Richard D. “Rich” Alder, 56

Growing up in Valentine, Rich‑ard thrived in 4‑H, earning several awards as a youth. He graduated from Valentine High School in 1988. Whether he was camping, fishing, four‑wheeling, hunting, or shooting, Richard felt most at home under an open sky. He was happiest when surrounded by na‑ture and the people he loved.

In 1988, Richard met the love of his life, Susan, in Valentine. Their bond was immediate and enduring. Together they shared 38 years of unwavering partnership and built a beautiful family with their two children, Cheyeanne and Dylan.

Richard and Susan later moved to Salt Lake City, UT, where he worked for his father‑in‑law, Ronald Chesnut. A few years later, Richard found his true calling with the Union Pacific Railroad. As a carman, he dedicated 28 years to a career he took great pride in. His coworkers became lifelong friends, and the railroad became a second home. Richard did eventually move back to Nebraska to be closer to family.

A devoted Nebraska Cornhusk‑ers fan, Richard never missed a Saturday game. His enthusiasm was infec‑tious, and cheering on his team was one of his greatest joys.

Richard will be re‑membered for his gen‑erous heart and helping hand. Neighbors knew they could rely on him for any size of project — from mowing lawns to installing roofs. A talented carpenter, he loved any project that involved building, fix‑ing, or creating. His laugh was con‑tagious, his smile unforgettable, and his storytelling could make you feel as if you were watching a movie unfold. Richard was a true character, the kind of person peo‑ple naturally gravitated toward. He was loved beyond measure by all who knew him.

Richard is survived by his moth-er Leola (Alfred) Homan of Pierce; father Robert (Irene) Alder Grand Island; beloved wife, Susan of West Jordan, UT; children, Cheyeanne (Brad), and Dylan of Utah; sister Tina of Hawaii; niece, Brittany of Louisiana; brothers, David of Lincoln, Shane (Keri) Homan of Crawford; and his five cherished grand-children. He was pre-ceded in death by his grandparents Alma and Leonard Alder, Marjorie and Lloyd Tryon, and father‑in‑law, Ronald Chesnut.

Richard’s legacy lives on in the family he adored, the friends he treasured, and the countless mem‑ ories made in the great outdoors he loved so deeply.

Funeral service for Richard D. “Rich” Alder, 56, of Norfolk, was held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 13, 2026 at the Stonacek Funeral Chapel in Norfolk. Chaplain Greg‑ory Prauner officiated the service. Inurnment was at the Mount Hope Cemetery in Valentine, NE at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 14, 2026. Vis‑itation was one hour prior to the service also at the funeral home.

Stonacek Funeral Chapel was in charge of the arrangements.

Condolences may be expressed to the family on‑line at www.stonace‑kfuneralchapel. com.