William “Bill” J. Thomalla, 60, of Gothenburg lost his lengthy battle with prostate cancer on July 9, 2007 at his home.

Bill was born on May 15, 1947 to Earl and Belle Derra Thomalla at Gothenburg. He graduated from Gothenburg High School in 1966. He served his country in the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged from the Army in 1972. He worked as a custodian for the Gothenburg Public Schools from 1985 to present. He owned and operated Thomalla’s K-Lawn service in the Cozad, Brady, Farnam, and Gothenburg area for 14 years; a business he loved and many great friendships he cherished were formed. He operated Thomalla’s Fireworks stand for 21 years.

He married Rita Dietz on April 24, 1971 at Gothenburg. Bill’s special interests in life were hunting, fishing, playing cards and being with people. He was a member of the Gothenburg American Legion Post #64. He was a lifetime member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Douglas and Gary.

Survivors include his loving Wife Rita of Gothenburg, his sons Michael (Adrienne) Thomalla, Jon Thomalla, both of Gothenburg; a daughter Nicole Thomalla of Gothenburg; brothers Mike (Adrian) of Lincoln and Steve (Kelly) of North Platte; a sister Carolyn (Larry) Malcom of Cozad; a sister-in-law Paula (Barry) Pfister; 2 grandchildren Morgan & Caleb; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 10, from 5:00 p.m.—5:00 p.m. and Wednesday, July 11, from 1:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel, Gothenburg, Nebraska.

Rosary Services will be 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 11, 2007 at Our Lady of Good Counsel. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday July 12, 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church, Gothenburg, Nebraska, with Father Donald O’Brien officiating. Burial will take place in Fort McPherson National Cemetery Memorials may be given to Our Lady of Good Counsel – Sound System Fund.

Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapels