Charles Gonka

Charles "Chuck" Gonka, age 79, died Friday, April 12, 2024 surrounded by his family.

Mass of Christian Burial is 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 19 at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church. Visitation is 4:00-7:00 p.m. Thursday, with a 7:00 p.m. Vigil Service at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church. Visitation will continue Friday morning from 9:30-until service begin and is also at the church. Interment will be at All Saints Cemetery with military honors by The American Legion Hartman Post #84 Honor Guard.

In lieu of plants and flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Bonaventure Catholic Church, Scotus Central Catholic High School, or donor's choice.

Chuck was born October 30,1944 in Columbus, NE to Frank and Monica (Sliva) Gonka.  He grew up in Columbus, attending St. Anthony's School prior to going into the seminary for two years in Illinois.  He returned to Columbus and graduated from St. Bonaventure High School in 1962.  Chuck proudly served his country in the Air Force, stationed in Omaha and Wyoming.   On May 25,1966, Chuck met Nancy Behle, the love of his life.  He married Nancy on November 25, 1967 at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church.  The two resided in Omaha following their honeymoon in California.

Chuck was discharged from the Air Force in 1968.  Upon discharge, Chuck and Nancy returned to Columbus where he worked in banking and investments for many years, including long stints with Equitable Savings & Loan and First Nebraska Bank.  Chuck loved Columbus and the people who live here.  He was heavily involved in the community throughout his life, including time spent on the Columbus Hospital Board, the Loup Power District Board, the United Way Board, and various boards and committees at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church and School, and Scotus Central Catholic High School.

Chuck's greatest loves in life were Nancy, his family and his faith.  He enjoyed spending time with his friends, especially his coffee groups each morning.  His favorite hobby was playing golf, and he was able to check a couple items off his bucket list when he attended the Masters and played a round of golf with his sons at Pebble Beach.  He also cherished spending time at the lake.  He took great pride in maintaining his home, lawn, and cars.  He rooted for Scotus, Creighton and Nebraska athletics.

He was greatly loved for his kindness, generosity, sense of humor and his willingness to dig in and help in any situation in any way he could.  He provided a great life for his wife, children and grandchildren, and took great joy in spending time with them.   Those who love him did not get enough time with him.  He will be missed terribly.

Chuck is survived by his wife: Nancy Gonka of Columbus, NE; Sons:  Jeff (Meg) Gonka of Omaha, NE and Chad (Liz) Gonka of Columbus, NE; Grandchildren: Clare, Grace, Mason, Sidney and Avery; Siblings:  Virginia (George) Schultz, Bobbi (John) Shotkoski, Shirley Zych, Duane Gonka and Eileen (John) Csukker; sister-in-law:  Sue Gonka.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, Frank and Monica (Minnie) Gonka; brothers Randy and Dale Gonka, and brother-in-law Walter Zych.