Ronald “Ron” D. Carley, 66

Ronald “Ron” D. Carley, 66, of Exira, died on May 27, 2009, at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Neb.

Ron grew up in Omaha, Neb. where he was married to Linda “Susie” Tostenson for nine years, later moving to Exira, where he and Jean L. Fletcher made a home on an acreage outside of Exira.

Ron had an affinity for and connection with Native American culture and was well known among his fellow brothers and sisters for the sweat lodge ceremonies that took place at his home in Omaha and in recent years, Exira. He especially loved nature and animals, some of his favorite being the wolf, the eagle and Purdy Baby.

Survivors include daughters Wendy (Scott) Stambaugh of Omaha, Neb., Becky (Bruce) Brickner of Omaha; stepdaughters Rose (Troy) Brabham “Deano” Brabham of Exira, Emily Nelson of Omaha, Neb.; stepsons Joel Nelson of Exira, and Jacob Nelson of Omaha, Neb.; and one sister, Doris Foreman of Brea, Calif. Ron also had eight grandchildren.

A celebration of life service was held on May 30 at Messiah Lutheran Church in Ralston, Neb. Bethany Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.