Zora Adela (Anderson) Yoder

Zora Adela Yoder, the youngest child of eight born to Charles Renwick Sr. and Mary Alice (Sherrard) Anderson, passed away on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at their farm near Blue Hill, NE.

Zora was born November 3, 1933 near Wilsonville, NE. She attended “Anderson” Rural School near Wilsonville, NE. Following graduation from Wilsonville High School in 1951, she attended Lincoln General School of Nursing graduating in 1952.

Chester A Yoder and Zora were married on August 9, 1952 in Pasadena, CA at her grandmother, Dora Sherrard’s, home. Into their family they welcomed Brady L. and Cheryl A. Yoder. Their family and many friends helped them celebrate their 70th anniversary in 2022. They were blessed with 71 years of marriage.

Zora worked as an office nurse in Cambridge, a nurse at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, and a part-time night nurse supervisor at the Broken Bow Community Hospital.  Following her nursing career, she attended Kearney State College receiving a B.A in English and a minor in Physical Education. In 1964, Zora began teaching at Blue Hill Community Schools and taught English and Physical Education, coached the volleyball team (getting 2nd at State in 1972), and mentored students as Guidance Counselor. In 1965, she also attended summer school at the University of Guadalajara, in Mexico. Following six consecutive summers, Zora graduated from the University of Nebraska with a Master in Education and a minor in Educational Psychology. After 30 years of distinguished service, Zora retired from Blue Hill Community schools in May 1994.

Zora grew up with horses from a young age and continued her passion a barrel racer.  In 1970, she started competing in the Nebraska Cowgirls Rodeo Association (NCRA), where she was awarded the year end champion in 1972, placed as the Finals winner in 1994. She also held the position of President of the NCRA for several years. Zora also won numerous buckles in the National Barrel Horses Association and rodeos. Her proudest moment was when she won the Shootout saddle at the 6th Annual Barrel Mania barrel race. Another proud moment was carrying the Olympic torch in 1992 during the Pony Express Ride.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers and sisters-in-law Charles R Jr (Johanna) Anderson, R Howard (Dorothy) Anderson, and Frank N Anderson; sisters and brothers-in-law Dora A (Donell) Sylvester, Melva B (Theodore) Anderson, Alice M (Merlyn) Babbitt and Audry A Anderson.

Survivors include her husband, Chester; her son Brady L. (Bonnie) Yoder and her daughter Cheryl A. (Kenny) Wallace; grandchildren Brian J. (Keather) Yoder, Brad D. (April) Yoder, Bruce A. (Elisha) Yoder, Benjamin A. (Alicia) Yoder and Colt R (Jessica) Wallace; great-grandchildren Elizabeth P. and Xavier N. Yoder; Logan L., Elijah and Jake J. Yoder; Anna R. and Adalynn R. Yoder; Roy S. and Terra E. Yoder and Rifle R. Wallace.

Private family graveside will be held at Fort McPherson National Cemetery, Maxwell, Nebraska at a later date.  There will be no viewing or visitation as her wishes were to be cremated.  Condolences may be sent to the family at www.mertenbutlermortuary.com.  Merten-Butler Mortuary, Blue Hill, Nebraska is in charge of arrangements.

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