Paul Samuel Brugger, 97, of Albion, died on Thursday, May 9, 2024, at the Bryan Medical Center East in Lincoln.

Paul was born May 11, 1926, on the family farm in Greeley County to Samuel and Elizabeth (Schmidt) Brugger. On June 26, 1928 he was baptized at Clearwater Lutheran Church and on June 1, 1941 confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in Albion. Paul attended Greeley County School District 39, then Boone County School District 60. Following school, Paul stayed close to home and helped his father on the farm.

On Aug. 31, 1958, Paul married the love of his life Carol Kruse at Zion Lutheran in Albion. From this union, Paul was blessed with two daughters. The couple lived and farmed near Akron until 2016 when they moved to Albion.

Paul was a long-time member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Albion. He enjoyed farming, machinery, and square dancing with his wife. For their 25th anniversary, they took a three-week trip to Switzerland to visit family. He was a member of Rae Valley’s antique machinery show and looked forward to attending the show each year. In their retirement years, Paul and Carol took several bus tours to points of interest across the United States. Most importantly, he enjoyed spending time with his family and attending his grandchildren’s events. Paul was a hardworking and honest man. He was proud that he could pass these qualities on to children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years Carol of Albion, two daughters: Betty (Thomas) Olson of Aurora and JoAnn Bauer (Gregory) of Omaha, four grandsons and three great grandchildren: Ryan Olson and children Vivienne and Lee of Aurora, Dillan (Sydney) Olson of Phillips, Grant (Bailei) Bauer and daughter Millie of Omaha and Jacob Bauer of Omaha sisters-in-law: Leta Brugger of Albion and Lois Kruse of Blair, along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers: John and Donald, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Marlene (Fred) Mitchell, Dale Kruse, Ronald (Linda) Kruse and Janet (Richard) Lawson, nephews: James Mitchell and Kyle Kruse.

Funeral services were held Monday, May 13, 2024, at Zion Lutheran Church in Albion with Rev. Carolann Hopcke officiating. Interment followed at Rose Hill Cemetery in Albion.

Levander Funeral Home of Albion was in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.levanderfuneralhome.com.