David “Dave” Rex Earnest

David “Dave” Rex Earnest, 65, of Grand Island, passed away on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at the Grand Island VA Medical Center.

A Celebration of David’s life will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Jacobsen-Greenway-Dietz Funeral Home in St. Paul.  Family will greet friends 1 hour prior to services at the funeral home.   Memorials are suggested to the family to be designated at a later date. Guests are encouraged to wear husker attire and or nature colors in honor of Dave.

David was born on April 3, 1959, to Rex and Rosemary (Stice) Earnest in Grand Island, Nebraska.  He grew up in Grand Island and graduated from Grand Island Senior High in 1977.   He received his bachelor’s degree in art education from UNL in 1982.  David was united in marriage to Lynelle Meerkatz on August 14, 1982, at the Grand Island Baptist Church.

Dave's military journey began when he proudly entered the United States Army on September 1, 1982, serving his country honorably until his discharge on July 1, 1992. Throughout his life, he embraced a variety of roles, each one a testament to his diverse talents and passions. He shared his knowledge and leadership skills by teaching ROTC at Iowa State College, inspiring young minds along the way. His career also took him into the world of real estate as an agent for Century 21 in Lincoln, where he helped others find their dream homes.

David was a skilled newspaper editor for both the Milford Times and the Seward Independent, where his words informed and connected the community.  Dave received his associate degree in graphic design from MCC in Milford in 2001.  He nurtured his artistic spirit as an Independent Muralist Artisan, bringing color and life to spaces around him. He worked with dedication at Iam’s Shipping Warehouse, Weldon’s, and BonnaVilla in Grand Island, contributing to his local community.

Outside of work, David found joy in a wide array of hobbies that enhanced his life. He loved bowling, skiing, fishing, and camping, often finding solace in nature. Writing poetry provided him a creative outlet, allowing his emotions and thoughts to flow onto the page. He was an avid sports enthusiast, cheering for his favorite teams, and a talented artist, creating beautiful masterpieces that spoke to his soul. His musical talents shone through as well, as he enjoyed singing and playing the guitar, sharing his love for music with those around him. David's life was truly a rich tapestry of experiences, creativity, and connection to others.

Those left to cherish his memory include his mother, Rosemary Close of Kearney; daughters and son-in-law, Lyndsey Earnest of Fremont, Desiree and Joshua Willson of Seward; brothers and sisters-in-law, Bill and Jane Earnest of Grand Island, Steve and Laurie Earnest of Grand Island, Mike and Maggie Earnest of Iowa, Dan and Amber Earnest of Iowa; ex-wife, Lynelle Matulka of Seward; numerous nieces and nephews.

David was preceded in death by his father, Rex Earnest; nephew, Tyler Earnest; and sister-in-law, Missy Earnest.