Ben Gdowski

Ben Gdowski, 97, of York, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, in York. He was born on Sept. 26, 1927, to Matthew and Anna Gdowski in St. Edward. He graduated from Belgrade High School in 1945. On Oct. 27, 1956, Ben was united in marriage to Mary M. Knopik at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Fullerton. Together they shared a life centered on family, faith, and community.

Ben proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and American Legion Bolton Post #19. Over the years, Ben enjoyed many activities including bowling, playing weekly pitch games at the Knights of Columbus, and calling Bingo for St. Joseph’s Cullen Hall. He coached Little League baseball in York and, for more than 50 years, faithfully planted a large garden each year.

Fishing was one of Ben’s greatest joys, especially at Harlan County Lake, with memorable trips to Canada alongside his sons and good friend Jerry Nygren. He was also a devoted Husker fan, enjoying football and volleyball games and listening to baseball broadcasts each spring.

He is survived by his children, Ted (Deb) Gdowski of Columbus, Randy (Brandy) Gdowski of Omaha, Sharon (Scott) Baker of Littleton, Colo., Vicki (Mark) Hansen of Lincoln; grandchildren, Amber (James) Hernandez, Andrea (Daniel) Cunningham, Baylee Gdowski, Brayden (Jasmine) Hansen and Dalton Hansen; great-grandchildren, Daizie Cunningham, Ariel Cunningham, Ava Hernandez, Brooklyn Hansen, Blakely Hansen; and sister, Angie Hansen of Fullerton.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary; infant son, Johnny; and youngest son, Benny R. Gdowski; as well as brothers, Lawrence, Edmond, and Adam Gdowski.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the York Hearthstone and Tabitha Health Care Services staff for their excellent care and attention during Ben’s final years.

Ben’s family also wishes to thank the many relatives and friends who were such an important part of his and Mary’s lives. While too numerous to mention individually, a special thank you is extended to Dave and Becky Bartek, Tom and Shirley Scholz, Jerry and Dort Nygren, and Jeff and Vicki Erickson.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., Monday, Sept. 15, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in York with the Reverend Father John Sullivan officiating. Following the Mass, interment with military honors will be at St. Joseph Cemetery in York. Visitation will be held from 1-8 pm on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, at the mortuary. A rosary will be said at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, at Metz Mortuary, with family greeting friends one hour prior to the rosary and one hour after the rosary. Memorials may be directed to St. Joseph Catholic Church. Condolences may be left for the family at metzmortuary.com. Metz Mortuary in York is handling arrangements.