Lawrence "Larry" Hergott

Lawrence “Larry” E. Hergott, 75, of Columbus, NE, passed away on November 15, 2025.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 am Thursday, November 20 at St. Isidore Catholic Church, 3921 20th St., Columbus, Nebraska, with Reverend Joseph A. Miksch officiating. A luncheon will be held at the church parish hall between Mass and burial. Burial, with military honors by the American Legion Post #84, will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, South 11th St. (N Road), in David City, Nebraska.

Visitation will be at St. Isidore Catholic Church on Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m., with family present. The Rosary will be on Wednesday at 6 pm, also at St. Isidore’s.

Born on November 18, 1949, in Concordia, Kansas, to Donald and Geraldine (Wiedel) Hergott, Larry was baptized at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hebron, Nebraska. He received his First Holy Communion and Confirmation at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alexandria, Nebraska. Larry graduated from Meridian High School before enlisting in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served four years during the Vietnam War.

After returning home, Larry worked for Schmader Electric, Ray’s Lawn Service, and continued his education at Milford College. His career path ultimately led him to the golf course industry, where he found his true passion. Larry began as a Golf Course Superintendent at Wahoo Country Club before moving to Columbus, Nebraska, where he served as the Certified Golf Course Superintendent at Elk’s Country Club, Van Berg Golf Course, and Quail Run Golf Course. He was instrumental in the planning, construction, and development of Quail Run, overseeing the project from the ground up.

On January 25, 1975, Larry married Bernice “Bernie” Svoboda at the Cathedral of the Risen Christ in Lincoln, Nebraska. The couple shared 50 wonderful years together, raising two sons, David and Steven. Their life together began in Lincoln, where Larry worked for Ray’s Lawn and Home Care, and continued in Columbus as he advanced in his golf profession. His dedication to his field was evident in his involvement with the Nebraska Golf Course Superintendents Association (NGCSA), the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), and the Nebraska Turfgrass Association (NTA), where he served on the boards and as Treasurer for several years.

A man of strong faith, Larry was an active member of St. Isidore Catholic Church and a 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He was a proud U.S. Air Force veteran and a long-time member of the American Legion and the NRA. Larry’s love for the outdoors was unmatched—he enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, camping, and traveling across the United States. He visited many National Parks, often taking extended trips, including a month-long journey through Canada and Alaska with his brother-in-law, where he crossed into the Arctic Circle. He traveled Appalachian Trail, with his brother, savoring the scenery and adventure along the way.

Larry was deeply devoted to his family. He attended countless school and sporting events for his sons and later for his grandchildren. He went to many Nebraska football games with his brothers and cherished the time they spent together. He also golfed with his brothers often, creating memories on courses across the state. Larry was on the development committee for the Wilderness Soccer Complex and was known for his dedicated support of youth sports. Faith, family, and friendship were the cornerstones of his life.

Larry is survived by his wife Bernie, sons, and daughters-in-law; David and Beth (Lenzen) Hergott of Lincoln, NE and Steven and Laurie (Dubas) Hergott of Columbus; grandchildren, Elliott, Emilia, Lucinda and Jack Hergott. Grace Ann (Osmera) Svoboda, mother-in-law. Brothers and sisters (in-laws); Donna Osterhoudt, Allen & Minh Hergott, Patricia Payvandi, William & Susan Hergott, Anthony and Laurie Hergott, Wayne & Dianne Hergott, Kayla Hergott, Gordon & Shirley Olson, Larry Svoboda, Reagan & Sharon Hinnant and many nieces & nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Donald M. and Geraldine (Wiedel) Hergott, his father-in-law, Louis M. Svoboda, brother Gary Hergott, sister Betty Hergott, brother-in-law Stanley Osterhoudt, and nephew, Norman Schoch, Jr.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Isidore’s Church or the wishes of the family. Arrangements by McKown Funeral Home, 2922 13th Street, Columbus, NE.