Joyce Ellen Crocker

Calvin Jones

Nov 26, 1970 - Jan 21, 2025

Omaha, NE

Calvin Jones, NFL Runnerback and Nebraska star is amongst the stars at the age of 54. In three seasons at Nebraska, Calvin Jones rushed for over 3,000 yards with the Green Bay Packers. He was with them when they won the Super Bowl after the 1996 season. Jones was a high school All-American at Central High School prior to becoming an integral part of Nebraska. He was an All-Big Eight pick from 1992 to 1993. We formed a tandem called the “We-Back” with Derek Brown, this tandem was a nod to the Cornhuskers’ I-back position, with Jones the backup to Brown in 1991. His breakout came when he ran 27 times for a Big Eight freshman-record 294 yards as well as a school-record six touchdowns in a 59-23 victory over Kansas. His rushing total against the Jayhawks ranks #2 on the Nebraska single-game rushing chart. In 1994, Calvin was declared for the NFL draft. He was a third-round selection of the Raiders. He made an appearance in 15 games over two seasons with the Raiders and had 27 carries for 112 yards and two catches for 6 yards. Jones also played one game for the Packers in 1996. He was a man of high character and was inducted into the Nebraska Athletics Hall of Fame in 2004. The cause of his untimely demise is suspected to be carbon monoxide poisoning.

Vidie Lee Thomas

Jan 18, 1921 - Nov 17, 1999

Omaha, NE

Vidie Lee Thomas, aged 78, passed away on November 16, 1999, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew her. Born on January 17, 1921, in Omaha, Nebraska, Vidie was a remarkable individual whose warmth, kindness, and dedication touched the lives of many. Throughout her life, Vidie demonstrated an unwavering commitment to compassion and selflessness. Her genuine concern for others was evident in the way she enriched the lives of those around her. Vidie's impact extended beyond her immediate family and friends, earning her a special place in the hearts of her community. A resident of Omaha, Vidie was deeply rooted in the fabric of the city. Her presence was felt far and wide, as she consistently contributed to the betterment of the community. Vidie's philanthropic endeavors, volunteer work, and persistent pursuit of justice served as inspiration, motivating others to join her in making a positive change. In her personal life, Vidie treasured the simple joys that life had to offer. She found solace in the beauty of nature, and often took leisurely strolls in the picturesque parks of Omaha. Vidie had an innate ability to find beauty in everyday moments, embracing life with grace and gratitude. Vidie's passing leaves an indescribable void in the lives of her loved ones. She will always be remembered as a devoted daughter, sibling, and aunt, who went above and beyond to provide for her family. While Vidie remained unmarried, her nurturing spirit and unwavering love were evident in her relationships with her nieces and nephews, whom she considered her own children. The memory of Vidie Lee Thomas will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know her. Her presence will continue to inspire and guide us as we strive to embody the qualities she held dear. As we mourn her loss, let us also celebrate the remarkable life she lived, cherishing the precious moments we shared with her. Funeral services will be held at the Thomas Funeral Home, located at 3920 N 24th St, Omaha, Nebraska. For any inquiries regarding the service arrangements, please contact the Funeral Home at (402) 453-7111. The funeral home staff will be available to provide assistance during this difficult time. In this moment of profound loss, may we find solace in the memories we shared with Vidie and draw strength from the values she embodied. Let us honor her legacy by continuing the work she began, spreading love, kindness, and compassion to all those we encounter on our journey.

Bruce Lauritzen

Jun 20, 1943 - Feb 20, 2024

Omaha, NE

Omaha mourns the loss of a true visionary, Bruce Lauritzen, who passed away on February 21, 2024, at the age of 80. Born on June 21, 1943, in Omaha, Nebraska, Bruce dedicated over 55 years of his life to the First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO), leaving an indelible mark on the city he called home. Bruce's leadership at FNBO was transformative, marked by tremendous growth, expansion into six new states, and the iconic FNBO Business Park and First National Tower. His legacy is woven into the fabric of Omaha's financial landscape, a testament to his unwavering commitment and vision. Beyond the boardroom, Bruce Lauritzen exemplified compassion and leadership. As the leader of the Lauritzen Corporation, overseeing bank branches in Nebraska and Iowa, along with insurance and financial companies, he extended his impact to communities across the region. Clark Lauritzen, FNBO Chairman and President, reflects on Bruce's legacy of compassionate leadership, familial love, and community commitment. The outpouring of condolences from the community is a testament to the lives Bruce touched, resonating far beyond his professional achievements. As Omaha bids farewell to this stalwart businessman, Senator Deb Fischer acknowledges Bruce Lauritzen's role as a strong business and community leader. His generosity and unwavering commitment will undoubtedly leave an enduring legacy for future generations of servant leaders. In honoring his memory, Omaha celebrates a life dedicated to both business success and community betterment.

Scott Lautenbaugh

Nov 10, 1964 - Dec 15, 2023

Omaha, NE

Scott Alan Lautenbaugh, a prominent figure in Nebraska politics and law, passed away on December 16, 2023, in Omaha at the age of 59 after a brief hospitalization. Born on November 11, 1964, in Sioux City, Iowa, he became a proud graduate of Omaha South High School and later earned his law degree from Creighton University in 1991. Scott's distinguished career included private legal practice, where he represented clients across a spectrum of legal matters. Notably, he served as a Nebraska State Senator and as the Douglas County Election Commissioner. His time in the Legislature was marked by a staunch commitment to Republican ideals, personal liberty, and defending small businesses. Scott gained recognition for his unwavering stand against government overreach, notably leading successful battles against Nebraska's smoking ban's impact on cigar bars. Beyond legislative efforts, Scott challenged the mandatory nature of the State Bar Association, prevailing in his petition to the Nebraska Supreme Court and contributing to positive change. Known for his larger-than-life personality, profound intellect, and genuine kindness, Scott left an indelible mark as a dynamic statesman, attorney, father, and friend. His legacy endures through the lives he touched, survived by his partner Laura Nelson, sons Kyle and Nathan Lautenbaugh, Spencer Brewer, like a daughter Sarah Nelson, and cherished cat Rocky. Scott Alan Lautenbaugh will be remembered for his unparalleled impact on Nebraska's political and legal landscape.

Lyle Elmer Strom

Jan 05, 1925 - Nov 30, 2023

Omaha, NE

"Article III federal judge Lyle Elmer Strom served on the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska. He passed away on December 1st, 2023, in Omaha, Nebraska. Born on January 6th, 1925, in Omaha, Strom had a significant career in law and the judiciary. Strom graduated from Creighton University in Omaha. Earning both his bachelor's and J.D. in 1950 and 1953, respectively. His dedication to service extended to the U.S. Navy Reserve, where he served as an ensign from 1943 to 1946. Before his judicial career, Strom practiced law privately in Nebraska from 1953 to 1985. Nominated by President Ronald Reagan, he assumed his role on the District Court in 1985. Where served as chief judge from 1987 to 1994 before transitioning to senior status on November 2, 1995. One of his notable cases involved a wrongful prisoner release in 2013. Where Nikko Jenkins, released by the state of Nebraska, committed multiple murders. Judge Strom ruled in 2015 that sovereign immunity protected the state from wrongful death and release suits. Stating that the act of releasing Jenkins was a discretionary function. The case was dismissed, and Jenkins later filed a civil rights suit against the state. Judge Lyle E. Strom's contributions to the legal field and the judiciary leave a lasting legacy. "