Doniphan resident, Alvin “Junior” D. Panker, 82, passed away Saturday, September 24, 2011 at Golden Living Center – Grand Island Lakeview, Grand Island, Nebraska.

Alvin’s wishes were to have no services or visitation. Memorials may be given to Shriners Hospitals for Children, Special Olympics, or Mid-Nebraska Individual Services Foundation, Grand Island Chapter, c/o Katy Panker, PO Box 198, Doniphan, NE 68832.

Junior was born February 2, 1929 in Hastings, Nebraska to Alvin L. & Mabel (Ralstin) Panker. He attended Hastings High School before enlisting in the military. Junior served with the Navy Seabees from 1946 until 1949. He married Kathryn “Katy” Hegwood on May 25, 1948 in Hastings. Junior owned and operated Panker Plumbing in Hastings until 1969. He also opened and closed graves for numerous cemeteries around the area, a trade he was very proud of. Then in 1969, Alvin & Katy purchased the bar in Doniphan, now known as Katy’s Old Town Saloon. He was a member of the Saddle Club, American Legion, Platte-Duetsche in Grand Island; and was a past member of Masonic Lodge, Tehama Shrine, and American Quarter Horse Association. Alvin’s hobby was his horses, especially cutting and riding.

Junior was preceded in death by his parents; and infant brother.

Survivors include:
Wife: Kathryn “Katy” Panker – Doniphan, NE
Daughters & Spouse: Holly & Wade Zersen – Grand Island, NE
    Karla Norflis
Grandchildren: Tami Panker – Lincoln, NE
    Kelly Zersen – Sacramento, CA
    Kristin Smith – Sacramento, CA
Sister & Spouse: Shirley & Joe Swift – Hastings, NE
Brother & Spouse: Bob & Mary Ann Panker – Carlsbad, CA
Brother-in-law & Spouse: Kenneth & Betty Hegwood – Hansen, NE
Nieces, Nephews, and many friends
Favorite Dog: J.R.
Special Horses: Suzy & Blondie