Bridgman Funeral Home and Cremation Services

11/11/2025

Harry Allen Bishop, 95, of Scottsbluff, formerly of Ashby, NE, passed away on Sunday, Nov 9, 2025, at Monument Care and Rehabilitation Center in Scottsbluff. His funeral service will be held at 9:30am on Friday, Nov 14, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church in Scottsbluff and then at 2:00pm at the Ashby Congregational Church in Ashby, NE both with Pastor Jeff Feit officiating. Interment will follow at the Ashby Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday, Nov 13, from 5-7pm at the Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff. It is respectfully requested that in lieu of any flowers, memorials in Harry’s honor be made out to the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be made by viewing Harry’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com.
Harry was born to Roy and Edna (Alexander) Bishop on July 5, 1930 in Burwell, NE. He graduated from Sargent NE in 1949. He served in the Navy from 1951 to 1955. He married Ruby Schroder on November 21, 1956 and 4 children were born to this union. He worked for Ashby Lumber Company for over 50 years. They moved to Scottsbluff, NE in 2008.
Harry never met a stranger and was always available to help anyone who needed something. Harry was a member of the Ashby Congregational Church while they lived there. He was a member of the American Legion (over 60 years), Veterans of Foreign Wars, Elks, and Masons. He received a 50-year plaque from the Sandhills Fire Protection District. Harry loved playing cards, dancing, fishing, hunting and camping, but what he loved most was being with his family and friends.
He is survived by his wife Ruby of almost 69 years; daughters Karla (Kevin) Burton, Karen (Randy) Prouty, Kelly (Greg) Tryon; son David (Michele) Bishop; sister Carole (Jim) Farrenkopf; sister-in-law Kay Schroder and brother-in-law Ed Schroder. He also has 9 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.
Harry was proceeded in death by parents Roy and Edna; brothers and their spouses Ed and Helen, Bob and Bonnie, Pete and Sheryl; in laws Bill Schroder, Ione Schroder, and Ken Schroder.

11/06/2025

Marian Louise (Ring) Rein, age 65, of Bayard, Nebraska passed away Monday, November 3rd, 2025, at Regional West Medical Center with her loving family at her side. Her memorial service will be held 10 a.m. on Monday, November 10, 2025, at Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff with Pastor Rick Reisig officiating with a Celebration of Life to follow at 12:00 p.m. at the American Legion in Bayard, Nebraska. Guests are encouraged to wear Husker attire in honor of her passion for Husker football. It is respectfully requested that in lieu of any flowers memorials may be made to the family to be designated at a later time. Online condolences may be made by viewing Marian’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com.
Marian was born October 18, 1960, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska to Edward and Muriel (Davis) Ring. She attended high school before beginning her lifelong career at Western Sugar.
Marian met Ralph, the love of her life, in 1982. Together they raised five children. They spent many wonderful years fishing, camping, playing cards, cheering for Husker football and living life to the fullest.
Marian had a passion for life that was evident in her many interests and talents. She was an avid Husker football fan, enjoyed making crafts for her home, her family and her friends; she loved cooking, baking, and tending to her many flowers and her neatly kept garden. Family gatherings were very special to Marian, especially when they involved playing games. Marian loved to laugh and to make others laugh in any situation. Without a doubt, her favorite holiday was Christmas where many, many laughs were had. She would make Christmas crafts for her family and friends months ahead of time so that everyone was prepared to decorate with her beautiful creations. The absolute most important thing in Marian’s life was her family. However, above all, she cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was the heart and soul of our family.
Anyone who knew Marian knew that she was as tough as they get and her unwavering love and playful spirit will be dearly missed by all who were lucky enough to know her.
Survivors include her husband, Ralph of Bayard, Nebraska; son Michael (Danyel); daughters Jessica (Saint), Chelsie (Josh), Cyndi (Jim); daughter-in-law Tina; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; along with her brothers Eddie and Norman (Georgia); her sisters Carolyn and Diane; extended family members and friends.
Marian was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents, as well as her sister Kathy and her son Rick.

10/30/2025

Merlyn “Mert” Keith Davis, Of Gering, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025. His Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Monday November 3, 2025, at St Agnes Catholic Church in Scottsbluff, Nebraska with Father Rayappa Konka as Celebrant. Rosary service will be at the church at 10AM. It is respectfully requested that in li eu of flowers, memorials in Mert’s honor be made in care of WNCC Foundation and Legacy of the Plains. Online condolences may be made by viewing Merlyn’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.
Merlyn “Mert” K. Davis was born on August 28, 1931, in Wenatchee, Washington. In his early years, his family moved to Scottsbluff, Nebraska, where he grew up and graduated from Scottsbluff High School in 1950.
After graduation, Mert proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years, spending much of his service time stationed in Germany. Upon completing his military service, he attended Creighton University, where he studied education. It was there that he met the love of his life, Evelyn Beringer. The two were married in Omaha on August 23, 1958. Mert continued his education at the University of Wyoming receiving his Masters in Education.
Mert and Evelyn had 3 children, Mark (Austin, TX) , Karen (Gering, Nebraska), and David (Scottsbluff, Nebraska). His love and support for them was immeasurable.
Mert began his teaching career in 1958 in Crawford, Nebraska, before returning home in 1961 to teach at Scottsbluff High School. There, he taught for seven years and coached several state champions in track and field - especially in shot put and discus. His calm encouragement and competitive spirit made a lasting impression on his students and athletes alike. In 1969, Mert began teaching at Nebraska Western College, where he remained until his retirement in 1995. Over the years, he taught History, Economics, Human Relations, and Introduction to Education, inspiring countless students to pursue careers in teaching. He was very humble by nature and led by example and always had time for his students outside of the classroom. In the early 1970s, he also served as the head coach of the college’s track team, traveling with student-athletes to competitions around the country, including Nationals, and later assisted with the men’s basketball team when traveling, working alongside Head Coach “Soupy” Campbell. Mert was an avid Creighton Bluejays and Nebraska Cornhusker fan, and attended most sporting events at Nebraska Western. He loved watching sports and cheering on his favorite teams. When classes were not in session, Mert spent more than 30 summers as a park ranger at Scotts Bluff National Monument, where he loved sharing stories of local history with visitors from near and far. He served as the head historian, and few knew more about the history of the valley and the Monument. Just driving by or up the Monument would turn into a 30 minute education for whoever he was with, he enjoyed sharing this knowledge, and stories of the history of the Scottsbluff area.
In 2017, Mert was honored by the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame as a member of the Golden Anniversary Team, recognizing the 1967–68 Scottsbluff Football Championship Year. Additionally, in 2023, he was inducted into the inaugural class of the Scottsbluff High School Hall of Fame as a coach, celebrating his contributions to the 1967–68 Nebraska State Champions in cross country, football, track, and wrestling.
On Friday, October 24, 2025 Mert was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from Western Nebraska Community College. Mert truly loved teaching and coaching and the relationships with his student athletes continued long after he retired. He also valued the friendships of his teaching colleagues. He was a positive and lasting influence on so many young adults and he took great pride in seeing them succeed, as students, athletes, and most importantly as individuals.
Mert is survived by his wife of 67 years, Evelyn; his children, Mark (Melissa) Davis, Karen (Brian) Reason, and David (Robin) Davis; his grandchildren, Blake (Rebecca) Fisher, Brian (Melissa) Fisher, Jill Hernandez, eM (Julie) Stephens, Taylor (Shaylah) Stephens, Britton Davis, and Madi (Alex) Jenkins; Samantha Davis, Jessica Davis, 14 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; his brother, Jerry Davis; and many beloved Beringer family in-laws, nieces, and nephews.
Those who passed before Mert and now greet him in Heaven include his granddaughter, Olivia Grace Reason; grandchild Davis; three great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Sherri Davis; sister, Virginia (Don) Ferguson; brother, Tomas (Josephine) Davis; parents, Charles and Bertha Davis; aunt, Anna Jahn; and many dear in-laws.

10/06/2025

Reverend William Thomas “Tom” Hunter Jr., 86, a devoted servant of Christ, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, entered his heavenly home on October 2, 2025. Surrounded by the peace of the Lord he faithfully served, he completed his earthly ministry and entered into the presence of his Savior.
Born on February 9, 1939 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Tom’s heart for ministry began early in life. Alongside his beloved wife, Patricia Ann (Woods) Hunter, he answered God’s call to serve as missionaries in the Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky. In 1970, the Lord led them to Morrill, Nebraska, where they began a lifelong ministry at Sovereign Grace Reformed Church. For more than 50 years, Pastor Hunter shepherded the congregation with steadfast faith, biblical wisdom, and deep compassion. Even after his retirement, he continued to serve as Pastor Emeritus until his passing, remaining a faithful teacher, encourager, and friend to all who knew him.
Beyond the pulpit, the reach of Tom’s ministry was boundless. He served as Chaplain of the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office and Jail, Director of the Juvenile Detention Center, and Director of the Victim/Witness Assistance Program for the Scotts Bluff County Attorney’s Office. Known for his humility and love for people, Tom provided spiritual guidance and comfort to countless individuals and families over the years.
When not serving others, Tom was an avid motorcycle rider, enjoyed working on his 1969 Pontiac Firebird, and was an active member of the board for the Buckboard Therapeutic Riding Academy. He was enthusiastically involved with the High Plains Car Club and the Blue Knights Motorcycle Club. Whether behind the wheel or the pulpit, Tom reflected God’s joy and goodness in all he did.
Tom’s life calling and greatest passion was spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He centered his life on sharing God’s Word and lived out his faith through guidance, kindness, and steadfast love. His legacy of faith will continue to echo in the hearts of those he touched and in the lives of his family, whom he deeply cherished.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Patricia; their children, Deborah Hunter, Dan (Jacque) Hunter, Deanna (Larry) Cullins, and David (Michelle) Hunter; grandchildren, Chandra (Michael) Deutsch, KayLee Tisbert, Bryce (Skylar) Cullins, Hannah Hunter, Trey (Makenzi) Cullins, Lauren Cullins, Matthew Hunter, and Danielle Hunter; and six great-grandchildren. He is now reunited in heaven with his father, William, and mother, Anna Hunter, as well as his two younger brothers, David and Paul.
A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at Sovereign Grace Reformed Church in Morrill, Nebraska. In memory of Pastor Tom Hunter, donations may be given to Sovereign Grace Reformed Church at PO Box 570, Morrill, NE 69358 or to Buckboard Therapeutic Riding Academy at PO Box 654, Gering, NE 69341. Online condolences may be made by viewing Tom’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff is entrusted with arrangements.
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21

10/04/2025

10/01/2025

Deborha "Deb" Lee Schutte, 69, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Deb will be remembered for her unwavering love of animals, her deep devotion to her family, and her vibrant spirit that touched all who knew her. Her memorial service will be held at 1pm on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff with Pastor Rick Reisig officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Festival of Hope. Online condolences may be made by viewing Deb’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com.
Born on October 5, 1955, in Scottsbluff, Deb was the daughter of Lee and Carol Schwartzkopf. She grew up alongside her siblings, cherishing the bonds that defined her early life. Deb found great joy in her marriage to her husband, Rodney Schutte, with whom she built a life centered on family, love, and laughter. Together they raised children, Patrick, Misty, and Cara, and celebrated countless milestones as a family.
Deb's entrepreneurial spirit and lifelong love of animals led her to open and own two beloved businesses: Deb's Fish and Critters and Oasis Pet Hotel. Through her work, she created safe havens for animals and gave countless families the joy of welcoming beloved pets into their homes. Beyond her businesses, Deb had a voice for all abused and forgotten animals, always advocating for their well-being with unmatched passion.
Her greatest joys, however, came from her loved ones. She followed the lives of her children and grandchildren with pride, celebrating moments both big and small. Known for her strength, humor, generosity, and the uncanny ability to leave lasting impressions, Deb was a constant presence in the lives of those around her. To know her was to love her.
Deb is survived by her husband, Rodney; children Patrick, Misty, and Cara; brother, Mike; and her cherished grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents Lee and Carol, and her brothers Levi and AC.
As Deb herself believed: This isn't goodbye, but I'll see you later.

09/29/2025

Elmer Estrada, 87, of Bridgeport, NE, passed away Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at Skyview in Bridgeport. His Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10am on Friday, October 3, 2025, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Scottsbluff with Father Joseph Thambi as Celebrant. A Rosary Service will be held at 9:30am at the church. It is respectfully requested that in lieu of any flowers, memorials in Elmer’s honor be made in care of the church. Online condolences may be made by viewing Elmer’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Family Funeral Home in Scottsbluff is entrusted with arrangements.
Elmer was born Dec 6, 1937, in Scottsbluff, NE, to Enemorio and Aurora (Garcia) Estrada.
He was married to Clara (Cervantes) Estrada for over 60 years. They met in Scottsbluff and knew each other for many years before courting and finally marrying. She proceeded him in death. Just in March of 2025. From this union came five children, Phillip (Roseann) Estrada of Topeka, KS, Richard (Deborah) Estrada of Manhattan, KS, and Gregory (Tina) Estrada of Lincoln, NE.
Elmer was a simple man give him a recliner and put anything Huskers on TV and he was happy. Throw in some sweet bread or pie and he had a smile a mile long with a big thumbs up. Elmer loved collecting things at countless garage sales.
Elmer is survived by his children Philip, Richard, and Gregory; sister-in-law Angie Estrada; sister Delores (Dave) Muzquiz, brothers Lupe (Lola) Gonzales, Arthur (Rachel) Gonzales; with such a large loving family there were many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
He is proceeded in death by his parents, wife Clara in March of 2025, children Tonia Estrada and Robert Estrada, stepfather Jose Gonzalez, and brothers Louie Estrada and John Estrada.

09/24/2025

Howard Simon, 92, of Scottsbluff, passed away peacefully at his home on September 22, 2025. Service will be held on Sunday, September 28, at 3:00 p.m. at Grace Chapel, with a reception to follow. Cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation. It is respectfully requested that in lieu of any flowers, memorials in Howard’s honor be made in care of his family to be designated at a later time. Online condolences may be made by viewing Howard’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com. Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff is entrusted with arrangements.
He was born in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, on December 16, 1932, to Edward Gustav Christian Simon and Grace May Simon. One of nine siblings, he is survived by his sister, Edna May Lofing.
Howard married Billie Jean Simon on November 18, 1956, and they shared nearly seven decades of love and family life. He began working in the house moving business as a child alongside his father and brothers, eventually taking over the business after his father passed. In the late 1960s, he purchased and relocated the log cabin that would later become the Log Cabin restaurant, which also housed a museum for a time. Over the years, he managed many rental properties and pursued other ventures, but he never stopped working around his home.
Howard is survived by his wife, Billie Jean Simon, and daughter, Debra Simon. He was preceded in death by his son, Howie L. Simon, in 2014. He is also survived by his five grandchildren: Daniel (Jessica) Hoban and their children Samantha and Daniel; Ryan Hoban; Sylvia (Patrick) Martinez and their children Gabriel, Kuhlil, and Brooklyn; Laura (Ryen) House and their children Ezly, Rex, Khray, Hadassah, and Lainey; and Bianca Simon and her children Juan Carlos (JC), Aydenn, and Brielle.
Howard loved his family deeply — his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the joy of his life. Though he could be tough and gruff, he had a heart of gold. He enjoyed early morning coffee with old friends, traveling, spending time around the house, and sharing his love and wisdom with his family. His dedication, work ethic, and love for those closest to him will be remembered always.

09/23/2025

Maria Josefina “Josie” Lopez Magana, 97, passed away on Sunday, September 21, 2025, in Greeley, CO. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10am on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Scottsbluff with Father Joseph Thambi as Celebrant. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Scottsbluff. Visitation will be held an hour prior to the service at the church. It is respectfully requested that in lieu of any flowers, memorials in Maria’s honor may be made in care of her family to be designated at a later date. Online condolences may be made by viewing Maria’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com.
Maria was born November 26, 1927, in Detroit, Michigan, to Manuel and Manuela (Sanchez) Lopez. Everyone knew Maria as "Josie". Her education was limited; she spent most of her years working at Sedgwick County Nursing Home as a housekeeper before retirement. She was one of the most valued employees and received many compliments on her work.
Later in life, she married "Avelino" Magana, on the 13th of January 2012. They resided in Julesburg, Colorado. Her faith was important to her and attended St Anthony's Catholic Church in Julesburg. She was well known in her community.
She enjoyed embroidery, quilting, crocheting and cooking. She loved soccer and assisted her husband at practices and games. At different times she resided in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, Julesburg and Greeley Colorado. At the time of her death, she resided at Life Care Center of Greeley. Her greatest joy was spending time with family and grandkids. She will be remembered for her great cooking, hospitality and gifting sentimental items to her grandkids. Her home was always welcoming, filled with family photos and handmade items. Great grandkids loved to visit because she always served them "7UP".
She was preceded in death parents Manuel Lopez and Manuela (Sanchez) Lopez; daughter Olga Dora Tolentino (Lopez); husband Joe Avelino Magana; sisters Consuelo "Connie" L. Chacon (Lopez), Ernestina (Genaro) Rangel (Lopez), Yolanda (Antonio) Vasquez (Lopez), Florinda Lopez; brothers Vicente (Eva) Lopez, Edward (Lilia) Lopez, Jose (Epifania) Lopez, Juan Lopez, Ruben Lopez and Robert (Teresa) Lopez.
Survivors include grandsons Anselmo (Simona) Tolentino, Jr. and Jose Manuel Tolentino; granddaughters Stella Blancarte, Theresa (Armando) Tolentino Peralta, Lisa Ann (Caleb) Moffit; along with great grandkids; numerous great-great grandkids and numerous nieces and nephews in the Gering-Scottsbluff area.

09/22/2025

Valarie Ann Gentry-Fernandez ,68, passed away on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, in Scottsbluff, NE. Her Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Bridgman Funeral Home in Scottsbluff with Pastor Rick Reisig officiating. It is respectfully requested that in lieu of flowers, memorials in Valarie’s honor may be made in care of her family to be designated at a later date. Online condolences may be made by viewing Valarie’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com.
Valarie was born on July 13, 1957, to Larry Lloyd and Charlotte Rae (Staab) Gentry in Scottsbluff, NE. Valarie was the oldest of three children, followed by her brother Larry and sister Vicky. The family lived in Scottsbluff, then moved to Texas and ultimately settled in Denver, Colorado.
Val graduated from Westminster High School in 1976 where she excelled in track and field. Valarie welcomed her first daughter, Tyffany, in 1977 and the two remained in Denver where Val met her second husband. They were married in 1988 and later welcomed daughters Amanda and Shannon.
Valarie loved being a caregiver throughout her life, reading, crafting and most of all, God. In 2015, Valarie moved back to Nebraska to be close to her mother. At the age of 60, Val proudly achieved her dream of receiving her nursing degree.
Valarie is survived by brother Larry; daughters Tyffany, Amanda, and Shannon; grandchildren Zachariah, Byron, Kaylynn, Steven, Carsyn, Juliette, Aidyn, Andrew, Evelyn and Nova; great grandchildren Armaneigh, Tyler, Roman and Matthew.
She was preceded in death by her father Larry; mother Charlotte; and sister Vicky.

09/22/2025

Russel D. Blome, formerly of Bridgeport, Nebraska, passed away on September 11, 2025, in Anchorage, Alaska surrounded by family. A graveside service will be held at 2pm on Friday, October 3, 2025 at the Oregon Trail Memorial Cemetery, Bridgeport, NE. Online condolences may be made by viewing Russel’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com.
He was born June 7, 1946, to Lois (Anderson) Blome and Carl Blome in Dalton, Nebraska. Growing up, Russ enjoyed going hunting, shooting, and other outdoor activities. In later years, he enjoyed hiking, fishing, and hunting in the great outdoors and climate of Alaska.
He grew up in Bridgeport on the ranch his parents owned until he graduated from Bridgeport High School in 1964. After high school graduation, he attended the University of Nebraska in Lincoln majoring in Agriculture, graduating in 1968. He also received an Izaac Walton League award, an experience that led him to work for the Bureau of Land Management.
In 1969 he joined the Navy, earning a commission of Lt. Junior Grade and serving five years until 1974. His naval service included duty in Vietnam, where he served as an interpreter. Later the Navy took him to a duty station in Adak, Alaska, and it was here that Russel found an adopted home where he could remain for the rest of his life after initially starting work for the BLM in Wyoming. After he left the Navy, he joined the Naval Reserves until 1981.
In 1975 he married Kaye Kennedy, and they lived in Pinedale, Wyoming until there was a BLM opening in Anchorage. Though they eventually divorced, Russ and Kaye had three children, Nathan of Anchorage, Rebecca of Tustin, California, and David also of California. Kaye passed in 2008. Russ continued to work for the BLM until his retirement in 2017.
In 1982 he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, but it was only recently that he was unable to get around by himself or without the help of friends.
Preceding Russel in death were his parents Lois and Carl Blome; brother Lowell; grandparents, and several aunts and uncles.
He is survived by his children Nathan (Jennifer) Blome, Rebecca (Paul) Mobley, and David Blome; two grandchildren Chloe Blome at the University of Montana and Jude Mobley at home; sister-in-law Pamela Blome; two sisters Carol (Roger) Vacha of Scribner, Nebraska and Elaine (Bruce) Harding of Corcoran, Minnesota, and six nieces and nephews.