Gustave "Gus" Richard Lieske

Gustave R. Lieske

Gus Lieske, 86, of North Platte, Nebraska, passed away on November 18, 2025, entering into eternal rest with the Lord.

A lifelong Nebraskan, Gus made his home in Lincoln, Omaha, and North Platte but also spent several years living part time in Boston, MA, where he played a daily and guiding role in the young lives of his grandsons. Wherever he lived, he was known for his generous spirit, sharp wit, and his gift for making others feel welcome. Gus never met a stranger—he had a natural ability to connect with people from all walks of life, offering warmth, humor and kindness to everyone he encountered.

The role Gus cherished most was that of a father and grandfather. He was incredibly proud of his three grandsons and took great joy in spending time with them, often zigzagging the country to make sure he didn’t miss a school concert, sporting event, or just picking them up from school with a bag of chocolate or a new box of legos their mom didn’t know about. He will be missed immensely by his grandsons who are blessed to have countless special memories of playing catch in the backyard, fishing at Holmes Lake in Lincoln, eating his famous mashed potatoes, playing in the pool in their mutually beloved Sarasota, FL, or seeing their grandfather cheering them on from the sidelines of their sporting events. When he couldn’t be there in person, he would text or snap them daily with words of encouragement and love.

Later in life, Gus devoted much of his time in North Platte to help new members of the community learn English, gain their citizenship, tutor kids after school or simply navigate their new life in America. He became a beloved and trusted friend to many in this community over the years. In his last months especially, the love and support from countless friends spoke to the mutual love they shared with Gus. His daughters will be forever grateful for the constant presence and love from these special friends in Gus’ life.

Gus is survived by his daughters, Carmella Lieske and her husband, Scott Menking, of Japan; and Dana and Marco Buchbinder and their sons Marco, Massimo, and Matteo of Massachusetts. He also is survived by his former wife, Sharon, with whom he shared many meaningful years and memories; his brother, Dallas Lieske, of Idaho and nephews Don and Charles Lieske. He leaves behind many dear friends who were like family to him — especially the Jose and Lupita Padilla family but there were countless others — who provided him with love, comfort, friendship, home cooked meals and who enriched and blessed his life deeply.

Gus will be remembered as a man of deep character, with both a tender heart and a ready laugh. He lived his faith with sincerity, and he found joy in the simple and beautiful things in life. He loved the symphony and brass, found inspiration in studying God’s Word, and carried with him a spirit of generosity that touched countless lives. His presence brought light and comfort to those around him, and his absence leaves an immeasurable void.

A gathering will be held at a later date to celebrate Gus’s life and honor his memory.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who supported Gus throughout his life with friendship, care and love.

Odean Colonial Chapel is entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com