Grace (Ripa) Kozak, 100, of Lincoln, formerly of Wilber, passed away on Tuesday, December 17, 2019 in Lincoln, NE. She was born on August 13, 1919 to James and Mary (Srajhans) in Wilber. She graduated from Wilber High School in 1937. Grace was a Country School teacher in Saline and Lancaster Counties. She continued her education at Doane College and the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. She married Frank "Duke" Kozak on May 28, 1947 in Wilber. Her memberships include the American Legion Auxiliary, Saline County Retired Teachers, ZCBJ Lodge, Pythian Sisters, the Wilber United Methodist Church, Methodist Women and the Wilber Firemans Auxiliary. After she retired from Teaching in 1972 she worked as a Cook for The Crete Hospital, Wilber Nursing Home and Crete Manor. On March 14, 1995 she was presented an Operation Able Award in recognition of her outstanding achievements throughout her career at Crete Manor. She retired from Crete Manor in November, 2004 at the age 85 years. In 1998 she was awarded Lady of Libuse from the Nebraska Czechs of Wilber for her contributions to Czech Festivals over 36 years. Grace was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brothers: Joseph and Lumir Ripa, in-laws: Frank, Sr. and Katherina (Sasek) Kozak. She is survived by her son: Glenn (Terri) Kozak, daughter: Susan (Mike) Nagle, 4 grandchildren: Heather Kelly, Melissa Jones, Sara Kozak and Michael Nagle, 10 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great- granddaughters, nieces, nephews, and sisters in law: Norma Ripa and Louise Ripa. Services: Saturday, 10:30 AM, Kuncl Funeral Home, 607 W. 3rd, Wilber, NE. Visitation: Friday, 5 – 7 PM, funeral home. Memorials are in care of the family for future designation.