Patricia "Patti" K. Luebbe, 80, of Columbus, Nebraska, died Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at her home in Columbus, Nebraska.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 10:30 AM, at First United Methodist Church in Columbus.  Visitation will be on Friday from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Gass Haney Funeral Home and continue on Saturday at the church from 9:30 AM until service time.  In lieu of flowers, stones, plaques, etc., memorials are suggested to the family for a future scholarship fund to be set up in memory of Patti.  Private family burial will take place prior to the service on Saturday.  The funeral service will be broadcast live on Gass Haney Funeral Home Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057043736890

Patricia K. Luebbe, lovingly known as Patti, was born on May 8, 1945, to Dr. Harlan R. and Donita W. (Gillaspie) Wiggins in Chicago, Illinois. Shortly after her birth, the family moved to Minden, Nebraska, where Patti and her younger sisters, Sherri and Leslie, enjoyed what she always described as "the best childhood." She carried a lifelong love for Minden—cheering proudly, "Minden, purple and white, fight fight!"—and spoke often of her treasured friends from the Minden Maids 4‑H group. Some of her most cherished memories came from riding along with her father on large‑animal veterinary calls, moments she held close her entire life.

Patti attended the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and later Kearney State College, where she studied education. During this time, she met the love of her life, Richard "Dick" Luebbe. They were married on August 10, 1968, in Minden and celebrated afterward with family and friends in Grand Island.

The couple began their married life teaching in Kearney, before moving to Columbus in 1971 when Dick accepted a teaching and coaching position at Columbus High School. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in love, adventure, and deep devotion to family. They welcomed three children—Jeff (Heidi), Andy (Angie), and Cathy (Fili) Sanchez—who were the pride and joy of Patti's life.

Patti dedicated herself wholeheartedly to creating a warm and joyful home filled with traditions, celebrations, and countless memories. Many in the community remember her as the beloved teacher of Little Learners Preschool, which she ran from the basement of their Prairie Lane home for 13 wonderful years. She later taught at District 84 and eventually retired from Columbus Middle School. Her nurturing spirit, patience, and creativity touched the lives of generations of children and families.

A true enthusiast of life, Patti was always on the go—cheering at her children's and later her grandchildren's activities, hosting gatherings for football games and holidays, planning celebrations for birthdays and showers, and embracing any occasion that brought people together. She poured her heart into holiday decorating and made every season magical. Every year, friends looked forward to receiving the "Lovely Luebbe" Christmas card, a warm and cheerful glimpse into the family she loved so dearly. Patti often said, "You make memories when you travel," a motto she lived by. She found immense joy in planning annual trips for all 18 family members—whether to Disney, Breckenridge, or other favorite destinations—creating lasting memories that her family will hold close forever.

Patti found immense joy in friendship and community. She belonged to numerous women's and couples' clubs and organizations—including Columbus Women's Club, Alpha Delta Kappa National Teacher Sorority, and PEO. She loved playing bridge and pitch and often served as an officer in the groups she participated in. Patti was also a faithful member of First United Methodist Church, where she enjoyed serving on committees and giving her time and talents.

Her upbeat, positive nature made her a natural leader and a joy to be around. Above all, Patti will be remembered for her radiant spirit—kind, optimistic, encouraging, and always ready to help. Her greatest joy in life was her family, especially her ten cherished grandchildren, who adored their loving, energetic, and endlessly supportive grandmother.

Patti leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, generosity, and joy. She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

Patti is survived by:
• Husband – Richard "Dick" Luebbe of Columbus, Nebraska
• Son – Jeff (Heidi) Luebbe of Columbus, Nebraska
• Son – Andy (Angie) Luebbe of Columbus, Nebraska
• Daughter – Cathy (Fili) Sanchez of Kearney, Nebraska
• Grandchildren – Aspen, Ean, and Eastyn Luebbe of Columbus; Gracie, Maggie, Sadie, and Henry Luebbe of Columbus; Samson, Benjamin, and Libby Sanchez of Kearney.
• Sister – Sherri (Al) Friedman of Duluth, Georgia
• Sister – Leslie Hogan of Tampa, Florida
• Many cousins, nieces, and nephew

Patti was preceded in death by:
• Parents – Dr. Harlan R. and Donita W. (Gillaspie) Wiggins
• In‑laws – Carl and Lorraine Luebbe

The family would like to thank the wonderful caregivers, medical professionals, physical therapists, and friends who supported Patti throughout her illness.