Melanie A. Buettner

Melanie A. Buettner, 59, of St. Edward, NE, passed away surrounded by family on Friday, January 9, 2026, at the Boone County Health Center in Albion, NE.

Funeral Service will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Levander Funeral Home in Albion, NE with Rev. Brian Ketelsen officiating. Interment will take place at Evergreen Cemetery, St. Edward, NE. Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at Levander Funeral Home in Albion, NE.

Miller- Levander Funeral Home of St. Edward, NE is in charge of arrangements.

Melanie Ann Buettner was born on October 10, 1966, in Omaha, NE, to Roberta (Auracher) Lincoln. She grew up in Omaha, attending Omaha Westside before graduating from Lincoln High School with the Class of 1984.

At the young age of 15, Melanie met the love of her life, Ted Buettner, at a J Geils concert and they were united in marriage on August 21, 1987 in St. Edward, NE. Their marriage was one of deep love and partnership, and together they built a life centered on family, faith, and togetherness. Their home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and unwavering support.

Melanie was a devoted wife and a loving mother whose greatest joy came from her family, especially her grandchildren, who held a special place in her heart. Throughout her life, she wore many hats, working as a daycare provider, cook, and later as the bar manager at TJ's. In every role, Melanie was known for her strong work ethic, kindness, and genuine care for others. She also gave back to her community through her service as an American Red Cross Blood Drive Coordinator in St. Edward.

A woman of Lutheran faith, Melanie found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved Nebraska volleyball, playing cards, camping, hosting family gatherings, and giving "I saw this and thought of you" gifts. Most of all, spending cherished time with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her beloved husband: Ted Buettner of St. Edward, NE; her five daughters: Tamra (Chad) Dodds of Seward, NE; Trina (Matt Torpy) Buettner of Albion, NE; Trisha (James) Spath of St. Edward, NE; Tara Buettner of St. Edward, NE; and Alicia (Brent) McPherson of Mount Holly, NC; ten grandchildren: Leah and Case Dodds of Seward, NE; Parker and Cian Rutherford of Seward, NE; Julia, Jameson, and Jackson Spath of St. Edward, NE; and Asher, Everett, and Amelia McPherson of Mount Holly, NC; four sisters: Stephanie (Randy) VanMeter of Caldwell, ID; Patricia Holdren of Lincoln, NE; Diane Holdren of Kansas City, KS; and Brenda (Bill) Komma of Topeka, KS; three step-siblings: Danny Marsh and Ricky Marsh both of Lincoln, NE, and Piper (Ricardo) Porras of Omaha, NE; mother-in-law: Deloris Buettner of St. Edward, NE; two sisters-in-law: Linda (Alex) Taylor of Battle Creek, NE, Angie (Tom) Taylor of Galveston, TX; and brother-in-law: George Buettner of Palmer, NE; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Roberta and George Marsh; grandson: CJ Buettner; father-in-law: Henry Buettner; stepsister: Carrie Marsh; sister-in-law: Loreli Buettner; and close family friend: Mike Price.