Julius Votruba passed away Thursday, July 1, 2021 at the Hemingford Community Care Center after a brief stay. He was 89.
Julius Gilbert Votruba was born October 27, 1931 at Hay Springs, Nebraska to William and Elinor (Wenske) Votruba. He attended school in Hay Springs and his family would move to a farm west of Hemingford in his youth.
He was drafted in to the U.S. Army on February 12, 1952. After basic training at Fort Bliss, TX he was sent to Korea where he served as an Artillery Medium and Heavy AAA Mechanic. After his tour of duty he was honorably discharged on February 14, 1954. For his service he was awarded National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars, United Nations Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.
On June 2, 1954 he was united in marriage to Donna Marie Barta at St. Bridget Catholic Church. They celebrated their 67th Anniversary this year. To this union were born, Julie, Colleen, Greg and Tim. After their marriage they started farming with Donna’s parents, Louie and Tillie Barta. They lived on their farm for the 67 years. Later he was joined in farming and ranching by their sons, Greg and Tim. They would be joined by Tim in ranching. Julius continued to farm for the rest of his life.
He was a member of St. Bridget Catholic Church, N.R.A., Farmer’s Union and a life member of the American Legion Post No. 9. He also had served on the Election Board of Lawn Precinct and District #56 School Board.
He is survived by his wife, Donna, his children, Julie (Bill) Eickhoff of Alliance, Colleen (Bret) Bixby of Ellsworth, Greg Votruba and Tim Votruba of Hemingford, his grandchildren, Megan (Matt) Hobbs, Clay Bixby and Mace Bixby and his great-grandchildren, Mackenzie and Elijah Hobbs. He is also survived by his sisters, Lela Jantz, Shirley (Jim) Stevar, Bernice Herian and Delphine (Dale) Campbell.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters, Norabelle Abbott and Annabelle Collins, his brothers, Delbert, Lloyd, Clifford and Willard and his wife’s parents, Louie and Tillie Barta.
Private family services will be held at St. Bridget Catholic Church. Military Honors will be conducted. The family will host Celebration of Life at a later date. Memorials may be given to the Hemingford Volunteer Firefighters Association or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com with Bates-Gould Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.