Frona L. Kerchal

Feb. 28, 1920-Aug. 29, 2006

BENKELMAN -- Frona L. Kerchal, 86, died Tuesday, (Aug. 29, 2006) at Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman.

She was born Feb. 28, 1920, to Frank and Mable (Hartzer) Taylor on their farm near Wauneta. She was a member of the graduating class of Wauneta High School in 1938. She was the eldest of three children, and in the 9th grade, she went to stay with her grandmother Hartzer during the school year in order to be able to attend high school. Her first paying job started at the same time.

On June 24, 1939, she married Leonard E. Kerchal at Imperial and they moved to their farm northeast of Grainton, where they resided for 41 years. In the mid '70s they moved to Benkelman where she and her sister Anita owned and operated F & A Liquor. She also assisted Leonard in his business. In 1994, after suffering a stroke, she moved to the Hester Home where she resided until her death.

She was a member of the Benkelman United Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Mable Taylor; a brother, Jim; and grandson, Kelly Kerchal.

Survivors include her husband, Leonard Kerchal; her children, Kent Kerchal and wife, Karen, Kay Brey and husband, Gordon, Rodney Kerchal and wife, Darla; sister, Anita Reade and husband, Bill; 16 grandchildren; and 40 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services are Saturday, 11 a.m., at the United Methodist Church in Benkelman with Rev. Brian Fong officiating. Interment will follow services at the Benkelman Cemetery.

Memorials may be given in her name to the Benkelman United Methodist Church or to the Hester Home also of Benkelman.

Arrangements are under the direction of Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman.