Lincoln, NE – November 17, 2025 – The Lincoln community is in mourning after the tragic death of 61-year-old Kristine “Kris” Hess, a well-respected leader and advocate in the nonprofit sector, who was struck and killed by a tow truck on Saturday night in northeast Lincoln. Her untimely passing has left a deep void in both her personal circle and the numerous organizations she dedicated her life to.
The Incident
The fatal accident occurred late on Saturday evening, and despite immediate efforts by emergency responders, Kris was pronounced dead at the scene due to the injuries sustained. Her sudden departure has shocked her family, friends, and colleagues, particularly those in the nonprofit community where she was known for her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact.
Remembering Kristine “Kris” Hess
Kris Hess was more than just a colleague to many; she was a mentor, a guiding force, and a beacon of hope for those she worked with. Her career in the nonprofit sector was marked by a deep sense of compassion, commitment, and a genuine desire to uplift others. Whether working to initiate outreach programs or providing personal support to those in need, Kris navigated her professional responsibilities with grace, determination, and an empathetic spirit.
Peers and colleagues fondly remember Kris for her ability to connect with others on a personal level. She was known for remembering people’s names, listening attentively, and offering words of encouragement when needed most. Kris’s leadership was defined by empathy, always prioritizing the well-being and growth of her team members and those she served. Her vision was not only focused on the mission at hand but also on the individuals within her reach, making them feel seen, valued, and empowered.
A Legacy of Compassion and Leadership
Kris’s impact went far beyond the walls of any organization. Her legacy will be remembered in the countless initiatives she helped build, the lives she touched, and the sense of community she fostered in every project she undertook. Her ability to unite people around a common cause and help them recognize their own potential was truly remarkable. She was a constant source of support for her colleagues, a reliable friend, and a guiding force for anyone in need of encouragement or guidance.
Her advocacy for positive change, her dedication to helping others, and her personal warmth made her an invaluable member of her community. Whether as a leader in her professional sphere or as a friend and confidante, Kris’s life was one of purpose, integrity, and kindness.
The Community’s Response
The news of Kris’s passing has left a significant impact on both her personal and professional circles. Those who knew her have expressed deep grief, remembering her for her selfless spirit and unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of others. Her absence is felt not only by her family and close friends but by the wider community she served with such dedication.
The nonprofit sector, in particular, has lost a valued and irreplaceable advocate. As her family, colleagues, and community members come together to mourn, they are also honoring Kris’s legacy—continuing her work, supporting her causes, and living out the values she instilled in those around her.
A Lasting Tribute
While the circumstances of her death are heartbreaking, Kris’s memory will live on in the lives she touched and the initiatives she championed. Her legacy of kindness, leadership, and compassion serves as an inspiration for those who had the privilege of working alongside her.
As her family and friends navigate the difficult journey of grief, they are comforted by the countless memories and the positive change Kris left behind. Her impact will continue to be felt, and her story will be shared for generations to come.
May Kristine “Kris” Hess rest in peace, and may her memory continue to inspire and guide all who knew her.
The post In Cherished Remembrance of Kristine “Kris” Hess A Valued Leader, a Cherished Associate, and an Inspiration Within the Nonprofit Sector first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
