Gerald Earl Devine

Gerald Earl Devine

April 10, 2021

Gerald Earl Devine passed away on April 10, 2021 at the age of 93 in Firth, Nebraska after losing the love of his life Margaret in November 2020. A kind and nurturing man, he always put the needs of others before his own. He never wavered from his faith, or his gratitude and love for his family. His devotion, as a husband, father, grand-daddy, great-grand-daddy and friend, was recognized by all those whose lives he touched. Born in Des Moines, Iowa, he enjoyed playing football and later graduating from Simpson College in 1949. It was there that he met and married Margaret (Rochholz) spending the next 71 years together.

He built the Star Inn Truck Stop off I-80 in the early 1960's. The family business blossomed and became one of the largest truck stops in Iowa. Later he sold the Star Inn and purchased two more truck stops in Council Bluffs, IA and Omaha, NE, retiring from the truck stop business in 1983. In addition to being a successful businessman, he was a member of numerous boards and an outdoors enthusiast. He loved dancing with Margaret, enjoyed acapella, entertaining, watching football games, and was an avid reader. Most of all he cherished being with his family.

He was preceded in death by his wife Margaret; parents, Earl and Marvel Devine; and brother, Rex Devine. He is survived by sister-in-law Beverly Devine; children, Steve (Debbie) Devine of Kennewick, WA, David Devine of Palm Springs, CA, Jim (Laura) Devine of Hickman, NE and Jennifer (Mike) Boohar of Urbandale, IA; grandchildren, Seth (Brittney) Devine, Sean (Tiff) Devine, Will (Erin) Devine, Nick Devine, Max Devine, Lisa Devine, Ben (Jamie) Killion and Sam (Dawn) Killion; along with seven great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

The Devine family children want to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of Lakeview Assisted Living facility for their kindness in the care of our parents. We will always remember the true compassion they showed towards Mom and Dad. Due to health concerns, a memorial service to celebrate the lives of Gerald and Margaret will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers or other remembrance gift, please consider a memorial donation to Hickman Community Foundation or Shared Vision International. Cards may be sent directly to Hickman Presbyterian Church, In Memory of Gerald Devine, 300 E. 3rd Street, Hickman, NE 68372.