Richard Lee Bolek (87) of Gering, Nebraska passed away July 9, 2023 at Regional West Medical Center. He was born on December 7, 1935 to Joe and Edna (Cronan) Bolek in Rushville, NE.
Richard grew up in the Sandhills of Nebraska. He graduated from Rushville High School in 1955. After graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy where he served four years and was honorably discharged in September 1959. While in the navy, he learned the trade of an electrician and enjoyed doing home improvement projects and helping family and friends with projects as well.
Richard married the love of his life, Carolyn Linders, on April 26, 1960. Four children were born to this union. Diane, Steven, Sandra and Susan.
Richard worked for Nebraska Public Power District for 35 years retiring in
April of 1995. After retiring, Richard and Carolyn moved to Cheyenne, WY and lived there for 25 years returning to Gering in 2021 to be closer to family.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn of 63 years; his son, Steven (Diane) Bolek of Lyman, NE; his daughters, Sandra (Phil) Sanders of Potter, NE and Susan (Randie) Kiesel of Gering, NE; grandchildren, Tim (Nickey) Bolek, Ashley (Jon) Sterkel, Brooke (Aaron) Raines, Cody (Alexis) Kiesel, Nick Sanders, Alyssa Sanders, Abby (Austin) Hoffman; great-grandchildren, Keelan and Harlyn Bolek, Elliot and Beckett Raines, Wesson and Paisley Sterkel and Audri and Drew Kiesel.
He is also survived by his brothers, Lynn Bolek of Veneta, OR, Joe (Judy) Bolek of Stuttgard, AR; sisters-in-law Vikki Bolek of Hemingford, NE, Nguyen Bolek of Craig, CO; brothers-in-law, Kenny (Judy) Linders, Don (Lynnie) Linders of Rushville, NE, Gary Linders of Palm Springs, CA and John Bauer of Alliance, NE; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents; infant daughter, Diane; his brothers, Dwayne, Harold, Larry, Melvin, Jerry, and Gary; and his sisters Judy Taylor and Pat Bauer.
No services are scheduled at this time and cremation has taken place in accordance with his wishes. A private family inurnment will take place at a later date. Memorials may be made to Regional West Hospice, Christ the King Catholic Church or St. Jude’s. Fond memories and messages of sympathy may be left at www.geringchapel.com for the Bolek Family.