Ricky Lee Clifton, 66, of Brownville, Nebraska, passed away on September 13, 2026, after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). He was surrounded by his family at home. Rick was diagnosed with ALS in May 2025, and he faced his illness with strength and resilience.

Born on April 3, 1960, in Auburn, Rick grew up in Brownville, where he built lifelong friendships and deep ties to the community he loved. He graduated from Auburn High School in 1978.

After high school, Rick worked alongside his father in the family business, Clifton Welding & Machine in Brownville. The shop became a place where he honed his craft, earned the trust of customers, and upheld the Clifton reputation for skill and integrity. Prior to his father’s passing, Rick also worked many outages over the years at Cooper Nuclear Station. When his father passed, Rick took over the family business in 1999, continuing to serve the community with dedication and pride.

Rick’s entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond the welding shop. For more than two decades, he and his family operated the Clifton Concessions Popcorn Trailer, a familiar sight at Brownville Flea Markets, Richardson County Fairs, and numerous regional events. He retired in 2019, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and service.

On May 21, 1988, Rick married Margaret Bogle, and together they raised two children, Kaleb and Karlee. The family lived in Auburn for many years before returning to Brownville to enjoy their retirement home.

In his younger days, Rick found joy in fast cars and motocross racing, spending countless weekends chasing speed and adrenaline. Over time, he found a true passion in riding enduros, drawn to the challenge, endurance, and grit the sport demanded. He enjoyed trips to Milleville, Minnesota, attending the AMA Pro Motocross Championships, where the excitement of the races and the camaraderie of fellow riders became cherished traditions. He also loved hunting, fishing, and listening to music-especially at live shows.

In retirement, before becoming ill, he embraced quieter pleasures: cooking breakfast for guests, tending to the historic cottage on the Clifton property, and riding his Ranger around town with his beloved dogs, Sophie, Izzy, and Nikki. Those simple routines-visiting neighbors, stopping by the local market, sharing companionship with his dogs-became some of his happiest moments.

Rick is survived by his wife, Margaret; his son, Kaleb, and fiancée, Marissa Westbrook; his daughter, Karlee, and husband, Levi Haynes; and his grandchildren, Sawyer and Wren, who brought him endless pride and joy. Also survived by brotherin- law, Wendell Bogle and wife Anita of Omaha, Nebraska in addition their sons Joey Martinez of Omaha, and James Kortus of Denver, Colorado. Many cousins, friends, and the loyal dogs who remained faithfully by his side. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Lora Clifton, and his sister, Debbie.

Honoring Rick’s wishes, no formal services will be held. Friends and loved ones are encouraged to remember him in their own way--through shared stories, quiet reflection, and the kindness he offered so freely.

Memorials may be directed to Walnut Grove Cemetery in Brownville, Nemaha Rescue Squad, or ALS in the Heartland.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home.