Karen Hansen, 82, passed away on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Highland Park Care Center after courageously facing a lengthy health challenge.
She was born August 18, 1941, in Alliance, Nebraska, to Kenneth and Lucille (Bunce) Brock. She graduated from Alliance High School in 1959.
Karen married Larry Kumpf on December 18, 1965, in Lincoln, NE, and together they made their home on a farm in Shelby, NE. Though their marriage eventually ended in divorce, they were blessed with three children: Tim, Kaylene and Craig. Living on the Shelby farm, Karen nurtured her dream of becoming a teacher, turning everyday life into countless learning experiences and adventures for her children. It was here that our family's love for farming truly began.
Karen later pursued teaching and received her teachers certificate from Chadron State College and embarked on a fulfilling teaching career at a small, two-classroom rural school in Berea, NE, where she joyfully dedicated several years to her passion for education.
Karen was a woman of many passions and talents. Her love for painting reflected her vibrant spirit, while her enjoyment of puzzles and card games showcased her sharp mind and playful nature. But it was her gift of storytelling that truly brought joy to those around her. A simple phone call often turned into a delightful hour filled with laughter and cherished memories, a testament to her ability to brighten the lives of others.
On January 9, 1982, Karen married Don Hansen of Hemingford, NE. Karen and Don enjoyed many wonderful years together, filled with memorable trips to Europe and RV adventures through Alaska. As empty nesters, they transformed their home into a Bed and Breakfast, where they welcomed strangers who soon became dear friends. Their marriage was marked by a deep commitment to serving others, fueled by a shared passion for compassion and kindness. Together, they devoted themselves to causes and communities they cared about, leaving behind a legacy of generosity and warmth that touched countless lives.
Together with her husband Don, Karen co-founded the Wednesday Kids program at their Church, a beautiful initiative that touched the hearts and minds of countless children. Her dedication to nurturing young souls was a testament to her boundless generosity. Later in life, Karen continued her mission of helping others by volunteering at WNCC, where she played a vital role in assisting adults as they prepared for their GEDs. Her kindness, warmth, and passion for giving back will be fondly remembered by all who knew her, and her commitment to these programs left a lasting impact on the lives of many.
Karen is survived by her children, Tim and Deb Kumpf of Hemingford, Craig and Heather Kumpf of Hemingford, and Kaylene and Ron Sorensen of Lincoln, NE. Her grandchildren also survive her: Kyle (Kaitlyn) Kumpf of Hemingford, Kaitlyn (Jakways) Mendoza of Timber Lake, SD., Josh Brandt of Lincoln, NE, Jake Brandt of Vancouver, WA, Taylor and Haylee Sorensen, Austin TX, Mikayla, Kylie and Kennedy Kumpf of Hemingford, and three great-grandchildren, Everly and Ellie of Hemingford., Lincoln Hansen, Niceville, FL. Stepchildren are, Vicki (Randy) Schwerdt of Louden, TN, Cheri Prochazka of Aurora, CO, Greg (Margaret) Hansen of Hemingford, Kim (Dave) Engel of Scottsbluff, Perry (Kammi) Hansen of Garden City, KS, and Brad Hansen, Lincoln, NE and Step Grandchildren: Haylee (Brad) Teibel, Jason (Joselyn) Schwerdt, Melissa (Mike) Duncan, Matthew (Holly) Prochazka, Brian Thramer, John (Emily) Sample, Shaun (Jessica) Hansen, Austin (Shy) Engel, Ryan (Kelsey) Engel, Chase (Liz) Engel, Hans, Blake (Ali) and Emily Hansen, Kyle (Jessica) Schwarting, Kristen (Todd) Reischl, Kayla (Charles) House, and Kimberly (Adam) Paulsen, Sister, Jan Holz of SD and Brother, Dale (Lulu) Brock of CO; and 33 step-great grandchildren
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Don Hansen.
A celebration of Karen’s life will be held at St John’s Lutheran Church in Alliance, NE on Thursday August 22, 2024 at 10:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Brookestone Home Health and Hospice in Alliance or charity of donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com with Bates-Gould Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.