FERN IRENE GAUCHAT

1930-2023

Fern Irene Gauchat, daughter of M. M. and Mary Bridgmon, was born July 2, 1930 near Douglas, NE and passed away on March 31, 2023 in Lincoln, NE having reached the age of 92 years, 8 months and 24 days. Growing up, she attended the Presbyterian Church in Tecumseh and graduated from Tecumseh High School in 1948.

On October 9, 1950, she was married to Leonard Gauchat, Jr. of Brock, NE in the Chapel at Coryell Park in Nemaha County. After Leonard’s service in the Marines, they made their home at Brock where they were engaged in farming. They were members of the Brock United Methodist Church. Fern was a devoted farm wife; and to this union one child, a daughter, Karen, was born. Fern enjoyed being a member of clubs and civic organizations and, after retirement, served in veterans organizations along with her daughter.

In 2020, a family gathering was held to celebrate the 90th birthdays of both Fern and Leonard and their 70th wedding anniversary. To her family, Fern was known as Granny Fern. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren loved her signature “Toodle Loo” after a visit to her house.

Fern is survived by her husband Leonard and daughter and son-in-law Karen (Paul) Watson; four grandchildren and spouses: Tim (Erin) Watson, Joe (Angelie) Watson, Mark (Hiruni Wijesena) Watson, and Corinne (Danny) Shea; seven great-grandchildren: Joestin, Alexis, Brea, Jolie, Deacon, Jax, and Libby Watson; one great-greatgrandson, Colton; and nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be held June 2, 2023 at the Brock Lafayette Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. Condolences: www.bmlfh. com.