Raymond E. Chvatal

Raymond E. Chvatal, age 74, of Wahoo, Nebraska, passed away Thursday, March 5, 2026, in Omaha.

Ray was born January 29, 1952, in Wahoo to Richard and Martha (Brabec) Chvatal. He was raised on the family farm near Colon, Nebraska, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for agriculture and rural life.

He graduated from Mead High School in 1971 and later attended college in Lincoln, earning an Associate’s Degree. Farming was both his heritage and his passion, and Ray devoted his entire career to caring for and operating the family farm. After retiring from farming, he continued to stay active by working as a driver for Wahoo Concrete Company for several years, and also as a bus driver for Mead Public Schools.

Ray believed strongly in serving his community. He was a longtime member of the Colon Volunteer Fire Department and also belonged to the Nebraska Corn Growers Association and the Nebraska Soybean Association. He was a faithful member of Wahoo First United Methodist Church and was active in the Sons of the American Legion. As a tribute to veterans, Ray frequently honored their service by playing taps at veteran services.

Outside of work and community service, Ray enjoyed a variety of interests. He was an avid reader of newspapers, liked following many different sports on television, and enjoyed spending time outdoors. Ski trips to Winter Park, Colorado were among his favorite vacations, and he also enjoyed water skiing. Ray had an easygoing personality and loved visiting with people. He enjoyed dancing—especially country-style dancing—and had a fondness for polka music.

Ray married Betty Kreutzer on March 23, 1991, at Wahoo First United Methodist Church. He was also a dedicated blood donor, generously giving over 20 gallons of blood through the American Red Cross during his lifetime.

He is survived by his wife Betty A. Chvatal of Wahoo; step-children Dee Pelster of Elgin, NE, Dawn (Doug) Kottas of Papillion, D.J. Rieck of Waverly; grandchildren Kelly Seier, Nathan Jurgens, Taylor Colson, Cierra Rieck; brother Rod (Melody) Chvatal of rural Colon; sister-in-law Karen (Larry) Fox; nephews Aaron Chvatal, Caleb Chvatal, and Micah Chvatal. He was preceded in death by his parents; and grandson Tanner Pelster.

Funeral services will be at 11 am, Thursday, March 12 at Wahoo First United Methodist Church with visitation beginning at 10 am. Interment will be at Sunrise North Cemetery in Wahoo.