Brent was born on June 23, 1981 in Fremont, Nebraska to Francis and Holly 'Dahl' Zakovec. He was raised in Morse Bluff and Dodge. Brent graduated from North Bend Central High School in 2000. As a teenager and into his 20's he worked for Bluff Gravel Company until he began his true passion of farming full time. He was a member of St. George Catholic Church in Morse Bluff. Brent had 24 years of Fire Service with Morse Bluff Fire Department and served as Chief for 15 years. In conjunction he also served on Cedar Bluffs Fire Department.
Brent married his high school sweetheart, Brook Ladenburger, on August 20, 2005 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in North Bend. They built a life together on their farm south of Morse Bluff where they were blessed with 4 beautiful children.
When Brent wasn't dedicating his time to farming or the fire service, he also enjoyed creating almost anything out of steel. From yard ornaments to building useful tools or fixing things on the farm, if it could be fixed or built with a welder, he could do it. Brent was known to be the life of the party or center of attention, putting smiles on everyone's face. He also had a passion for hunting and rodeoing. He created many new friends and hunting partners on his hunting trips, but probably none as special as being able to take his daughter, Ashtynn, on her first successful deer hunt this last year.
Brent was dedicated to his community and would drop everything at a moment's notice to help anyone.
Survivors left to cherish his memory:
Wife- Brook of Morse Bluff
Children- Ashtynn (13), Kinsley (9), Grayden (6), Barrett (5) Zakovec all of Morse Bluff
Mother- Holly (Dave) Henrickson of Dodge
Father- Francis (JoAnn) Zakovec of Morse Bluff
Brother- Ryan (Brienna) Zakovec of Morse Bluff
Step-sister- Kellie (Jeff) Nelson of Fremont
Step-brother- Mike Albert of Gretna
Brother-in-law- Mark (Sheri) Ladenburger of Fremont
Mother-in-law and Father-in-law- Charlene and Gary Ladenburger of North Bend
Niece and Nephew- Haley and Dustin Zakovec of Morse Bluff
And an unbelievable amount of friends
Brent was preceded in death by his step-father Richard Wennstedt.
The Funeral Mass will be 10am, Friday, August 5, 2022 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in North Bend. Burial will follow in Killian Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, 4pm to 7pm at St. Charles Catholic Church in North Bend. Rosary Services will be held at 7pm also at the church. Memorials may be directed to the Morse Bluff Volunteer Fire Department or to the family.
Thank you to Justin Mensik for putting together this wonderful tribute video including the funeral procession to the cemetery.
https://youtu.be/y-7MakWQUbs
Condolences(12)
Darlene Jane Schleichso
LINWOOD, NE Friday, August 5, 2022 So sorry for your loss. Brett will be missed by all who knew him. Your Uncle Bob LeffersJackie (Foy) Akerson
Lincoln, NE Friday, August 5, 2022 So sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for all of you. Sending prayers that you will be able to find some comfort during this unimaginable time.Amanda Swatzell
Fremont, NE Wednesday, August 3, 2022 Brook, I pray that God gives you and your kiddos the strength you need to get through this difficult time. I know nothing will make things better right now but If there is anything you need please just let me know.Bob & Eileen Thornburg
Fremont, NE Wednesday, August 3, 2022 Brook, Zakovec & Ladenburger families,Our hearts ache with you at this time of loss. Please know our thoughts & prayers are with you.
Sincerest sympathy,
Bob & Eileen Thornburg
Erin Redmond
San Antonio, TX Tuesday, August 2, 2022 I have been Ryan and Brienna’s friends from when we all lived in CO. I’m so incredibly sorry to hear of Brent’s passing. Sometimes, there are no words. Brook, I wish you, your children and family all the support you will receive from your wonderful friends and family.Pamela Savio
Fremont, NE Tuesday, August 2, 2022 Our hearts go out to you, Brook, as you and his kids work through this time. You’re strong and capable and are surrounded with love and faith. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Anyone will come to your aid. Brent was a nice young man who gave a lot of himself to family, friends, and community. God blessJoel Samek
Omaha, NE Tuesday, August 2, 2022 My deepest sympathy to the entire family. Brent was such a one of a kind genuine guy. I didn't have a chance to spend as much time with him as others have, but I will miss him dearly like everyone will.He touched the hearts of many and will be forever grateful to have known him, even if it was for just a short time he spent with us. God received a true angel when entered his kingdom.
I'll miss you so much as all of us will and already do.
Betty Feldhaus
Fremont, NE Tuesday, August 2, 2022 Brook, my sincere sympathy and prayers for you and your family at this most difficult time. I am so very sorry for your loss! Peace be with you!Katie
North Bend, NE Tuesday, August 2, 2022 Brook,My heart is breaking for you and your children. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. My God wrap his arms around you and give you his peace.
Stephanie Hansen
Lincoln, NE Monday, August 1, 2022 Brook- thinking of you and the kids during this time. My prayers are with you all.Deric Day sr
Cedar Bluffs, NE Monday, August 1, 2022 Brook Michelle and I send our love and prayers to you and the family.Suzan Price
Mesa, AZ Sunday, July 31, 2022 I’m so very sorry, Brook.But please know this-
He is resting easy in God’s loving Arms.
Dave and Suzan Price