Geraldine "Gerri" (Kocian) Kouma

September 11, 1937 – October 14, 2025 Age 88

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Geraldine “Gerri” Kocian Kouma, age 88, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025. Gerri was born on September 11, 1937, on a farm near Loma, Nebraska, to parents Emil and Emma Kocian. She attended District 82 Grade School in Loma and later graduated from Dwight Assumption High School in Dwight, Nebraska, in 1956.

Shortly after graduating, she married Donald Rejda on September 8, 1956, at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Loma.

Together, they raised three children — Galen, Michelle, and Terry. Donald tragically passed away in March 1973, a loss that deeply shaped Gerri’s life.

In time, Gerri found companionship again. While dancing at the Pla-Mor Ballroom, she met Arnold Kouma. Their shared love of dancing led to marriage on July 16, 1977, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Denton, Nebraska.

Arnold brought four children — Sue, Greg, Joe, and Nancy — into the family, and together they made their home on Arnold’s farm.

Gerri was the heart of that home — a devoted homemaker known for her warm hospitality and incredible cooking. Her pies, kolaches, apple strudel, and dumplings were loved by all. She had a deep passion for gardening and flowers, filling her home and yard with color and life.

In her later years, Gerri and her dear friend Arnie shared many adventures together, traveling to garage sales, auctions, and flea markets throughout the area. Many will fondly remember the big garage on the farm, always full of treasures for sale — and Gerri’s firm but fair negotiating skills.

Though she sometimes acted tough, Gerri’s heart was always kind. She had a special place in it for animals, especially the stray cats she lovingly fed on her front porch.

Gerri is survived by her beloved husband Arnold Kouma, her children and stepchildren, and many cherished grandchildren and great grandchildren. Arnold and Gerri moved from the farm to The Legacy Arbors in their later years, where they continued their life together and joyfully celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary this past July 16th.

Gerri will be remembered for her strength, kindness, and the warmth she brought to everyone who knew her. Her legacy of love and laughter will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

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“May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love she gave so freely."