola with Father Thomas McGuire as Celebrant. Burial will follow at St. Catherine's Cemetery.

Family and friends are invited to a noon luncheon at the church hall.

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

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.