John W. Birdsley

John W. Birdsley, 83, of Wilber (formerly of Auburn), passed away on November 27, 2025, at the Wilber Care Center. Born on October 7, 1942, in Auburn to John Quincy and Jean (Bennett) Birdsley, John was a lifelong Nebraskan with deep roots in his community.

A 1961 graduate of Auburn High School, John went on to attend barber college in Lincoln. He returned to his hometown and served as a local barber for 39 years, becoming a familiar face and a friend to many. Even after his retirement from the barber shop, his strong work ethic continued as he spent several years cleaning floors.

John was a man of simple pleasures and loyal spirits. He was a dedicated fan of Nebraska Husker football and the Green Bay Packers. He found peace in a quiet game of solitaire and took great joy in his collection of movies. Above all, John was a family man. He was formerly married to Karen (Baxter) Stewart and was blessed with two children, Brenda and Vince. In 2016, he moved to Wilber to be closer to his daughter and grandchildren, and in his later years, he absolutely adored spending time with his great-grandchildren.

John was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Richard; his brother-in-law, John (Buck) Buchheit; his son-in-law, Mark Havel; and his granddaughter, Erin Havel.

His memory will be cherished by his surviving family: his daughter, Brenda (Gordon) Vlasak of Wilber; his son, Vince (Jill) Birdsley of Prior Lake, MN; grandchildren, Tyler (Nikolina) Havel and Trev Havel of Wilber, and Grace and Alivia Birdsley of Prior Lake; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Odin and Wrenley Havel. He is also survived by his sister, Marilyn Buchheit of Linn Creek, MO; sister-in-law, Diana Birdsley of Sunrise Beach, MO; close friends Rob and Monica Baker of Auburn; and many other relatives and friends.

A Celebration of John's life will be Saturday, May 2, 10:30 a.m. at Hemmingsen Funeral Home in Auburn. Family will greet friends for one hour prior to the service. Burial of ashes follow in Sheridan Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family’s choice.