Connie was born on March 24, 1936, in Gothenburg, Nebraska, to Louie and Aleen Peters. She died July 16, 2026, in Lexington, Nebraska. During her childhood, she lived in Montana and California before returning to Gothenburg, where she graduated from Gothenburg High School.

She was united in marriage to Raymond Groenewold, and together they welcomed two children, Georgie and Rod. Connie later married Cecil Morton.

A lifelong learner with a passion for education, Connie earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Kearney State College. She dedicated her career to teaching in public schools throughout Nebraska and California. In later years, she also shared her knowledge and enthusiasm through enrichment classes at the Antique Gas and Steam Museum in California.

Among Connie’s greatest blessings was her family. She took immense pride in the accomplishments of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, delighting in every milestone and eagerly sharing their successes with others. She treasured every opportunity to be with them—whether telling stories, creating lasting memories through activities, or gathering to celebrate holidays, birthdays, and life's many special moments. The love she had for her family was evident and they remained the joy of her heart throughout her life.

Connie believed that every person had inherent value and deserved to feel seen, loved, and encouraged. She had a remarkable gift for recognizing the goodness and potential in others, and she devoted her life to helping people discover those qualities within themselves. Whether she was teaching in a classroom or simply spending time with family, friends, or strangers, her kindness, compassion, and unwavering belief in others left an enduring impact on countless lives.

Memorial service will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the First Baptist Church, 1002 Ave C, Gothenburg, NE.

Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel July 22, 2026