May 2, 1961 – December 19, 2022

John V. Kubicek, 61, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2022, after a long illness.  John lived in Lincoln all his life and was proud to be a Lincolnite and a Nebraskan.  He loved books and reading and was a Lincoln City Libraries (Technical Processes Division) staff member for 39 years.  He met Maureen Hutfless, who would become his lifelong companion, when she also worked at Bennett Martin Public Library.

John was science-minded and avidly read about scientific developments both historic and recent.  He enjoyed viewing astronomical phenomena and made sure to point out when there was a planetary conjunction or the Earth was at its perihelion (coming up on Jan. 4!).  He was also very interested in history and historic dates and brought this to a more personal level by knowing the birthday of nearly every friend, relative, coworker, and acquaintance.  On any given day, he might set out an information sheet detailing who was born or died on that day in history.

John was also intensely interested in current events, not just historic ones, and cared greatly about the state of the world and its problems.  But his seriousness was complemented by a sometimes-offbeat sense of humor (which left some merely puzzled but gave others a good chuckle).

John thoroughly enjoyed feeding the birds and squirrels downtown and on the UNL main campus, which earned him the moniker “Squirrel Man” in a Daily Nebraskan article about his activities.  The furred and feathered folk became familiar with him and gravitated toward him when they saw him coming or heard him rattling food bags.

John brought smiles and cheer to those around him (both human and animal) and will be sorely missed by all who cherished him.  But the memories he gave us will continue to bring smiles to our faces for a lifetime.

Survived by lifetime companion, Maureen Hutfless; brother, David Kubicek; sister, Maxine Coffey (Ray); nephews, Christopher Coffey (Amy), Sean Kubicek; great-nieces, Violet Coffey and Willow Coffey.  Preceded by parents, Charles and Lois (Moffatt) Kubicek; nephew, Kevin Coffey; sister-in-law, Cheryl Kubicek.

Memorial service 11 a.m. Monday, January 2, 2023, at Wyuka Funeral Home, Lincoln.  Interment after service, Wyuka.  Memorials to Foundation for Lincoln City Libraries, Nebraska Public Media (television and radio), Lincoln Children’s Zoo.