Marlene M. Callahan

Marlene M. Callahan of Cozad passed away Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney at the age of 79. She was born January 30, 1947 in Gothenburg, Nebraska to Robert and Dixie (Weatherly) Lee.

Marlene graduated from Cozad High School with the class of 1965. After completing her education, she worked as a medical aide in North Platte, Nebraska. This role allowed her to care for others and make a difference in their lives. Marlene later moved back to Cozad, where she worked at F & S Sausage and then Monroe Auto until she retired.

On May 31, 1975, Marlene married Doug Callahan, and together they built a life filled with love and shared interests. Marlene had a passion for the outdoors. She loved fishing, camping, golfing, and horseback riding. She was a member of the Velvet Spurs Riding Club and enjoyed playing in softball and volleyball leagues. Her love for animals was a significant part of her life, reflecting her gentle and caring spirit.

Marlene took great joy in watching her grandchildren as they participated in sports and various activities, always cheering them on with enthusiasm. Marlene was known for her infectious laugh, which brought joy to all who encountered her. She will be missed by all who know her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; grandson, Nikolas Freeman; and brothers, Gary Lee and Mike Lee.

Marlene is lovingly survived by her husband, Doug Callahan of Cozad; daughters, Kimberly (Shawn) Darling of Cozad, Callie (Youl) Brown of CO and Jessica (Jason) German of Cozad; stepson, Nathan (Julie) Bevard of FL; grandchildren, Nolan (Kapra) Freeman, Nastashia Carey, Maddex German, Miles German, Taylan Carlson, Brianna Brown, Taylor Bourg, Dallas Bevard; many great grandchildren; siblings, Kermit (Glenny) Lee of Eustis, Karen Oelkers of Cozad, Ann (Don Berry) Marhenke of Cozad; sister in law, Vickie Lee; and many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. A funeral service will be held Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. at the Berryman Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Kathy Gundell officiating. Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Fort McPherson National Cemetery. There will be no visitation. Berryman Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.