Eugene Wyckoff

Eugene Dean Wyckoff

 February 28, 1948 – December 20, 2024

Eugene Dean Wyckoff, a lifelong rancher, devoted father and grandfather, and a cherished member of his community, passed away on December 20, 2024, at the age of 76, surrounded by his children at the hospital. Born on February 28, 1948, on the family ranch in Brewster, he was one of seven children born to Columbus McKinley (CM) and Clara Louise Wyckoff. Eugene lived a life grounded in hard work, integrity, and a deep love for his family and friends.

 Eugene attended school in Brewster, NE where he graduated in 1966. Following graduation, he worked for several different ranches in Nebraska and lived in Wisconsin for a brief time working with his brother Lester. In 1979, Eugene married Cindy Saner, and they made their home in Dunning, the Graf Ranch in Ainsworth, and the family homestead in Brewster. Their marriage ended in divorce in 1993, but Eugene and his children continued to live on the family ranch for several years. Eugene later moved to Dunning to run a ranch until Dustin graduated, then to Holdrege in 2007, where he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He remained in Holdrege until moving to assisted living in the spring of 2022.

A man of the land, Eugene’s connection to ranching began at an early age. Over the years, he became known for his quiet strength, resilience, and dedication to the work that defined his life. Whether tending to cattle or caring for the land, he approached everything with a steady hand and a kind heart.

Eugene was the proud father of four children: Dawn, Dallas, Rusty, and Dustin. His love for his children was unwavering, and his role as a father was central to his identity. He instilled in them the value of hard work, as well as the importance of kindness, loyalty, and perseverance. Eugene's love for his children was only rivalled by his devotion to his grandchildren. He rarely missed an event, whether it was track, soccer, basketball, volleyball, concerts, or rodeos. He was always present, offering his support and encouragement. Eugene also passed along his love of horses and work ethic to his grandchildren, teaching them the skills and values that will guide them throughout their lives. The time spent together in the practice pen and on the road will forever be cherished by all.

Outside of family and work, Eugene found joy in raising cattle and horses. He had a special talent for picking and starting horses, a skill he spent his entire life perfecting. The horses his grandchildren now ride were carefully selected and started by him. His love for horses has been passed down to the next generation, a lasting gift that will continue for years to come.

Eugene is survived by his four children: Dawn (Wyckoff) and Jared Schemper (Holdrege) and their children, Sierra (Schemper) and Brayden Gustafson, Samantha, Sabrina, Sophia, and Sawyer; Dallas and Jessica Wyckoff (Cody) and their children, Justin and Havanna; Rusty and Kelsey Wyckoff and their children, Rylee and Rayden; and Dustin and Erin Wyckoff and their son, Camden. He also leaves behind one great-granddaughter, Josephine Gustafson. Eugene is also survived by his siblings: Shirley Fitch, Mae Nelson, Dennis Wyckoff and sister-in-law Anna Mae Wyckoff; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Columbus McKinley Wyckoff and Clara Louise Wyckoff; his sisters, Opal (in infancy) and Maxine; brothers-in-law Bruce Nelson, Jay Fitch, and Don Hagemeyer; his brother Lester Wyckoff; great-niece Sara Fitch and Grandson Mack Eugene Wyckoff (in infancy).

A memorial service will be held at the Brewster Community Building on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 11:00 am to Celebrate Eugene’s Life and the many memories he leaves behind. Visitation will be at the Govier Brothers Mortuary in Broken Bow, Friday, January 10th from 3-7 pm with family there from 4-6 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Brewster Fire and Rescue or the Dunning Jr. Rodeo in Eugene’s memory.

Eugene will be remembered as a man who worked the land with pride, loved his family fiercely, and always made time for the people who mattered most. May he rest in peace.