Arthur E. Vigil, 85, of Kimball, died at the Cheyenne Regional Medical Center on Saturday, October 7, 2023. Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church with Father C.P. Varghese officiating. The Rosary Service will be held at 9:30 a.m. prior to the funeral at the church. Burial will be held in the Kimball Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home on Monday from noon until 4:00 p.m. Friends may also visit www.cantrellfh.com to leave condolences and stories for the family. Memorials may be given in his memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. The services for Arthur have been entrusted to the Cantrell Funeral Home.
Arthur Ernest Vigil was born on September 7, 1938, the son of Candido and Josephine Vigil. Arthur's early years were spent in Trinidad, where he received his education and laid the foundation for a lifetime of learning. In 1969, he achieved a significant milestone by earning his GED, showcasing his commitment to personal growth and development. Throughout his life, Arthur wore many hats, each of them with diligence and pride. He began as a farm laborer, demonstrating his strong work ethic and determination. For 11 years, he dedicated his time to the Wheat Growers Hotel in Kimball, Nebraska, where he provided service and hospitality to countless guests. On January 26, 1957, Arthur embarked on a lifelong journey of love and partnership when he married Delores Rodriguez at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Kimball, Nebraska. Their union was blessed with love, companionship, and a shared commitment to family. Arthur's professional journey was diverse and enduring. He delivered cream for the Kimball Creamery and worked at the Corner Bar, where he interacted with friends and neighbors, leaving a lasting impact on the community and Z&S Construction. However, it was his 48-year tenure as an auto body technician at the J/K Chevrolet dealer in Kimball that became a hallmark of his career, earning the respect and admiration of those he served. Even in retirement, Arthur's dedication persisted as he joined the Kimball Public Schools as a custodian. His contributions to the school community were appreciated by all, reflecting his unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Arthur had a zest for life that was reflected in his hobbies and interests. He cherished his time spent playing pool, cheering on the Nebraska Huskers football team, and indulging in the timeless allure of Western movies, with a special fondness for those featuring the iconic John Wayne. Arthur Ernest Vigil touched the lives of many with his kindness, hard work, and love for family and community. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Survivors include his wife Delores Vigil of Kimball, NE; sons Paul (Theresa) Vigil of Rio Rancho, NM., Johnny Vigil of Scottsbluff, NE., and Mark Vigil of Kimball, NE; daughter Lauri (Kevin) Delaney of Cheyenne, WY; sister Laura Hollingsworth of Champagne, IL; 7 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Roy Vigil, Junior Vigil, Telesforo Vigil, and Johnny Vigil; and an infant son Arthur Ernest Vigil, Jr.
