Evelyn Theresa Bartenhagen

Evelyn Bartenhagen, 79, of Omaha, passed away on January 21, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leroy and Marguerite (Mazie) Dufrene. She is survived by her husband, Carl; son Michael (Jen) Bartenhagen of Greenwood, NE; daughter Katherine (Dave) Merkley of Waterloo, NE; six grandchildren: Allison (Jeffery), Cassidy (Bayten), Broc, Jake, Zach, and Andrew; two great-grandchildren: Collins and Tatum; and brother Nathan (Pam) Dufrene of Luling, LA. Evelyn was born in Thibodaux, Louisiana, in 1945. She found the love of her life when Carl moved from Iowa to Cajun country, and the two met while working at Monsanto. They married in 1966, and after some time in St. Louis and Des Moines, they settled in Omaha, Nebraska in 1977, making it their forever home. Evelyn’s love of learning and children inspired her to return to college at the University of Nebraska, where she earned a degree in Early Childhood Education. She went on to work at Westside Church, where she passionately led the preschool ministry, organizing a team to nurture and teach children from birth through age six. Her dedication to her faith also extended far beyond her local community. Evelyn played a vital role in launching mission efforts in Ecuador that have helped build over 17 houses in the region. Additionally, she worked alongside others to start new churches in Omaha, leaving a lasting impact on her community and beyond. Over the years, Evelyn celebrated the joys of raising children, welcoming grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and making countless memories with friends through church and community endeavors. Evelyn’s warmth, determination, and devotion to her family and faith were evident in all she did. Evelyn’s unwavering patience and humor was perhaps best reflected in her 59-year marriage to Carl, a union that stood as a testament to enduring love and commitment. Together, they built a beautiful life full of family, friendship, and dedication to others. She leaves behind a family that will cherish her memory and countless people who were touched by her kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit. Evelyn’s life was a blessing, and her legacy will live on in the lives of those she loved and served. A celebration of life service will be at 11 AM Saturday, Feb 1 at Reichmuth Funeral Home in Elkhorn, 21901 West Maple Road. Visitation with the family will be from 10-11AM before the service and at a lunch to follow. Private inurnment at Prospect Hill Cemetery of Elkhorn at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for later designation

Evelyn Theresa Bartenhagen

August 10, 1945 - January 21, 2025