Morton A. McBride, 90

Morton Albert McBride was born on August 13, 1926 on his maternal grandparents’ farm near Mason City, NE. His parents, Oliver and Clydie (Keller) McBride named him after J. Sterling Morton. Mort and his siblings John, Bonnie and Bruce were raised on the Shady Nook Ranch (north of Brewster, NE and west of the German Valley Church). The death of his mother when he was seven years old had a life-long impact on the shy little blonde haired boy.

Ollie later married Ella Mae (Arens) and siblings Ernie, Victor (Bud), Calvin (Ray) and sister Beverly completed this loving family. The early years were tough and the family learned to work hard and make do with whatever life set before them. One year their car broke down and in order to get to school they had to tear it apart and fix it. So deep was their desire to learn, their education in the Sandhills was excellent and Mort was an avid reader and quick at math!

In 1945, Mort remembered his mother singing and playing the piano as he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and joined the Great Lakes Navel Choir in Chicago. His voice was clear and true…singing with a pure and natural harmony. During his later years at the Sandhills and Stuart Care Centers, Mort could often be heard singing or playing his harmonica.

After his time in the Navy, Mort returned to the Sandhills where he reconnected with a sweet young lady from just a few hills and valleys away from the Shady Nook Ranch. Twelve year old Louise Crooker and her sisters were singing at a country church literary when he first laid eyes upon her. The connection they made that day lasted throughout their marriage on August 12, 1953 until after being side-by-side, through sickness and health, Louise passed away on March 9, 1991. Three children were raised in a kind and loving home: Linn, Konnie and Joe.

After moving to Ainsworth Mort took a business course and became a successful and diligent salesman. His endeavors led him from Snyder’s Implement to managing the Farmers/Ranchers Co-op…to which he added the word “Ranchers”! He took great pride in owning and operating Mac’s Feed Store. Later, Mort & Louise thoroughly enjoyed promoting the cowboy way of life in Ranch-Land Western Store. Through the years they gave many youngsters their first pair of boots! From its humble beginning in 1959, Ranch-Land is still owned and operated by Joe (Lori) McBride and family.

On June 1, 1992, Mort married Carol Halligan. Carol’s family brought even more joy to his life! They were married for 29 years until Carol passed away on March 11, 2021.

Mort was a kind, dependable man who loved the little ones. His strong hands and calm attitude would sooth their souls and they would often fall asleep on his lap. He also loved horses and animals. He was a member of the JayCee’s Organization and participated in many trail rides. Silver Cord Masonic Lodge #224 was an important part of his life and he was pleased to have been a Worshipful Master and to have sat in the lodge chair where President George Washington presided.

Mort loved and adored all of his family. He is survived by his children, Linn (Mike) Baxter of Ainsworth, NE, Konnie (Jerry) Schaefer of Blue Hill, NE and Joe (Lori) McBride of Ainsworth, NE; grandchildren, Dori Gracey, Nadine Prososki, Billy Baxter, Stefanie Blackwell, Jami McDowell, Katie Key, Rhe’Ann McBride and Whitley McBride; step-children, Scott (Pam) Halligan of Kearney, NE, Tracey (Brian) Landis of Kearney, NE, Carrie (Mark) Gaskins of Overton, NE and Jim Halligan of Kearney, NE; step-grandchildren, Courtney, Chelsey, Spencer, Matthew, Jimi, Taylor and Dillon; siblings, Ernie McBride, Beverly McBride and Victor (Betty) McBride; sister-in-law, Betty McBride; brothers-in-law, Steve (Jan) Crooker and Danny (Judy) Hoffman; and many great-grandkids, nieces and nephews.

Mort passed away peacefully at the Sandhills Care Center in Ainsworth on Friday, October 8, 2021. Heartfelt thanks to all who have shown love and friendship. A special thank-you to those who have taken care of him in his final years. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

Memorial Services were held on Saturday, October 16, 2021 at the Ainsworth United Methodist Church with Pastor Martin Leeper officiating. Prelude music was provided by Linn Baxter. “These Hands of Mine Shall Touch The Hand of God” was sung by Billy Baxter, Nadine Prososki and Dori Gracey. Masonic Rites were performed by the Silver Cord Lodge #224. Following the service, Mort’s family honored his life by playing a selection of special songs. Inurnment followed in Ainsworth Cemetery. Military Honors were conducted by the Ainsworth American Legion Post #79.

Memorials have been suggested to the Sandhills Care Center, Silver Cord Lodge #224 AF&AM or to the donor’s choice in Mort’s name. Hoch Funeral Home of Ainsworth was entrusted with the service arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hochfuneralhome.com.