August 30, 1935 – November 1, 2023
Alyce M. Chrastil, a cherished matriarch, left the earthly realm on November 1, 2023, to be reunited with her beloved husband, Warren, and her heavenly family. Born on August 30, 1935, to proud parents Julius William Knippelmeyer and Lula Jane Meyers Knippelmeyer in Table Rock, Nebraska, Alyce was the eldest of nine siblings.
As a teenager, Alyce was baptized and remained unwavering in her faith throughout her life. The family later settled in Tecumseh, Nebraska, where fate led her to Warren Lee Chrastil, the love of her life. On July 25, 1955, Alyce and Warren embarked on their lifelong journey, welcoming four children into their loving home.
Alyce’s deep affection for her family was boundless, and her heart ached endlessly following Warren’s passing in 2000. She found immense joy in witnessing the artistry of her son, Bill Chrastil, as he performed, basking in his accomplishments with a mother’s pride.
Alyce was a woman of diverse talents and a resilient work ethic. She lent her skills to a variety of roles, serving as a dedicated waitress, a compassionate nurse’s aide, and contributing her efforts to several factories. She also found fulfillment as a nurturing den mother and Boy Scout leader, guiding and inspiring young minds on their journeys.
At the age of 40, Alyce embarked on a personal quest, determined to earn her GED. Through her unwavering resolve and self-guided study, she successfully passed the test, a testament to her determination and lifelong love of learning.
Alyce had an innate musical talent, teaching herself to play the piano and composing beautiful melodies. She reveled in harmonizing with her sisters, showcasing her extraordinary yodeling skills. Music, interwoven with her unshakable faith, provided her with solace during the loss of her mother and little sister.
Alyce was celebrated for her culinary prowess, renowned for her mouthwatering potato salad, a family favorite that remains cherished in their hearts.
Her hobbies extended beyond the kitchen, as she passionately collected pink depression ware and antiques, and honed her skills in embroidery and cross-stitch. Alyce’s artistic talents spanned various crafts, a testament to her creativity and dexterity.
Her unwavering faith in God and her belief in Jesus as her savior were the bedrock of her life, evident through her daily prayers and the love she shared with her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and creativity.
Alyce is survived by her loving sons and daughter-in-laws: Bill and Diane Chrastil, Rick and Linda Chrastil; her daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Jim Mumford; and her daughter, Emily Dowd. Her presence will be deeply missed by her nine grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her sisters, Mary Lou Larimore and Judy Wolfe, as well as brother-in-laws, Jim Hauptmeier and Paul Hilmer; sister-in-law, Wilma Knippelmeyer; along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Alyce is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Warren, her parents, Julius and Lula, her sisters Marilyn Knippelmeyer, Elaine Rutt, Bonnie Hilmer, Barbara Rawson, Norma Jean Hauptmeier, her brother Jim Knippelmeyer; grandson, Christopher Mumford and niece, Jennifer Lord-Bond.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 8, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 724 S. 12th, Lincoln. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 7, at Wyuka Funeral Home, 3600 “O” Street, Lincoln. Memorials may be directed to the family for further designation.
Alyce’s radiant spirit will continue to shine in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will be forever cherished and lovingly preserved.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Bill,Diane and family,Deepest sympathy to all of you. May you have strength to move on with the cherished memories held in your hearts. Love and hugs. Joel and Candace Tix and family.
Bill and family,
So very sorry to here about the loss of your mother. Peace be with you.
Shellie Chrastil
What a beautiful obituary about a wonderful person. I always enjoyed talking with her and saw how proud she was of her family. My deepest sympathy to her family. My thoughts and p rayers go out to them. She is now in her eternal home with those that she loved.
Bill,Diane and family,Deepest sympathy to all of you. May you have strength to move on with the cherished memories held in your hearts. Love and hugs. Joel and Candace Tix and family.
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
I am so very sorry for your loss. Your mother was absolutely wonderful!!
Thoughts and prayers for your family….Bill, Rick, Emily and Karen… memories of your family as neighbors.
I’m so sorry for the loss of your mother and grandmother. She was a wonderful person who I enjoyed visiting with as we had somethings in common. She is going to be missed by all who knew her. Be comforted knowing that she was so proud of her family and bragged about all of you.
To Alyce family so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
My condolences to your family. I didn’t have the privilege of knowing your mom but she sounds like a wonderful woman. It’s so hard losing a parent. Prayers to you all
We had the privilege of meeting Alyce one time at a concert in Lincoln and learned of the family involvement in life and all the happenings.
Our prayers and sympathy for all who knew and loved her.
Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. I have fond memories of your Granpa Julius.. My Dad, Tom Sherman worked for Julius for many years as his deputy in Johnson County. My Dad is 84 years old, still living in Tecumseh with my Mom, Geraldine, his first and only wife. I remember where he lived and still think of him and what a wonderful man he was. May the good Lord wrap his loving arms around you and bless you all.
Truly,
Julieann Sherman Coppock