Connie (Groff) Bridgewater passed away peacefully on August 19, 2026, at the Good Samaritan Society in Auburn, Nebraska. Born December 7, 1941, in Auburn, Connie graced this world with her warmth, vibrant presence, and steadfast dedication to her family and community.

Connie began her lifelong journey in the Auburn countryside, attending country school as a young girl and graduating from Auburn High School. Rooted in values instilled during her upbringing, she dedicated her early years to her growing family.

An adventurous spirit, Connie treasured her time traveling the rodeo circuit and was a proud participant in RCA and URA barrel racing, a passion she pursued with determination and joy. Her love for horses extended beyond competition; she enjoyed teaching horse riding lessons through Peru State College, 4-H, and for family and friends, introducing many to the beauty and challenge of horsemanship. Connie also worked for a time at the Peru State College daycare, nurturing young lives. Her compassion and sense of purpose eventually led her to a fulfilling role at APACE (formerly Region V), where she worked with unwavering dedication for over twenty years before her retirement in June of 2023.

Faith was a guiding light throughout Connie’s life. Raised in the Bethel Church, she was a lifelong Christian. Her commitment to service included volunteering for prison ministry at Tecumseh, living out her belief in compassion and hope for all.

Connie’s greatest joys were found in the company of loved ones. She cherished spending time with family and friends, building memories filled with laughter, support, and love. Connie’s life was deeply enriched by these relationships. She was preceded in death by her beloved mother Mildred (Able) Groff; father Ralph Groff; her son, Brian Bridgewater; her sister, Phyllis Reeves and brother-in-law, Clint Reeves; brother-in-law, Ron Brock; sister-in-law, Ginny Groff; and nephews, Chad Reeves, Jeffery Reeves, and James Reeves.

Those left to mourn her passing include her children Brad (Jayne) Bridgewater of Idaho Falls, ID, Daniel Bridgewater of Auburn, Kenneth Bridgewater of Auburn, and Tracy Bridgewater of Shenandoah, IA; grandchildren McKenzie, Sierra, Linsay, Kolton, Bryna, and Levi; 7 great-grandchildren; siblings Barb Brock of Lake Waconda, Richard Groff of Stover, MO, Cheryl Krafka of Lake Waconda, Rodney (Peggy) Groff of Auburn; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A celebration of life was held Monday, August 24, 2026, at Hemmingsen Funeral Home, officiated by Pastor Adam Blondo. Burial followed in Mt. Vernon Cemetery at Peru.

Services were entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home.