Velda June Cassell, 73, of Stapleton, Nebraska, passed away surrounded by family on May 24, 2026. Born and raised in the region, Velda graduated from Ogallala High School and spent much of her adult life serving her community—both through her work and volunteerism. For more than 25 years, she was the manager of the North Platte Dairy Queen, where she was known for her strong work ethic and friendly presence.

Velda gave back in many ways. She volunteered with the Stapleton Fire Department and completed her Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification to better serve her neighbors in emergencies. She also managed the Stapleton Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and regularly sent care packages to deployed service members through the Hugs for Heroes program. An enthusiastic Nebraska Cornhuskers fan, Velda loved game days and sharing her team spirit with family and friends.

She is survived by her daughter, Faye Yost; son, William Cassell, five grandchildren; siblings, Dennis Dunlap, Ph.D., Robert “Bob” Dunlap, and Doris (Dunlap) Walker. Velda was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Vivian Dunlap; husband, William “Billy” Cassell; son, Jim Bob Cassell; infant brother, Keithie; granddaughters, Bristol Cassell and Luna Yost.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, www.support.woundedwarriorproject.org, or to McCain Cemetery.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 10 AM at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home with Pastor Ned Cooper officiating. Inurnment will follow at McCain Cemetery in Stapleton, NE.