Gerald A. Kudlacek

Gerald Kudlacek, 93, of Brainard, passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2026.

Mass of Christian Burial  Monday, March 30, 2026   10:30 A.M.

Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Brainard 

Rosary Monday 10:00 A.M. at Church

Visitation Monday 9 - 10 A.M. at Church

Committal with Military Honors

New Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery, Brainard, Nebraska

Lunch at the Klein Center following committal

 

Gerald A. Kudlacek was born July 18, 1932, on the family homestead near Brainard, Nebraska, to Edward and Stella (Ratkovec) Kudlacek. He was one of six children. He graduated with an 8th grade education from Oak Creek Country School, located 3/4 mile west of the farm. He grew up working alongside his father.

Starting in his teens, Gerald provided custom livestock trucking for many local farmers to the Omaha Stockyards, where he socialized with prominent businessmen of Omaha. He also, ran his own custom baling and harvesting operations.

At 20 years of age, Gerald joined the U.S. Army, where he served during the Korean War, 1953 - 1955. As a draftee, he was tasked as a motor pool truck driver, an ambulance driver, as well as, a personal driver for a General during his time in France.
Gerald and Mary Ann (Kobza) met at a dance in Dwight, Ne. They were married on October 24, 1959 at St. Mary’s Church in David City. The couple made their home on the family homestead where he was born and raised. They were blessed with five children, Jerome, Angie, Gary, Lynne, and Todd. Over the years, they were parishioners of St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Loma, NE and currently Holy Trinity Catholic Church of Brainard, NE.

Gerald had a deep love for horses, cattle and checking on his livestock and crops while cruising around on his side-by-side. He enjoyed livestock auctions, especially the online ones, where he meticulously recorded the sale prices of every animal sold. He took pride in raising quality cattle and other livestock. Over the decades, you may have experienced Gerald’s version of chasing cattle down the roads of Butler County. Your commute may have been impeded by a large herd of cattle being moved down the road by horses and ATVs.

Gerald was passionate about Polka music and was a fan of the Big Joe Polka Show, Molly B. Polka Show and the Mark Vyhlidal radio show which could be heard playing throughout the home every Sunday. His toe taps would let you know his approval of a good polka tune, until a Polish number would come on!

Known for his orneriness and infectious laugh, Gerald had a nickname for many. Hearing the stories of his youth, and the retelling of tales, one could appreciate his love for shenanigans. Gerald created and cherished numerous friendships throughout his lifetime. In his later years, he enjoyed his time and conversations over coffee at Clayton’s.

Gerald was a proud, active member of the American Legion Rejda Post 273, where he recently was awarded the Certificate of Continuous Membership for over 70 years.
He cherished his family above all else, finding his greatest purpose and joy in the lives of those he loved. His love was steady, selfless, and unwavering—shown not just in words, but in the countless sacrifices and thoughtful gestures that defined his life.
Gerald was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose memory will be cherished by his wife, Mary Ann (Kobza), children and spouses: Jerome Kudlacek of Brainard, Angie (Scott) Sisel of Bee, Gary Kudlacek of Brainard, Lynne (Kudlacek) Cook of Lincoln, and Todd (Cari) Kudlacek of Brainard; grandchildren, Kylee (Brandon) Chapek of Lincoln, Katie (Cole) Trojan of Papillion, Evan Sisel of Dwight.   Zachary Kudlacek of Yutan. Alicia (Marvin) Lewis of Fort Lewis/McChord, WA, Brandon (Michelle) Cook of Fort Riley, KS, Amanda Cook of Fort Lewis/McChord, WA, and Ashley Cook of Fort Bragg, NC; 9 great-grandchildren, and 2 on the way. Sister, Clarice Sladky of Omaha.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Stella (Ratkovec) Kudlacek; brothers, Richard Kudlacek, Edwin Kudlacek; sisters, Josephine McGurk (Bob), Henrietta Bartek (Rudy); and brother-in-law, Joseph Sladky.