Darwin “Derb” Frey, 88, of Stapleton, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2021, at the Central Nebraska Veteran’s Home in Kearney.
Darwin was born May 14, 1932 at the home of Harry and Eva Frey in Stapleton. He graduated in 1950 from Baker Rural High School and enlisted in the United States Air Force. Darwin served during the Korean War as an aerial gunner on a B-29 bomber flying out of Okinawa. He was decorated with the Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters. After serving four years each of active and reserve duty, he was honorably discharged from the Air Force and enrolled in the University of Wyoming using the G.I. Bill. Darwin graduated in 1959 with a bachelor’s degree in geology and a master’s degree in petroleum geology. He accepted a position with Chevron Oil Company working in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and Nebraska.
In the summer of 1955 while still in college, Darwin and his hometown sweetheart Lewellyn Philpot were united in marriage. They were blessed with two sons, Steven & Gregory. Darwin’s job with Chevron required him to be away from home much of the time and living in a big city was simply unacceptable, so he resigned from Chevron and moved his family back to his hometown and began his career in agriculture. Lewellyn’s father purchased the Morrison Ranch in Logan County and made Darwin manager, giving the boys a ranch life.
Darwin was a licensed pilot logging over 400 hours flying his Piper Tri-Pacer around the ranch checking pastures and windmills and taking family members to doctor appointments.
Darwin later purchased the propane and hardware business with son Steve and wife Cindy formerly owned by Mike Hanna. This business also worked well for Darwin being a Pioneer Seed Representative which lasted for 35 years. Darwin, along with younger son Greg and wife Katrina purchased the land formerly owned by his siblings.
Darwin served on the Rural Fire Board, School Board, Upper Loup NRD, Selective Service Draft Board for 25 years, and as the Vet’s Club manager and maintenance man. He belonged to the University of Wyoming honorary chapter of the Sigma XI, AAPG (American Association of Petroleum Geologists), AIME (American Institute of Mining Engineers), American Society of Crop Advisors, and Nebraska Agri-Business Association. Darwin was a 50-year life member of VFW Post 8258, served as Quartermaster for eight years and was given a citation by VFW National Headquarters for his efforts in recruiting life members. He was a 40-year member of the American Legion Post 324. Darwin gave the commands at several military funerals and was elected senior vice commander. Darwin was very patriotic, and he stood and saluted our American flag and had no time for those who did not. He spent many years placing flags on Veteran’s graves at the McCain, Loup Valley, and St. John’s Cemeteries on Memorial Day.
Darwin loved animals and had many pets. Being a geologist, he collected many rocks which can be seen in his yard.
Darwin was preceded in death by his wife Lewellyn, his parents Harry and Eva Frey, siblings Calvin, Harry Wayne and Dolores.
He is survived by sons Steven (Cindy) and Gregory (Katrina) of Stapleton; grandchildren Steph (Greg) Miller of Lincoln, Sondy Frey (Wayne Claar) of Mayfield, KY, Shawna Frey of Stapleton, Devan (Mitch) McAdow of Hyannis, Payton Frey of Prescott AZ, and Max Frey of Lincoln.
Those choosing to donate to memorials in honor of Darwin, memorials are suggested to the Staleton VFW Post 8258 or to the Callahan Cancer Center.
Graveside services will be held April 14, 2021, at Ft. McPherson Cemetery.