Dee retired from the Nebraska Correctional Center for Women in 1991 after twenty plus years of service. She then worked part-time at Hamilton Sundstrand for thirteen years as a security guard. She was a member of York Drove Does #7 and served as an officer for five years. She was also a member of the First United Methodist Church. Dee enjoyed bowling, golf, and tennis. Most of all, she loved to dance and listen to music.
She is survived by her daughter, Barbara Townsend of Lincoln, and son, Steven Townsend of Vietnam. Also left to cherish her memory are two grandchildren, Jason (Christy) Light and Jennifer Light of Lincoln, and one great granddaughter, Autumn Light of Lincoln; as well as a nephew and three nieces.
She was preceded in death by son, Robert (Bobby) Townsend; father of her children, Loren Townsend; parents, Ben and Edna Schwab; and sisters, Mary Urbach and LaVon Rasmussen.
Private graveside services will be held at a later date at Greenwood Cemetery in York. Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation.
WHEN I’M GONE
When I come to the end of my journey
And I travel my last weary mile
Just forget if you can, that I ever frowned
And remember only the smile
Forget unkind words I have spoken
Remember some good I have done
Forget that I ever had heartache
And remember I’ve had loads of fun
Forget that I’ve stumbled and blundered
And sometimes fell by the way
Remember I have fought some hard battles
And won, ere the close of the day
Then forget to grieve for my going
I would not have you sad for a day
But in summer just gather some flowers
And remember the place where I lay
And come in the shade of evening
When the sun paints the sky in the west
Stand for a few moments beside me
And remember only my best
-Lyman Hancock