Gary Edward Wakenight, age 74, of Oakland, Nebraska passed away Sunday, March 20, 2022 at St. Francis Memorial Hospital in West Point, Nebraska. Gary was born to Bill and Avis Wakenight October 31, 1947 in Omaha, Nebraska. His mom later married Laurence Young and they lived in the Brownville area until moving to Nebraska City. Gary graduated from Nebraska City High School in 1966. While in school, he was active in football, track, and legion baseball. On February 25, 1978, Gary married Jo Ann John in Omaha, Nebraska. They lived in Omaha, before moving to Oakland, Nebraska. He worked in the retail business before retiring from Walmart. Gary was a devoted husband and a very loving brother and uncle, who had a great sense of humor. He loved to do yardwork, and had a yard full of beautiful flowers. He also enjoyed his gardening and would often share his produce with friends and neighbors.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Jo Ann Wakenight; sisters Lauretta (Young) Harker and husband Alan of Nebraska City; Linda (Young) Haas and husband Paul of Lincoln; sister-in-law, Kathy Marie John Armentrout of Pensacola, FL; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Avis and Laurence Young; mother and father-in-law, Josephine and Herman John Jr; and brother-in-law Walter “Wally” Armentrout.

The family will greet friends on Saturday, April 23, 2022 from 2 -4 p.m. at Pelan Funeral Services in Oakland, Nebraska.