Joel “Gene” E. Hiatt, 73, of North Platte passed away on Monday, May 22, 2023 at Great Plains Health Hospital.

Gene was born on Feb. 11, 1950 in North Platte, the son of Melvin Hiatt and Mary (Diamond) Hiatt Farrow.

Gene grew up in North Platte and attended North Platte High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during the Vietnam War.

In 1971 he married Holly Jo Hickman. Gene was a journeyman electrician for his entire career; he worked from 1971 until his retirement in 2006 for Snell’s Services in North Platte.

He enjoyed gardening, camping, and was an avid sports fan especially football. He always had a special project in the works. Gene loved his pet dogs and is survived by his special dog “Buddy.”

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 51 years, Holly; daughter, Tammy (Chris) Anderson of Lincoln; grandchildren, Jade Anderson (Brandon Kaiser), Elora Anderson (Levi Ebbeka), Ari Anderson, and Maggie Anderson, all of Lincoln; great-grandchildren, Azzizah, Amelia, Ollie, and Carson; sister, Jackie (Herb) Kelley of North Platte; several nieces, nephews, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Timothy; sister, Carolyn Pinault; and brother, Carrol Hiatt.

Funeral services will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 25 at Carpenter Memorial Chapel, which has been entrusted with arrangements. Visitation will be held from 3 p.m. until the time of service on Thursday. Graveside services with military honors will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 26 with family and friends meeting at 9:15 a.m. at Carpenter Memorial Chapel to process to Ft. McPherson National Veterans Cemetery near Maxwell.

Online condolences may be shared at carpentermemorial.com.

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