Rolland George Westerbeck

Arapahoe, Nebraska Rolland George Westerbeck, age 77, died Wednesday, June 22, 2005 at the Grand Island Veteran’s Home, Grand Island, NE. He was born on October 29, 1927 in Melrose Park, Illinois to John J. & Anna Leona (McCollam) Westerbeck. He spent his early years traveling around the U.S. while his father was a dirt contractor. He attended many different schools including Arapahoe Public Schools. In 1945 he enlisted in the US Navy and operated heavy equipment to build bridges, roads, & airstrips. He served in Philippines, Japan, China, & Pearl Harbor. He was discharged in 1947. Since he entered the Navy before graduating from high school, he received his diploma from Arapahoe Public Schools in 2000. After being discharged he work for his father at Westerbeck Construction Co. On November 29, 1947, he married Emma J. Wheeler in Lincoln, NE. He continued being heavy equipment operator and was involved in helping build Harlan Dam in Alma, NE, Swanson Dam, in Trenton, NE and Bonny Dam in Hale, CO. From 1950 to 1967 he and his brother Glenn owned and operated the family business. From 1967 to 1982 he served as Kearney & Sherman County Engineer, General Superintendent for Werner Construction Co. in Hastings, Superintendent for Paden Construction Co. in Fremont. From February of 1982 until 1995 he served as the foreman for the City Street Dept. in Fremont. His wife Emma passed away in 1995 and he retired at that time. He was an officer with the VFW in Kearney, NE. Member of the Lutheran Church in Fremont, NE. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Brother Glenn. Survivors include his daughter: Sharon Ross of Broken Arrow, OK Sister: LaVerna Broughton of Holdrege, NE Grandchildren: 5 Condolences or personal reflections can be left at www.wenburgfuneralhome.com. There will be no viewing or visitation. Graveside services will be Saturday, June 25, 2005 at 10:30 AM at Arapahoe Cemetery, Arapahoe, Nebraska with Pastor Kenton Birtell of Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church of Holdrege, officiating. Military rites will be presented by the Arapahoe & Edison American Legion. Wenburg Funeral Home of Arapahoe, Nebraska is in charge of services.