Alice Marie Ratzlaff (Neilsen), age 94, formerly of Paxton, Nebraska, passed away Monday, January 1 2024 at The Birch in Sutherland, Nebraska with her son and daughter-in-law by her side.  Alice was born June 8, 1929 in Lewellen, Nebraska to Thomas and Ruth Mae (Peterson) Neilsen.  She grew up in Omaha, Nebraska where she graduated from high school.

Alice married Ronald Befort on October 11, 1950.  They made their home in North Platte and Sutherland.  They had two sons, Paul and John.  On June 2, 1977, Alice married Joe Ratzlaff.  They lived in Paxton, Nebraska until 1989 when they moved to North Platte, Nebraska to be closer to her sons and grandchildren.  Alice worked at the Sutherland Nursing Home and later at the Sutherland Coop.  When they moved to North Platte, she worked part time at the Wooden Doll and later helped her son Paul at his business, Camera Works.  Alice volunteered for the R.S.V.P., the Lincoln County Historical Museum, and was a member of the Buffalo Bill Kiwanis Club.  She also enjoyed playing cards with friends and Bingo.

Online condolences and live stream of the service will be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.

Alice was preceded in death by her husbands, her oldest son Paul, her brothers Frank and Thomas Jr., and her aunt Thora Boyle, who she spent many summers with while growing up.

Alice is survived by her son John (Barbara) Befort; daughter-in-law Carol Befort; 3 grandchildren, Lea, Jeremy and Amanda; 8 great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be held at 10:00 A.M., Friday, January 5, 2024 at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home with Reverend Vidya Sagar officiating.  Inurnment will be at the North Platte Cemetery.  Book signing will be noon – 5PM, Thursday, January 4 at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home who is in charge of assisting the family.