Eldon Don Gager

Eldon Don Gagert, age 87, passed away Monday, January 16, 2023, at the Chase County Community Hospital, Imperial, Neb.

He was born October 29, 1935, in Woodston, Kansas, to Agnes Anne (Nech) and Clyde (Sliv) Merle Gager.

Eldon grew up in Woodston and graduated from Woodston High School with the class of 1954. He continued his education at Ft. Hayes College in Hayes, Kansas.

On February 23, 1955, Eldon enlisted into the U.S. Navy, serving on the Essex-Class Aircraft Carrier, the USS Antietam. While on the Antietam, Eldon produced fresh water for the ship and was an MP during shore leave. Eldon was honorably discharged on February 13, 1959.

On January 14, 1992, Eldon married Shirley Harrison in Imperial, Nebraska, and the couple settled in Imperial, where they lived for 31 years. Eldon was employed as a police officer in several communities, including McCook, Ogallala, and Imperial. In addition to his service as a police officer, he also worked at the Union 76 Station, Cook Ready Mix, Groff Ag, and the Chase County Transit.

He enjoyed playing the guitar and singing, crafts, hunting, playing pitch with friends, and fishing (which was his passion). He especially loved spending time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Agnes and Clyde Gager.

Survivors include his wife: Shirley of Imperial, Neb.; a son: Glenn (Bronco) Gager and wife, Laurie, of Lemoyne, Neb.; daughter, Dawn Stewart of Plattsmouth, Neb.; stepsons Duane Burton and wife, Carrie, of Palisade, Neb.; Keith Burton and wife, Heather, of Carmel, Ind.; grandchildren: Hagen Gager; Coy Gager; Daniel, Caitlyn, Graeme, Faith, and Samuel Burton; Kayla and Ryan Burton; and Allison, Lauren and Kevin Stewart; great-grandchildren Chloe and Oakley Gager, Oaklyn Burton, Berklee, Braxton, Bodie, and Bailey Loomis; half-brother Mike Gilliland and wife, Tammy, of Bird City; and sister: Joyce Sodden of Jacksonville, Fla.

Graveside services, with full military honors, will be held Saturday, March 11, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. (MT) at Riverside Cemetery, Wauneta, Nebraska, with Rev. Lloyd Bley officiating.

Eldon’s wishes were for cremation with no visitation.

A memorial, in Eldon’s Memory, has been suggested to the Gager Family for a future designation.

Online condolences may be left at liewerfuneralhome.com