Weslie Gene Shoop

Weslie "Wes" G. Shoop passed away Saturday, March 15, 2025 at his home in Cozad at the age of 93. Wes was born January 3, 1932 at Burlington, Colorado to Wilber and Beulah (Russell) Shoop.

Wes graduated from Cozad High School with the class of 1950. In 1953, Wes married Betty Louise Wilson in Kearney, Nebraska, and together they shared 72 years filled with love and memories. Their union was blessed with 4 daughters, Deb, Cindy, Pam and Terri.

Wes joined the U.S. Navy, where he served with pride. He was a member of the local honor guard in Cozad, demonstrating his commitment to service.

After his military service, Wes embarked on a career in construction, taking on various jobs that culminated in helping to build the Cozad High School Stadium and small trailer for the Haymaker bell that is still used today. He later owned and operated Shoop's Cork & Cap in Cozad until his retirement, where he became a familiar face in the community. He was very involved with numerous local organizations, showcasing his dedication to making his community a better place.

Wes had a unique talent for making his famous peanut brittle, which he delighted in sharing with family and friends. His hobbies included gardening, fishing, hunting, golfing, and he enjoyed being a member of an antique car club.

He was preceded in death by his parents, father, Wilber Elias Shoop, step father, Francis J “Jack” Dempsey, and mother, Beulah (Russell) Shoop; daughter, Deb L. Shoop-Smith; and brother, Robert Shoop.

Survivors include his wife, Betty Louise Shoop of Cozad; daughters, Cindy (Mike) Austin of Omaha, Pamela (Andy) Lahr of Cozad and Terri Shoop of Lincoln; 6 grandchildren, Dana (Ryan) Bittner, Blake (Krissy) Jefferies, Mandy (Freddy) Nelsen, Amy (Tyler) Maas, Matt (Caitlin) Smith and Ryan (Lisa) Seaman; and 13 great grandchildren; and many other extended family and friends.

Wes will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Our hope and prayers are to meet him in the land where there is no sorrow and pain. A precious one from us is gone. A voice we loved is still. A place is vacant in our home that never can be filled.

Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. Online condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com. Cremation was chosen and a Memorial Service will be held Friday, March 21, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at the Cozad United Methodist Church with Pastor Bellarmee Milosi officiating. Burial will follow at the Cozad Cemetery.