Michele Lynn Bristol, 52, of Columbus, Nebraska passed away on August 18, 2025, in Columbus, Nebraska.

A memorial service will be held at Gass Haney Funeral Home in Columbus on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at 10:00 AM, with Pastor Randy Longacre officiating.

Michele was born on April 26, 1973, in China Lake, California, to Jim and Marsha (Bresee) Bristol.  Her family returned to their family farm in Waco, Nebraska in 1974, following her father's completion of his service in the United States Navy.

She graduated from Centennial Public Schools and went on to earn her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Dana College. After graduation, Michele pursued her passion for youth ministry, beginning in Round Rock, Texas. Over the years, she served in a variety of church and clerical roles, food service, and volunteer work. Michele carried with her a desire to share her faith, a love for community, and a special affection for animals, especially her cat, O'Malley.

Michele is survived by her sisters, Erinn (Chris) Criner of Lincoln and Katelin (Doug) Rood of York; her nieces, Kellyn and Kynley Criner; aunts Carolyn Bresee of Grand Island and Cheryl Bristol of Columbus; uncles Doug Bresee of Papillion and Todd Bresee of LaVista; as well as cousins and her dear friend, Donna Nickel.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Marsha Bristol, and her grandparents.