Dayton Reichman

Dayton Reichman, 86, of Venango, Nebraska, passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, NE.

Born on September 13, 1939, in Chappell, Nebraska, to Vester and Laura (Perry) Reichman, Dayton grew up with a deep appreciation for the land and the community that raised him. He was baptized on May 12, 1950, and graduated from Chappell High School in 1957. Following graduation, he worked alongside his father on the family farm until 1963, when he entered the United States Army. As a Sergeant, Dayton served with distinction as an air guard, often recalling the unique experience of patrolling from the top of a tank. His service included a historic period in Texas, where he was called to patrol the streets following the assassination of President Kennedy.

Upon returning to civilian life, Dayton's world was forever changed when he was set up on a date with Judy Hahlweg. The two fell in love and were united in marriage on December 23, 1964, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Together, they built a life and a farm two miles north of Venango, starting with a dairy operation and raising three children: Michael, Sandra, and Laurie. Dayton's faith was a cornerstone of his life; he was confirmed in the Lutheran Church in 1968 and dedicated decades of service to his congregation as an Elder, Treasurer, President, and Trustee.

Dayton was the quintessential servant leader, pouring his energy into the growth of his community and its youth. He served as a 4-H leader in Deuel County and was the visionary founder of the Perkins County 4-H Foundation Board, ensuring that local youth had the resources needed to attend camps and the state fair. His leadership extended to the Perkins County Fair Board for 16 years, the Deuel and Perkins County Extension Boards, and the Farm Bureau at both the local and state levels. He served two terms as the Second Vice President for the State Farm Bureau Board.

His commitment to Venango was further evidenced through his active membership in the Lions Club, where he served as local president and secretary as well as Deputy District Governor. A proud veteran, he was a member of the Venango American Legion Post, serving as treasurer and secretary, and he enjoyed mentoring youth during Junior Achievement Day at the courthouse. Dayton was also a dedicated member of the Venango Volunteer Fire Department and its board. In August of 1989, his decades of selfless work were celebrated when he was honored as the Parade Grand Marshall representing the Venango area.

Education was perhaps Dayton's greatest public passion. He served on the Venango School Board for over 20 years and spent 30 years on the ESU 16 Board, holding numerous roles including President. His expertise was recognized at the highest levels of state government when Governor Orr appointed him to the Nebraska State Ad Hoc Education Committee. He also served as the Director of the Multi-County Southwest area, representing 29 school districts.

Beyond the boards and the farming, Dayton's true joy was his family. He never knew a stranger, whether he was striking up a conversation at the gas station or the grocery store. He was his grandchildren's biggest fan, often traveling across the state with Judy to catch multiple events in a single day. He could be found in the stands through freezing rain or wind, always with a smile and a teasing spirit that showed how much he loved being there. Dayton lived life on his own terms until the very end; he harvested his corn crop this last fall and spent his final months doing what he loved-fixing equipment and preparing for the next season.

Dayton was preceded in death by his parents, Vester and Laura; his brother and sister-in-law, Lester and Karen Reichman; and his brother-in-law, Charlie Duffield.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy of Venango; his children, Michael (Anne) Reichman of Mesa, AZ, Sandra (Josh) Jobman of Gothenburg, and Laurie (Joseph) Vak of North Platte. He leaves behind ten grandchildren who were his pride and joy: Nicholas, Hannah, and Nathan Reichman; Jacob (Madison) Rosse, Landon Rosse, Breck Jobman, and Emaleigh Rosse; Jade Vak (fiancé Lane), JD, and Trinity Vak. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Duffield of McCook, and a host of relatives and friends who will miss his wisdom, his grit, and his laughter.

Memorials are suggested to the St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Venango. Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com, where the services will be streamed live.

Funeral services will be on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 10:30 am at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Venango with Rev. Kurt Hatteberg officiating. Interment with military honors will be in the Venango Cemetery.

Visitation will be on Thursday, from 3 pm until 6 pm at the Bullock Long Funeral Home of Grant.

Bullock Long Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.