Lee Roy Ehlers was born December 13, 1951, in Auburn, Nebraska. He was one of two children of Clarence William and Emma (DeBuhr) Ehlers. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul Lutheran (Hickory Grove) Church. Lee attended Hickory Grove School through the 8th grade and then graduated from Johnson-Brock High School in 1970. He next attended business school in Lincoln and earned an accounting degree.
After working for Jelco Corporation at Cooper Nuclear Station near Brownville, Nebraska for 4 years Lee began a career in agriculture accounting at Farmer’s Co-op in Auburn. After 20 years at Co-op he began working for Dettmer Farm Service, a position he held for 22 years until it was sold to Midwest Co-op. Lee retired in 2018 after 3 years with Midwest.
Lee was active in his church and community throughout his life. He served on the church council and as treasurer for many years. As a 4-H Club member for 35 years Lee was a Leader for many years and on the 4-H Council for 15 years. He served on the Johnson-Brock School Board for 12 years, holding the office of President, and was a member of the Nemaha County Ag Society Board.
Lee was an avid fan of Cornhusker football and traveled all over the country to attend games. Lee’s niece and nephew always had a special place in his heart.
As his health failed Lee entered the Good Samaritan Society-Auburn for the care he could receive. He passed away there on Wednesday, January 12, 2022, just 30 days after his 70th birthday. His parents preceded him in death.
Lee is survived by his sister and brother-in-law Carol and Leland Weber of Bruning, NE; niece Holli (Wayne) Alley of Clay Center, NE; nephew Stephen Weber of Colorado Springs, CO; other relatives and friends.
A memorial service will be Monday, January 17, 2:00 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran (Hickory Grove) Church near Auburn. Burial of ashes will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be at the funeral home Sunday noon to 7:00 p.m., with family greeting friends 5:30 to 7:00.
Memorials are suggested to Nemaha County 4-H Council, J-B School Foundation, or Hickory Grove Church.