LaVerne Fred Knispel

LaVerne Fred Knispel passed away at the age of 96 at the Central Nebraska Veteran's Home in Kearney, Nebraska on November 4, 2025.

LaVerne Fred Knispel (affectionally known as "Bud") was born on August 4, 1929, in rural Cozad to Clara (Knoop) Knispel and William Knispel. He was baptized and confirmed at the First Lutheran Church in Buffalo, Nebraska.

Bud joined the Navy in July 1948, in Omaha, Nebraska. He served aboard the ship Juneau on the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and the Mediterranean Sea. His job was boatswain mate. He served with the 6th and 7th Fleets. He was discharged at Norfolk, Virginia on November 22, 1953. Bud was a continuous American Legion Post #250 member for 72 years. He was very proud of his membership.

After being discharged from the Navy, Bud went to welding school in Milford. He was employed in Omaha for two years before returning to the farm to work with his dad.

Bud enjoyed playing on the "Eichs" softball team and was very proud of winning State Men's Softball Tournament in 1966. He was awarded the sportsmanship trophy at that ballgame. He was also a skilled pool player and enjoyed playing at Roy's Pastime and later years at Callaway.

Bud lived most of his life in the Buffalo and Eddyville community. He lived in Broken Bow for several years and worked for Eichelberger Construction. Later on, he purchased a swather and did custom work. He commented this was better than having 50 head of cows. He spent a lot of time working with brother-in-law and sister (Herb and Elsie). He cherished the time his nephews and nieces spent with him. He was a good uncle, and his sense of humor will be missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Alfred (Dolores) Knispel and sisters Arlene (Hank) Struempler and Elsie (Herb) Struempler. Nephew, Dennis Struempler and nephews in law, Lloyd Eggleston and Ken Beeman.

He is survived by his nephews and nieces, Cliff (Shirlee) Knispel, Garlyn Beeman, Curtis (Linda) Knispel, Jim Knispel, Maynard (Judy) Struempler, Sandra Eggleston, Diane (Harold) Kettelhake, Sheryl (Rex) Taylor, Deb (Gail) Rapp, Lana (Jim) Lymber; and special cousin, Sharon (Al) Boelman. Bud is also survived by many great nephews, great nieces, extended family and friends.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025, at the First Lutheran Church at Buffalo, at 10:00 a.m. with Reverend Victor Rasmussen officiating. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington. 

Interment with Military Honors will be at the First Lutheran Church Cemetery at Buffalo.

Memorials are kindly suggested to the Oconto American Legion Post #250 or to the Oconto Volunteer Fire Department.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com