Mass of Christian Burial will be on Wednesday, June 11, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church in Humphrey with Fr. Stan Schmit celebrating the Mass. Interment with military honors will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation was on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m. with a 7 p.m. Vigil & Rosary Service, all at the church. Visitation continued Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. until Mass time also at the church. Memorials may be directed to Humphrey Knights of Columbus.

Paul Francis Ramaekers was born May 7, 1946 in Humphrey, Neb., to Harry and Bertha (Fehringer) Ramaekers. Paul grew up on the Ramaekers’ farmstead outside of Cornlea, Neb. Paul attended Sacred Heart Elementary School in Cornlea and graduated from Saint Francis Catholic High School in Humphrey in 1964. Paul married Bonita (Bonnie) Stenger on June 21, 1969 at Holy Family Parish in Lindsay, Neb. Paul and Bonnie made their home on the Ramaekers’ farmstead where they farmed and raised their 9 children.

After graduation from St. Francis, Paul enlisted in the United States Army, seeing active duty as a marine mechanic in Vietnam. Following his military service, Paul received his electrical degree from SCC in Milford. Paul worked for Norris Public Power district as a surveyor before returning back to the family farm when his father passed away. Paul farmed with his brother Gene for decades.

As much as Paul loved to work on the farm, he also loved to have fun with friends and family. Card clubs, kids sporting events, family trips and gatherings were just a few of the activities he enjoyed.

Paul was very active in the community and Saint Francis Parish. He served on numerous boards, councils, and volunteer organizations. Paul served as the Grand Knight for Knights Paul Francis Ramaekers

of Columbus and Chaplin for the American Legion. Paul and Bonnie were particularly proud of their work with Engagement & Marriage Encounter Retreats.

Paul was a devoted husband and father. His commitment to Bonnie and his children was unwavering through all of life’s joys and hardships. He was a true inspiration for his family.

Preceding Paul in death is his wife Bonnie, daughter Brenda, his parents, and his brother Gene.

Paul is survived by daughter, Kimberly (Terry) Patzel of Lincoln; son, Brian of Columbus; son, Jamie (Michelle) of Lincoln; daughter, Janine (Scott) Strunc of Omaha; son, Steven (Jill) of Columbus; son, Kurt (Jennifer) of Lincoln; son, Michael (Natalie) of Humphrey; son, Mark of Lincoln; 26 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren; sister, Kate (Ron) Unger of Norfolk; and brother, Vernon (Barb) of Columbus.

Condolences may be sent to www.gasshaney.com

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