Gerald Franklin May

Gerald F. May, 73, of Callaway, Nebraska, died Monday, September 28, 2009 at his home. Gerald was born to David C. and Irena (Neth) May on December 10, 1935. He grew up on the farm north of Callaway where he lived until his death. He attended elementary school at the Crossroads School just down the field from his home and graduated from Callaway High School in 1954. He helped his dad farm until he entered the army during peace time in 1959-1961. When he returned from the army he continued to farm and began working for the ASCS. In 1963 he met the love of his life Connie Morse. They were married in Broken Bow, Nebraska on June 7, 1965. Gerald and Connie resided on the farm at Callaway and to this union two children were born, Geraldean Constance and Marinus David. He continued to farm and in the early 1970s he began to work for the Custer County Highway Department as sign foreman and gravel supervisor. He retired from working for the county in 2001. A man of kind words and a helpful hand describes Gerald as he was always willing to help others. He was a member of the Callaway Lions Club for over 30 years. He also was instrumental in the success of the Callaway Kite Fly as he was Connie’s right hand man. Gerald always had time for others by listening to them or tinkering to help fix something. Gerald was a dedicated loving husband, father, grandfather, citizen, and friend. He enjoyed camping, making windmills from clothespins, tinkering, gardening, being Santa Claus and spending time with family. Gerald and Connie were life partners and their love continued to grow for one another each day. They would begin their day together with a cup of coffee and watching the birds. Gerald is survived by his daughter, Geraldean Constance (Brad) Walker of Grant, Nebraska, his son, Marinus David of Orlando, Florida, one granddaughter, Maylynn Faith Walker. Two brothers, Rex (Marvella) May of Merna, South Dakota and Dale (Nellie) May of Broken Bow, Nebraska. Sister in law, Marlene (Gene) Ruther of Hot Springs, South Dakota, several nieces and nephews and cousins as well as all of his friends. He was preceded in death by the love of his life, wife, Connie, his parents, and one sister, Maxine Downin. Funeral Services will be held Friday, October 2, 2009, at 2:00 p.m. at the Callaway United Methodist Church with Reverend Gerald Schwarz and Pastor Dean Haidle officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Callaway. Visitation will be Thursday, October 1, 2009, from 5-7 p.m. at Timm-Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Callaway, Nebraska. Memorials are suggested to the Callaway Lions Club, Nebraska Children’s Home Society, Callaway Rescue Squad or Callaway United Methodist Church. Timm-Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Callaway is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be directed to: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com