Gerrit Hamblin, 87
Gerrit Hamblin, 87, longtime Broken Bow educator, entered his eternal rest June 21, 2011, at the Melham Medical Center. Funeral services were June 24, at Govier Brothers Mortuary in Broken Bow with the Rev. Henry Duerksen officiating. Interment was in the Broken Bow Cemetery.
Gerrit Arthur Hamblin was bom May 15, 1924, in Sioux City, Iowa to Miles and Nell Hamblin. He was the youngest child born into a family of three sisters. Gerrit graduated from high school at the "Castle on the Hill (Sioux City H.S.)
Mr. Hamblin was drafted into the U.S. Army and participated in the Liberation of the Philippines. He was stationed in Korea awaiting the invasion of Japan at the conclusion of World War II.
Upon returning to civilian life, he furthered his education at the University of Sioux Falls. Mr. Hamblin began his career teaching at a rural school for a year. On June 5, 1950, he married Jane Sallander on the day of her college graduation.
The couple had their first home in Primrose, where they each had teaching jobs. In the fall of 1955, Mr. and Mrs. Hamblin joined the faculty of Broken Bow Schools. He taught English and social studies in the jr. high, while she was a kindergarten teacher at Custer School.
Mr. Hamblin was a devoted teacher, well respected by generations of students and his co-workers. Many teaching honors had come to him over the years, including being chosen in the top 10 for Outstanding Educator Award. Students who were in his classrooms still recall the phrase he used when admonishing them-- "It's in the BOOK!"
Retirement came in 1989, bringing a dedicated teaching career of nearly 40 years to a close. Mr. Hamblin then spent his time reading and going to morning coffee at Stockman's Cafe. It was there that he and other retired teachers gathered to reminisce and discuss politics. It was not uncommon to see him walking his beloved dogs around his neighborhood.
Mr. Hamblin was a member of the First Baptist Church in Broken Bow, faithfully serving as a moderator, adult Sunday School and youth leader. He was a member of Broken Bow Education Assn., Nebraska State Education Assn., and National Education Assn. He held lifetime membership in VFW Post 3575 and American Legion Post 126.
Gerrit Hamblin is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jane Hamblin of Broken Bow, and a sister, Connie Spain of Sioux City, Iowa.
Published in Custer County Chief, July 14, 2011