Elyse Marie DeTurk, age 36, of Bennington, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025, after a courageous and inspiring battle with cancer. A true warrior and advocate to the end, Elyse lived a life full of passion, purpose and profound love.
Born and raised in Omaha, Elyse was the beloved daughter of Jeff and Cheryl Clark and a proud graduate of Benson High School (Class of 2007). She went on to earn two bachelor's degrees from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in Education and Human Sciences and Native American Studies — fields that reflected her deep commitment to learning, cultural understanding and service to others.
Elyse married the love of her life, Dustin DeTurk, on November 8, 2014, at the TipTop Ballroom in Omaha. Together they built a beautiful life, raising two sons, Darwin (2019) and Levi (2022), who were her greatest joys and constant source of strength.
Professionally, Elyse brought her talents and passion to the Nebraska Early Childhood Collaborative, where she worked tirelessly to improve the lives of children and families. Personally, she was a gifted artist and crafter, known for her meticulous and heartfelt handmade gifts that touched the lives of so many. Whether through cross stitch, painting, sewing or personalized projects, Elyse’s creativity was a love language all its own.
Elyse was also a dedicated cancer advocate, using her voice and experience to empower and support other survivors. Her favorite pastimes included watching Dexter, The Office and Below Deck, and playing both video and board games with loved ones. Those who knew her would describe her as caring, selfless, creative, driven and, above all, deeply loving. She was a devoted mother, an irreplaceable sister and daughter, a best friend, and a soulmate.
Elyse is survived by her husband, Dustin DeTurk; sons, Darwin and Levi; parents, Jeff and Cheryl Clark; and sister and brother-in-law, Stephanie and Mike Borman, and their children Hank and Cici.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, Oct. 25th, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Thomas Lutheran Church, 17007 Q St., Omaha. Visitation will be Friday, Oct. 24th, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the church. Private interment.
Please join us after the service for refreshments and Elyse’s favorite meal, French Dip. Memorials may be directed to Memories for Kids, a cause close to Elyse’s heart. More details and opportunity to share memories can be found at:
https://www.reichmuthfuneralhomes.com
https://memoriesforkids.org
Reichmuth Funeral Home
Elkhorn, NE 68022
(402) 289-2222
