Carmen Tegels

Carmen Lois Tegels On January 31, 2023 Carmen Tegels, beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother passed away at 81 years of age. Carmen was born November 30, 1941, in Des Moines IA to George and Lois Ashcraft. She was an only child, born to parents who themselves were only children. Being an only child contributed to Carmen’s fierce love and devotion to her own family. There was nothing that Carmen would not do for her family. She willingly gave of herself to her children, grandchildren, and great grandchild. She was the heart and soul of her family. In 1960 Carmen graduated from North High (Des Moines IA); she went on to attended GrandView University, and the University of California Riverside. Later Carmen went on to become a Commissioned Stephen Minister, an Ordained Elder, and an Ordained Deacon in her church. She also earned a certificate as a Church Administrator and for more than twenty years served in that capacity at the First Presbyterian Church in Bellevue NE. Carmen always gave of herself. This was apparent in her professional as well as personal life. As a second career Carmen attended a graduate level chaplaincy program. She completed her Internship and Residency in Clinical Pastoral Education at Immanuel Medical Center, in Omaha NE. She then went on to work as a Chaplain for Alegent Health in Omaha NE, and St Elizabeth’s Hospital in Lincoln. During her Hospice Chaplaincy Carmen touched the lives of countless individuals and their families. She was extremely dedicated to this work, and had indeed found her true passion. Carmen dedicated her career to minister to those at the end of their lives and their families. Carmen is survived by her children James (Elaine) Pomeroy, Michelle Russell (Cliff Richter), and Allan (Lynndell) Tegels. Her Grandchildren Justin Pomeroy, Shelby Russell (Brandon Wiles), Connor Russell, Jamie Skarnulis, and Ethan Tegels, and her Great Grandchild, Grace Pomeroy. Also, survived by her friends Margo, Josie, and Kris, and many other too numerous to mention. Carmen was the life of the Party, and the light of our lives. As she would say the show must go on. Cry your tears, mourn your loss and be forever grateful she was a part of our lives, and made the most of every moment she had with us. Carmen L. Tegels will be forever in our hearts. Just as she would have wanted, the family will be hosting a celebration of her life at The Heartwood Event Room, located at 233 S. Washington St. Papillion, NE on Saturday, February 18th 2023 from 4-7 P.M. As no flowers can be accepted at the venue, the family requests donations to be made to the Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital in her name.