Edward “Ed” H. Mommsen, Sr.
July 3, 1936 – April 26, 2025
Ed was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Mommsen (Lorentzen); first born child, Edward Andrew Mommsen; parents, Andrew and Emma (Hensen) Mommsen; siblings, Gerhard (Irene) Mommsen, Hans (Eleanor) Mommsen, Evelyn (Rudy) Lang; and Christel (Ken) Chapman.
Ed grew up on the family farm in Ft. Calhoun, Nebraska. He loved his time on the farm and would reminisce about stories of fun he had with “Smokey” his horse and “Jack” one of his favorite farm dogs. He would hunt and fish down at the Boyer Chutes which were just down the road from the farm.
He experienced the 1952 flood and told heroic stories of his dad, brother Gerhard, and himself trying to get the farm animals to higher ground. He was an over-the-road truck driver for a time. He also worked at Western Electric where he met his wife, Shirley Ann Lorentzen. They married June 21, 1958, at Our Lady of Lourdes Church. He cared lovingly for his wife for 16 years after her disabling stroke and lost the love of his life in 2004. They enjoyed 46 years of marriage and raised five children.
He was recruited by family to get into the construction trades. He became a cement mason with Union Local 538 and received his 60+ years of service Gold Card.
Ed was taught hard work as a youngster and carried this on his entire life. He taught his children this, emphasizing the value of the dollar and the rewards that came with helping others. He would never say no to any family member or friend that needed help with anything. He was a “Jack-of-all-Trades” from electrical, plumbing, concrete, bricklaying, roofing, carpentry etc. He was a Master of all! His only regret was not being able to continue helping as he became physically unable to. From his years of valuable experience; he shared his expertise endlessly, enjoyed being a mentor, and provided quality control as needed.
Ed will forever be remembered for his strength, smile, love for family and friends, and his compassion for helping others. He will be missed dearly.
Ed is survived by his children: Lori Mommsen, Edward (Diane) Mommsen Jr., Lisa (Mike) Mommsen Connor, Andy (Amy) Mommsen, and Linda Mommsen; grandchildren: Erin, Kelli (Nick), Andrew Jr., Abigail, Evan; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
VIGIL: Friday, May 2, 2025, at 7:00 PM with VISITATION from 5:00-7:00 PM at West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha.
MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 9:30 AM, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 3122 S. 74th St. Omaha.
INTERMENT: Calvary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials will be directed by the family.
To view live broadcasts of the Service, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “Live Cast” button at the top of the home page.
Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com
5 Comments
Lori and family,
I was very saddened to hear the passing of your Dad. May God bless you and your family with peace and comfort at this time. It brings me joy to know that your Dad is finally together again with your Mom. They are probably dancing together in heaven.
Andy, Amy and family, Sorry to hear of your great loss. I haven’t seen Ed for a few years, after our office moved to Lincoln, but I always enjoyed when he would stop by the Nebraska State AFL-CIO office in Omaha. He is one of the old-time labor movement leaders who understood what the labor movement was all about! There are not many like him around anymore! May he rest in peace.
Had the opportunity to work with Ed when I was an Apprentice Cement Mason 40 years ago. Then while in office for the Cement Masons Local #538. Ed was a great Cement Mason and a Strong Union Brother. He will be greatly missed by all who new him.
Gregg D Rhoades/Business Manager Cement Masons #538/Retired
My condolences to all.
Hey Mike Lisa Evan.
Very sorry for your loss. Lisa he was so proud of you You could hear it in his voice every time he talked about you! He will be missed. You helped him so much these last years. God bless.
Love Erhard and Elisa
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