Kent Michael Crotty, of Auburn, Nebraska, passed away on October 19, 2026, at his home in Auburn. One of five children of Dr. Patrick and Jeannine (Burt) Crotty, Kent was born October 1, 1958, in Auburn, Nebraska.

Kent lived a life of service, hard work, and commitment to his community. He was a graduate of Auburn Public Schools and later attended the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center at age 53, an accomplishment that reflected his determination and willingness to keep growing. He also served his country in the United States Coast Guard from July 5, 1977, to July 3, 1981, and received an honorable discharge. Kent was united in marriage to Joyce Mellage. The couple would be blessed with two sons, Nate and Brett, but would later divorce. Kent was then married to Tanya Rice on August 22, 1992, and would be blessed with a daughter, Tess.

Throughout his working life, Kent served in many roles in southeast Nebraska. His career included work at John Deere implement dealership, the Auburn Board of Public Works, Lifetime Vision Center, Frye Frazey Security, and he owned and operated Auburn Racquetball Club Plus for over 30 years. Kent also served in law enforcement with the Gage County Sheriff’s Department, Richardson County Sheriff’s Department, Nebraska City Police Department, and Wymore Police Department. In each position, he was known for his steady presence and his dedication to doing the job well.

Kent gave generously of his time to the community he loved. He was a member of the Auburn Volunteer Fire Department for 20 years and served 8 years as Fire Chief. He was also a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, the Fraternal Order of Police, and the Auburn Country Club. These connections reflected the many parts of his life—his faith, his public service, and the friendships he built over the years.

Kent enjoyed life’s simple pleasures and the people who shared them with him. He loved golfing, motorcycles, camping, and tinkering in the shop. He enjoyed cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs and the Royals, looked forward to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, and was known to appreciate a Crown and Diet Coke. Above all, Kent treasured time with his family. His favorite memories were made whenever the family gathered together, and he was a proud father and grandpa who especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren’s activities.

Kent was preceded in death by his father, Patrick Crotty; his mother, Jeannine (Burt) Crotty; his sister, Kathy Sullivan; his grandson, Finn Crotty; his granddaughter, Maura Crotty; and his father-in-law, Gene Rice.

Those left to mourn his passing include his sons and daughters- in-law Nate and Chastity Crotty, Brett and Emily Crotty; daughter and son-in-law Tess and Trey Kolbo; grandchildren Abby (Max), Joel, Sophie (Jayden), Olivia, Jake, Lucas, Gabe, Miriam, Ephrem, Ava, Cooper, Haddie, and Oaklee; spouse Tanya Crotty; brothers and sisters-in-law John and Debi Crotty, Doug and Laurie Crotty, Paul Crotty; brotherin- law Dan Sullivan; motherin- law Kathy Rice; sister-and brother-in-law Teresa and Dan Anderson; other relatives and many friends.

Kent will be remembered for his service, his faith, his love for family, and the pride he took in his community. His life touched many people, and his memory will remain with them always.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Auburn. Frs. Rand Langhorst and Tim Danek were Con Celebrants.

Hymns of praise were provided by the St. Joseph Choir and guests. Casket bearers were Trey Kolbo, Joel Crotty, Devin Anderson, Leonard Gilbert, Tracy Sachs, and Sean Bean. Grandsons Lucas Crotty, Gabe Crotty, Remmy Crotty, Jake Crotty, Cooper Crotty, and Oaklee Kolby served as honorary bearers. Burial followed in Holy Cross Cemetery with Graveside Military Honors by Auburn American Legion Post #23 and United States Coast Guard Honors Detail.

Services were entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home.