Don D. Dever

Donald D. Dever, of Papillion, peacefully passed away in his sleep at home on Monday morning, March 19, 2018. Don was an avid golfer, going to the course whenever possible with his wife Gaynel. One year, he got so overzealous that he played in three leagues. Don thoroughly enjoyed Husker Football and the Omaha Storm Chasers baseball team and spent many afternoons at the ball field.Don’s bucket list included seeing the Huskers play the Oklahoma Sooners in Lincoln on the Friday after Thanksgiving, a goal achieved years ago. Don and Gaynel enjoyed walks at the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Lauritzen Gardens. The highlight of Don’s last year was the honor flight to Washington D.C. for Vietnam Veterans. It was a privilege for him to be personally thanked for his service by our elected officials and the greater community. He finally got the homecoming that he deserved, shaking everyone’s hand and relishing in the moment. Don was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma in October of 2014, and was in remission for almost three years. He was a member of the Centennial Masonic Lodge, American Legion and V.F.W. in Omaha. Don was born to Don. B. and Mary O. Dever on March 16, 1946 in Grand Island, Nebraska. Don graduated from Grand Island Senior High School in May of 1964.In October 1965 he enlisted in the Navy. He served two tours in Vietnam, and was exposed to Agent Orange while on duty. He received an Honorable Discharge from the Navy in August of 1968. After returning to the states, Don married Kathleen Helzer, Grand Island, and had two sons, Davidwas born in 1970 and Benton in 1973. Don moved to Omaha in 1984, and while here he met the love of his life Gaynel in 1985. They were married in 1987. Don gladly accepted stepfather duties to Gaynel’s three children; Lanette, Katie and Kyle. He always said he would have adopted them if he could. Don worked at the Nebraska Machinery Company as asalesman while attending Metropolitan Community College. He earned a degree in Criminal Justice.He was then employed at the Federal Reserve Bank as a Federal Marshall in Omaha until the bank moved to Kansas City. He also worked for the Sarpy County Sheriff’s Department at the courthouse. He was then employed at Children’s Hospital as a Security Officer, where he was known as “Officer 6.” He retired as a Security Supervisor at the hospital. After retirement he obtained his HAM radio license, and kept it current until recently. He spent many hours trading, buying and selling equipment, as he did with his golf clubs. Don was preceded in death by his parents Don & Mary Dever, son David Dever; He is survived by his Wife Gaynel; Children: Lanette (Tim) Starbuck, Katie (Mike) Boyd, Benton Dever, Kyle (Patty) Coit; Sister Jane Nelsen; 12 Grandchildren & 1 Great Grandson. Celebration of Don’s Life: Thursday, March 22, 2018 at 11:30am, with family receiving friends one hour prior to the service, all at Braman Mortuary (Southwest Chapel) Interment: Omaha National Cemetery Braman Mortuary - Southwest Chapel 6505 S. 144 St. Omaha, NE68137 402-895-3400