Wilma "Willie" Jean Guethlei
n, 85, of North Platte, passed away October 8, 2018 peacefully at home surround by her children, following a short, but courageous battle with cancer. She was born April 29, 1933 to Enoch and Sylvia (Meredith) Phipps at Seneca, NE. She attended school in Valentine, NE where she also worked as a waitress and bartender in her young adult years. Wilma married Edward Bruns and together they had two children, Bobby and Debra. She was later united in marriage to John R. Guethlein and they had a son, John Samuel. Wilma and her son John moved to North Platte in 1970. Willie was employed by the Holiday Inn and was in bar management for over 30 years where she earned two National Recognitions for her customer service. During this time she made a lasting impression on others regarding hard work and doing your best.
Her grandchildren were her pride and joy. She was a fun grandmother and always enjoyed keeping up with their activities and showing support in so many ways. She loved receiving and sending cards, always including a note of encouragement and letting her family know she loved them. Willie loved the holidays and spent many hours decorating her home and caring for her flowers. She was an avid reader and read her Bible and "Jesus Calling" daily.
Wilma is survived by her children, Bobby Bruns of Valentine, Debra McMurtrey of Gillette, WY, and John (Lora) Guethlein of North Platte; seven grandchildren, Amanda, Samantha, George, Inga, Aaron, Shaylee and Johnny; four great grandchildren, Micah, Miriam, Carson and Bailey, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
Wilma was preceded in death by her parents; and siblings, Jeanette, Pete, Maudine, Bruce, Betty, Bobbie, Dick and an infant brother, Jimmie, her son-in-law, Dr. George McMurtrey, and daughter-in-law Patricia Bruns.
Per her request cremation was chosen and there will be no service but a celebration of her life will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be shared at
www.carpentermemorial.com
. Memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Those wishing to sign Willie's memorial book may do so from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Thursday and Friday at Carpenter Memorial Chapel, which is in care of arrangements.
