Wilbur D. Nitzsche, 88, of Rulo, NE, passed away May 8, 2017 at Seneca, KS. He was born May 1, 1929 at Rulo, NE to Herbert and Jane (Nissen) Nitzsche.

Wilbur enlisted in the U. S. Army on March 21, 1951 at Omaha, NE. He served as a power shovel operator and earned a Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal and a Presidential Unit Citation. He was honorably discharged on March 12, 1953 at Camp Carson, CO.

On May 1, 1980 he married Ethel Waters at Oregon, MO. She passed away October 31, 2014.

Wilbur was raised north of Rulo and following his schooling he worked as a laborer for many area farmers. When married the couple established their home in Rulo and he had worked at various jobs since then.

Wilbur is survived by a son, Sam Cockerham and his wife Justina of Rulo, a granddaughter, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, sisters, Shirley Ogden and Betty Vogele.

His funeral will be held on Friday, May 12, 2017 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Paster Dan Farley officiating. Interment will be in Rulo Cemetery. Military graveside honors by Falls City Ceremonial Honor Guard.

Open visitation will begin on Wednesday afternoon.