12/2/1937 - 5/15/2023
Cora was born in Windsor, Colorado on December 2, 1937, to John and Cora (Brutlag) Brinkman. Cora had two sisters, Karla, and Faith and three half-brothers, Paul, Brink and John.
Cora grew up in Windsor where she graduated valedictorian of Windsor High School in 1955. She then enrolled in the nursing program at Immanuel Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska from which she graduated in 1958 as an RN. During her schooling in Omaha, she met and married Bob Behrens. They were married in Windsor, Colorado on June 15, 1958. Cora was a faithful, loving wife to Bob for 50+ years. They had four wonderful children, Doug, Kay, Beth, and Dave. Cora chose to stay home from nursing and raise her children. She was an incredible mom who loved her children well and raised them, along with Bob, to love and follow Christ. She continued to encourage, comfort, and pray for them throughout adulthood. Over the years the family grew to include Doug’s wife, Karen and their two children, John, and Rachel; and Dave’s wife Cindy and their three children, Ben, Kaylin, and Caroline; and then Ben’s wife, Lauren. Cora loved her grandchildren greatly. She enjoyed spending time with them and going to their activities. She prayed for them constantly and encouraged them to follow Jesus. She was always delighted to hear what they were doing.
The constant thread giving Cora peace and stability throughout her life was her strong, child-like faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, whom she loved even as a child. Her faith was her anchor, and it permeated every aspect of her life with the beautiful fragrance of Jesus.
As a neighbor, Cora was known for her kindness, generosity, and hospitality. Her amazing homemade chicken soup and bread showed up at many doors when there was a need. She regularly walked through our neighborhood praying for families.
As a friend, she loved with such loyalty, unconditionally and whole-heartedly. As a spiritual mentor, she led many retreats for women and facilitated Bible studies with an infectious love for the word of God. Her passion to always learn and grow gave her such a depth and wisdom that helped so many others grow in their faith. As a worshiper, she was uninhibited and fervent. How she loved to dance before her Lord as an expression of her love! She led Ministering to Jesus watches, leading others with scripture and music into the place of abiding with Jesus. Cora and Bob were also instrumental in the formation of The King’s Garden, a ministry created to serve the King of kings by loving and serving others, currently based in the community of King Lake.
In December 2022 Cora was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. But she didn’t let that diagnosis keep her from living. Instead, she set out to do everything she could to help her immune system fight the disease with a discipline and grit that inspired so many.
Cora passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on May 15, 2023, surrounded by her children who loved her dearly. A life well lived.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be given to the Kings Garden at PO Box 206, Valley, NE. 68064 or to the family to send to other charities that Cora had a passion for.
MEMORIAL SERVICE: Saturday, May 20, 2023 at 11:00am at Emmanuel Fellowship Church, 8345 Crown Pointe Ave., Omaha, NE
Braman Mortuary - 72 St. Chapel
1702 N. 72 St.
Omaha, NE 68114
402-391-2171
To send flowers to the family in memory of Cora G Behrens, please visit our flower store.