Kennard native Walter C. Wrich, 85, of Reeds Spring, Mo., died March 27, 2004, at the Tablerock Nursing Home of Kimberling City, Mo.

His remains were cremated. Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. June 4 at the Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Omaha, with a luncheon to follow, hosted by the Millard American Legion Post No. 374.

Walter C. Wrich was born Sept. 26, 1918, in Kennard to Carsten and Marie Wrich. He attended the Rispin School.

He was a World War II veteran, serving 4 ½ years in the Fifth Armored Division, which was a part of Gen. George Patton’s 3rd. Army in the European Theater.

On June 24, 1950, he married Wilma Hamann of Elkhorn.

Mr. Wrich was a 59-year member of the American Legion, holding many offices. He served as Oratorical Chairman for District 8 and cooked for many of the events at the Legion club. He was also active in his Masonic lodge, acting as secretary for many years.

As the head groundskeeper for Millard Public Schools, he planted many trees on school grounds and at his home.

He is survived by his wife, Wilma; son, Warren, of Everett, Wash.; sons and daughters-in-law, Wayne and Gwen Wrich of Arlington, Iowa; Wayde and Margaret Wrich of Cocoa Beach, Fla; four grandchildren; sister and brother-in-law, Sophie and Walter Henricksen of Blair; and special cousin, Ruby (Donald) Cain of Arlington.

Memorials are suggested to Legion Post, or the 40 and 8 Nursing Scholarship Fund.