Lois Ann Schank

February 15, 1926 - February 23, 2013

Lois Ann Schank, 87, of Central City, former editor of the Republican-Nonpareil newspaper and nurse at Litzenberg Hospital, died February 24, 2013 after a battle with cancer. She was born in Omaha on February 15, 1926 to Frieda and Arleon Spellman. Her mother’s family was from Russia; her father was from Michigan and is interred in Arlington National Cemetery. Lois was an avid learner, wonderful writer, loving mother, and caring nurse. As a youth, she was accomplished in dance, and also liked to play golf and tennis. Her interest in writing began early, as a reporter for her high school newspaper. At the University of Nebraska at Omaha, she majored in journalism and history. She moved to Central City after college to wed Charles Schank on September 6, 1952. Married for 20 years, they had four children together: Prof. Jeff Schank, Suzanne Schank, Sandra Schank, MD, and Patricia Schank, PhD. Lois worked as a reporter at the Republican-Nonpareil for many years, and became editor of the newspaper in 1974. In 1987, she changed careers, entering nursing school. She worked as a nurse (LPN) at Litzenberg Hospital for 13 years, retiring at age 78. Throughout her life, Lois remained politically active, writing letters to newspapers and government representatives. She attended the Episcopal Church and the Friends Meeting in Central City, and was active in the Democratic party and Nebraskans for Peace. Lois is survived by her four children, granddaughter Chelsey Cameron (who followed her grandmother's path into nursing), and great-grandson Ethan Cameron. She was preceded in death by her parents. A visitation will be held on Friday March 1 from 5-7 pm at Wagner Funeral Home in Central City. The funeral service will be on Saturday March 2 at 10 am, also at the Wagner Funeral Home with Ellen Campbell officiating. Burial is in the Central City Cemetery. Memorial contributions in honor of Lois may be sent to The National Cancer Institute, Building 31 Room 11A-16, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892. See http://obf.cancer.gov/contribute/giftfund.htm for more information on the NCI Gift Fund.