Gerald Francis Maple

Funeral Service for Gerald F. Maple age 91, of Neligh, NE were at 10:30 am, December 17, 2013 at United Methodist Church in Orchard, NE with Rev Stuart Davis, Officiating. Music provided by Shirley Erb. Burial will be at Orchard Hill City Cemetery in Orchard with Military Rites conducted by Orchard American Legion Post #136. Pallbearers were Chad Longe, Dustin Longe, Mikel Longe, William Longe, Nick Maple, Cody Maple, Eric Maple, and Eric Hoegemeyer. Visitation was 4 to 7 pm Monday, December 16, 2013 at Beyer Snider Memorial Funeral Home in Neligh. Beyer Snider Memorial Funeral Home in Neligh are handling arrangements. Gerald passed away Tuesday, December 10, 2013 at Norfolk Veterans Home in Norfolk, NE.

Gerald Francis. Maple was born to Victor and Anna (Sanner) Maple in Royal, Ne on March 23, 1922. He attended school in Orchard and graduated with the Class of 1939. Gerald was united in marriage to Norma Hill on July 14, 1942 at Norma's parents home. He farmed for a year until he enlisted into the United States Army on May 25, 1944 at Fort Leavenworth, KS. While in the service he served in WWII, European Theater, Battle Bulge, and 42nd Rainbow Division. He was discharged on June 14, 1946 at Fort Leavenworth, KS. After the service he returned back to farming for a short time. Gerald and Norma owned the Gamble's Store in Orchard for 20 years. They moved to Neligh in 1973, where he was the Antelope County Veteran Service Officer for 20 years, and retired in 1987. He was a member of United Methodist Church at Orchard and Neligh, Orchard American Legion Post #136, and Neligh VFW. He is survived by his Son, Merlyn and wife, Joan Maple of Orchard, NE. Daughter, Beverly and her husband, Eugene Longe of Lake Andes, SD. 9 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. Sister, Betty Nelson of Georgia. He is preceded in death by his parents, and his wife. Sister, Miriam Rogers and brother, Forrest Maple.