Merlin K. Nincehelser

Merlin K. Nincehelser, son of George and Hetty (Reed) Nincehelser, was born near Hope, Kansas on May 9, 1926. He was the youngest of seven children. His mother died when he was five years old, and the family moved near Topeka, Kansas. Merlin graduated from high school in Dennison, Kansas in 1944.

Merlin was married to Neta M. Bumbaugh on June 4, 1947 in Junction City, Kansas. They were blessed with a daughter, Anneta L.

The family moved to a farm near Auburn, Nebraska, where Merlin farmed for several years. They then made their home in Auburn, where he was employed at the U. S. Post Office for the next 33 years. The Postal Service awarded Merlin a Medal, presented by the Chicago Regional Postmaster General. This award was given to only 10 people in Nebraska and the Western third of Iowa.

Merlin and his wife Neta started Red Goose Antiques in Auburn. They operated the business for 33 years until it was necessary to close because of health reasons.

Merlin helped start the Nemaha Valley Museum. He purchased the Tuxhorn Building for the home of the Museum in 1973, and it opened to the public on July 4, 1976.

In 2011, after 62 years of marriage, Neta passed away. Six months later Merlin lost his only child, Ann. Sometime later, Merlin moved to Long’s Creek Assisted Living in Auburn, where he adjusted well to his new life.

On May 25, 2016, Merlin was admitted to the Nemaha County Hospital in Auburn. He was transferred to the Good Samaritan Society, Auburn, and passed away there on Sunday, May 30, 2016 at the age of 90 years and 20 days.

Merlin is survived by nieces, nephews, and many friends from all over the United States. He was loved by all and will be missed by many.

Memorials suggested to Neta’s Garden at Longs Creek or Auburn Rescue Squad.