In Memory
McCOOK, Neb. — Eunice Leona Messinger, age 87, of McCook, passed away Saturday, June 22, 2019, at Bryan LGH East Hospital in Lincoln. Eunice was born on May 1, 1932, in the family farmhouse south of McCook, the second daughter of parents, George Russell and Marie (Fahrenbruch) Clark. Most every day, Eunice and her sister walked across the country approximately five miles to Country School District 8, where she graduated from eighth grade. She graduated from McCook High School in 1950. During her junior and senior years, Eunice worked at a drugstore. After graduation, she worked for the telephone company. As a child, she was baptized at Memorial United Methodist Church where she remained a member until her passing. On Sept. 30, 1950, she became the bride of her high school sweetheart, Merlin Ray Messinger. To this union two sons, Alan and Randy, were born. They made their home on a farm where Eunice was an integral part of the farming and feedlot operation. She was not only a busy mother and homemaker, but was also a vital part of the everyday operation. This included, driving a truck or tractor, chasing cattle, hauling meals, and bookkeeping, just to name a few, until recently when her health started to fail. They remained on the farm until 1975, at which time they moved to McCook. While her sons were young, Eunice taught Sunday School and Bible School. She enjoyed baking, gardening, playing bridge, crocheting, and watching Husker football. She was talented in playing the piano, organ and accordion. Eunice enjoyed collecting snails and turtles of which she had many of both in her collection. Her ultimate joy came from hosting large family meals for all the holidays. Preceding her in death were her parents, George and Marie Clark; parents-in-law, Herman and Serena Messinger; brother-in-law, Dave Davis; and sisters-in-law, Ruth (Wayne) Joy and Betty (Don) Crocker. Survivors include her husband of 68 years, Merlin Messinger of McCook; sons, Alan (Pamela S.) Messinger of Hayes Center and Randy (Pamela C.) Messinger of McCook; sister, Georgia Davis of McCook; grandchildren, Jennifer Messinger, Jolene Messinger, Andrew (Athena) Messinger, Carrie Messinger, Hollie Messinger and husband, Casey Fink, Sharlie Messinger and husband, Josh Latimer, and Chris Messinger; six great-grandchildren; numerous family and a host of friends.
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