Darlene Elizabeth Meyer, 77

Darlene Elizabeth Meyer was born on a small farm near Lincoln, NE in 1947. She worked on the farm with her father, mother, and brothers until high school graduation in 1965, when she began studying and working at Bryan Hospital’s nursing program. On graduation in 1968 her adventurous spirit took her to South Coast Hospital at Laguna Beach, CA for several years, then on to a hospital at Eureka in Northern California.

Darlene returned to Lincoln and worked again at Bryan Hospital before marrying Duane Gudgel in 1975. In 1976 she relocated reluctantly to the Sandhills and assisted Duane’s family, then began work at Cherry County Hospital in Valentine.

She quickly became indispensable in both roles, and adjusted quickly to the remote area and winters. Darlene learned patience while showing dairy cattle in her young 4-H years, but was able to subdue it when advocating for patients. When required, she would face all obstacles within the hierarchy of the hospital and beyond without fear.

Her role as mentor, friend, and coworker was revered by all those who wished to learn, do their job well, and go home somewhere near the end of shift.

Darlene retired from Cherry County Hospital after more than 40 years and assumed control of the bookstore that she and Duane had operated together since 1992. She loved the bookstore and was an unrelenting proponent of children’s reading. She worked diligently and intelligently to get the right books into the right hands at many schools and in many homes. Darlene was the “never say you can’t” partner to Duane in all their endeavors. Her intelligence and acerbic humor complemented an unusually impressive work ethic. Darlene died in Valentine, NE February 6, 2025. She is missed profoundly by her world of friends and family.

Darlene is survived by her husband Duane Gudgel of Valentine; son Mark Gudgel, wife Sonja, and beautiful grandchildren Titus and Zooey of Omaha; brother Jim Meyer of Lincoln; sister-in-law Linda Lund and husband Dave of North Platte, NE; brother-in-law Willard Gudgel and wife Judy of Loveland, CO; sister-in-law Grace of Loveland, CO, and many nieces and nephews.