Barry Jerome Thoendel

Barry Jerome Thoendel - April 19, 1965 – November 7, 2023 Barry was born on April 19, 1965 to Margaret and Jerome Thoendel. He grew up in Waterloo, Nebraska, and after graduating from high school, his adventure began. In the spring of 1985, he met the love of his life, Sandy. In 1993, they vowed to start their life as husband and wife. Through this marriage came their three loving children: Keith, Courtney, and Sarina—his pride and joy. It wasn’t uncommon to find Barry out tooling in his garage with his favorite tunes blaring in the background. At times, his garage became the neighborhood hangout. From the rumble of his '76 Firebird and '73 Trans Am, to the rugged charm of “Mean Green”, improvements were always being made. He had plenty of opportunities to share his knowledge of motors with other enthusiasts. Barry’s skilled work on his cars were extensions of his very essence—fast, loud, and full of life. Barry's professional journey with Kiewit started in 1983, spanning nearly four decades—a testament to his strong work ethic and dedication. He had tenacious pride for his work, and was also fortunate to meet many lifelong friends throughout his career. With each job move, Barry loved to get his family involved in the history and activities that each state had to offer. Barry had many hobbies and interests that made up his wonderful personality. Whether he was working on his latest car project, immersed in an old Western film starring Clint Eastwood, watching Husker football, or attending live concerts, Barry lived a life that blended the thrill of the present with the timeless echoes of the past. Barry was a man that loved to offer his help and his knowledge to many. A family man at his core, Barry provided for his loved ones with great pride, instilling in them the values of hard work, dedication, and the importance of cherishing moments together. As we remember Barry, let us do so not with tears, but with the vibrant echoes of his favorite songs, the rumble of powerful engines, and the enduring spirit of a man who lived life in the fast lane. Barry’s is survived by his parents Jerome and Margaret, wife Sandy, children Keith, Courtney, and Sarina, grandchildren Kyle and Lexi, brothers Martin and Eric, sisters Kelly, Luanne, and Angie, and lifelong friend Kurt. Rest in peace, dear Barry. Your memory will forever race through our hearts. Memorial donations will go to the Wounded Warrior Project and Al Anon and AA of Valley, Nebraska. **To honor Barry and his favorite interests, please feel free to dress up your favorite band tee, husker garb, or motorsports/car tees to wear to the service.** A celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00am Saturday, 11/11/23, at Reichmuth Funeral Home. Visitation with Family will be from 10:00 - 11:00am Saturday prior to the service.

Barry Jerome Thoendel

April 19, 1965 - November 7, 2023