Joe “JR” Andrews was born to Joe Glenn and Eva Ada (Barnes) Andrews on May 6, 1928, at his grandparents’ home in Cody. He grew up with his siblings on the family ranch along the Snake River, south of Nenzel. From an early age, Joe developed a lifelong love for cattle and the ranching way of life. He rode horseback six miles to attend school and later graduated from the University of Nebraska School of Agriculture at Curtis in 1946.
On August 20, 1949, Joe married his neighbor girl and lifelong partner, Wilma Jean Gale. In 1950, Joe and Wilma purchased the Del Sanford place south of Kilgore, along the Niobrara River, where they began building their life together. Joe and Wilma were blessed with six children: Joe, Deb, Terry, Becky, Sheri and Kristi. Their family continued to grow, and Joe was proud to be a grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather.
In May 1959, he and Wilma purchased the Harold Shaw ranch southeast of Bassett. The ranch became a place where Joe could
continue the traditions he had learned as a boy and share his love of the land and cattle with his family. While ranching and raising his family kept Joe busy, one of his greatest passions was the county fair. He dedicated 55 years of service to the Rock County Agricultural Society. His commitment to agriculture and county fairs extended beyond Rock County as he served on the Nebraska State Fair Board and was a member of the Nebraska Fair Managers Association, where he served as president. Joe was responsible for starting the Cattle Brand display at the Nebraska State Fair 14 years ago. Over 2,200 brands are on the wall with 13 more brands added at this year’s fair. Joe was also active in the Nebraska and National Angus Associations, Nebraska Cattlemen, and Sandhills Feeders. He served his community as a County Commissioner and was known for his dedication to agriculture, the area, and the people and traditions that meant so much to him. Joe’s life was defined by family, faith in the ranching way of life, service to his community, and a deep love for cattle. His years of hard work and dedication helped shape not only his family’s legacy, but also the agricultural community he served for so many years.
Joe will be lovingly remembered by his family, friends, fellow ranchers, and the many people whose lives he touched through his
years of service and friendship. He is survived by his wife of 77 years Wilma; children Deb Vonheeder, Terry (Erica) Andrews, Becky (Tom) Lucht, Sheri (Steve) Gann and Kristi (Ted) Thornburg; and daughter-in-law Karen Andrews. Joe also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, seven step-grandchildren, and 11 step-great-grandchildren. Joe is also survived by brother Harley Andrews; along with nieces, nephews and other family members. Joe was preceded in death by his parents; his son Joe E. Andrews; and his sister Bethel Ogier.
Funeral service was held on Wednesday, September 19, at the Hoch Funeral Home in Ainsworth. Pastor Suzanne Wobig officiated at the services. The Alan Jackson CD Selections of “Amazing Grace” and “In The Garden” were played. Casketbearers were Jody Hagerty, Tom Vonheeder, Mandy Schulte, Lacey Rohe, Adam Vonheeder, Derek Lucht, Brady Andrews, Austin Lucht, Kayla Lucht, Trey Thornburg and Abby Thornburg. Honorary Casketbearers were all of Joe’s friends and neighbors. Burial followed in the Prairie Lawn Cemetery at Cody. Memorials were suggested to the Prairie Lawn Cemetery or the Rock County Hospital Long Term Care Activity Fund in Joe’s name. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hochfuneralhome.com.