Elise Burgard Attanasio, age 68, went home to be with the Lord on March 18, 2026, peacefully at home after spending her final days surrounded by family and loved ones.

Elise was born on February 15, 1958, in Norwood, Massachusetts. She attended the University of Maryland Dental Hygiene School, where she pursued a career in dental hygiene, faithfully serving and caring for others with compassion and kindness throughout her life. She married her beloved husband, Ron Attanasio, in 1983. Together they shared a deep love for the field of dentistry and for their five children.

Elise knew Christ as her Savior, and her life was a beautiful testimony of God’s transforming grace. She was a faithful prayer warrior, a devoted wife and mother, and a mentor and friend to many. Her love for the Lord overflowed into every area of her life. She served as the Moms in Prayer Nebraska State Coordinator for many years, faithfully interceding for children, families, and schools, leaving a lasting spiritual impact that will continue for generations.

Elise had a heart of deep compassion and found joy in serving others. She loved gardening, playing her flute, walking outdoors, taking care of her doggies, and creating a warm and welcoming home where everyone felt seen and loved. If you knew Elise, you knew her heart for the Lord and for people. You could hardly pass her by without her asking how you were and often praying for you right then and there.

In recent years, Elise endured Alzheimer’s and Lewy Body Dementia. She gracefully walked the journey with bravery and faith, along with the support of her family, friends, and medical providers. She is now completely free from illness and pain, fully restored in the presence of her Savior.

“So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:16–18

Elise will be remembered as faithful, steadfast, compassionate, and full of love. Her legacy lives on through her family, her ministry in Moms in Prayer, and the countless lives she touched through her prayers and encouragement.

Elise is survived by her husband, Ron Attanasio; her five children: Devon Attanasio; Drew Attanasio (Dani); Doron Attanasio (Alyson); Damaris Messinger (Andrew); and D’Anna Gustafson (Erik); and her cherished grandchildren: Scout, Copeland, and Holland Attanasio; Theodore and Blair Attanasio. She is also survived by Janet Burgard, Edward Burgard III (Sheila), Anne Burgard, Al Attanasio (Sheryl), and numerous family members and friends.

Elise was preceded in death by Edward Burgard, Barbara Burgard, and Joseph and Louise Attanasio.

A celebration of Elise’s life will be held on Saturday, April 11th, 2026 at 1:00pm at Lincoln City Church, 5001 S. 1st St, Lincoln, NE 68512. In honor of Elise’s cheerful presence, springtime colors are welcome for attire.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be donated to Moms in Prayer International.  Support Our Mission | Moms In Prayer International