Ivars Ainis Augstums

Ivars Ainis Augstums, 76, of Lincoln, Nebraska, passed away on November 5, 2025, after bravely facing a long battle with cancer. He was born on April 14, 1949, in Wittingen, Germany, to Arturs A. and Lidija (Oss) Augstums.

Ivars spent the earliest years of his life in a displaced persons camp after his family fled Latvia during WWII to escape Russian oppression. In July 1951, the family immigrated to the United States, settling within the Latvian community of Lincoln, where he spent the remainder of his life.

From November 1971 to November 1975, Ivars proudly served in the United States Army. During his service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal and the Sharpshooter (Rifle M-16) Award.

In 1980, Ivars met the love of his life, Marcia Mundt. They married on April 25, 1981, beginning more than four decades of partnership, laughter, adventure, and family. He cherished the time they spent together—hunting, fishing, gardening, golfing, and enjoying the outdoors. Marcia’s parents, Mervin and Ruth, held a special place in his heart, and he in theirs. Throughout the years, Ivars also found great joy in the many cats and dogs they welcomed into their home.

Ivars lived his life fully, with determination, humor, and a personality that left an impression on everyone he met. He will be remembered for his strength, his perseverance, and his ability—affectionately acknowledged by those who loved him—to get on everyone’s nerves at one point or another. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In keeping with his generous spirit, Ivars chose to donate his body to Creighton University for medical education and research through the Anatomical Board of the State of Nebraska.

He is survived by his wife, Marcia Augstums; sisters-in-law Desi Augstums and Silvija Augstums; and nieces and nephews Jennifer Augstums, Ieva Augstums, and Andres (Guang Yang) Augstums.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arturs and Lidija Augstums; his in-laws, Mervin and Ruth Mundt; his sister, Astrida Augstums; and his brothers, Janis Augstums and Aldis Augstums.

Memorials in care of CHI Hospice. 345 S. 84th Suite 300 Lincoln, Ne 68505.

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