Denise (Hales) Mundorf passed away April 14, 2026, with family and friends at her side.

She was born December 20, 1949, in Lincoln, NE, the daughter of Betty Jane (Kingery) Hales and Harvey James Hales, who preceded her in death.

Denise worked as an LPN. In 1991 she helped found the volunteer music therapy program at St. Elizabeth where she played her folk harp for oncology patients. She also volunteered with Heartland Hospice and played for patients in other hospitals. “Music reaches a person in ways words can’t. You’re being welcomed into private moments in peoples’ lives. It’s a privilege.”

Denise loved flowers and had an expansive garden. She had a special fondness for her heirloom roses and iris.

Her family became active with the Children’s Zoo in 1965, and Denise continued this involvement through support for new exhibits and animals for the enjoyment of the larger community.

Denise is survived by her husband, Ed Mundorf; her sister, Cherie Hales; and niece, Katya Hales.

Condolences and remembrances can be sent to Wyuka Funeral Home and Cemetery.

We are deeply grateful to the staff at Pemberly Memory Care, Hospice of Nebraska and Lymphatic Rehab for the kind and respectful care they provided.

Memorials can be made to the Nebraska Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association HERE or the Lincoln Children’s Zoo HERE.