Lee Eastburn

April 5, 1961 – July 18, 2025

Lee Edward Eastburn, 64, of Arnold, Nebraska, passed away at his home on July 18, 2025. A lifelong resident of Arnold, Lee was born on April 5, 1961, in North Platte, Nebraska. His life was one of service, family, and deep-rooted community pride.

In February of 1989, Lee married Kim in Arnold, and together they welcomed two daughters, Jessica Marie (August 1989) and Christa Lee (August 1991). His daughters were the pride and joy of his life. Lee cherished their Sunday evening drives through the Sandhills in “Ralphie,” listening to classic rock and making memories that would last a lifetime. He spoke often and proudly of his daughters’ accomplishments to anyone who would listen.

Lee came from a close-knit Irish family where loyalty ran deep, and laughter was plentiful. Family was the cornerstone of his life, and his connections extended far beyond bloodlines. Whether you shared his last name or just sat at the Red Table in Jim’s Bar, Lee made you feel like one of his own.

Lee attended Kearney State College, where he became renowned for his creative talent—particularly in the fine art of TV stand making. After college, he returned home and became an essential figure in the Arnold community.

Lee dedicated more than four decades—42 years—to the Arnold Volunteer Fire Department. His civic commitment also extended to the Riverview Apartments board, the St. Agnes Catholic Church board, coaching high school golf, and serving as a Knight of Columbus for 12 years.

In 2016, after selling the bar, Lee began a new chapter as a rural mail carrier and lovingly cared for his mother in her final years. His spirit of service and connection to the community never wavered.

Lee’s greatest joy came late in life with the birth of his granddaughter, Margaret, in November 2024. From the moment she arrived, she was the light of his life, and he embraced his role as Granddad with pride and love.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents Jim and Margaret Eastburn, best friend Bubba Hollingsworth, granddog Winston, father-in-law Mike Keyser and numerous extended family members.

Lee is survived by his daughters Jessica Curyea of Cody Wyoming, Christa (Britt) Eastburn of Chicago, Illinois, adopted daughter Kenzie Kulp of Arnold, his daughters mother, Kim Bickford; granddaughter Margaret; granddogs Mullah and Pop Tart; brothers Jerry (Joan) Eastburn and Dan Eastburn, both of North Platte; sisters Connie (Gary) Geiser of Cozad and Deb (Brad Atkins) of Arnold; 4 nieces, 2 nephews, 12 great nieces and nephews and 8 great-great nieces and nephews as well as a large extended family and many great friends. He also leaves behind a community that will deeply miss his stories, generosity, and presence.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held Thursday, July 24, 2025, at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Arnold, NE. at 10:00 am. The service will be livestreamed at www.govierbrothers.com, and additional seating will be available at the Arnold United Methodist Church. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 23rd from 6:00 to 7:00 pm, with a wake service to be held at 7:00 pm at St Agnes Catholic Church. Burial will be in the Arnold Cemetery. After the burial, please join the family at Grazer’s (formerly Jim’s Bar) where friends and family will gather to remember a man who truly never met a stranger. Arnold Funeral Home/Govier Brothers Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Online words of remembrance may be left at www.govierbrothers.com

The family suggests memorial donations be made to the Arnold Volunteer Fire Department, St. Agnes Catholic Church, or a mental health awareness organization of your choice.

In Lee’s honor, raise a glass, share a story, and remember to always take the long way home—especially on a Sunday night.