Former Gazette Publisher Remembered for Leadership and Legacy

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Allen D. Strunk, longtime publisher of the McCook Daily Gazette and a driving force behind decades of community progress, has died at age 95 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Strunk led the Gazette for more than 30 years, following in the footsteps of his father, Gazette founder Harry Strunk. Under his leadership, the paper transitioned from letterpress to offset printing and into a new facility in 1966—ushering in a modern era of small-town journalism.

Beyond the newsroom, Strunk played a pivotal role in McCook’s growth during the mid-20th century. He was instrumental in local projects including additions to McCook College, the construction of a new YMCA, and the development of Community Hospital. As chairman of the Chamber of Commerce’s Economic Development Committee, he helped attract new industries to the community and championed transparency in local government.

A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and a graduate of Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Strunk brought both discipline and vision to his work. His influence extended statewide through service on the Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation, the University of Nebraska Medical Center Board of Governors, and several economic development boards.

Even after retiring in 1986, Strunk’s commitment to public service continued. He established an annual award recognizing outstanding McCook-area educators and remained active in civic and church life after relocating to Las Vegas with his wife, Linda.

A memorial service with military honors will be held at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.