Barbara Ely

1955 - 2025

Barbara A. (Kumpf) Ely, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at the age of 70. She was surrounded by her loving husband and sons. Barbara's kind and generous heart and her unwavering devotion to her family will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She was born on April 21, 1955, in Columbus, Nebraska, to the late Leroy Kumpf and Aletta (VanHeufeln) Kumpf. Barb spent her childhood in Lincoln, Nebraska, attending Pound Junior High School and graduating from Southeast High School. Before retiring, Barb dedicated her career as a Compliance Coordinator at C&A Industries.

Barbara's life was centered around the unconditional love she gave to her family. Her kindness was evident in every interaction. She fostered cherished family traditions, including camping and fishing trips throughout Nebraska and Minnesota, and the special holiday custom of eating french dips. Barb brought joy to every season, but especially at Christmas, a holiday she loved.

She channeled her creativity through crafting and loved cheering on her beloved Nebraska Cornhuskers.

She is survived by her husband John, her mother, Aletta; her children, Paul Sundeen and Nick Ely; her stepdaughter, Susan Ely; and her cherished grandchildren, Jason, Connor, and Sylvie. She also leaves behind her loving siblings, Pamela (Ray) Seuss, and Gary (Deana) Kumpf, Priscilla (Bryan) Dring, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

A memorial service will be held at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, located at 6800 South 14th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska, 68512, Gate 3 on December 5, 2025, starting at 10:00 a.m.

The final resting place will be Lincoln Memorial Park and Cemetery, located at 6700 South 14th Street, Lincoln.

Family and friends are welcome to send flowers or leave their condolences on this Memorial page and share them with family.