Warren H. Gifford, 87, of Banner County, Nebraska, entered Heaven on his birthday, Friday, February 3, 2023, while in the comfort of his lifelong home. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, February 11, 2023, at Calvary Memorial Church in Gering with Pastor Bill Williamson officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery in Scottsbluff. A private family viewing will be held prior. Memorials may be made to Camp Rock Ministries. The funeral service will be livestreamed and recorded to Warren’s obituary page viewable at www.reverencefuneralparlor.com.
Warren was born February 3, 1936, in Scottsbluff to Harold and Viola (Potter) Gifford. He graduated from Banner County High School in 1953 before pursuing an associate degree at Scottsbluff Junior College.
He created a life of farming, beginning in his early childhood. Warren eventually took over the family farm operations and continued to do all that he could until ill health took over his ability to do so.
Warren met the love of his life, Janet Bell, when his mother introduced him to her at a Harrisburg community meeting. They wed on June 2, 1957, and made their home on the Gifford family farm. They welcomed four sons: Tim, Tracy, Rich, and Randy.
He and Janet enjoyed square dancing together all around the valley during several years of their marriage. Warren was a lifetime member of the NRA and very active in Rifle Club for over 60 years. Competitive shooting was a passion of his and he was able to experience the 1964 Camp Perry civilian marksmanship competition as a participant. Warren was also involved in Farm Bureau throughout the years. It was later in his life that his interest in antique tractors led him to become a part of the Platte Valley Truck and Tractor Pullers group.
The love Warren had for his grandchildren and great grandchildren was recognized and felt by all. Their eyes sparkled the moment they saw Grandpa Warren. He faithfully attended each of their events and activities. Some of their favorite memories will always be of him teaching them to drive and taking the time to play with them.
Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Janet Gifford; sons, Tim (Tanya) Gifford, Tracy (Meri) Gifford, Rich (Susan) Gifford, and Randy (Connie) Gifford; along with many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Warren was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Viola Gifford; in-laws, George and Grace Bell; infant son, Tony Andrew; and sister, Evelyn Fegler.