Marilyn Hegert

LINCOLN — Marilyn Hegert, 86, Lincoln, long-time resident of Hartington, died suddenly but peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones Jan. 24, 2022, at Bryan Medical Center East, Lincoln.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be Feb. 26, at 10:30 a,m., at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Hartington, with the Rev. Owen Korte officiating.

Burial of her cremated remains will be at St. Michael’s Cemetery, Hartington, at a later date.

Visitation with the family present will be Feb. 25, at church, 6-8 p.m., with a Vigil Service at 7 p.m.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Wintz Funeral Home, Hartington.

Marilyn was born Oct. 13, 1935, in Sparta, Mo., to Ted and Agnes Gildersleeve. She graduated from Hartington High School in 1953, where she was active in several clubs, was a cheerleader, and part of a large group of close friends that continued to stay in touch throughout their lives. She earned her teaching credential at Wayne State College and taught K-8 grade students in a one-room country school outside of Hartington. Marilyn married the love of her life, Ray Hegert, in 1955, and together raised six children. She stayed home to raise the children when they were young, then went to work for Nebraska Public Power District, a job she loved.

Family was the center of Marilyn’s life. She cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and never passed up a chance to cheer them on at their sporting events, attend birthday parties, graduations, weddings and impromptu phone calls that always included laughter.

She and Ray were avid Cornhusker fans, attending games for years as season-ticket holders. They also enjoyed golf, relaxing at their cabin on the Missouri River, and spending time with their many friends. Marilyn had an infectious personality, wonderful laugh, beautiful blue eyes, and a heart of gold. She had a bright and positive outlook that touched everyone around her.

She is survived by her husband, Ray, Lincoln; sons, Todd (Denise), Colorado Springs, Colo.; Mark, Phnom Penh, Cambodia; Chris (Mary), Kearney; Russ (Jill), Lincoln; Paul (Dawn), Eagle; daughter, Amy Ferretti (Dave), Truckee, Calif.; 15 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; brothers, Jim Gildersleeve (Marjorie) and Dan Gildersleeve (Sharon); and sisters, Denise McFarland (Butch) and Vicki Golda (Dave).

Marilyn was preceded in death by an infant-daughter and greatgranddaughter; parents, Ted and Agnes Gildersleeve; and father and mother-in-law, Ray Sr. and Mary Hegert.

In lieu of flowers memorials are to be directed to the Hegert family for a memorial yet to be determined.