Garth Vopalensky

Garth Charles Vopalensky

August 8, 1955 – April 18, 2026

Garth Charles Vopalensky, 70, passed away peacefully at home on April 18, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Garth was born on August 8, 1955, in Fremont, Nebraska. He graduated from North Bend High School and later attended Southeast Community College, where he studied Diesel Technology. He spent 42 years working for Union Pacific Railroad, a job he took pride in and showed up for every day with a strong work ethic and dedication.

In 1998, Garth met Diane, and they were married on January 15, 2011. Together they built a life centered around family, friendship, and the simple things that mattered most. Garth stayed close with many great friends over the years and made a point to keep in touch. He enjoyed following Giants baseball, Husker football and loved getting out on the golf course whenever he could.

He is survived by his wife, Diane Ward; his children, Taylor (Megan) Vopalensky, Jill (Dereck) Trueblood, and Victoria (Thomas Tate) Vopalensky; and his stepdaughters, Melanie (Nathan) Albers and Stacy (Michael) Feit.

He was a proud grandpa to Grace, Max, Henry, and Emma, with another grandchild on the way (Taylor and Megan); Dawson and Peyton (Jill and Dereck); Sophia (Victoria); and Lauryn and Reid (Melanie). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Garth is survived by his father, Albert Vopalensky; his brothers, Greg and Tim Vopalensky; and his sisters, Mary Cook, Michelle Peterson, Sister Mary Alphonse, and Amy Gilchrist. He was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Anne Vopalensky; his in-laws, Wayne and Mary Rose Schmid; and his brother, Tom Vopalensky.

Visitation will be held from 4:00–6:00 p.m., with a Rosary at 6:00 p.m., on April 23, 2026, at Sacred Heart Church in Shelby, Nebraska. 
A Funeral Mass will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Sacred Heart.

Garth will be remembered as a steady and dependable presence in the lives of those who knew him. He showed his care through his actions—through his work, his loyalty, and the time he gave to family and friends. Whether he was following a game, out on the golf course, or mowing the yard just right, he found joy in the everyday moments. His quiet strength, sense of humor, and genuine nature will be deeply missed.