8/27/1945 – 11/19/2018
Gretna – Cora Lee Behnke (Smith) died surrounded by her family in Omaha on November 19, 2018 at the age of 73.
Cora is survived by her husband Clayton; three sons Chris (April), Pat (Katie) and Rick (Amy); seven grandchildren Greer, Anna, Evelyn, Jacob, Olivia, Nora and Ethan; brother Richard Smith and sister Leanne (Wayne) Robb. She is preceded in death by her parents Augustine and Richard Smith.
Cora was born on August 27, 1945 in Omaha, NE to Augustine and Richard Smith. She graduated from St. Catherine’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1966. She married Clayton August 21, 1966. After moving to Gretna, Cora began working for Bergan Mercy Hospital as a Nurse for 42 years. The couple welcomed three children into their lives and Cora set about teaching them the love of family. Her children remember her with the love and gentle compassion she had for all her family and friends. Cora was an active and dedicated member of the Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church in Gretna NE.
The family would like to thank all the caregivers and staff at Lakeside Hospital for their care and support.
Visitation Monday 5:00 – 7:00 PM with Vigil Service at 7:00 PM at St. Patrick Catholic Church. Memorial Service Tuesday (11/27/18) 10:30 AM at St. Patrick Catholic Church 508 Angus St. Gretna, NE. Interment Holy Sepulcher Cemetery Gretna, NE. Memorials to the family to be designated later.
Roeder Mortuary, Inc. – Gretna Chapel
11710 Standing Stone – Gretna, NE – 402-332-0090
I was very fortunate to work with Cora in short term care at Bergan. It was a small unit and we worked closely together and enjoyed our time at work. We use to trade lunches and recipies. She was always so fun to work with and I looked to her for advice. She was a great nurse.
Prayers for Cora and family
So sorry for your loss. I enjoyed working with her at Bergan. I remember being new to the hospital and she was so helpful and made you at easy in her presence. I also enjoyed many recipes she shared with me and think of her when use them.
I went to high school with Cora lee and she was one of the sweetest people!
Cora was a lovely lady and I’m glad I had the privilege to meet her with the union of April and Chris. May the fond memories of her bring you joy and love forever in your hearts. Hugs and prayers for the whole family in the days ahead.
I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Cora at Bergan for many years. She was the funniest and fun nurse to work with. May all your wonderful memories of her last forever in your hearts.