Joseph Vrtiska

Joseph Francis Vrtiska set off on the eternal open road on January 15, 2018, holding the hand of his beloved wife and surrounded by his loving family.

Joe was born in Pawnee City, Nebraska on July 24, 1946 to Albert and Lillian (Luedeke) Vrtiska. He graduated from Pawnee City High School in 1964.

Joe met the love of his life, Linda Saal, as a junior in high school at the Table Rock Fair. They were united in marriage for 51 wonderful years, and made memories to last a life time.

Joe enlisted in the United States Navy on July 23, 1964, during the draft for the Vietnman War. He served as a Nuclear Weapons Specialist, ultimately stationed at Lake Mead in Las Vegas, Nevada. Joe was honorably discharged on July 21, 1967.

After his military service, Joe returned home to finish his education, graduating from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a K-12 teaching certificate in 1972. From 1972 to 1978, Joe enjoyed working as the shop teacher at Crete High School. His passion for teaching was clearly evident in everything he did, as he continued to run into former students until his last days. In 1978, Joe returned to UNL where he served as a Facilities Manager until his retirement in 2013. He often chose to work second and third shifts, so he could be at home during the days to raise his children.

Joe had many passions in life, but nothing came close to his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, and a truly doting grandfather or “Pop Pop” to grandson Lincoln.

Joe is survived in life by his wife Linda (Saal) Vrtiska; daughter Amy (Topher) Vorhies and grandson Lincoln; son William (Alicia with child) Vrtiska; and many beloved nieces and nephews.  

Joe was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Lillian (Luedeke) Vrtiska; brother Gary Vrtiska; brother Robert (Bob) Vrtiska; infant sister; and infant twin brother.

"Fear is stupid. So are regrets. So live hard. Live fast. Just don’t get caught." Adios for now.

Services 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 22, 2018 at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Officiating Reverend Duane Westing.  Visitation on Sunday, January 21, 2018 from Noon-8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 2-5 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, Pawnee City.  Interment at the Pawnee City Cemetery, Pawnee City, Nebraska. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the family in honor of Joe for later designation.  Full Military Honors provided by U.S. Navy and VFW Post #5289 of Pawnee City. Online condolences may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com.

 Service Information