Herman Eugene "Gene" Kraenow, 98 of Syracuse

Herman Eugene "Gene" Kraenow, 98, of Syracuse, Nebraska, passed away on February 4, 2026. He was born on March 18, 1927, in Tecumseh, Nebraska, to Herman and Gladys (Ramsey) Kraenow. Gene graduated from Syracuse High School in 1944, laying the foundation for a lifetime of hard work, dedication, and community service.

Gene devoted 46 years as Parts Manager at Strong Brothers and also took pride in his work as a part-time janitor at Lincoln Tel & Tel for 25 years. Additionally, he co-owned the Mustang Hotel in Syracuse, reflecting his entrepreneurial spirit and love for hard work.

A proud veteran, Gene served in the United States Marine Corps during World War II. Drafted at the age of 18, he was stationed in San Diego from September 1945 to September 1946. His military service instilled in him a deep sense of duty and camaraderie that he carried throughout his life. Gene remained an active member of the American Legion and generously shared his time and talents through St. John's United Church of Christ-where he served on the church council, often as treasurer-and the local Lions Club.

Gene's greatest joy was his family. On February 26, 1948, he married Jeanette K. Stock at St. Paul's United Church of Christ - Osage, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Together, they enjoyed camping in their 5th wheel camper and touring the beauty of Nebraska. He cherished time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always taking pride in their accomplishments and joys.

Gene is survived by his children, Marylyn Brinkhoff, Gary (Deborah) Kraenow, and Sharon Heater; grandchildren Matt Brinkhoff (Amy Holman), April (Shawn) Brinkhoff Krull, Zachary Kraenow (Tess Hinn), Kate (Jarrod) Siebrandt, Stephanie (Andrew) Hartwig, Kathryn (Brady) Allen, and Susan Heater (Nate Smith); and great-grandchildren Hayley, Alex, and Carter Krull; Corbyn, Rylee, and Kash Siebrandt; Killian Hartwig; Amelia and Olivia Allen; and Damon Smith. He is also survived by his brothers Robert (Eleanor) and Kenneth Kraenow, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanette, parents, and son-in-law, Keith Brinkhoff.

A Memorial Service for Gene will be held Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 1:00 PM at St. John's United Church of Christ in Syracuse. The service will be livestreamed on the church Facebook page.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, February 17 from 9 AM - 8 PM, with family greeting friends from 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM.

Memorials may be directed to the St. John's United Church of Christ.

Arrangements By: Fusselman Allen Harvey Funeral Home, Syracuse, NE

Condolences to www.fusselmanallenharvey.com