Meet the Neighbors

Brought to you by Bridges Senior Living Advisors, Custer Federal State Bank, and EZ Kitchens

In the spring of 2020, Shane Bappe and his family made the move from Cozad to Kearney. While it was a big change, it didn’t take long before it started to feel like home.

Shane works in the construction industry with Blu Roofing. His wife, Ruby, helps out at The Village Events, a local venue known for its charming atmosphere and memorable gatherings. Their two sons are also part of the Kearney community. Damion works at Mead Lumber, and Ethan holds a job at Sonic.

For Shane, the shift from Cozad to Kearney was both practical and meaningful. “I started commuting to Kearney for work at the beginning of 2020,” he shared. “We loved the small-town life in Cozad, but there were simply more opportunities here. Once we found the right house, everything lined up and the move just made sense.”

It didn’t take long for the Bappe family to feel like they belonged. “The people here are what keep us,” Shane said. “From the welcoming church community to the business network, and of course the food, Kearney just has so much to offer while still holding onto a small-town feel.”

That small-town spirit with big-town amenities shows up in Shane’s favorite parts of life here. He’s a huge fan of Kearney’s biking and hiking trails, especially the whitewater trail, which is an outdoor gem that keeps the whole family active. When it comes to local eats, Shane is all about food trucks. “We have such a great, high-quality selection,” he said. “I honestly can’t pick just one. I love them all.” For sit-down cravings, Crafty Dog is a consistent favorite.

One of Shane’s personal hidden gems in town is Pinon Market burritos. “They’re hot, ready, and delicious,” he said. “The salsas are unbeatable, and the staff is always so friendly. It’s just one of those places you’re glad you found.”

For Shane, community connection has been the most rewarding part of the move. “It wasn’t one specific moment,” he said. “It was more a gradual realization that we weren’t outsiders anymore. We were part of this community.” A big part of that sense of belonging comes from his involvement in local churches, where he’s formed strong relationships through small groups, service opportunities, and shared faith. “Many of the best people I’ve met have come through that church community,” he added.

The family lives in the Cottonmill area, which often surprises visitors with its natural beauty. “People come out here and are like, ‘Wow, I didn’t know this was here,’” Shane said. “With the hills and trees, it doesn’t feel like the flat Nebraska most people expect when they’re just driving down I-80. And we’re still close enough to town to have the best of both worlds.”

When asked to describe Kearney in just one word, Shane doesn’t hesitate. He says Community. “That’s really what it has felt like for us. Kearney has become our community.”

From construction sites to church groups, hiking trails to food trucks, Shane and his family have embraced all that Kearney has to offer. Their story is one of finding opportunity, belonging, and a place to grow together.