In Memory ~ Ferguson, Don

(sorry ~ I was unable to get pictures to load on this page)

Don Ferguson, 81, of rural Alliance, entered into his eternal rest on Thursday, September 19, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family and friends after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Don was born November 20, 1942 in Alliance, Nebraska to John and Mabel (Stichka) Ferguson. He was raised in Seneca, Nebraska for a time by his maternal grandparents after his parents separated when he was a child. He has an older brother Steve Ferguson, of Piedmont, South Dakota, and a sister, Barbara Wilson of Nixa, Missouri.

Don graduated from Alliance High School in 1961. He married Linda Iversen, one of his classmates, on September 7, 1963 in Alliance. To this union were born nine children, Brad, Kenny, Valarie, Eleanor, a miscarried daughter Shondelle, Robert, Linda, Errick and Christopher. He is also survived by 21 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren; and other extended family members.

Don worked numerous jobs over the years, including ranch hand, truck driver, mechanic, built homes in the Denver area, retail worker, electrician, firefighter, and school maintenance supervisor to name a few.

He never knew a stranger and had the ability to converse with anyone, young and old alike and had a “crazy” sense of humor. At the same time, he was not afraid to speak his mind if he disagreed with someone-and stubborn and independent he was! It was his way or no way, which we’re sure garnered him a few “frenemies” as he called them. He would do anything for anyone if he possibly could. He will be sorely missed by all who “really” knew him.

Don’s wishes were to be cremated with no services, but his family is planning a memorial celebration of life for a later date to be determined.

Memorials may be given to the Alliance Volunteer Fire Department or the Hemingford Volunteer Firefighter’s Association.

Don's information in our 50th class reunion booklet:

Ferguson, Don

Spouse ~ Linda Iversen (’61 classmate)

6564 Hayes Road

Alliance, NE  69301

308-762-1312

linnjoann@msn.com ~ daughter’s email           45^th reunion photo

C ~ Eight

Besides raising eight kids with Linda, I have been a ranch hand, oilfield driller, drove semi-trucks, built houses and worked on the railroad.  The most expensive house I ever built was in Vale CO ~ $2.8 million.  At present I am the Maintenance Supervisor for the Alliance Public School System (been there for four years).  I have retired twice and plan to retire for the third time in about a year.  When Linda and I got married we had a one day honeymoon ~ when we retire next year we are going to take a late honeymoon.  I also was an EMT for 20 years.  One time Linda and I walked two miles in a blizzard to save someone because the ambulance couldn’t get to the victim.  We are very proud of our eight kids ~ two of which we delivered at home with kerosene lanterns.   My oldest son is a Master Sargent in the Air Force, stationed in the Pentagon.  I have two sons that were in the Army Rangers Special Forces.  One son was a body guard for two presidents (Bush and Carter).  All have had tours in Afghanistan and Desert Storm.   One daughter is a welder of combines and bailers; another is the State District Manager of Target.  Another daughter lives near us in Alliance.  She is in the medical field.  My 15 minutes of fame came in 2010 when I bought a $10.00 ticket at the county fair and won a brand new Ford Pick-up.  Linda and I are happy and healthy and can’t ask for any more than that.

Notes on obituary page:

Lacee S. from Kansas, wrote on Sep. 27, 2024

Grandpa, there are so many things I wish I could have said to you before you passed, but I am grateful I got to spend time with you when you were still you. I will never forget all the fun times we had on the farm in Elbert, or all the memories you made cutting wood and feeding chickens with your Grandson, Ryker. You are truly going to be missed. We love you.

also shared an image

• BJ Krantz from Gering Nebraska, wrote on Sep. 26, 2024

  Linda and kids I'm so sorry for your loss. Don was the greatest first boss I could've ever had. He was a straight shooter and taught me many things I still use to this day. I'll sure treasure our coffee breaks and his advice (right wrong or indifferent lol!!) Y'all are in the prayers!
• Linda Laue from Alliance, wrote on Sep. 26, 2024

  I'm so very sorry to hear of your loss! I will very much miss our lively conversations. My thoughts and prayers are with you. ❤️
• 

  Terri Wood from Hemingford, NE, wrote on Sep. 26, 2024

  So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with Linda and the family. Don was a great guy and he will be greatly missed.

  
  
  
  
• David and Ellie Van Dusen from 203 Beverly rd Norfolk Ne., wrote on Sep. 26, 2024

  I have a lot of fond memories of Don over the years as a a classmate and friend...Sincere condolences to Linda and the family.