Obituary of Alan Ross Rochlitz

Alan Ross Rochlitz was born March 17^th, 1951, to Harry and Madelyn Rochlitz at the Lewellen Community Hospital, Lewellen, Ne. After a courageous three month battle, he passed away February 29^th, 2024 at Poudre Valley Hospital, Ft Collins Co.

Alan grew up on the family farm north of Big Springs, Ne. His education started in kindergarten in a one room schoolhouse. The only other student was his cousin Nikki. He graduated from Big Springs High School in 1969. In 1971 he received his Associates in Arts degree from Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Co.

After growing up working on the farm, Alan worked with a crew finishing the I80 expansion to the Wyoming border. In 1973, he hired on with Union Pacific Railroad in the Maintenance of Way department where he worked mainly in central and western Nebraska. In 1979 he hired on as a Locomotive Engineer and moved to Cheyenne, Wy. He retired with 40 plus years of service to UPRR.

On March 23^rd 1985 Alan married his best friend, Diann Dilsaver. They had two children, Brett and Brittany. The years were filled with camping, boating, fishing and supporting his children in their life adventures. He was very devoted to his family, providing for them was his first priority. His grandson Oakley brought much joy and love to him. Alan instilled the challenge of learning at an early age. Workbooks, cards, puzzles, building with anything and of course he had a small notebook to carry around and take notes.

Alan was a lifelong fan of the Nebraska Cornhuskers and the St. Louis Cardinals. Other interests were hunting, fishing, swimming, was a certified scuba diver, white water rafting, puzzles and playing the slots.

He will be remembered as opinionated, strong-willed and stern, his jokes and quick wit. He had a huge heart and would help anyone. He will be missed deeply. He was our ground wire.

Alan was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Madelyn, baby sister (stillborn), brother Stan.

He is survived by his wife Diann, son Brett, daughter Brittany, grandson Oakley. Brothers Roger (Betty), Kelly sister in law Nancy, brother in laws Mike (Brenda), Steve (Linda), John (Lezlie) Dilsaver, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

At his request there will be no services.