Paul "Steve" Ternus, 69, of Columbus, Nebraska, died Friday, January 31, 2025, at his home in Columbus.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 7, at St. Isidore Catholic Church with Father Joe Miksch celebrating the Mass. Visitation will be on Thursday, from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, with a Vigil Service at 7:00 PM at Gass Haney Funeral Home. Visitation will continue Friday, from 10:00 AM, until service time, at the church. Private interment will be at a later date at Hoffer Cemetery in Polk County, Nebraska. The Vigil Service and Mass will be broadcast live on the Gass Haney Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057043736890

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Paul "Steve" Ternus, who was born in Norfolk, Nebraska, at Our Lady of Lourdes on August 27, 1955.

Steve graduated from St. Francis High School in 1973. Not long after, he met the love of his life, Holly Den, and they joined in marriage on October 28, 1977. Their love brought them their greatest blessing, their daughter, Ami (Ternus) Kallberg, who was born on August 12, 1983.

Family was everything to Steve. He was the heart of every gathering, always there with a listening ear and a big heart. He played Santa Claus for his nieces and nephews, bringing joy and laughter to their holidays. His bond with his sister, Marlene, grew into a deep and cherished friendship. Steve had a stubborn streak, but those lucky enough to earn a place in his heart were family for life—whether by blood or by choice.

A dedicated truck driver for most of his career, Steve and his wife owned their own company. He also worked for BMC Transportation and Foltz Trucking, taking great pride in his work. After retirement, he enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—playing solitaire on his iPad, napping in his favorite spot, and sharing time with loved ones.

Steve's passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered for his love, his loyalty, and the laughter he brought into our lives. Steve will be deeply missed but forever in our hearts.

Steve is survived by:
Sister- Marlene McDermott
Son-in-law- Doug Kallberg
Granddaughter- Kaylee Kallberg
Brother- Jim (Jane) Ternus
Close beloved friend- Debi Braun
Brother- Leonard (Jane) Ternus
Sister-in-law - Denise (Rob) Jones
Daughter - Leah Lyday
Sister -in-law - Cindy Ternus
Also many many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews that were all near and dear to him.

Steve was preceded in death by:
Wife - Holly Ternus
Daughter - Ami Ternus Kallberg
Parents - Victor and Cecelia Ternus
Brother - Vic Ternus
Sister - Teresa Otto
Sister - Cece Ternus
Sister - Louise Ternus
Brother -in-law - Jim McDermott