Laura Ann Steinwart was born on September 16, 1932 at Imperial Nebraska. She was the younger of two daughters born to Walter and Claire Hegwood Carey. Laura lived in Madrid as a young girl before moving to Grant where she attended school. Laura Ann graduated from Perkins County High School in 1949. She then attended the University of Nebraska in Lincoln for a year. Laura returned to Grant where she worked as a legal secretary for George B. Hastings.

Laura Ann was married to Donald Steinwart on February 20, 1955 in Grant at her parent’s home. Don was serving in the U.S. Navy and the family lived in many different parts of the United States, including both coasts. While living in California, despite raising her family while Don was at sea, Laura was hired by a title company to research and draw up titles for the beginning of a new development-Napa Valley.

After Don was discharged in 1970 after 20 years with the Navy, they returned to Madrid. They moved to the Snowmass ski resort in Colorado in 1976 where they worked until 1978. They moved to Lexington where she worked for the law firm of Smith and Smith specializing in deeds and titles. She also helped develop the firm’s transition to computers during this period. Even though full time at the law firm, she assisted Don in the operation of the Ward’s store.

Laura retired in 1994 due to failing health. They moved to Cozad this past summer to be closer to family. Laura suffered from COPD for a lengthy period but she was very determined to live her life as normal as possible. She was admitted to the Cozad Community Hospital earlier this week and died there on Wednesday night, November 25, 2009. She had reached the age of 77.

Laura was an avid reader and had the gift of musical ability, playing both the piano and organ. In addition to her parents, Laura Ann was preceded in death by her sister, Thora Shields. She is survived by her husband, Don; 2 sons- Tim (Cindy) of Madrid and Mike (B.J.) of Cozad; 1 daughter- Cindy Voigt of Round Rock Texas; 11 grandchildren and 2 great-granddaughters; other relatives and friends.

Bullock-Long Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.