Obituary: Jay Luzum

Jay D. Luzum was born on August 19,1964 to James J. and Arlene Rischling Luzum at Friend, Nebraska. He passed away on June 7, 2010, while doing what he dearly loved, working on the farm.

Jay attended Exeter Public School, graduating with the class of 1982. After high school, Jay continued with farming along with his father, Jimmy where he also raised cattle. On February 18, 1997, Jay was united in marriage to the love of his life, Rebecca (Becky) McCoy of Fairmont. Jay dearly loved his family and he enjoyed spending time with his family, and many friends. He was also proud of his step daughter and her husband and grandchildren.

Jay took great pleasure in raising cattle, and working in his shop. One of his greatest enjoyments was being active and cooking with the Milligan Sons of the Legion. His culinary talents were exhibited at every stag party and wild game feed. Jay also enjoyed working with the Legionnaires and he had quite the reputation as a practical joker.

Jay loved hunting and he made several trips to Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Arizona and New Mexico hunting elk. He never scored the elk of his dreams, but he always made the trips quite entertaining for his fellow hunters.

Four years ago, Jay was diagnosed with cancer and he began a very courageous battle to conquer this terrible disease. Jay’s true character could be seen as he endured rounds of chemo and difficult surgeries with a positive outlook and determination to get well. After several years of treatment, Jay appeared to be cancer free.

Jay’s illness brought together many dear friends and family who faithfully volunteered to help him continue with his farming and cattle. Jay and Becky could never be able to express in words the thanks that should be given to these wonderful friends and family for their countless hours of work. Like his friends, Jay also possessed this same kindness and strong work ethic, and love for life.

Jay is survived by his wife, Becky of Exeter, step-daughter, husband, Jessica and Nick Mayfield of Eagle, mother, Arlene Luzum of Exeter, sister and brother in law, Julie Erdkamp and Dale, of Exeter, three grandchildren, Barrett, Jackson and Wyatt Mayfield, nieces and nephews, Danielle, Taylor and Richard Erdkamp, father-in-law, mother-in-law, Robert and Imelda McCoy, Fairmont, Nebraska. Preceded in death by his father, James Luzum Jr. and infant sister, Kim.

Thank you, Jay, for the wonderful memories.

Jay funeral was held along with his mother’s funeral at 10:30 a.m., Friday, June 11, 2010 at the Milligan Auditorium with Kim Dunker officiating. Honorary pallbearers were Dale Luzum, Jeff Thompson, Bob Thompson, Jim Zeleny, Dennis Oliva, Dave Zeleny, Will Jansky, Brian Hafer and Jan Rischling. Inurnment was in the Bohemian National Cemetery with Farmer & Son Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Memorials are directed to the Sons of the American Legion.