Eugene Paul Cerny

Eugene (Gene, Lefty) Cerny, 79, of Papillion passed away August 25, 2018 surrounded by his family. He was born June 9, 1939, in Burke, SD, to the late Frank and Mildred (Pistulka) Cerny. Gene married Julia (Judy) Sukup on May 9, 1964 at St. Ludger’s Catholic Church in Creighton, NE.

Children are Dee Kohler (Steve) of Papillion, NE; Kris Donnelly (Patrick) of Columbus, NE; Doug Cerny (Angie) of Gretna, NE; and Gina Woods (Scott) of Grand Island, NE. Eleven grandchildren are Sarah Cooper, Drew Kohler (Jasmaine), Claire Donnelly, Mallory Woods, Sean Donnelly, Cameron Cerny, Megan Woods, Gracie Woods, Caleb Cerny, Carter Cerny, Callum Cerny and one great grandchild, Brandon Cooper.

Siblings and in-laws: Frank (Betty) Cerny; Tom (Pam) Cerny; Midge (Don) Effle; and Ray (Pat) Cerny. Ann Sukup; Dan (Connie) Sukup; and Dave (Barb) Sukup. Preceded in death by brother-in-law, Ray Sukup.

Gene entered the US Army after graduating from Verdigre High School in 1957. He was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, MO. He attended Wayne State College in 1963.

Gene was a math teacher at Omaha Central High School until 1970. He was a High School Principal in Verdigre, NE, from 1970-1976; and Bloomfield, NE from 1977-1978. The family moved when Gene became Superintendent of schools at Bradshaw, NE, from 1978-1986. He also served as the York County Superintendent. He finished his career as Superintendent at Madison schools in Madison, NE, from 1986 to 1998.

Gene and Julie were an amazing dancing couple. He took lessons before their wedding to learn the waltz, salsa and other dances. Many people would comment how much joy it was to watch Gene & Julie dance. They surprised everyone at their 50th wedding anniversary with a montage dance routine that required an encore!

Gene was active as a 4th degree in the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed improving and building things -- community centers, meeting places, schools, baseball fields and teams of teachers. He was a lifelong learner and was always reading and sharing books. He was always growing in his faith and sharing scripture with others.

After retirement, he tutored inmates at Madison County Jail for their GED.

Gene and Julie moved to Papillion, NE, in 2005 to be closer to their family and grandchildren. Gene was actively involved in sending words of encouragement and pride for his grandchildren’s birthdays and celebrations.

The fondest memories from our family includes summer “road trips” to visit Uncle Frank & Aunt Betty in Michigan, with stops along the way to Wisconsin Dells or other fun places. Several of Gene and Julie’s grandchildren remember Gene and Julie hosting “Grandma and Grandpa Camp” in Madison with 6, 7, 8 or more grandkids - at the same time!

In the 80s during snowy winter weather our family would often drive in the family station wagon to check out snow drifts to see if school should be closed. We also have several unforgettable stories of Gene subbing as a bus driver when needed.

Gene knew his true purpose in life was to serve others. He was a believer in God and the fulfillment of His church. His last days on earth he reflected and shared with others his feeling of fulfillment and peace.

VISITATION: Wednesday, Aug 29, 2018 6 - 8pm with a Vigil Service at 7pm. FUNERAL MASS: Thursday, Aug 30, 2018 at 10:30am all at St Columbkille Church, 2250 E Sixth St, Papillion, NE. INTERMENT: St. Ludger’s Cemetery, Creighton, NE Saturday, September 1, 2018 at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to St Jude Children’s Hospital.

Kahler Dolce Mortuary

www.dignitymemorial.com

St. Ludger’s Cemetery:

https://www.findagrave.com/cemetery/763899/saint-ludgers-catholic-cemetery