Trudy J. Geiger

Trudy J. Geiger of Cozad passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026, leaving behind a legacy filled with kindness, creativity, and devoted community service.

She was born on July 24, 1946 in Lexington, Nebraska to E.A. “Bob” and Ruth (Bayles) Cornette. Trudy grew up in Cozad after her family moved there early in her life, settling on 13th and N Street. She graduated from Cozad High School in 1964, where she was a majorette in the school band. After high school, she attended the University of Nebraska, School of Nursing and became an active member of Alpha Omicron Pi. In 1968, she earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. That same year, Trudy married her high school classmate and prom date, Edwin Geiger. Together, they shared nearly thirty wonderful years of marriage and raised two daughters, Andrea born in 1974 and Amanda in 1977.

Trudy’s professional life was marked by a deep commitment to healthcare and her community. After returning to Cozad with her nursing degree, she began working as a Registered Nurse at Cozad Community Hospital. Understanding the need for expanded healthcare services, she helped establish Community Home Health Services in the early 1970s and served as its director. Her dedication to improving access to compassionate care positively affected many families in the area. She later gave her time and leadership through many years of service on the Cozad Community Hospital District Board.

Beyond nursing, Trudy was well-known as the heart and soul behind the Strawberry Patch, a beloved gift gallery she founded in Cozad in 1979. For over 37 years, she ran the shop with creativity and warmth. The store was filled with unique gifts, collectibles, and home décor, reflecting Trudy’s eye for special treasures, many of which she found during annual buying trips to markets in Dallas and Denver with her co-workers.

Trudy was also an artist who loved painting, sculpting, and exploring various forms of art. One of her notable artistic achievements was designing “Windswept Reflections,” a seven-foot stainless steel windmill sculpture for the Winds of Life exhibit across Nebraska in 2007. This sculpture remains outside the Wilson Public Library in Cozad, a lasting tribute to her creativity.

She was a mother who found immense joy in helping her children with school projects and creative endeavors, including designing sets for One Act plays. Her thoughtful attention to detail made each project special and memorable.

Trudy shared many happy memories with her family, including annual ski trips to Colorado and summers spent at Johnson Lake, Nebraska. Along with her husband, she earned a private pilot license, and they enjoyed flying their Piper Cherokee together. In 1970, her contributions to the community were recognized when she was honored as the Outstanding New Mrs. Jaycee of Nebraska.

After the passing of her husband, Trudy showed great strength and determination by managing the family farm for more than a decade. She was nationally recognized throughout Nebraska for running a successful woman-owned and operated farming business.

Trudy’s kindness extended beyond her work and family. She was fondly remembered by many as a swimming teacher and lifeguard at the local pool, where her patience and encouragement helped many children learn to swim. She loved gathering with friends, playing cards, and participating with enthusiasm in community celebrations, such as the local Fourth of July boat parade.

Those who knew Trudy cherished her warm spirit, generosity, and the genuine connections she made with people of all ages. She found great happiness in spending time with her family, friends, and neighbors, embracing life with a spirited sense of fun.

Trudy leaves behind her two daughters, Andrea and Amanda, who carry forward her legacy of love, creativity, and community spirit. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her impact on her community and family will be remembered for years to come.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Edwin; her parents, E.A. “Bob” and Ruth Cornette; brother-in-law Otto Geiger, brother-in-law Raymond Geiger, sister-in-law Rose Ann Paslay and her husband, Michael; and nephew Trevor Cornette.

Trudy is survived by her daughters, Andrea Geiger of Mount Pleasant, SC and Amanda (Morgan) Hughes of Houston, TX; grandson, Edwin Hughes of Houston, TX; brother, Don (Cindy) Cornette of Wichita, KS; sister-in-law, Marlene Geiger of Cozad; sister-in-law Judith Geiger of Cozad; brother-in-law, Robert (Colleen) Geiger, Jr. of Thurman, IA; and many nieces, Nephews and close friends.

Memorials are suggested to the family for a high school scholarship fund. Online condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com. Private Graveside services will be held with Celebration of Life at a later date.