Gary Allen Armknecht, son of Elmer, Sr. and Norma (Marshall) Armknecht, was born November 8, 1956, in Auburn, Nebraska. Gary was the youngest of four boys, growing up with brothers Elmer, Jr., Daryl, and Fred.
On December 21, 1974, Gary was united in marriage to Martha Ottemann. The couple would be blessed with two children: Cory and Jodi. They made their home in Auburn.
After graduating from Johnson-Brock High School, Gary worked in the Radiation Protection Department at Cooper Nuclear Station for 27 years. Before ending his nuclear power career, he spent time at both New York and Arkansas Power Plants. Through his working years, Gary cherished the friendships he and Martha made across the states.
Gary was a stranger to no one. He loved talking to and meeting new people, often showing too much curiosity about other people’s affairs!
Gary’s most treasured times were with his children and grandchildren and getting to know their friends. The love and pride he had for his seven grandchildren was the core to his existence!
Gary battled his 2-year cancer journey with optimism and integrity. Always appreciating his family and friends who were by his side. On Saturday, July 19, 2025, Gary’s battle ended surrounded by his family. Having reached the age of 68 years, 8 months, and 11 days, Gary was preceded in death by his parents, and brother Elmer, Jr.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife Martha; son and daughter-in-law Cory and Lisa Armknecht; daughter and son-in-law Jodi and Mitch Holt; grandchildren Avery, Bryce, and Isabella Armknecht; Eaden (fiancée Taylor), Eli, Austen, and Asher Holt; brothers Daryl (Sue) Armknecht , Fred (Pam) Armknecht; sister-in-law Mary Jo Armknecht; sisters- and brothers-in-law Pauline (Gary) Zoucha, Dar (Lavon) Beethe, Dale (Pam) Ottemann, Pam (Steve) Mitchell; sister-in-law Deb Otteman; many other relatives and many friends
A memorial service will be held Friday, July 25, 2025, 2:00 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Auburn. Visitation will be on Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Family will greet friends at a celebration of life on Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 at BBQ 136 in Auburn. Burial of ashes will be held at a later date in St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery at Auburn.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
801 S St, Auburn, NE 68305
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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