MARLENE D. GERDES

1934-2017

Marlene Deloris (Oetjen) Gerdes, daughter of Fritz William and Viola Christine (Lampe) Oetjen, was born December 11, 1934 near Auburn, Nebraska. She was one of three children. Marlene was baptized March 23, 1935 by Rev. E. Ernest N. Haugse and confirmed March 21, 1948 by F.W. Henkel, both at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Auburn, where she was a lifelong member. Marlene attended Bourke country school near her home, and graduated from Stella High School in 1952. After graduation, she worked at various stores in Auburn. On February 7, 1958 Marlene was united in marriage to Lloyd E. Gerdes at St. Paul Lutheran Church by Rev. H.M. Rathkamp. Three children were born to this union: Jerry, Terry, and Craig. Marlene was a homemaker and enjoyed doing different crafts, gardening, and working with flowers. She loved doing things with grandchildren, family, and friends. After Lloyd’s passing in September of 2012 Marlene continued to live at their home in Auburn for several years. In 2016, she moved to Long’s Creek Assisted Living in Auburn. It was there, on Tuesday, April 4, 2017, Marlene passed away unexpectedly at the age of 82 years, 3 months, and 24 days. In addition to her husband and parents, she is preceded in death by her brother-in-law Harlan Grable. Marlene is survived by her sons Jerry of Omaha; Terry of Aurora; Craig and wife Bobbi of Louisville; grandchildren Tara and Trent; sisters Bernice Grable of Auburn; Judy and husband Robert Pence of Kearney, Missouri; other relatives and friends. A funeral service was held Friday, April 7, 2017 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Auburn, officiated by Rev. Ken Miller. Donna Caspers was organist for congregational hymns. Casket bearers were Daniel Grable, Roger Grable, Dennis Grable, Riley Grable, Keith Oetjen, and Tim Brewer. Burial was in St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery near Auburn. Services were entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn.