Ernest Franklin "Ernie" Kleeb

1951 - 2025

Ernest "Ernie" Franklin Kleeb, 74, of Broken Bow, Neb. passed away July 15, 2025, at his home in Broken Bow.

Ernie was born in Broken Bow June 5, 1951, to Loyd and Ravay (Keim) Kleeb.

Ernie attended country schools through the 8th grade and then Sargent High School, graduating in 1970.

After graduation, Ernie worked as a ranch hand for Ron & Dorothy Sandoz on the reservation.

After Ernie completed his work for the Sandoz's Ranch, he returned to the family farm/ranch to help his dad.

Ernie married Tammy Duryea Dec. 10, 1983. To this union, two daughters and two sons were born.

Ernie enjoyed his family and taking care of cattle on a good horse with a good dog. He loved wildlife and his family deer hunts.

Ernie cherished his family. Ernie always had a smile on his face when visited by his children and grandchildren.

Ernie began a service to God in his youth. While he wasn't always firm in that commitment, he ended his life with a living relationship with God.

Ernie and Tammy moved to Broken Bow in 2011. He worked at Sargent Pipe, where he retired last year.

Ernie had been having health struggles for the last six months.

Prior to Ernie's passing, the hospice nurse asked him "How many favorite horses he had?" He couldn't give a number.

July 15, 2025, Ernie left the world surrounded by his loving family singing his favorite hymns. Ernie's wish was to pass privately in his home, where he was comfortable.

Ernie was preceded in death by his father Loyd; mother-in-law Irene Ohmberger; and father-in-law Harry Duryea.

Ernie is survived by his wife Tammy; children - Tanya (John) Slagle, Franklin (Faith) Kleeb, Wade (Jennifer) Kleeb, and Natalie Kleeb (George Mills); mother Ravay Kleeb; sisters - Elizabeth (Doug) Venenga, Virginia Kleeb, Denise (Jim) Russell, Janet Bergman; brother George (Deena) Kleeb; brothers-in-law Ed (Patty) Duryea and Fred Duryea; seven grandchildren; numerous nieces; nephews; and friends that held a special place in his heart.

Funeral services will be Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the One Box Convention Center in Broken Bow. Burial followed in the Broken Bow Cemetery.

Visitation will be Friday, July 18, from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m., with the family greeting from 5 - 7 p.m. at Govier Brothers Mortuary.

Govier Brothers Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Online words of remembrance or encouragement may be left at www.govierbrothers.com.