Veda Lorraine Bruner
Veda Lorraine Bruner, age 90, of Shelton, peacefully passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2024, at Mother Hull Home in Kearney.
Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 20, at the Shelton United Methodist Church, officiated by the Reverends Michelle Byerly and Carla Gunn. Private interment will take place in the Shelton Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements are through Apfel Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www. apfelfuneralhome.com.
Memorials are suggested to the Shelton United Methodist Church and the Shelton Volunteer Fire Department, reflecting Veda’s commitment to her community and faith.
Veda was born on December 1, 1933, on a farm near Albion in Boone County to Homer Edwin and Florence Myrtle (Ogden) Wheeler. Her life was a testament to resilience, love, and community spirit.
Veda’s journey began on a small farm in Boone County, eventually leading her to various places including Hastings and Grand Island before settling on a farm north of Shelton in the fourth grade. Her education took her through different schools, from Grand Island to a country school north of Shelton and culminating in graduating from Shelton High School. She further pursued education with two years of college.
On October 15, 1954, Veda was united in marriage to Richard (Dick) Bruner in Cairo. The couple made their home in Shelton, where Veda’s commitment to education shone through as she taught in a country school for five years. Her versatile career included working in a lumberyard, substitute teaching, and contributing to Shelton Public Schools. Later, she served as a daycare/preschool teacher at Kiddie’s Corner and worked as a receptionist for a local doctor, and managed books for several area businesses.
Veda was not only devoted to education and community but also an integral part of the family business, Bruner’s Sand and Gravel. She played a vital role, diligently keeping books, taking orders, and managing various aspects of the business.
Veda was an active member of the Shelton United Methodist Church, contributing to the community through her involvement in Our Night Out Club, Gabby Sisters, Legion Auxiliary, and United Methodist Women.
Veda is survived by her son, Jim (Gayle Knoll-Bruner) Bruner, of Shelton, and daughter, Connie (Dave) Rocker, of Shelton. Her legacy extends through her beloved grandchildren, Derrick Rocker, of Omaha; Kelsey (Andrew) Alpsteg, of Lincoln; Tess (Craig) Kirschner, of Kearney; and Noel Bruner, of Omaha. She finds joy in the presence of her great-granddaughter, Noa Jo Alpsteg. In addition, Veda is fondly remembered by several nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.
Veda was preceded in death by her husband, Richard (Dick) Bruner; parents; brothers, Glen and Floyd Wheeler; sister, Reva Berens; sister and brotherin- law, James and Marilyn Nelson; an infant sister; and niece, Diane Schick.
Veda Lorraine Bruner will be dearly missed and forever remembered for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those she loved.
May she rest in peace.