The family of Mary Susan Baumgartener of Ogallala, NE announces her passing, and invites all who knew her to remember her here.
These few paragraphs cannot hold a life, but they may carry a memory.
Quiet kindness echoes longest.
Mary Susan Baumgartener, 72, of Keystone, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2026, surrounded by her family.Mary was born in Omaha, Nebraska, and spent her early years embracing the joys of country life on her uncle’s farm, often reminiscing fondly about those “good old days.” In her youth, she carried a spirited sense of adventure—barefoot rock climbing with her brother Ron, chasing waves along the California coast, and riding dirt bikes with fearless enthusiasm. She even spent time modeling, always bringing a bold, free-spirited energy to everything she did.Mary found equal joy in both life’s quiet and lively moments. Whether it was feeling the breeze drift through her hair in peaceful solitude or laughing through the chaos of family game nights, she lived fully and on her own terms. She was fiercely independent, yet deeply connected to those she loved.Nearly 50 years ago, Mary met the love of her life, Paul, and together they began building a life in Denver, Colorado. Their journey was filled with laughter, challenges, and the joy of raising their three children. Weekends often echoed with the familiar rattle of Boggle dice and the lively banter she shared with her sister Linda over cups of coffee.In 1995, Mary and Paul moved to Keystone, Nebraska, seeking a quieter, slower pace of life. There, she found comfort and contentment in simple pleasures—watching horses graze from her porch, hearing the soft call of a bottle-fed calf, tending to her animals, and enjoying the companionship of her beloved cats and dogs. Their home became a cherished summer haven for her grandchildren, filled with stories, laughter, and lasting memories around the dinner table.Mary was a steady presence for her family—a source of strength, safety, and unwavering love in an often unpredictable world. Even in her most challenging moments, her compassion, generosity, and deep love for others never wavered.She is survived by her devoted husband, Paul; her daughters, Jessaca and Nicole; her son, Marcus; her 9 grandchildren; and her 3 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her nephew, David; brother Ronald and numerous nephews, nieces and extended family; close family friend Miranda.Mary was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Linda; her great grandson and her grandparents.Services will be held privately at the family’s request.In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the family.Online condolences may be left at www.drauckerfh.comDraucker Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
