Omaha / Lincoln, NE — There is a deep sense of shock and sadness across Lancaster County following the sudden passing of Dr. Katherine “Kate” Gogela, a respected pediatrician and breastfeeding medicine specialist with Lincoln Pediatric Group. Dr. Gogela died in a vehicle collision earlier today. Authorities have not yet released additional details as the investigation continues.
For many families across Lincoln, Dr. Gogela was more than just a doctor. She was a steady, reassuring presence—someone who listened closely, treated gently, and cared deeply. Parents describe her as the kind of physician who remembered the smallest details, who celebrated milestones with families, and who made even the most stressful moments feel manageable.
“She approached every child and every parent with patience, empathy, and genuine kindness,” one coworker shared. “She had a gift. You felt seen, heard, and supported in her presence.”
A Life of Dedication and Purpose
Dr. Gogela joined Lincoln Pediatric Group in 2017, where she built strong relationships with new parents navigating some of their most intimate and challenging transitions. Her work focused on newborn care and breastfeeding medicine—an area that became close to her heart through her own journey as a mother.
Her academic and professional path was rooted in service:
- Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Creighton University
- Doctor of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Pediatrics residency, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center
Before returning home to Lincoln, she worked in Cincinnati Children’s Emergency Department, Urgent Care, and Outpatient Clinics. She was board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and the North American Board of Breastfeeding and Lactation Medicine, and she was an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.
Yet those who knew her say her true calling was not just medicine—but connection.
A Loving Wife, Mother, and Friend
At the heart of her world was her family. Dr. Gogela and her husband, Steve, are the parents of three sons and one daughter. Friends say motherhood shaped not only her understanding of care, but her capacity to love others—even in her professional life.
She enjoyed running, spending time outdoors, volunteering, and simply being with the people she loved. She was the kind of person who made others feel welcomed—quick to smile, warm in conversation, and always willing to help.
A Loss Felt Across the Community
The news of her passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from families whose lives she touched. Parents have shared stories of late-night advice messages, comforting words after difficult diagnoses, and the way she celebrated new life with genuine joy.
Colleagues say the medical community has lost not just a skilled doctor, but a mentor, leader, and friend.
Lincoln Pediatric Group is expected to share additional information and support resources soon. Community members are already organizing ways to honor her memory—a reflection of how deeply she will be missed.
Grief support resources are available locally for families and individuals affected by this loss. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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