Obituary

David Eugene Harnly

August 29, 1945 - October 24, 2022

David Eugene Harnly, 77, of Lincoln, passed away October 24, 2022. Born August 29, 1945, in Lincoln, NE to David and Betty (Hudson) Harnly, Sr.

David was a Corpsman in the U.S. Navy. He served as a Sergeant for the Lincoln Police Department and an Instructor at the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center.

David was a member of the Lincoln Area Model Railroad Club.

Family members include his wife, Patricia; sons David J., Matthew W., and Patrick M., all of Lincoln; brothers James (Rosemary) Harnly, Seward and John (Marti) Harnly, Denton, TX; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Graveside Service: 2:00 p.m. Tuesday (11-1-22) Omaha National Cemetery, 14250 Schram Rd., Omaha, NE.

Memorials in lieu of flowers to Capital Humane Society.

Services

November1

Graveside Service

CST

Omaha National Cemetery

14250 Schram Rd., Omaha, NE

Share a Memory or Condolence

November 10, 2022

Dave and Patty and the boys lived next door to my parents, I babysat the boys and remember all of them growing up. Dave was a great person. My sincere condolences 💖 Joyce Hanquist Sedlak

– Joyce Sedlak
October 31, 2022

Patty, David, Matt, and Patrick, We’re so sorry to hear of your loss. Wishing you peace during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

– Matt Severin and Roger & Ann Severin
October 31, 2022

Pat and sons, I am so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. I fondly remember on the night shift sharing family experiences with you Pat. You and Dave both shared a compassion for helping others..and helped make this world a better, safer place. May your loving memories bring you comfort in the days ahead. May the Lord shine down his love and bring you peace. Thinking of you fondly, Deb.

– Debra Griebe
October 28, 2022

I first met fireplug when Gene Giles and I rode district 23 as cruiser partners and Dave worked in the ER at Lincoln General. Dave was always quick with a smile and after joining LPD he became an excellent police officer. Through out my time at LPD if Dave was working I never worried if I requested him to do something. Dave would handle it and it would be done correctly. He will be up there looking down on all of us still around and waiting for us with a cold one and a smile.

– Allen F. Soukup, LPD185
October 28, 2022

When Dave told me that he was interested in working at NLETC upon his retirement from LPD, I nearly did hand springs. I didn’t know him well at the time but became to consider him as one the best friends I have ever had. I know that he will be missed by all.

– David Anderson
October 27, 2022

A long history of service to our country, the State of Nebraska and the City of Lincoln. David was in his element when dealing with traffic issues. Being it his early motor days proudly riding his Harley enforcing traffic laws, or later supervising the LPD’s Traffic Unit. That group was a highly motivated and cohesive unit with David leading the way. Rest well my friend.

– John J. Becker, LPD325
October 27, 2022

I worked many cases with David when prosecuting traffic deaths and accidents for the Lancaster County Attorney’s Office. He was a wonderful man, professional and serious but also quick with a joke when warranted. His smile was infectious and he will be missed.

– Jan Lipovsky
October 27, 2022

It was my honor and privilege to have served with him and had him as my friend. RIP Fireplug, you are remembered.

– Curtis Hibdon LPD 171
October 27, 2022

Patti and family I was saddened to hear of Dave’s passing. There were many wonderful times when he was an instructor at NLETC. My girls always loved burger night at the Motor Inn with the Harnelys, and Gator.

– Brenda Urbanek
October 27, 2022

Patty, David, Matthew and Patrick, It was an honor to call Dave a friend. We had so many good times together- both on and off duty. He will be missed but be assured he is looking after you from the great beyond. Blessings to the family.

– Jim “Spanky” Spanel
October 26, 2022

I was saddened to learn of Dave’s passing. I enjoyed working with him at LPD. He was a good cop and a fun guy. Prayers for the family.

– Ron Tussing

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