Melvin Harold Bortner

Melvin Harold Bortner passed away Monday, October 31, 2011 at Hillcrest Nursing Home. He was 90 years old.

Melvin was born on February 28, 1921, at McCook to Clyde H. and Jesse L. (Beebe) Bortner. He graduated from the Nebraska School of Agriculture in Curtis in 1940. After graduation, Melvin took flying lessons and would soon fly many solo flights, an experience he often talked about.

On April 4, 1948, he was united in marriage to Barbara R. Schlecht in McCook. They made their home on the family farm north of McCook where they raised their two children, Cindy and Bruce. Melvin retired from farming in 1982, and he and Barbara moved to their new home north of Perry. In 1991, they relocated to McCook. They eventually moved to Willow Ridge Retirement Center where Melvin enjoyed the many activities and companionship of friends.

He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church and Lutheran's Layman League, Good Sam's Club, and T-Bone Club. He served on the Red Willow Phone Company, District #116 School Board for many years, and Coop Board for eight years. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, gardening, and watching his favorite TV show, Bonanza.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Clyde and Jesse Bortner; his wife, Barbara Bortner on March 30, 2007; and brother-in-law, Evert Mosher.

Survivors include his children, Cynthia and husband, Larry Ruffner, of Bellevue and Bruce Bortner of North Platte; sister, Doris L. Mosher of McCook; four grandchildren; numerous family and a host of friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in his name to KNGN Christian Radio Station.

Visitation will be Wednesday, November 2, 2011, 1-8:00 p.m. at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be Thursday, November 3, 2011, 10:30 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church in McCook with Pastor Tom Albertson officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery.