Elsie Kathrina Amelia (Ullrich) Wentz was born west of Naper, NE on November 26, 1917 to John and Lydia (Fischer) Ullrich. Elsie passed away October 5, 2014 at the Butte Healthcare Center, Butte, NE at the age of 96 years, 10 months, and 20 days. Elsie was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith and was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church.

Elsie grew up west of Naper and graduated from the 8th grade on May 21st, 1932. She married Arthur Wentz on February 12, 1935 in Butte, NE by the Justice of the Peace. Art had to pay $2.00 because Elsie was not yet 21 years of age. To this union three children were born; daughter, Nola Jean, and two sons; Robert Dean and Dennis Eugene. Art and Elsie lived west of Naper where they farmed, milked cows, raised chickens, and grew a big garden. In 1947 they purchased a tavern in Naper and ran it for 28 years along with Art's brother, Ted who partnered for the first twelve years. Art passed away on June 16, 1975.

Elsie kept herself busy by buying and remodeling old houses in Naper. She was very good at documenting the many activities that went on in the area with her movie camera along with countless photographs preserving many memories and history. She loved entertaining by playing the organ for family and friends, and even played for her 96th birthday last year. Elsie also had a talent for writing backwards and upside down at the same time.

Elsie moved to Burke, SD in 1998 through 2009, and then moved to the Haisch Haus in Bonesteel, SD until November 2012. Her final move was to the Butte Healthcare Center until her passing.

Elsie is survived by 2 sons; Bob (Barb) Wentz of Naper, NE and Dennis (Carol) Wentz of Yankton, SD, 6 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, 6 great- great grandchildren, sister, Selma Breathour of Scottsbluff, NE, brothers Herb Ullrich of Scottsbluff, and Art Ullrich of North Platte, NE.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Art, infant daughter Nola Jean, and brothers Arnold and Leland.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2014 at 11:00 AM at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Naper. Burial will be in the St. Paul's Lutheran Cemetery, Naper. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services at the church.