Karen Schledewitz, student services coordinator at the UNMC College of Nursing West Nebraska Division in Scottsbluff, passed away suddenly on Christmas Eve. Funeral services were held Tuesday. She was 59.
Schledewitz’s husband Jerry Schledewitz also works at the college’s West Nebraska Division.
“We are all saddened. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jerry and his family, and with our students, faculty, and staff in Scottsbluff and through our entire college,” said Juliann Sebastian, Ph.D., dean of the UNMC College of Nursing. “Losing a colleague, advisor, co-worker and friend leaves an empty space in our hearts. This is a time for us to stand together and support all who experienced Karen’s quiet, supportive and compassionate way.”
“Karen was loved by so many and her compassion for students was endless,” said Kelly Betts, Ed.D., assistant dean, UNMC College of Nursing West Nebraska Division. “She always took the time from what she was doing to help others. The students loved Karen so much and she will forever be missed by all of us at the division.”
Schledewitz began working as student services coordinator at the UNMC College of Nursing West Nebraska Division in 2007. Prior to that, she taught math and science in Bridgeport, Scottsbluff, Harrisburg, Mitchell and Sidney. She also served as a school counselor in the Bridgeport School District and worked as a nutritionist at the University of Nebraska Extension from 2002 to 2007.
Longtime UNMC co-worker, Bobbi Hartshorn, said Schledewitz had a heart for people. “She was so compassionate, especially for those in need. She had a strong faith in God and and her love for Christ was the foundation her life was built around. She was a good friend and advocate for students and would do everything she could to make sure students were taken care of.”
Schledewitz was born in Scottsbluff and graduated from Bridgeport High School. She graduated from Western Nebraska Community College in 1980 earned her bachelor’s degree (1983) and master’s degree (1991) from Chadron State College.
I am so extremely saddened to hear about this. Karen was a great colleague and she will be missed. May her family find peace and comfort during this very difficult time.
Beautiful video Jerry. Know that your UNMC family from all over the state is surrounding you and your family with love.
Jerry and Family. Your family from Omaha will also mourn your loss. Karen was a great person always with a happy voice. I really enjoyed working with her in assuring our Students were appropriately vaccinated for their different Journeys.