Michael Christner

     Michael Leroy Christner, born on December 18, 1960, in McCook, Nebraska, was the cherished son of Richard and Dolores (Matson) Christner. He spent his entire life in Hayes Center, Nebraska, where he graduated from Hayes Center High School as a proud member of the class of 1979.

     On December 10, 1988, Michael married Vickie Spray in Trenton, Nebraska. They were happily married for 37 years. Together, they created a warm and loving home in Hayes Center, where they raised their three children amidst joy and laughter.

     A dedicated farmer, Michael spent his life caring for the land he held dear. His commitment to his community was evident during his more than 35 years of service with the Hayes County Fire Department, where he was proud to serve as the president of the rural board. In his leisure time, Michael found great joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

     Michael passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, at Grand Island Regional Medical Center in Grand Island, Nebraska, at the age of 65.

     He is preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Dolores Christner; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Glen and Virginia Spray; brother-in-law, Rick Spray; and sister-in-law, Rose Christner.

     Michael's legacy lives on through his beloved wife, Vickie Christner; his sons, Brian (Jess) Christner of Hershey, Nebraska and Matthew Christner of Culbertson, Nebraska; his daughter, Megan (Logan) Criswell of Chappell, Nebraska; and his three adored grandchildren, Berkley and Bennett Criswell, along with Bex Christner. He is also survived by his brothers, Jamie (Angela) Christner of Palisade, Nebraska, and Kelly (Kathy) Christner of Sutherland, Nebraska; his sister, Terri Banzhaf of McCook, Nebraska; sister-in-law, Judy Hay of Trenton, Nebraska; and numerous nieces and nephews.

     Michael Christner will be deeply missed by all who knew him, as he leaves behind a rich legacy of love, dedication, and community service.

     Cremation was chosen and memorial services are scheduled for 10:30 AM on Saturday morning, January 24, 2026 at the Union Congregational Church in Hayes Center with Chaplain Tyler Thiessen officiating. Burial in the Hayes Center Cemetery will follow services.

     Memorials are suggested to Hayes County Volunteer Fire and Rescue or to the family for later designation. Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook.