Henry "Hank" Brehm

Henry “Hank” Brehm died Tuesday, June 20, at Presbyterian Manor of Kansas City. He was 97 years old.

He was born November 13, 1908, to John and Kate (Wilman) Brehm at Beverly, Nebraska. He graduated from Palisade High School. His parents and four brothers preceded him in death – Albert, Joe, Ruben, and Elmer. One sister, Freida Romersheuser, lives in Indianola.

One son, Kenneth, preceded him in death as well. Other children are Donald Brehm and wife Patricia of Omaha, Dennis Brehm and wife Rebecca of Kansas City, and daughter Leona Sigwing and husband Larry of Kansas City. Henry always grew emotional at family gatherings when he was reminded of his 10 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

Boxing was a main pastime as he grew up and then his passion for football took over when he entered high school.

Henry was a wonderful source of living history and storytelling as he reflected on details of family, entertainment, jobs and equipment, horse-pulled wagons for transportation, horses smarter than owners, the first automobiles and on and on.

Born and raised in a community of German immigrants, he was required to learn yet another German dialect, that of Esther Hein, before courting was an option. He won her heart instead of another suitor when she asked each one for a piece of gum. The other suitor gave her one piece. Henry gave her the entire package. Henry and Esther were married December 3, 1933. He lovingly took care of Esther many years while she was bedfast. She died July 5, 1983.

Henry worked hard at whatever he did whether farming, trucking, or “pumping gas.” He always seemed to help others and put a bright spot in lives he touched with a corny joke or a raised arm and “Hi, Bub!” … that was everyone’s name.

He was a faithful Christian, spent many hours praying and reading the Bible. He frequently made comparisons of Biblical events to current events.

Henry was a determined man, loved and now missed by family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in his name.

A graveside service was at the Culbertson Cemetery with Rev. Richard Melano officiating.

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook was in charge of the arrangements.