December 31, 1933 – February 18, 2026
Kenneth “Ken” (KH) Henry Niedan, 92, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of February 18, 2026, at Heritage Estates with family at his side.
Ken was born on December 31, 1933, at the family homestead near Philip, South Dakota, to Henry K. Niedan and Irene Mortensen Niedan. He was raised on the family farm in Jones County and graduated from Murdo High School in 1951. He attended the University of South Dakota before beginning a lifelong career in banking and finance.
On August 22, 1954, he married Connie J. Foreman at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in rural Midland, South Dakota. They shared 71 years of marriage.
Ken spent most of his life as a banker. In 1968, Ken and Connie joined his brother Dean and community members in chartering Hershey State Bank in Hershey, Nebraska, where he served as president for 52 years.
Ken enjoyed hunting, fishing—especially walleye—woodworking, painting, and gardening. Each year, he planted sweet corn to share with the Hershey community and for the annual Hershey Fall Festival. He was known for his quick wit, generous spirit, and love of teaching his children and grandchildren about the outdoors, creating many life lessons and memories.
Survivors include his wife, Connie; daughters Karen (Owen) Palm, Karla (Darrel) Niedan-Streeks, and Linda Niedan Howard; grandchildren Bryan (Jessica) Palm, Corey Palm, and Carsen Howard; and great-grandchildren Kolton, Riley, Zoe, and Peyton Palm.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Carolyn (Dick) Berg; his brothers, E. Dean Niedan and Gordon K. Niedan; and his son-in-law, Joe Howard.
Burial will be in the family plot at North Platte Cemetery. A graveside service will be held with family and close friends on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 10:30 am CST. A celebration of life for all friends and family will be held at a later date.
Gering Memorial Chapel will be in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the KH Niedan Memorial Fund in care of Gering Memorial Chapel. 1755 11th ST. Gering, NE 69341. Fond memories and condolences may be left at www.geringchapel.com.
The family would like to express heartfelt thanks to Ken’s loving caregivers at Heritage Estates, Kara Plett and Dr. Brittany Eirich whose kindness, dedication and compassionate care meant so much to Ken and his family.
