Karen Anne Ege

Karen was born on October 18, 1955, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Raymond and Neva (Hinton) Bauman. She started her career as a special education teacher, where her kindness and patience touched many lives. Her family and Edward’s were lifelong friends—so close that her father even served as best man in the wedding of Edward’s father, Wilber. Karen and Edward had known each other their entire lives, and the most meaningful chapter of her life began when she fell in love with him. They were married on July 31, 1987, and together built a full and loving life with their three children: Callista, Patrick, and Luke.

After the birth of her second child, Karen chose to stay home, dedicating herself to raising her children and caring for her family—a role she embraced wholeheartedly. She was the heart of her home.

Karen had a creative spirit and was always making something beautiful. She loved arts and crafts and could often be found working on a new project. She also enjoyed music, cooking, traveling, boating, and taking motorcycle rides with her husband, whom she lovingly called “Eddie.” One of her favorite places to be was simply wherever her family was. Her greatest joys were her children and grandchildren—being “Oma” meant everything to her.

She was a longtime member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, where she once taught kindergarten religious education. Her faith and compassion showed in the way she lived and loved.

Karen is deeply missed by her husband, Edward, of Columbia; her children, Callista Bond (Brandon) of Blue Springs, MO, Patrick Ege, and Luke Ege, both of Columbia; and her grandchildren, Damien and Moira Bond, who lit up her world. She is also survived by her brother, Stephen Bauman (Sue) of Fort Calhoun, Nebraska, nieces, nephews, in-laws, extended family, and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Joseph “Joey” Bauman.

Karen was strong, creative, nurturing, and full of love. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished and the memories we will carry with us always.

Services honoring and celebrating Karen’s life will be held at a later date in Omaha, Nebraska.