Merlin “Pete” Warnken – Metz Mortuary

Merlin “Pete” Warnken, age 84 of York, Nebraska died April 20, 2023 at York. He was born May 29, 1938 at Beatrice, NE to George and Della (Kiene) Warnken. On June 3, 1958, he was married to Deanna Wusk at Adams, NE.  Pete was employed at Sunflower Carriers in York as maintenance foreman for the plant for over 30 years. He then was employed by Kroy Manufacturing in York until his retirement. An active member of the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in York he served many years on the Church Council. He was a former member of the York Elks Lodge, loved woodworking, and growing vegetables in his garden. Pete loved to tinker as there was nothing he couldn’t build, create or make better.

He is survived by his wife Deanna of York, daughter Shari (Steve) Wilkins of Homosassa, FL, grandchildren include Matthew Wilkens, Christopher Wilkins, and Lindsay Wheeler all of Texas, great granddaughters: Mattylin, Emmylin, and Lilly. Also surviving is his sister Phyllis (Howard) Koontz of Colorado, sister-in-law Bonnie Warnken of Wilbur, NE, sister-in-law Christy (Don) Voboril of Adams, NE, and nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son Randy and a brother Duane.

Memorial services are scheduled for 2:00 pm, Wednesday, April 26, 2023 at the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in York with the Reverend Rob Garton officiating. Private inurnment at a later date. Pete has been cremated so there will be no viewing, however his family will greet friends from 6-7:30 pm Tuesday evening at the mortuary in York. Memorials may be directed to First Evangelical Lutheran Church or to Greenwood Cemetery. 
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