Dale Gene Kouba, of Crete, Nebraska, died December 27, 2016 at the age of 71. He was born on March 18, 1945 to William "Pete" Kouba and Karolina Vajgrt Schipper. He was married to Dianne (Reetz) for 48 years.
Dale joined the U.S. Marine's at the age of 17 and served during the Vietnam war. He worked for Nestle-Purina as a can plant mechanic for 43 years. To many friends he was known as the "Can Man." He had many hobbies which included fishing, gardening, playing with his grand-dogs, going to auctions and was well known for restoring antique furniture and selling it on his annual garage sales.
Dale was a member of the Crete VFW, member of St. John's Lutheran Church serving as Sunday School Superintendent and on the Cemetery Board. Each year he enjoyed playing Fuchs at Kramer Hall with many local friends.
Dale is survived by his wife Dianne, daughter and son-in-law Jill & Dale Schuerman of Lincoln, daughter Joy Kouba of Crete. Grandson Ryley Schuerman of Denver, Colorado. Brothers and sisters-in-law Janice Reetz, Elmer & Shirley Reetz, Gerald & Jolene Reetz, Betty Reetz, Jerome & Donna Kalkwarf and Allen & Janice Reetz all of Crete and Numerous Nieces and Nephews. Dale was preceded in death by his parents, brother Lyle Kouba, brothers-in-law Lavern Reetz, Roger Reetz, Robert Woodruff and sister-in-law Gloria Woodruff.
A Celebration of Dale's life will be on Friday, December 30th, 2016 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Kramer, Nebraska at 10:30 AM. Interment will be at Lincoln Memorial Park. Viewing will begin Thursday, December 29th, 2016 at noon at Kuncl Funeral Home, Crete. The family will greet friends from 5-7. Memorials are in care of the family for future designation.