Leonard (Gunga) Kercheval

OBITUARY Leonard Robert Kercheval, affectionately known as “Gunga”, was born February 6, 1938 to Minnie Pryor and Leonard Guy Kercheval. He confessed his love to Christ at an early age and was baptized at St. Benedict Catholic Church. He attended Howard Kennedy Elementary School and attended Technical High School. He enlisted with the United States Marine Corps in January of 1956. Gunga was united in holy matrimony with Frances Curtwright for 55 years. And with this union they raised their children. Joined the Holy Name Church as he was a faithful member. Gunga served as a member of The Knights of Columbus. With the aid of Christ and Alcohol Anonymous he had the joy of a survivor for over 25 years of sobriety. With his passion as a sponsor he spent his time was dedicated to helping others with their challenges. Gunga was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend. He enjoyed weekly family ‘barbeques’ and watch the TV show ‘Charmed’ daily. Gunga could have been seen frequently riding in his neighborhood on his ‘red scooter’ or in one of his many vans! Gunga is preceded in death by his father, Leonard Guy Kercheval, mother, Minnie Pryor, brother, Stephen Kercheval, and sister, Marlyn Hunter. Gunga leaves his cherish memories to his loving wife, Frances Kercheval; Children: sons - James William Curtwright, Jack Nelson (Tina), Robert Kercheval, daughters - Patricia Nelson-Smith (Lester), Laurie Jean Kyles, Catherine Nelson, Valiena Nelson, Tammie Kercheval-Rice (Timothy), Teresa Kercheval, and Kelly Nash. Brother, Mike Kercheval, sisters, Rosemary Whitfield, Minnie Lee, Sheba Ross. Eighteen grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren and host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Special thanks to: Adele, Buzy, and Bobby for standing in and supporting Gunga and Frances through his transition. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Visitation will be Wednesday, March 28 at 6:00-8:00pm with Rosary at 7:00pm with the Funeral Mass Thursday, March 29 at 11:00am. Both services will be at Holy Name Church 2901 Fontenelle Blvd, Omaha, NE. We will receive the family after the services at Holy Name Church. In lieu of flowers send donations to The National Kidney Foundation http://www.kidney.org/support/ Braman Mortuary – 72 St. Chapel 1702 N 72 St. Omaha, NE 68114 (402)391-2171