Melvin Henry Achterberg

1931 - 2024

Melvin Henry Achterberg, 92, of Lexington, Neb. formerly of Oconto, passed away Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Ridgeway Senior Living in Lexington.

He was born April 5, 1931, in rural Oconto to Carl and Ida (Camin) Achterberg, the last of nine children.

Melvin attended school in rural District No. 217 and graduated from Oconto High School. He was drafted into the Army and took training in Maryland. He went on to serve in Japan for the remainder of his service time. After returning home and working for some time in Lexington, he returned to the farm with his brothers.

Melvin was an avid and accomplished trapshooter, enjoying many shoots around the state. He also enjoyed upland game, waterfowl and coyote hunting and taking care of shooting any pests around the farm.

He and his brothers farmed and raised cattle for many years but they eventually went to farming only as that is what they loved most.

Melvin was a member of First Lutheran Buffalo and his faith was always important to him. His mother died on the day of his confirmation.

Survivors include three nephews Dale (Cinda) Hladky of Cozad, Larry (Shelly) Achterberg of Alma and Jason Achterberg of Stamford; two nieces Sue (Leonard) May of Lexington and Cleone (Jim) Sturtevant of Evansville, Ind.; special friend Bonnie Eggleston of Oconto; several great-nieces and great-nephews; and several great-great nieces and great-great nephews.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents and all his siblings.

Funeral services are at 10 a.m., Wednesday, March 6, at the First Lutheran Church at Buffalo with Reverend Victor Rasmussen, officiating.

Interment will be held at the Christ Lutheran Cemetery where his family is buried.

Memorials are suggested to First Lutheran Church at Buffalo, 42957 Buffalo Rd, Lexington, NE, or to the Christ Lutheran Cemetery.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Share online condolences with the family by visiting reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.