Gerald Ray Spahn, 89, of Lincoln NE, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2023 surrounded by loved ones at home.
Jerry, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather served his country with honor as an army veteran. Jerry was born on February 18th, 1934, to Lawerence and Ethel Spahn in Lincoln NE. A lifelong love story was written with his high school sweetheart, Nancy, starting on June 22nd, 1956, resulting in 3 children, 3 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. Renowned as “The Banjo Man”, his passion for music brought joy to many as Jerry gave free lessons to friends and strangers alike. His legacy of love, service and music will forever echo in our hearts.
Jerry is preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Spahn, his brother, Neil Spahn and his daughter-in-law, Cindy Spahn.
Jerry is survived by his daughters, Sue Burkey, and Lynn Bahr (Mary Kay Winchell). Son, Tom Spahn. Grandchildren, Candice (Jesse) Beck, Megan (Jaime) Esquivel, Johnny Spahn and great granddaughter, Logan Esquivel.
Jerry selflessly donated his body to science to provide nurses and allied health students with the privilege of using his body to grow their knowledge. An open house style memorial service will be held at Wyuka Stables (located directly behind Wyuka Funeral Home) at 3600 O st on Saturday, December 30th from 12:30pm to 3:30 pm. Please come and share your best stories of Jerry with his friends and family. Feel free to bring your musical instruments.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family to be used towards a memorial bench at Wyuka cemetery where Jerry walked daily.
Jerry, you are a beautiful soul that had a wonderful life. I see the Lord’s outstretched arms but Nancy is pulling hard to be 1st to embrace you. Your last trip to the ranch you gave David and I a history lesson and picking demo, unloaded the van, then instead of spending the night
you took off hell bent for Lincoln in the night. You were home before we got up the next morning. Many smiles and happy times. RIP dear Jerry.