Constance “Connie” Josephine Binder went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, May 11th at 9:30am in the comfort of her home with her 3 daughters holding her hands and loving on her. Her beloved fur babies were snuggling beside her. As she courageously fought ovarian cancer over the last 3 years, she thanked the Lord for each extra day that she was blessed with to spend with family and see her grandchildren grow.
Connie was the wife of Bruce Binder and they celebrated their 30th anniversary just recently. Her in-laws are the late Robert “Bob” & Claudette Binder, Brad & Joellen, Todd, Janelle & Harry, Michelle, and Chad.
She was born in Seward, Nebraska to Florence “Flo” Divis Bennett and Modie “Slim” Bennett on November 23. 1958. Her mother remarried to Al Bartek, who she lovingly knew as her father. She was the oldest of 7 children and the only daughter. Her brothers are Micheal “Mike”, David, Albert II “Al”, Frankincense “Frank”, Bryan, and Craig Bartek.
Connie was a member of Life Tabernacle church. She had a strong faith in the Lord and believed He walked with her through every mountain and valley, “one day at a time.”
Connie was so proud of her 3 daughters and son-in-laws and grandchildren. Her love for them is what kept her fighting. Though she longed for her Savior and eternal home in glory, she treasured every precious moment with her girls and grandchildren.
Connie was an animal lover, especially horses. As she weakened from the effects of cancer and chemo, she became too fatigued to work and enjoyed her most recent title of “stay at home dog mom.”
She most recently worked for Tabitha Health for 17 years. She received many awards and recognition for the compassionate care she provided to her patients and perfect attendance. Previous to healthcare, she enjoyed working at the Von Maur department store. When the girls were little, she worked at Randolph and McPhee Elementary Schools in the cafeteria. Her schedule allowed her to be at home with the girls whenever they were out of school.
Connie had many talents and enjoyed gardening and making floral arrangements, crafting, sewing, knitting, and collecting antiques. She lovingly shared her talents with many, especially singing for church and helping with activities and fundraisers.
Connie’s love and generosity touched so many lives. She was like a second mom to many. She walked through life with her arms wide open. Everyone that waked through her door felt the warmth and welcome of her heart. She will be missed dearly and remembered every day.
Connie always said she did not want a funeral or anyone wearing black when she passed but rather a Celebration of Life service. She also always strictly instructed us to never put her in a hole in the ground but rather spread her ashes with the ashes of her beloved pixie in the Colorado Mountains, the place of her favorite vacation.
I worked with Connie for years at Tabitha Home Health Care. She was one of a very gifted, compassionate group of home health aides. Her patients and co-workers loved her and often nurses commented that they wanted Connie to assist with personal care of her clients.
She was very family oriented and spoke often of her husband, daughters and grandchildren.
We are all better for having known her.
My sincere condolences to her family.
Many memories of Connie during our time in Lincoln. She was very talented. My heart and prayers go out to the family in their loss.
Love and prayers,
Shirley Wasmundt
My heart goes out to Bruce and all her family. Connie was a very special lady and will be missed.
Oh so sad to here this. Connie was a school mate and I had seen her a couple of weeks ago. I send prayers to her family. She will be missed. God has another Angel in his midst.
My sister Connie will be dearly missed. So many memories growing up, I will always cherish them. My sincere condolences to Bruce, and especially my beautiful nieces, Missy, Chrissy, and Jessie.
Connie was a good friend and neighbor, truly one of the kindest people ever. In every conversation she spoke with such love and pride for her family. They were ever present in her mind and she told me that she fought for them, not for herself. We miss her.