Franklin E. Peters Jr.

Franklin E. Peters, Jr., August 7, 1944 - January 11, 2026

Franklin E. Peters Jr., a lifelong Sarpy County resident, dedicated veteran, and skilled craftsman, passed away leaving behind a legacy of hard work, deep friendships, and a genuine love for the land.

Early Life and Education

Born on August 7, 1944, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Franklin and Arlene Peters, Frank was a "farm boy at heart" from the very beginning. He was raised on the family farm near 108th and Harrison Streets. His early education took place in the historic one-room Portal Schoolhouse before he moved on to graduate from Papillion High School in 1963. Frank’s connection to agriculture ran deep, leading him to study the field at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for two years following high school.

Service and Career

In May 1967, Frank joined the Army Reserves at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He served his country with honor for six years until his discharge in November 1972.

Upon returning to civilian life, Frank began an apprenticeship as a cement mason in 1973. As a proud union member, he helped shape the skyline and streets of Omaha, working with Lueder Construction, Kiewit, and various other firms. Whether it was pouring curbs or intricate finish work, Frank’s handiwork is woven into the very infrastructure of the city he called home. He enjoyed a well-deserved retirement from the union 19 years ago.

Family and Heart

In October 1988, Frank met the love of his life, Barbara Lemke. They were married on September 10, 1993, and shared 32 beautiful years of marriage. Though Frank famously believed that cats belonged in the barn and not on the bed, Barb eventually won him over; he became a devoted "cat dad" to his beloved fur babies, Kit Kat and Dottie.

Frank shared an unbreakable bond with his brother, Russell. The two lived and worked together for many years, creating a lifetime of memories through their shared adventures and mutual support. Frank occasionally took on the role of drill sergeant – regularly recruiting his much younger brother, Calvin, for farm chores whether he was ready or not, creating a relationship that was full of learning, patience, and family grit.

Community and Hobbies

Frank was a fixture in his community, particularly within the Springfield Legion, where he was a loyal member for over 50 years. He was a familiar face at the yearly auctions and could always be found manning the bingo stand during the Sarpy County Fair.

An avid outdoorsman and athlete, Frank spent his younger years bowling and playing softball with the Legion and the Over-30 league. He had a passion for coin collecting, gardening, and raising cattle. He cherished the hours spent checking his farms with his father-in-law, Lou Lemke, and the two became locally famous for their signature beef jerky. On Friday nights, Frank was most likely found with a deck of cards in hand, playing Schafkopf or Chicken Feet.

He and Barb were enthusiastic Nebraska football fans, attending games both at home and away. Together, they traveled the United States, with Frank especially fond of the landscapes of Alaska, Hawaii, and Yellowstone.

Survivors

Frank is survived by:

Wife: Barbara Peters

Brother: Calvin Peters

In-Laws: Sister-in-law Shirlene Hansen; Brother-in-law Lou Lemke and wife Judy

Pets: His beloved cats, Kit Kat and Dottie

Extended Family: Many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and a lifetime of "countless friends."

He was preceded in death by his parents, Franklin and Arlene, and his brother, Russell.

VISITATION: Sunday, January 18, 2026 from 5-7:00 PM at Bethany Funeral Home.

CELEBRATION OF FRANK'S LIFE: Monday, January 19, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Bethany Funeral Home. (Please wear Husker / western attire.)

INTERMENT: Evergreen Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the American Legion #143 (13640 Pflug Road, Springfield, NE 68059)

Bethany Funeral Home, 8201 Harrison St. LaVista, NE 68128 / 402-593-6100