R. Dell Aufenkamp

Richard Dell Aufenkamp, affectionately known as Dell, departed from this earthly realm on January 2, 2026, at the Pawnee County Community Hospital in Pawnee City, Nebraska. He was born on March 15, 1932, in rural Nemaha, Nebraska, to the loving parents Barney and Zola (Knapp) Aufenkamp. A gentle soul with an easy-to-be-with personality, he held a great sense of humor and an unwavering love for family.

Dell's life was intricately woven with the threads of agriculture. As a longtime farmer and avowed John Deere enthusiast, he found his greatest joy in nurturing the land, a passion he proudly shared with his son, Arlin, who joined him in this noble vocation. He graduated from Nemaha High School and furthered his education at Peru State College, equipping himself with the knowledge that would serve him well in his lifelong career.

A devoted husband and a figure of strength in the family, Dell married his beloved wife, Burtis E. Kennedy, in August 1952. Together, they created a warm and loving home filled with laughter and cherished memories. Though she has preceded him in death, Burtis remains a significant part of his story, a constant in the hearts of their family.

His service to his country began when he was inducted on January 21, 1953. Dell served as a Military Policeman during his time stationed in Austria, earning the Army of Occupation Medal before receiving an honorable discharge on December 22, 1954. His military service laid the foundation for a lifetime of dedication and commitment, hallmarks of his character.

A man of diverse interests, Dell's hobbies reflected his adventurous spirit. He owned his own plane and was a proud member of the International Flying Farmers, reveling in the freedom that flight provided. His connection to community was evident in his active participation at the Nemaha Christian Church, and attending St. Paul Lutheran Church in Auburn. He was also a member of the Auburn American Legion Post #23, Falls City BPOE, Auburn Country Club, and Auburn Eagles Aerie #3767.

Dell leaves behind a legacy enriched by family. His daughters, the late Ginny (Del) Novell of Johnson, Nebraska, Joy (Rick) Redden of Kearney, and Karen Sue (Tim) McCutcheon of Casper, Wyoming; along with his son, Arlin (Diane) Aufenkamp of Brownville, bear witness to his profound love. His grandchildren, along with their spouses—Adam (Megan) Novell, Jason (Andrea) Novell, Lee Redden, Kerri (Sean) McDermid, Ben (Tiffanie) Jones, Whitney McCutcheon, Ryan (Bailey) Aufenkamp, April (Matt) Joy, Amber (Christopher) Ryan, and Amy (Trace) Gumb—stand as a testament to the close-knit family he nurtured. The joy of being a great-grandfather brought light to his days, with Owen, Kyler, Nina, Nicklynn, Nova, Taryn, Samara, Jason, Jackson, Zola, Bennett, Tucker, Aria, Joslyn, Brady, Andi, Wesley, Leo, Briggs, and Cooper blossoming under the love of their beloved Dell.

As we reflect on the life of Richard Dell Aufenkamp, we remember a man whose easy-going nature, his delight in family gatherings, and a genuine warmth towards friends created a symphony of laughter and fond memories. Dell’s spirit will forever resonate in our hearts, his legacy carried forward by those who loved him dearly.

A funeral service will be Sunday, January 4, 1:00 p.m. at Hemmingsen Funeral Home in Auburn. Burial will follow in the Nemaha Cemetery with graveside military honors provided by American Legion Post #23 of Auburn and Nebraska National Guard Honor Detail.

Memorials are suggested to the Nemaha Cemetery.