Justin David Klemke

Justin David Klemke passed away Sunday, August 7, 2022 at his home in Cozad at the age of 39.

Justin joyfully arrived to this world at the Cozad Community Hospital in Cozad, Nebraska on May 31st 1983 at 4:59 pm. His parents Veronica and David Klemke welcomed this precious, perfect child into what would be their family. Justin attended Cozad City Schools and graduated from Cozad High School in 2002. He was “dog lover” naturally from the beginning. Justin’s first dog was named, “Aces”. That gift of being a “dog whisperer” became his life’s work. He cared for and was loved by them up to his last breath.  The people of Cozad often saw Justin driving his Schwinn E-Zip 1000 Scooter with “Aces” in a basket behind him, ears flying in the wind with both the man and the dog smiling. Justin was with “Aces” when he went over the Rainbow. “Husker” was with him when he passed. When the dog owners brought their dogs to Justin’s house and the door opened, the dogs bounded in and landed often into his lap. They were showered with treats galore and walks by the miles.

Justin also had a passion for the Huskers! He followed every game sporting a Husker hat, shirt and jacket. Justin never faltered in his devotion to his Nebraska football team win, lose or draw.

John Shepard became Justin’s stepfather in 2000 and they had many adventures together. Recently, traveling to the Sunken Gardens for a tour Justin leaning his hand on John’s shoulder for security. John and Justin watched “Modern Marvels”, and “How It Is Made”. Veronica and John watched any other “good” movies Justin found for them including “National Lampoon” and “Christmas Vacation”.

He read about past presidents and historical figures and marveled at their accomplishments and wanted to share his knowledge of them in conversation.

The birds were always welcomed to food at his front window in his newly remodeled (by John and other family members) home.

“The Last Supper” was one of Justin’s drawings. We believed he had inherited the ability to draw. This drawing demonstrated not only his artistry but also his love for Jesus and Christianity. This carefully drawn and framed picture was placed on the wall behind his bed for all to see. Justin was a “techie”. He had the ability to make his way around, in, out of apps ordering dog food, gifts, and meds for his mother.

He was always up for a great conversation especially on the phone. If you were the recipient of one of Justin’s calls, you might as well settle into comfortable chair. They could last 2 hours. Justin was preceded in death by his father, David Klemke; his paternal grandfather Wes Klemke; maternal grandfather Ernest Mohr.

All his life, Justin struggled with the Muscular Dystrophy and the slow deterioration of his body, his ability to move, and to speak clearly. When reviewing his life story and the depth of his medical struggles, we should all be inspired by his determination and ability to live a rich and productive life. Against all odds he did.

He is survived by his parents John and Veronica Shepard of Cozad, Nebraska, his stepbrother Andy Shepard from Glenville, Nebraska, his paternal grandmother Lena Klemke of Fort Worth, Texas and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who will miss him. Justin left this world quietly without saying a word, sitting in his favorite chair with his dog “Husker” in the room not wanting to bother anyone taking with him a piece of our hearts. Memorials are suggested to the family in his name for later designation. Funeral services will be Monday, August 15, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at the Berryman Funeral Home Chapel with Fr. Jo Hannappel officiating. Burial will follow at Cozad Cemetery. Visitation with family present will be Sunday, August 14, 2022 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Berryman Funeral Home.