Karlene E. Brueggemann

Karlene Elaine Harris Brueggemann was born second oldest to Larry Harris and Barbara Bigley Harris, on February 21, 1955 at Auburn, NE. Karlene received her education at Auburn Public Schools. She graduated with the “Betty Crocker Home Maker of Tomorrow” Award in 1973.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church and was baptized April 11, 1965 by Homer Clements. She was confirmed on December 16, 1973 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Auburn, NE. Karlene was married to the love of her life, Jerry Brueggemann on June 23, 1973 at the United Methodist Church at Auburn. To this union 2 daughters were born, Jill Louise of Fairbury and Jodie Ann of Fairbury.

When Karlene’s health was good she enjoyed baking and baking wedding cakes and cakes for the grandchildren. She loved traveling with her husband and grandchildren.

Karlene is survived by her husband Jerry, daughters Jill Louise Brueggemann and Tom Crowell, Jodie Ann and husband Terrance Rowe of Fairbury, Grandchildren Brandon Lenners of Lincoln, Trenton & Jillian Slama of Reynolds, Christian James, Dawson Jay, Zander Jerry, and Gracie Jo Rowe of Fairbury, NE, Great-Granddaughter Hayden Marie Lenners, sisters Debra and husband Mark Dean of Lincoln, Janet Sobotka and husband Don of Cortland, NE, brother Larry Dean and wife Brenda Harris of Clarinda, IA, nieces and nephews, aunts Bobbie (Barbara) Harris and Ardith Harris of Anita, IA, and Uncle Herbert Cooley of Omaha, NE.

She is preceded by her parents Larry and Barbara Harris, aunts and uncles.

Karlene was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver when she was 28 years old. God blessed her with 32 more years. She always gave thanks for those extra years. We also give thanks to God for sharing her life with us.

Services will be Friday April 3, 2015, at 10:30 a.m. at the American Lutheran Church in Fairbury, NE with Pastor Brian Julin-McCleary officiating. Family will greet friends on Thursday from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Funeral Home. Memorials to Family’s Choice. Burial will be at Plainview Cemetery at Western, NE. Gerdes-Meyer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.