John Gaylen Pepper

John Pepper, 85, of Ogallala, a beloved father, companion, grandfather, son, and brother, went to his eternal home on October 26, 2023. Known for his gift of gab and a knack for buying and selling just about anything, John's multifaceted talents made him a jack of all trades.

Born on December 14, 1937, in Denver, Colorado, John was adopted at the tender age of two weeks by Clifford and Nora Pepper. He grew up on a farm in Karval, Colorado. On June 15, 1958, he married Carol Pepper, and though they would later divorce, their union was blessed with three children: Tammy Febry in 1959, Ricky Pepper in 1960, and Dalene Berger in 1961. The family eventually moved to Nebraska, where John began his TV business in Ogallala after working for Stickneys. He also worked as a maintenance man at Indian Hills Manor.

For over 20 years, John found companionship and love with Edna Bates. The couple had a unique bond, often sharing simple joys like holding hands and caring for their cats.

John loved to hunt and fish whenever he got the chance. He loved Edna and his family, with a special place in his heart for his cats.

John is survived by his loving companion, Edna Bates; his children, Tammy, Ricky, and Dalene (Vincent); stepdaughter Susan (Steve); and half-brother James Coffman. His grandchildren include Chris (Deserae) Martin, Krista (Tyler) Nord, Jason Febry, and Lorie Sellers (Steve). He leaves behind many great and great-great-grandchildren, as well as a biological half-first cousin, Judith Kietzman, whom he found later in life.

He was preceded in death by his adoptive parents, Nora and Clifford Pepper; his biological parents, Harley Coffman and Mildred Wietzel; son-in-law, Patrick Febry; half-sisters, Nadene Scott and Katie Nosbisch; stepson Gary Bates; and step-grandson Mark Berger.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be sent to Prairie Hills Funeral Home, 602 N. Spruce St, Ogallala, NE 69153. Donations will benefit a pet rescue in John's name. Condolences may be shared at prairiehillsfuneralhome.com.

Services will be held on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at 2 p.m. at Grace Point Church in Ogallala, with Pastor Curtis Tschetter officiating. Inurnment will be in the Ogallala Cemetery.

Prairie Hills Funeral Home of Ogallala is in charge of arrangements.