Samuel (Sam) A. Aughe, age 73, of Crete, Nebraska, passed away April 9, 2025, in Lincoln, NE. He was born on April 16, 1951, to Charles and Nellie Aughe.

Sam was a graduate of Crete High School, and after graduating married his high school sweetheart Dolores Aughe.  They went on to have two children, Jeff and Michelle.

After high school, Sam joined the Army and proudly served his country in Vietnam. His time spent in service to his country and his love of his family were key sources of pride throughout his life, and he was always eager to share stories about both to anyone that would listen.

It was decades after his service that he found his true passion in honoring those that also provided service to their country and their communities. Sam restored a 1946 Sedan which he turned into a rolling tribute to those who served, having people sign their or family members names to the body of the vehicle.  Over the years, Sam took his car to multiple states, collected thousands of signatures and countless stories, and provides a sense of community and healing to a countless number of people.  His grandson John will ensure Sam's passion project will live in in the future.

Sam was joined in death by wife Dolores and great-grandson Samuel (SJ) Hernandez.

He was preceded in death by parents Charles and Nellie Aughe, and brother Tom Aughe.

He is survived by children Jeff (Shannon) Aughe: Michelle (Jason) Buresh; grandchildren Mason and Brady Aughe, Brennan Coleman, John and Taylor Parks, Beau, Hailee, and Jake Buresh, Brianna Shonka (Zach), and Bryson Dessel.  Sisters Ellie Merritt, Kay Buss (Ron), and Pat Aughe, and numerous nephews, nieces, and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. at the Sacred Heart Fellowship Hall in Crete. No viewing or visitation. Arrangements entrusted to Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete.