Gordon Gust Foth, 88, formerly of Ord, passed away on October 21, 2026 at Eventide Lincoln Care Center in Lincoln. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and farmer. Gordon was born on March 18, 1938, in Ord, Nebraska. He was the son of Gust and Agnes Foth, who instilled in him a love for the land and a dedication to family values. Gordon’s life was a testament to the virtues of hard work, humor, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life.
He received his early education at Valleyside rural school then graduated from Ord High School. Gordon married his beloved Rena Belle (Ryschon) on April 27, 1958 at Mira Valley Church in Ord. Their marriage was blessed with seven children, who brought them immeasurable joy. They spent many years farming alongside his dad and brother in the Mira Valley area. Gordon and Rena celebrated 53 years of marriage prior to her passing, building a life centered on faith and family, creating a lasting legacy.
A lifelong farmer, Gordon was passionate about tending to the land and raising livestock. He often shared his farming wisdom, reminding others that “nothing runs like a Deere!” He loved the outdoors. When he wasn’t doing farm work, he enjoyed playing fetch with the cow dogs, tinkering with the farm equipment, helping his kids train their 4-H animals (a challenge he relished), and always took time to enjoy the Nebraska sunsets. Gordon also worked 18 years with the US Postal Service till his retirement, serving his community with the same commitment he brought to his farm.
Gordon was an avid Nebraska Cornhuskers fan, cheering enthusiastically on game days whether he was at home, in the barn, or in the fields. He also found joy in the music of old cowboy legends and often attempted to “sing” lines from their ballads to make his family laugh. His playful spirit also shone through as he cranked up the car radio during the ride home from church to listen to The Big Joe Polka Show much to the amusement (and occasional eye roll) of his kids. His quick wit and talent for telling “dad jokes” (even before they were a thing) brought smiles to all who knew him.
Gordon’s family was his pride and joy. He is survived by his children: Debra (Loren) Lind of Polk, Loree Hansen of Belgrade MT, Barbara (Michael) Nigon of Elk Mound WI, Bryan of Lincoln, Anita (Chris) Grant of Lincoln, Daniel (Tara) of Minden, and Bradley of Minden. His 14 grandchildren: Cody (Ashley) Pedersen, Meagan (Chris) LeBlanc, Matthew Hansen, Krystal (Tim) Wahl, Karie Jo (Spencer) Erickson, Kendall (Emma) Nigon, Hannah Foth, Ashley (Bryon) Wellmann, Amanda (Matthew) Lostroh, Torrian Grant, and Logan, Lindsey, Dathan, and Dakota Foth. Gordon was also blessed with four great-grandchildren: Zipporah Lostroh, Alexander and Eli Wellmann, and Cecilia Wahl.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Rena Belle; parents, Gust and Agnes Foth; parents-in-law, Francis and Ruth Ryschon; brother and sister-in-law, Gust Jr and Kay Foth; son-in-law, Michael Hansen, and great-grandson, Henry Gordon Wellmann.
Gordon’s life was a rich tapestry of love, laughter, and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will endure in the hearts of his family and friends, a testament to a life well-lived.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to The American Heart Association or The American Stroke Foundation.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Eventide Lincoln Care Center and Hospice and Bryan East Hospital for their compassionate care.
Reverend Scott Smith will be officiating a celebration of life memorial service at the Mira Valley Church in Ord on Friday, October 30th at 11:00 am with lunch to follow. The family will hold a private inurnment at a later date.
Cards of condolence can be mailed to Barbara Nigon, E8502 530th Ave, Elk Mound WI 54739.
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