Sylvia Emma (Korbel) Harney, 96, beloved mother and grandmother, died peacefully on December 13, 2010.
Born and raised on a farm in Saline County on December 8, 1914, Sylvia had the good fortune to discover her life’s calling as a teacher at an early age. Just out of high school, Sylvia began teaching in a one-room schoolhouse heated by a wooden stove. Following positions in Pleasant Dale and Plattsmouth, Sylvia went on to earn her Bachelor of Science Degree and a Master of Education degree at the University of Nebraska. Sylvia shared her gifts as an elementary teacher at Sheridan School, College View Elementary (now Calvert), Randolph, Bryan and Park Elementary. One source of pride was the fact that she was former Vice President Dick Cheney’s kindergarten teacher at College View Elementary, and they have remained in touch over the years.
Awards include being one of five outstanding teachers to be honored by Governor Bob Kerrey on “Teacher Recognition Day.” Sylvia was a member of Pi Lambda Theta Sorority, Lincoln Symphony Guild, Lincoln Education Association, Lincoln Area Retired Teachers Association, and a life member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary.
Sylvia will be fondly remembered by her family, students and friends for her love of learning and zest for life.
Survivors: Daughters Kathryn, Hattiesburg, MS; Patricia, Chicago; granddaughter, Emma Gregoline; nephews and nieces, Edward and Linda Korbel, Omaha; Doug and Pam Korbel, Denver; William Lee and Pat Harney, Kentucky; Ruth Ann and Ralph Howard Jr., Kentucky.
Preceded in death by husband of 57 years, Herman Harney, parents Emma (Vrbsky) Korbel and Edward George Korbel, brother Edward Frank Korbel.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2pm, Sunday December 19 at Roper and Sons Chapel 4300 O St. No visitation. Interment at Wyuka Cemetery on Monday, December 20 at 1pm.
Memorials to The Lincoln Public Schools Foundation, 5901 “O” Street, Lincoln, NE 68510.