Carolyn Barthel

Carolyn Ruth Barthel age 85, of Broken Bow, NE passed away on October 29, 2026, at CHI Health St. Francis in Grand Island, NE.

Carolyn Ruth Barthel was born on October 7, 1941, in Chambers, NE to Paul and Letha (Isaacson) Harley. Carolyn attended grade school in a one-room schoolhouse just down the road from their place, graduating as Salutatorian of her class in 1959, at Wheeler County High School at Barlett, NE. Carolyn went on to college at Wayne State Teachers College. She taught her first year south of Bassett, going on to teach another four years.

In 1963 she married Stanley Barthel and they lived on the Barthel Ranch, north of Burwell. They had two boys, Brian and Kalin. The family moved to Kearney in 1977, purchasing the “Big Red Barn” on Cottonmill Road. The couple divorced in 1984. Carolyn worked at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney for 14 years.

1993, Carolyn married John Less. In 2003 they purchased a place in Worms and Carolyn worked at St. Francis Hospital in Grand Island for three years. The couple enjoyed many flights to San Diego to visit family and to sight see. Carolyn enjoyed gardening, canning, many things, and took special pride in her flowers. Carolyn loved time with her grandchildren and great-granddaughters. In 2022, the couple moved to Broken Bow.

Carolyn is preceded in death by her parents Paul & Letha Harley, husband John Less, son Brian, and two brothers Eldon Harley and Gerald Harley.

Carolyn is survived by her son Kalin Barthel of Broken Bow, two brothers Darwin (Shirley) Harley of Mena, AR, Roger (Maria) Harley of Ridgecrest, CA, four grandchildren Stephanie (Derrick), Johnathan, Nicole, Scott (Brandy), four granddaughters Taylor, MaKenna, Katherine, and Bella, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Carolyn will be laid to rest at Fort McPherson National Cemetery in Maxwell, NE on November 9, 2026, at 1:00 PM. Govier Brothers Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Online words of remembrance may be left at www.govierbrothers.com