Dane P. Kihlthau, age 64, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, passed away peacefully with his loving wife at his side on Thursday, May 2, 2024, in the comfort of the home he built himself. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, May 10, 2024, at Chimney Rock Cemetery near Bayard, Nebraska, with his brother, Brad Kihlthau, officiating. Cremation has taken place in accordance with his wishes. Memorials may be given to Brookestone Hospice. Online condolences may be expressed by visiting Dane’s obituary page viewable at www.reverencefuneralparlor.com.
Dane was born December 18, 1959, to Paul and Vonda (Ross) Kihlthau. He attended elementary and middle school at Lake Alice and then went to Sunflower which closed right before his senior year. Dane then transferred to Scottsbluff High School where he graduated with the class of 1978.
Dane farmed for a short while following high school. It wasn’t long before he began working at Dill Implement in Scottsbluff. He received on the job training to become a tractor mechanic while employed at Dill. Dane remained there until he transitioned into his career in carpentry. He built and remodeled homes all over the Valley area and also resided in Colorado for two years while building homes.
Dane became the proud father of his daughter, Kristin. His family grew more when he married Merna “Annie” Phillips on August 30, 1989. He then welcomed two stepsons, Nathan and Matthew.
Dane participated in car clubs and RC airplane groups over the years. He was an accomplished mechanic and enjoyed putting his skills to use building and restoring old trucks. Always eager to learn, he wasn’t hesitant to try new things. All of his life he was giving, and Dane was not only generous with his possessions, but also with his time. It wasn’t uncommon for him to sit with family members or friends for several hours talking over a cup of hot coffee. Dane was a strong Christian and a believer, and it was his faith that gave both he and his family peace in his final days on Earth.
Survivors include his wife, Annie Kihlthau; daughter, Kristin Aragon; stepsons, Nathan (Corrina) and Matthew Douglas; grandchildren, Alexis Thorn, D’nesha, Kaity, Jace, Harlow, and Dominic Douglas, Jon Billie, and Isaiah Douglas; great granddaughter, Phoenix; parents, Paul and Vonda Kihlthau; sister, Paula (Mike) Becking; brother, Brad (Paula) Kihlthau; sisters-in-law, Carla (Amador) Orozco, Jamie Costello, Rebecca (Scott) Jackson, and Terri (Rob) Phillips; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
Dane was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents; in-laws, Dick and Laura Phillips; brother-in-law, Jim Costello; and niece, Amanda Orozco.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Wiebe and to Dane’s hospice nurses for their amazing care and support.