On Saturday, July 27th, 2024,The Lord called home his faithful servant, Emma Gollas. Born October 6th, 1926, to Frank and Bruna Reyes, Emma grew up in a loving household in Bayard, Nebraska, filled with siblings Louis, Manuela, Jessie, Helen and Frank. A graduate of Bayard High School, Emma eventually made her way to Scottsbluff, Nebraska, where she met Frank Gollas. Emma and Frank fell in love and were united in Holy Matrimony on July 22nd, 1948. The couple was blessed with a total of eleven children, although three daughters, Gloria, Benita and Teresa and son Joseph were called to eternal rest at very young ages. Emma and Frank raised the surviving children, Arlene, Monica, Gloria (named in homage to the couple’s first born), Rosemary, Irene, Frank Jr. and Sandy in a vibrant home brimming with affection, laughter and like most large families, just a hint of sibling rivalry. Emma was a devoted wife and mother who saw to the everyday business of the home and the care of the children within.
In 1976, after Frank’s thirty-four years of dutiful employment with Swift and Company, Gollas Refrigeration was founded. In April 1979, Emma and Frank began a new business venture, El Charrito Restaurant and Lounge. The business thrived with Frank as manager and Emma as head of finances. The restaurant still thrives today with Frank Jr. along with his wife Cheryl as proprietors.
After retirement in 1997, Emma and Frank took time to travel. Some of their favorite destinations included California, Nevada, Hawaii and Mexico.
In June of 2003, after fifty-four years of marriage, Emma’s husband was called by the Lord to come home. Emma, being of strong will and strong mind persevered, comforted by the knowledge they would one day be reunited.
Emma could often be found in the mornings at Arby’s drinking coffee and chatting with friends. She would spend many an afternoon playing bingo and socializing at a local senior center. Spending time with family was of high priority to Emma and she spent countless hours visiting and having phone conversations with her children. As a resident of The Residency for the past ten years, Emma could still be found socializing with friends and playing bingo. She was always willing to share her favorite cookies and sit and chat.
Everyone who had the good fortune to meet Emma can attest to her kindness, friendly smile and outgoing personality. She has no doubt touched many lives and made a lasting impression. Emma will surely be missed not only by her family but by all who have met her.
Emma is survived by her children; Arlene (John) Cervantes, Monica (Gilbert) Guerrero, Irene Saldivar, Gloria Gollas, Rosemary (Tony) Malone, Frank (Cheryl) Gollas Jr., and Sandy (Steve) Chacon, fourteen grandchildren and twenty-three great grandchildren.
She was proceeded by her parents and all five of her siblings, husband Frank, children Gloria, Benita, Teresa, and Joseph. Son-in-laws James Fuentes, John Saldivar and infant granddaughter Celena Guerrero.
A rosary and vigil will be held on Wednesday, July 31st, at 5:00p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church 1102 12th Avenue, Scottsbluff, with the funeral mass Thursday, August 1st, at 10:00 a.m. also at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. Committal will be held at Fairview Cemetery, 4109 5th Avenue, Scottsbluff.
Fond memories and condolences can be shared at www.DuganKramer.com