Peggy Sams Deines

Peggy Deines of Gering, passed away on July 19, 2014 at the age of 67. As a wife, mother, sister, grandmother, speech-language pathologist, and friend, Peg revealed the light and love of God and His son Jesus Christ through her faith and tireless service to others. Her giving spirit was realized through her countless acts to those around her. Peg was truly selfless with her time.

Peggy Ludel was born June 15, 1947 in Scottsbluff, to Harvey L. Jr and Shirley (White) Sams. She was a lifelong member of the First Presbyterian Church of Scottsbluff, serving as an Elder, Deacon, Faith Mate, and choir member. After graduating from Scottsbluff High School, Peg studied Speech Therapy at Kearney State College receiving both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree. Peg met her husband Maurie at Kearney State College and they were married on June 14, 1969. They had recently celebrated 45 years of extraordinary marriage.

Peg was a speech-language pathologist at Regional West Medical Center for 34 years. During her profession she improved the communication skills of countless patients that had suffered brain trauma, as well as children with communication disorders. She also co-founded Brainstorm, a support group for victims of stroke and their families. Her uplifting spirit always brought hope to the recovery process.

Peg taught those around her to not waste an opportunity to help others. Peg served in many capacities including her church, Scouting, P.E.O, Foster Grandparent Board, and as a TeamMates mentor and statewide Strengths Ambassador Team member.

Peg lived life to the fullest and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Through her interactions with her children, grandchildren, family, and friends she helped others see their own strengths and realize their full potential. She nurtured a sense of love, forgiveness, peace, and hope.

Peg is survived by her husband Maurie; children, Jennifer (Mike) Currens of Eagan, Minn.; Matthew (Jami) Deines of Ladera Ranch, Calif.; and Rebecca (Khimson) Lam of Grapevine, Texas; sisters, Connie (Dennis) Kramer of Gering, and Pat Heidecker of Imperial, Mo.; grandchildren, Mara, Ben and Elizabeth Currens, Emerson and Bailey Deines, and Dylan Lam; brother-in-law, Bruce (Dottie) Deines of Omaha; stepfather, Ruben Haun, Paul Idaho.

Peg was preceded in death by her parents and grandson, Jett Lam