Patricia Ann Beckenhauer-Olsen, of Lincoln, Nebraska, formerly of Columbus, Nebraska, a beloved mother, grandmother, educator, and faithful servant, passed away on March 19, 2026, at the age of 93 at Pemberly Place Retirement Home in Lincoln. She lived a full and meaningful life, defined by her deep love for her family, her passion for education, and her unwavering faith.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 AM on April 18 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Columbus with Pastor Ollie Fullmer officiating. The family will greet friends on April 17 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Gass Haney Funeral Home. Visitation will continue on April 18 from 9:30 AM until service time, at the church. There will be a family prayer service at 10:15 AM, on April 18, at the church. Interment of her cremains will be in Prospect Hill Cemetery in Norfolk, Nebraska at 1:30 PM on April 18. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given. The family will designate memorials to support schools, teachers, and educational programs, as well as nonprofit organizations that provide resources and support to families of individuals living with dementia.

Pat was born on June 26, 1932, in Red Oak, Iowa, to Harold and Edna (Swanson) Patterson. She spent her early years in Red Oak and later in Norfolk, Nebraska, where she graduated from high school in 1950. Those who knew her often spoke of her strong work ethic, her kindness, and her natural ability to lead—qualities that would shape the course of her life.

On July 14, 1956, she married Donald C. Beckenhauer, and together they built a life centered on family and shared values. Two children were born to this union, Bill and Julie, who remained at the heart of her world. Following the loss of her first husband, she married Don Olsen on February 16, 2006.

She attended Colorado State Teachers’ College, and later the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, where she earned a Master's Degree and a Specialist Degree in Educational Administration. This education laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable 39-year career in education, with many of those years spent in Columbus Public Schools.

For nearly four decades, Pat poured her heart into education. She believed deeply in the potential of every child and the power of schools to shape lives. As a teacher and principal, she led with both strength and compassion, inspiring students, supporting teachers, and building strong school communities. Her contributions were widely recognized, earning her numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. Among these were being the first woman named “Boss of the Year” by the Columbus American Business Women’s Association and the first woman to receive the Athena Award from the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. She was also honored as one of 60 school administrators nationwide to receive the National Distinguished Principals Award and was presented with the Distinguished Service Award from the Nebraska Council of School Administrators, becoming the first female principal to receive this honor. While she was deeply honored by these achievements, she found her greatest joy in the relationships she built and the lives she influenced along the way.

Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. As a devoted member of Trinity Lutheran Church, she lived her beliefs through quiet acts of kindness, steady service, and a generous spirit. She was deeply involved in her community and gave freely of her time, always ready to lend a hand, offer encouragement, or simply listen.

Above all else, she cherished her family, who brought her immense pride and joy. She is lovingly remembered by her son, Bill (Jill) Beckenhauer of Hastings, NE, and daughter, Julie (David) Leacox of Pullman, WA; her grandchildren, Sara (David) Hageman, Matthew (Cara) Beckenhauer, Zachary Beckenhauer, Jacob Beckenhauer, Evan (Alicia) Leacox, Spenser Leacox, Riley Leacox; and her great-grandchildren, Rohn and Riggins Hageman, Olivia and Stetson Woslager (Beckenhauer), and Elizabeth Leacox; also cherishing her memory are several nieces and nephews. She delighted in each of their accomplishments, treasured the time they spent together, and created a legacy of love that will endure through generations.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Donald C. Beckenhauer and Don Olsen; her sister and brother-in-law, Sandra and Dean Spike; and her great-granddaughter, Charlie Marie Leacox.

Pat will be remembered for her warm heart, strength of character, joyful spirit, and lifelong dedication to making a difference. She leaves behind not only a loving family but also a community and profession that are better because she was part of them.