The Superior Express -

Darrel Ray Uhrmacher, 69, of Sutherland, died Nov. 22, 2022 at home. He was born on Sept. 20, 1953, to Raymond and Helen (Tanner) Uhrmacher in Superior.

Darrel grew up in Superior, attending a country school through the 8th grade, and graduating from Superior High School in 1971.

After graduating, Darrel began secretly taking flying lessons, against his parents’ approval.  In 1972, he received his pilot’s license and also joined the Army National Guard, serving from 1972-1978.  Darrel flew private planes, crop dusters and eventually corporate jets. He flew his family for the holidays, for travel and just for fun.

In 1980, Darrel went on a blind date with Barb Hansen. A year later, on Oct. 3, 1981, they were married in the Lutheran church in Holdrege. The couple had two children, Shannon and Andrew. The family moved around Nebraska, following Darrel’s profession and hobby as a pilot. They lived in Omaha for 30 years, and Imperial for four. After retiring in 2019, Darrel and Barb moved to Sutherland to be closer to their grandchildren.

Darrel was a busy man with a plethora of hobbies. Some of the activities he enjoyed were horse training, gunsmithing, archery, gardening, rebuilding motorcycles, and anything that took place outdoors. Just recently, Darrel’s son taught him how to play the guitar. He loved his grandchildren and time with them, going fishing, attending their program’s and sporting events. He could fix anything; if he didn’t know how, he taught himself.  Darrel was a sharpshooter in the military. Darrel liked to read, study, and learn about the intricate details of all things. Darrel was fully dedicated to anything and everything he did, from his career and hobbies to his family.

Darrel is survived by wife, Barbara Uhrmacher, of Sutherland; children, Shannon Rotert, of Sutherland, Andy Uhrmacher, of Denver; his grandchildren; and brother, Virgil Uhrmacher, of Thedford.

Darrel was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Helen; Marian Hansen; siblings, Catherine Ahrens, and Melvin Uhrmacher.

His funeral was held Tuesday at Sutherland Methodist Church with Pastor Mike Baldwin officiating. Inurnment will be at a later date.