Harlan Van Chamberlain

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Harlan Van Chamberlain, 73, of Winnebago, NE, passed away on March 2, 2025. He was born on September 27, 1951, to Aldin “Pod” and Christine (Snow) Chamberlain.

Harlan was the co-founder of the League of Human Dignity. He loved watching any and all kinds of sports. He also loved being a grandpa and being able to watch his grandkids grow up. He also claimed to be a pretty good singer.

He is survived by Joba Chamberlain; Tasha (Heath) Dahlberg and her husband Nick Dahlberg; life partner Paulette Genthon; grandchildren Jacklyn Jablonski, Tobie Dahlberg, Karter Chamberlain, Taylor Dahlberg, Teghan Dahlberg, and Tevin Dahlberg; sisters Conimaniwiga and Ravae; and brothers Alan and Kevin.

He is preceded in death by parents Aldin “Pod” Chamberlain and Christine (Snow) Chamberlain; brothers Keith and Malcom-Dean; and sister Annelle.

A life celebration gathering will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Monday March 10, 2025, at Roper and Sons South Chapel.

Memorials to the family for future designation.

Condolences online at www.Roperandsons.com

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April 30, 2025

Harlan and I worked at NSP together fro many years, we alwasy kept a family atmosphere with those we worked with in our Housing Unit and we had a great time working in a Prison, it takes a special supervisor to do this. Harlan Loved my Mom and Dad, everytime I took vacatoin he would call them to see where were going and make sure they were ok, and of course if I was being a good son : ) Chiefs old school kindness is something I miss. He would bring Joba to our NSP ball games and wanted him to play, but he was to young, but it was fun having him. He took such good care of that boy, a fantasitic example of me raising my daugher. God Bless you Chief thanks for all the memories and God Bless us all … Paul Hicks marineblue@live.com

– Paul Hicks

March 23, 2025

We met Harlan many years ago a Husker Wrestling dual. One year we made a last minute decision to go to the Big 12 Baseball Championships in Oklahoma City. We arrived in before the doors opened and went to purchase tickets. I heard a voice shout out “Aren’t you at the wrong sport?” It was Harlan. We spoke often during Husker sporting events. We also would see him at the grocery store and always had a short conversation. He will be missed by many. Memory Eternal!

– Bobbi & Fred Hall

March 22, 2025

Years ago, as I was adjusting to divorce and single parenthood, I met a group of people who got together a couple of times each week at Casey’s, where Harlan worked in the evenings. He made sure everyone there was well-behaved, and that no women received any unwanted attention. It was a place where women felt safe, which was so important to us. And I’ll never forget the evening when, as I stood beside him, he put his right arm around me, picked me up, and sat me on the counter so that we could talk face-to-face! (I’m short.) For many years, if he was driving downtown, where I worked, and saw me walking on the sidewalk, he’d call, “Hi, Patty!” No one else called me that, and I miss hearing it. Harlan was a sweet man.

– Pat Emile

March 15, 2025

We remember Harlan with a smile in our hearts! We traveled from NY for many years to Yankee Spring Training! We met Harlan at the hotel where we all stayed. We had fun times at the pool sharing snacks and baseball stories! Rest in peace sweet soul!

– The Moranos

March 14, 2025

I have the pleasure of calling Harlan my friend. We share many years of friendship, memories with and about families. Before Harlan became a parent he was so kind to my children, like a beloved uncle. Joba I am deeply saddened of his passing. I will miss his boisterous demeanor. Harlan may you rest in peace.

– Jack Acevedo

March 13, 2025

Harlan was my neighbor and such a kind soul. My dogs loved him and the treats he would give. I enjoyed walking down the street to visit with him whenever I could. May he rest in peace ❤️ So sorry I wasn’t able to go to the wake.

– Brandy Wiebelhaus

March 12, 2025

Harlan and Joba would come over to our house during the summer. It was so fun as Harlan had so much spunk! We will always remember you Harlan. You held such a special place in our hearts. Our family is all praying for those left behind and mourning for Harlan.

– Nancy Exstrom

March 11, 2025

Thank you Harlan for all the laughs and great times we spent together in Tampa at Yankee spring training. Your hearty laugh and kind words for all will be missed. Rest in peace from the “creep squad “.

– Tom Grandinetti

March 11, 2025

47 years is a long time my NDCS friend. I miss you already. I’ll always remember the lunches at Valentine’s on South 27th and The Knolls. You loved a good buffet 😀. Until we meet again. God Bless and Rest in Peace. /km

– Karen Chvatal Michaelson

March 10, 2025

Ron, Judy, Matt and Lucas Bruck Family, sends our heartfelt sympathy to all The Chamberlain Family Members with the passing of Harlan. Harlan, you displayed overwhelming joy and pride watching Joba develop into an excellent baseball player and an even greater person. Our memories take us back to a youth baseball tournament in Omaha. Part of the tournament was to submit player ages. The tournament official announces that player Joba Chamberlain is too young to play. With tears in the eyes, you asked the official, “Can I stay in the dugout to be the batboy?” The answer was yes. Harlan, that’s all Joba wanted; to be part of the team in any capacity, and you taught Joba that. Your kind heart will continue to shine down on all who knew you. Rest in peace Harlan. Ron, Judy, Matt and Lucas

– Ron Bruck

March 9, 2025

Thank you, Harlan, for being you, which was a kind, comical, caring, and passionate human being. May God bring peace and comfort to your kids and family. Godspeed on your spiritual journey Harlan. You will be missed.

– Carol Mitchell

March 9, 2025

On behalf of the Lincoln Northeast Rockets Class of 1969: We share in the sorrow of the passing of our classmate, Harlan. He was such a kind and gentle man with many talents. Harlan will certainly be missed in this world by so many friends that loved him. Once a Rocket, Always a Rocket!