Ervin Lee Gana

Ervin Lee Gana

November 4, 1928 - April 3, 2024

Ervin Lee Gana passed away on April 3, 2024, in Lincoln, NE, at the age of 95.

He was born on November 4, 1928, in Firth, NE, the son of Cornelius and Mabel Gana. Ervin's life was marked by a deep sense of duty and service. He served in the Naval Reserve from 1949 to 1957, achieving the rank of Meg. Petty Officer 3rd Class (ME-4819-88). During his service, Ervin was stationed in various locations, including Norfolk, VA; Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; Green Coree Bay, GA; and aboard the USS Franklin Roosevelt Aircraft Carrier and the USS LSO Latimer Destroyer.

Ervin embarked on a diverse career path. He began as a teacher for one year in Tecumseh, Nebraska, before transitioning to farming in his hometown of Firth for two years. Ervin then became a truck driver, working with Burlington, Sullivans, and C Freight. He proudly became a member of the Teamsters in 1956 and retired from his trucking career in 1987.

Despite retiring, Ervin remained active in various interests. Ervin was a dedicated Mason for over 50 years, joining Masonic Lodge #256 in 1964 and becoming a Shriner in 1966. He actively participated in the Foot Patrol and Motor Corps. Additionally, Ervin was a devoted member of the American Legion Post 105 in Hickman, NE, where he served as Post Commander.

Throughout his life, Ervin pursued many passions. He was an accomplished woodworker, known for his craftsmanship in his expansive garage workshop. He had a keen interest in collecting antique kerosene lamps and cast-iron skillets and enjoyed traveling across the United States. Ervin's adventurous spirit led him on annual motorcycle trips to Sturgis.

Ervin is survived by his children: Deb and Ted Brandt, Cindy and Jerry Hieter, Judy and Gerald Wood, and Mike Gana; along with grandchildren: Jennifer, Katie and Sterling, Halie and Vinnie, Janelle and Nate, Kelly and Dan, Kim, Brian, and Wendy and Chris; great-grandchildren: Peyton, Brodie, Coen, Landry, Meyer, Caitlyn, Thomas, Maya, Evan, Lucy, Briana, Brandon, Jayden, and Keaton. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Denise; sisters: Betty Wilken and Ruth Hibbert; and brothers-in-law: Alvin Wilken and Dean Hibbert.

A Celebration of Life honoring Ervin Lee Gana will be at the American Legion Hall in Hickman, NE, date unknown at this time.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the American Legion Hall Post 105 in Hickman, NE; or to the Shriners in Ervin's memory.