Clarence “Lloyd” Castner, 88, (formerly of Columbus, NE) passed away peacefully on August 31, 2024, in Omaha, Nebraska, with his wife by his side.

Born on September 26, 1935, in Auburn, NE, to Clarence and Dorothy Zedah Hall Castner, Lloyd embraced the values of family, work, community, and service from a young age. After moving to Ashland, NE, as a second grader, he quickly immersed himself in school and local activities. At just 12 years old, Lloyd worked as a milk runner for a local delivery service, spending his Saturdays and summers delivering orders door to door. Earning 50 cents a day and enjoying all the milk he could drink, Lloyd saved enough to purchase his first bicycle. 

During his senior year of high school, Lloyd’s family moved to Sidney, NE, where he forged lifelong relationships, remaining close with both Ashland and Sidney friends. He chose to attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.  Lloyd graduated with a degree in Business Administration in 1957, actively participating in Delta Upsilon Fraternity, the Varsity Glee Club, University Singers, and serving as the student manager of the Nebraska Men’s basketball team. 

Lloyd met Kay Whitney, a Nebraska Wesleyan University student, on a blind date. Their first date was at the Omaha's Civic Auditorium auto show featuring the McGuire Sisters. Engaged in December 1957, Lloyd and Kay married in May 1958, in Dawson, NE.

Lloyd began his career in Eugene, OR, as Assistant City Manager from January 1958 to 1965. He then served as City Manager in Ontario, OR (1965-1971), City Administrator in Bellevue, NE (1971-1976), and Columbus, NE (1976-1987). He continued his career as Manager of Marketing for Nebraska Power District (1987-1998) and as a consultant with Kirkham Michael in Omaha, NE (1998-2009). 

Throughout his life, Lloyd’s greatest love was his family. Kay was his partner in everything they experienced and accomplished together. Their children - Ralph, Clarey, and Anna - were his pride and joy. Lloyd and Kay were blessed with seven beloved grandchildren.

Professionally, his family’s support allowed him to find immense satisfaction in city administration, arguably his second love. The communities in which he served and lived,  left an indelible impact on his life. Although leaving each adopted home was difficult, serving with the utmost integrity and working tirelessly to leave communities in better shape than when he arrived was an honor of a lifetime.

In retirement, Lloyd enjoyed Husker Men’s Basketball, participating in Passport Nebraska, playing bridge, working on family genealogy, and attending class and family reunions. He was his grandchildren’s most avid supporter at their sporting events. 

The sense of purpose Lloyd felt was just as important to him as the impact he had on each community served. Being honored with Castner’s Crossing, Nebraska Diplomat of the Year, Nebraskaland Foundation Trailblazer Award, Nebraska Basketball Hall of Fame Special Merit Award, Nebraska 125 Anniversary Commission, Lloyd never took full credit for his accomplishments. He knew it was always a team effort.

Lloyd is survived by his wife Kay of Omaha (formerly of Columbus); children Ralph Castner of Lincoln, Nebraska, Clarence L. Castner, Jr., (Estee Levy) of New York, and Anna (Jack) Castner Wightman of Omaha; grandsons Luke (Chelsea) Castner; and Nicholas (Emmy Jo) Castner of New York City, NY; William (Max) Grove of Queens, NY; Samuel Castner and Cole Castner of Lincoln; granddaughters Emalie Wightman and Margaret Wightman of Omaha; great-granddaughter Wesley Castner; great-grandson Walker Castner,  Kim Castner and Ann Castner.  Lloyd also valued his relationships with his many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Dorothy Castner; brother Jean Robert “JR” Castner; and sisters Margaret “Peggy” Goodfellow Klein and Rose Mary Geisert.

The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to Marney Gass, Felicia Gant, Aksarben Retirement Village and Physicians Choice for their support and care.

VISITATION: Thursday, September 5, 2024, from 5 pm to 7 pm at the West Center Chapel. FUNERAL SERVICE: Friday, September 6th at 10:30am at Dundee Presbyterian Church, 5312 Underwood.  Graveside Service: Friday, September 6th at 4pm at Maple Cemetery in Salem, Nebraska.  Memorials may be directed to Federated Church, Columbus, NE, or the Columbus Public School Foundation.

Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler

West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Rd.

402-391-3900 |  www.heafeyheafey.com

To view a live broadcast of the Funeral Service, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click the "Live Cast" button at the top of the home page.