Gene Zegers, age 76, of Octavia, Nebraska passed away Tuesday, November 23, 2021 at the Methodist Hospital in Omaha. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Bellwood, Nebraska. Celebrant Rev. Mike Ventre. Committal Marietta Cemetery, Bellwood. Visitation Monday, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with 7:00 p.m. rosary, all at church and will continue Tuesday 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the church. Memorials to the family for future designation. Kracl Funeral Chapel in David City in charge of arrangements.
Gene was born April 6th, 1945, in David City, Nebraska, to Harold and Cecilia (Sauser) Zegers and he was the fourth of six children. Gene grew up helping on the family farm and graduated from Aquinas High School in 1963. Upon graduation Gene farmed and raised cattle with his brothers while being a caregiver to his parents.
After retiring from farming, he moved from his family farm to Octavia and began a passion of gardening. Gene enjoyed sharing his produce with the local nursing homes, schools, clergy, senior center and was often seen sitting at farmers markets visiting with others.
He was a lifelong member of Presentation Catholic Church and the David City Knights of Columbus and enjoyed bowling, playing cards, gun shows, sports, and spending time with his family. Many remember Gene from sitting at countless Aquinas activities.
Gene is survived by his brothers Ronald (Christine) Zegers of Lincoln, Robert (Deanna) Zegers of Bellwood, sister-in-law Jeannie Zegers of Octavia, fifteen nieces and nephews, numerous great nieces and nephews which he was like a grandfather to, and several foster nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Dennis (Elaine) Zegers, Duane Zegers, and sister Constance (Darrel) Sabatka.