Dale Dreher, age 85 of Lexington, formerly of Johnson Lake, died October 24th, 2012 at Park Avenue Estates in Lexington, following a courageous fight with lung cancer.

Dale was born on September 8th, 1927 at the family farm south of Elwood, to Emil and Abigail (Steinbrink) Dreher. He was baptized on June 27th, 1937. Dale attended Rural School District #31 in Gosper County. He went on to attend Elwood High School, graduating with the class of 1945.

Dale married Alice Jean Leggott on July 27th, 1946 at Norton, KS. Following their marriage the couple lived in Elwood. They would eventually move to Lexington, where they lived for about 10 years before moving to Johnson Lake in 1958. Most recently, Dale and Alice Jean made their home at Park Avenue Estates in Lexington.

Dale had been employed with Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District, where he retired after 42 years. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Elwood. Dale was elected Deacon of the First Christian Church in Elwood in 1965 and Elder in August of 1985. Dale also served as Treasurer for the church.

Dale enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and having coffee with his friends. He was very handy, and even bought and remodeled a few homes in his spare time. He loved to tell stories and joke with people. Dale was always very family oriented, and found great joy in spending time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his loving wife of 66 years, Alice Jean Dreher of Lexington; 2 sons, Robert (Carole) Dreher of Kearney and Steve (Alex) Dreher of Omaha; a daughter, Nancy (Edd) Lange of Cypress, Texas; 6 grandchildren , Angela (Michael) Kugler of Lincoln, Jodi (Alec) Shea of Laramie, Wyoming, Ryan Lange of Alexandria, Viginia, Robyn (Rich Thrush) Lange of Jersey City, New Jersey, Mary Francis of Omaha and Michael Dreher of Omaha; 2 great grandchildren, Olivia Kugler and Rowan Shea and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 2 sisters, Ellen Packwood and Bernice Puls.
Services will be held on Saturday, October 27th, 2012 at 11 a.m. at the First Christian Church in Elwood with Pastor K.C. Bedunnah officiating. Burial will be in the Elwood Cemetery.
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 26th, 2012 from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. at the First Christian Church in Elwood.

A memorial has been established in his memory.

Berryman Funeral Home in Cozad is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com.