Travis B. Mayer

Travis Mayer was born on January 2, 1942, in Montgomery, Alabama. His father’s military service led the family to relocate to Offutt Air Force Base before eventually settling in Bellevue, Nebraska. Travis attended Bellevue High School, where he met his high school sweetheart, Janice West. Their love story blossomed, and in 1962 they were married, beginning a lifelong partnership built on devotion, faith, and family.

In the 1960s, Travis enlisted in the Army Reserves, proudly serving his country until his honorable discharge in 1969 as a Specialist 4 and Chemical Staff Specialist. During this time, he and Jan welcomed their first two children—Ken, born May 16, 1966, and Tiffany, born June 13, 1969. Later that year, the family moved to Gretna, Nebraska, where Travis began building deep roots and a lasting legacy. In 1972, he joined the Gretna Fire Department, starting a remarkable career in public service. Their family grew again with the birth of their daughter Erica on December 7, 1976.

Travis dedicated 53 years to the Gretna Fire Department, serving with courage, compassion, and integrity. He became Fire Chief in 1985, leading until 1999, and spent 30 years as an instructor for the Nebraska Fire Service/Nebraska State Fire Marshal Training Division, shaping generations of firefighters. His commitment was recognized with honors such as Instructor of the Year in 2010 and Citizen of the Year in 2020. Beyond firefighting, Travis expanded his expertise in emergency response, earning EMT certification in 1978 and completing paramedic training at Creighton University in 1979. By 1981, he was already teaching others, and in 1999 he joined the Sarpy County Local Emergency Planning Committee, contributing to regional safety and preparedness.

In his downtime, he enjoyed his annual fishing trips to Canada with the Doolittle Clan and hunting in the fall. He also found joy in simple pleasures—sharing stories, spending time outdoors, and cherishing the camaraderie of friends and family. Whether casting a line in northern waters or walking the fields during hunting season, Travis treasured these traditions as moments of connection, laughter, and renewal.

Through every chapter of his life, Travis embodied dedication to family, community, and service. His journey from a young man in Bellevue to a respected leader in Gretna reflects a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering commitment to others.

Travis was preceded in death by his parents: Fred and Doris Mayer; and his sister Regina Daniell. He is survived by his beloved wife: Janice; children: Ken (Stacy) Mayer, Tiffany (Tom) Mayer, and Erica (Chad) Boker; and grandchildren: Kevin, Clara, Molly and Lily. His legacy lives on through his family and the many lives he touched in the community.

Visitation will be held on December 19th from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Gretna United Methodist Church. Funeral services will follow on December 20th at 11:00 a.m. at Gretna United Methodist Church. A luncheon will be hosted afterward at the Gretna American Legion. Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation.

Roeder Mortuary, Inc. - Gretna Chapel - 11710 Standing Stone - Gretna, NE - 402-332-0090

www.RoederMortuary.com