Former Mayor of Humboldt dies

A former Mayor of Humboldt and longtime local community leader passed away Monday night in Lincoln at the age of 85.

Stalder was born and raised in Humboldt and graduated from Humboldt High School in 1946. He continued his education at the University of Nebraska and graduated in 1951. For the next few years he traveled extensively visiting all 48 states and Canada and later took employment in Erie, Pennsylvania. In 1953, John returned to Humboldt to assist his father and Uncle Gilbert in operating Stalder Brothers Allis-Chalmers Farm Equipment and Studebaker Car Dealership. In 1957, Stalder Brothers received the contract to sell Ford automobiles and trucks, and continued to do so until 2000.

Stalder served two terms on the City Council in the 60’s, thus beginning a long career of community service. He also served three terms as Mayor of Humboldt beginning in 1998. John was a 57 year member of the Humboldt Volunteer Fire Department, serving as Chief for 5 years. Stalder was involved in and a member of many local organizations, serving on the Humboldt Foundation Board, the Southeast Nebraska Economic Development Association and Developmental District, the Southeast Nebraska District Health Department and in 2006 was crowned King of the Richardson County Free Fair.

Mr. Stalder is survived by his wife Marilyn Stalder, daughters Angela, Beth and Heidi and five grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Humboldt.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday at The Wherry Mortuary in Humboldt, Nebraska. Family will greet friends from 5-8 p.m. at the mortuary.

Interment will be at the Humboldt Cemetery.