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Gary Scharf Obituary
Funeral Service: 2 p.m. Monday (12/10/07) at Curtis United Methodist Church, Curtis, Neb. Memorials may be directed to the family. John A. Gentleman Mortuaries, Pacific Street Chapel, is handling arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gary Scharf
Joshua Jordan
November 2, 2011
R.I.P. Mr.Gary, the Jordan family misses you greatly.
Jennifer Haralson
January 2, 2008
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Karen Kozak
December 23, 2007
From Yankton SD..Heartfelt sympathy to all of you with broken hearts. God will prevail and Gary will bask in his glory! Take comfort in knowing what an asset Gary was on earth and now an angel in heaven!
Jud Gurney
December 21, 2007
To the Scharf Family,
As a former member of Farmhouse Fraternity, I extend my condolences to the family and especially his older brother John. He lived the principle, "builder of men".
Brian Friedrich
December 18, 2007
Steven,
May God's peace, power and presence be with you. On behalf of the entire Concordia University, Nebraska community, please receive our sympathy and support. You and your family have been in our prayers during our chapel worship times in the past two weeks. I did not meet Gary but know he participated with Darrin Brumbaugh, a friend of the University, in the Shoot At this fall. Please know we celebrate Gary's life with you and pray that the peace of God will surround you as you mourn his death and celebrate his life.
May the hope and joy that comes in knowing Jesus is the Savior of the world be with you in these days.
God's peace,
Brian L. Friedrich
President
Concordia University, Nebraska
Barb Hansen
December 15, 2007
Dear Scharf Family;
We just heard that one of our distant relatives was killed in the Omaha tragedy, and wish to extend our condolences. I am the daughter of Don Kendle's cousin, Ellen Mae Kendle Yates, Barbara Yates Hansen. Again we are so sorry for your loss. Years ago, I was supposed to attend Curtis to become a veterinarian and stay with the Scharf family according to my parents, but I got married instead. I believe we met at a family reunion many years ago. We are so sorry to hear this. Sincerely, Barb and Tom Hansen and Family of Firth, Nebraska.
sherry Adams
December 13, 2007
LynnAnn and Steven,
I was so, so sorry to hear about Gary and this devastating loss. He was a true hero. To all the Piepers: You have a wonderful legacy in Steven! You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sherry (Allberry) Adams
Omaha
December 13, 2007
My heart and condolences goes out to this family!! God will be riches to each of you in this time of sorrow!! I'll keep each of you in my prayers!! May God bless!!
Kyle Parks
December 12, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God keep you strong through this difficult time and allow your wonderful memories to last forever.
December 12, 2007
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
The Scharf Family
December 12, 2007
The tragic mall shooting that took the lives of so many innocent people, including our Gary, has left our family stunned and overwhelmed. We have received condolences, prayers and much support from friends, family, and even strangers. The flowers, cards, and postings we have received are tremendously meaningful to our family. For that, we are forever thankful.
We would like to thank the John A. Gentleman Funeral Home of Omaha for all of their kindness, professionalism and help, as well as the Blase-Wetzel-Strausser Funeral Home in Gothenburg for helping provide a funeral to celebrate Gary's life. Also, thank you to the Omaha Police Department for their respect and professionalism when informing our family. Those witnesses who have shared their accounts of being with Gary at the end of his life have been a comfort to all of us. Thank you to everyone for their sincere support and presence at the visitation service in Omaha Saturday, including the Von Maur family, and those who braved the bad roads to be at the funeral in Curtis on Monday.
We will never forget the tragedy that occurred and all of the lives that were lost, but we will continue to celebrate Gary's life just as passionately as he lived it.
Most Sincerely,
The Family of Gary Scharf
December 12, 2007
May the good lord watch between me and thee while we are absent from one another!!
Just wanted to let you know we are praying for your entire family during this difficult time and rejoicing in the fact we will see Gary again.
Praise the LORD!!
December 11, 2007
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Kathy
December 11, 2007
My thought and prayers are with you during this time. May you find comfort and healing through the memories. God's blessing on your family.
Fay Welsch
December 11, 2007
LynnAnn & Steven,
When I saw the news Thursday night, I immediately knew who it was and was deeply saddened. My thoughts & prayers are with you as you heal from your tragic sudden loss. Cherish the memories of all the good times shared together.
Cheri Weiner
December 11, 2007
To the families of Gary Scharf:
As more information is updated, it is learned that Gary Scharf was not only a victim, but he was a HERO !
It was HIS 911 call, the very first, and how he pulled a woman off the escalator as she was heading to all the terrible events on the third floor.
So many lives he personally saved, in exchange for his own.
Such selflessness only identifies him as a HERO, and may he now rest in peace, leaving all the broken hearts behind.
However, he will always be remembered, for all his heroism and goodnesses that he obviously possessed during his life.
Orin Borchers
December 11, 2007
To the entire Scharf family.
The memories and the great times Gary and I shared when I worked for both Farmland and Agriliance will always remain in my mind. We traveled together several times. On behalf of the Borchers family our thoughts and prayers go out to each and everyone of you. God Bless. Orin Borchers
December 11, 2007
To the Scharf family:
I did not have the pleasure of knowing Gary, but I want you all to know that my heart goes out to you all at this time of sorrow. The entire community aches for you. Gary will be in my thoughts and prayers, as will her entire family.
Jane (an Omaha resident)
DEBERRY FAMILY
December 11, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Myra Villar
December 11, 2007
My family wishes to extend our sympathies to your family in this very difficult time. Your family, as well as all the other families will be in our thoughts for a long time to come. We, too, lost someone in this tragedy. We share in your grief.
Susan Scott
December 11, 2007
To the Scharf family,
My thoughts and prayers our with you during this awful time. I can't imagine the pain. So sorry for your loss. Susan Scott- Cedar Rapids, IA
Meredith
December 10, 2007
Steven,
I am very sorry to hear about your dad. I remember you from school but I cannot remember what class I had with you.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family!
Pamela Hofstetter
December 10, 2007
God Bless You, Sharf family. I am praying for you.
Kris Gleason
December 10, 2007
I would like to express my deep and heartfelt sympathy over the loss of Gary. The entire Scharf family and extended family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Beverly Burchess
December 10, 2007
Steven,
I am so sorry for your loss. While knowing you at UNL, it was easy to see your Dad loved you very much. You will always have that with you.
(formerly Lincoln,NE)
Sarah
December 10, 2007
My heart goes out to your family. Please know that our community is praying for you and the families of all the victims. God Bless You.
Lori
December 10, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you in this time of tragic loss
Janet Murphy
December 10, 2007
Doris,John and family,
We were stunned when we realize
Gary Scharf was your son. There are no words to express our sorrow and sympathy for you all. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Janet and Merle Murphy
David Albrecht
December 10, 2007
I did not know Gary personally, but am so saddened by this entire situation. I have enjoyed reading and seeing on television what an amazing man Gary is. Please know that my thoughts and prayers will ALWAYS be with you!
MA
December 10, 2007
I did not know Gary, but he was a hero!
December 10, 2007
No person is ever truly alone.
Those who live no more,
Whom we loved,
Echo still within our thoughts,
Our words, our hearts,
And what they did
And who they were
Becomes a part of all that we are,
Forever.
So sorry for your loss.
morgan krause
December 10, 2007
omg i am so sorry for your loss. my mom went to school with gary's daughter and they were best friends for 6 years.
R Smith
December 10, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Joanne Akin
December 10, 2007
As a stranger to all of you, I just want each and every one of you to know how very sorry I am to hear of such a horrible ordeal. I just pray that each of you can remember all the wonderful memories you all shared with your beloved loved one and that maybe it may get you through this senseless act. Each of you take care and God Bless.
STEPHANIE HAMMER
December 10, 2007
TO THE FAMILY OF GARY SCHARF,
I AM SO VERY SORRY FOR YOU LOSS.I WILL KEEP ALL OF YOU IN MY THOUGHTS.
MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.I WILL PRAY
FOR ALL OF YOUR THOUGH THIS TIME OF
SORROW. I HAD THE PLEASURE OF MEETING GARY THIS PAST OCTOBER. WHAT A WOUNDERFUL PERSON. HE HAD A
WOUNDERFUL CHARM ABOUT HIM.
P ODell
December 10, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Linda Tubbs
December 10, 2007
Mal & Mindy,
I am so sorry for your loss of your dad. Our prayers go out to you and the rest of the family.
Mark, Abby, Daniel, Luke Henke
December 10, 2007
To Doris, John, Family and Friends of Gary,
Gary blessed our lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
We will never forget his wonderful smile.
Laura Murphy
December 10, 2007
To the Scharf family,
Even though I am miles and many states away, please know that the whole country has been devistated by this tragedy. I am so sorry for your loss. Gary sounds like he was a wonderful man. Please know that we are praying for you.
Adcock family
December 10, 2007
Gary was a very kind neighbor our dog always loved to play with Red. Gary was very kind to have our dog over to play. Our neighborhood lost a very kind and giving neighbor.Our prayers are with the family
Maggie Divarco
December 10, 2007
Dear Scharf Family and Friends,
I knew Gary when he worked at Ciba-Geigy/Novartis for many years. He was always quick to tell me one his jokes with his wonderful sense of humor. When I heard his name last night on the radio I was shocked and saddened that someone so full of life was so tragically taken. My heartfelt sympathy and prayers go out to Gary's family and friends in this difficult time.
Officer
December 10, 2007
My family and I pray that you are comforted by the many memories of Gary and the outpouring of support during your time of grief. Know that my family and I will remember Gary, and the Omaha Police family will remember Gary.
Susan Hottovy
December 10, 2007
Steven,
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Anna Willford
December 10, 2007
I am sorry to hear of your loss. When I visit Curtis, I will always remember him as I look across the canyon.
Julie Kelley
December 9, 2007
Kim
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and to the family.
Sincerely,
Julie Kelley
Linda Decker
December 9, 2007
I want you to know I served Gary where I work (Super C..10th N' High) in Lincoln. He had a wonderful smile..what a gentleman! I am grateful God let me be a part of his life. Wish I could say more realizing only our Father can truly comfort you. God Bless.
Jill
December 9, 2007
We send our prayers and sympathy for all of you. Steve dated our daughter so we know how close he is to his family. May this strength and love get you through these difficult days to come.
Dawn
December 9, 2007
My prayers are with you.
Richard Ratliff
December 9, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Linda
December 9, 2007
So sorry for your loss. God bless you.
Mac
December 9, 2007
Know that your tragic loss has touched the hearts of people across our nation.
Laura
December 9, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
nancy welch
December 9, 2007
Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Brad Rohrig
December 9, 2007
Gary was definitely one of the GOOD guys. May the beauty of his life be a comfort to his family in the days, months and years to come.
Janet Millnitz
December 9, 2007
Steve and family,
When the names of Wednesday's shooting victims were released, I sadly thought one name sounded familiar and wondered if there was a tie to Lincoln Southeast, and there was.
I am so sorry for the loss of your father, Steve. He loved you very much, and from reading the account in Saturday's paper, you can see what a selfless and caring man he was, always willing to lend a hand to help, even in times of fear and uncertainty.
Please know that many people at LSE are holding you and your family in their thoughts and prayers.
Janet Millnitz
Teri M
December 9, 2007
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Jim & Birdie Krcmarik
December 9, 2007
We are so sorry to hear of the un-timely passing of Gary. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. The Krcmariks
DEBORAH HAGEMEIER
December 9, 2007
THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY.
Michelle Pettey
December 8, 2007
Gary holds a special place in my heart and always will. He was such a wonderful man, and I am a better person for having known him. I am comforted to know he is in Heaven. My prayers go out to all of his family during this difficult time. God Bless You all.
Linda Hartman
December 8, 2007
Our prayers and thoughts are with your family. May God, lighten your hearts. We are so sorry for your loss.
Kizzie Corner
December 8, 2007
We pray for healing and understanding as you go through this difficult time in your life. Always think about the good times that you had with Gary.
Sincerely,
Jerry and Kizzie Corner
JoAnn
December 8, 2007
I wanted to join the countless people who are reaching out to your family at this time. The loss of Gary, your beloved is felt by so many. We will never be able to understand such a trajedy. From our heart to yours.
December 8, 2007
May God bless this entire family and may your memories give you comfort now and in the future.
Betty & Bob Taylor
December 8, 2007
Doris, John and family, We are so sorry. Our prayers are with you. We are putting your family on our church and Sunday School class prayer chains. Your cousin Betty & bob
December 8, 2007
You are in my prayers.
Leslie D.
December 8, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss. Know that Gary touched so many lives and his presence on this earth will be greatly missed by so many. He was a very giving person and had a heart of gold.
Kurt Moore
December 8, 2007
I enjoyed knowing Gary as a fraternity brother and visiting his home near Curtis. He and his family exemplify the best qualities of what in means to be a Nebraska farm family. My prayers are with you at this difficult time.
December 8, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with your family
Kristine
Pat Parrish
December 8, 2007
Your family has my sincerest sympathy. May the tears warm your cheeks with joyful memories.
Mary Ekeler
December 8, 2007
LynAnn & Steven,
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead. You are in my prayers.
Karen Small
December 8, 2007
I know that Gary is gone from your midst, but lives on in your hearts. You are all in my prayers and thoughts during this difficult time. God Bless you!
R Howell
December 8, 2007
Gary's heart and soul will live on in all those each he touched. Steve, he adored you.
My sympathy to family and friends.
Doris and Tom CARBON
December 8, 2007
OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY OF GARY SHARF IN THIS TIME OF DEEP SORROW. FORMER LINCOLNITES
Amy
December 8, 2007
I just wanted to let your family know that I am VERY sorry about your loss. Although I didn't know Gary, he sounds like he was an AMAZING man who put others before himself. He is a hero! My heart goes out to you and your entire family during this difficult time. May you find some comfort in knowing that MANY, MANY people are thinking and praying for you all. God Bless your family!! I send you my LOVE & SUPPORT!!
ladonna
December 8, 2007
To The Family:
May the memories be your sunshine after the rain.May GOD be with each of you.
With my deepest sympathy
Lori Caporale
December 8, 2007
I am terribly sorry for your loss. Although I did not personally know Mr.Scharf this is such a sad and devestating ending. May you hold and keep his memories alive. God Bless.
A Pause for Paws
December 8, 2007
Gary, We miss you already. Thank you for trusting us with your pet family, Red & Boo. It was great getting to know you! Love, your pet siter
Kim Lortz
December 8, 2007
Deb,
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
The Lortz Family
R. Miller
December 8, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. As an Omaha native and someone who lived 30 seconds from that mall, this really hits home. God Bless your family
Gladys Demson
December 8, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Sara Cash
December 8, 2007
Your family are in my thoughts
and prayers.
Sara Cash
Trisha Trusty
December 8, 2007
I would like to send my deepest sympathy to all the family and friends.This is such a terrible tragedy. God bless you all.....
Jaycee Brown and Family
December 8, 2007
This entire community mourns your loss and our hearts are broken. Please know we are thinking about you and may GOD be with you in this very sad time in your lives.
Tina Hall (Johnston)
December 8, 2007
To Doris and John, Deb, John and Bob
I am praying for you and your loved ones at this time of great loss. I was so saddened to hear about Gary. You have to remember all your time with Gary and know that he will be in your memories and your heart forever.
December 8, 2007
The community of Omaha are praying for the families and loved ones. May the love of the community give you some comfort.
Ryan
December 8, 2007
I met Gary a few times when I was a Cub scout with his son. He always seemed to have a smile on his face, a contagious smile. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
God Bless.
December 8, 2007
To the Scharf Family,
My heart goes out to Gary's entire family.During this very difficult time we all mourn your loss.We pray for strength and gods guidience in the days ahead. Hugs~ to the twins, know I am here always.
Janine,Savannah, Tyler Stearns
Jennifer
December 8, 2007
I weep for your loss. God is with you.
Holly Davis
December 8, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with each of you.
Deloris Heminger
December 8, 2007
The memories of those we love stays within our hearts forever.
The state of Nebraska mourns your loss with you. God be with you.
Lee & Annette LeRoy
December 8, 2007
We are very sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Megan Lange
December 8, 2007
My heart aches for you all. Gary sounds like an extraordinary man. Please find comfort in each other in this horribly difficult time. Know that we all, as a community, grieve with you. You are in my heart and prayers. God bless.
Cheri Weiner
December 8, 2007
To the loved ones of Gary Scharf:
I am deeply saddened by the loss of your loved one. Although I did not know him, nevertheless, I share your sorrow and tears.
May God help ease your pain and may you have the loving memories to help each of through this very sad time.
My prayers are with each of you.
Georgann Mantor-Jordan
December 8, 2007
Condolences to all of the family, from a former Lincolnite.
Wade and Sue
December 8, 2007
Our thoughts are with the Scharf family.
December 8, 2007
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
Kent & Diane Regier
December 8, 2007
My deepest heartfelt sympathy goes out to the Scharf family. I was privilaged and honored to know Gary. I'll never forget the memories we shared,as a farmhouse brother, roomate, and good friend. May God wrap His arms around and comfort each family member in this senseless tragedy.
Janet (Deuel) Varhus
December 8, 2007
So sorry for your loss. I went to school with Gary at the university. He was a kind fun person. My heart and prayers are with you at this time
Myers Family
December 8, 2007
Please know that as a community we are grieving with you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of deep sorrow.
Bill and Marilyn Wilfert
December 8, 2007
We are so sorry to hear of your loss in this senseless act of violence. Bill worked with Gary when he was with Ciba-Geigy and lived in Wisconsin. Words can't express our shock and sorrow. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
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