Carmen Ukele

C armen K. (Baumgartner) Ukele, 42, of Sabetha, KS passed away Saturday, November 25, 2017.

Carmen was born on July 19, 1975 in Sabetha, KS the daughter of Leonard and Nancy (Hartter) Baumgartner. Carmen attended Bern schools through her sophomore year and Sabetha High School as a junior and senior, graduating in 1993.She earned an Associate’s Degree from Highland Community College, and a Bachelor’s Degree in elementary education from Peru State College. Carmen was a dedicated, well-loved, and respected substitute teacher in the Sabetha school system.

She was united in marriage to Lee Fred Ukele on March 27, 1999 in Sabetha, KS. Carmen and Lee were blessed with three children: Tanner, Carson and Marlee. As a Christian, Carmen served her Lord and Savior in numerous ways. This was most evident in her exceptional devotion to her husband and children. Her hospitality and kindness was felt by many, and her home was always open to anyone. Carmen attended NorthRidge Church in Sabetha where she and Marlee served in the nursery.

Earlier in the day of her passing, she celebrated with her two sons the excitement of winning the 3A Kansas State Football Championship.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Nancy (Hartter) Baumgartner; and her cherished daughter, Marlee.

She is survived by her husband, Lee and two sons, Tanner and Carson of the home; her father, Leonard Baumgartner of Sabetha; and siblings, Jeff (Kim) Baumgartner, Jay (Heidi) Baumgartner both of Bern, KS, Heidi (Jeff) Bahler of Wolcott, IN, and Holly (Duane) Meyer of Bern, KS. Carmen was adored by her numerous nieces and nephews. She will be lovingly remembered by the countless acquaintances and friendships she cherished, always sharing a word of encouragement. Her joyful personality was contagious.

Funeral service will be Monday, December 4, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at the NorthRidge Church in Sabetha. Visitation will be Sunday, December 3, 2017 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at NorthRidge Church. Interment will be made at the Sabetha Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Tanner and Carson Ukele Education Fund, Sabetha Swim Team or NorthRidge Church Children's Nursery, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534.