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Marlene Heyer, 91

Marlene Heyer, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and cherished friend, passed into her next life peacefully on December 7, 2024, at Downs Care and Rehab. She was born on July 30, 1933, in a home birth on a farm in Smith County, where she cultivated the seeds of her passions and compassion that flourished throughout her life.
Marlene dedicated many years to her own sewing business, lovingly creating garments and items that warmed the hearts of those around her. She found immense joy working at Stiggie Fabric Store, where her creativity blossomed, and she engaged with her community. Her spirit of service extended beyond her craft as she devoted 20 years to preparing and serving meals at the Senior Center, where she took on the role of site manager. Additionally, Marlene was a compassionate caregiver for elderly women in their homes, reflecting her commitment to nurturing those in need.
An avid reader and poet, Marlene found solace in the written word, often taking notes even in her final days. Her love for life was further expressed through her hymns, and in her earlier years, she delighted in singing solos at church, sharing her joy in faith with others. With a great sense of humor, Marlene had a knack for bringing laughter to those around her, making even the most ordinary moments unforgettable.
Marlene was immensely proud to know Jesus as her Savior, and her family brought her an equal measure of pride. She leaves behind her loving son, Steve Heyer and daughter-in-law Lori, along with her grandson Jeremy Heyer. Her heart will forever be intertwined with her daughter, Gloria Ames; grandchildren, Natalie, Randy and Daniel Ames; and great-grandchildren, Cohen Ames, Emily and Chloe Bader.
Her legacy as a sister and sister-in-law will be cherished by Lee Wiersma and Linda Wiersma, Donna Stadler, Janice and David Bowman and Janice Heyer. Marlene will also be lovingly remembered by her late brother, Miles Cooley, Jr.; brothers, Calvin Cooley, Ned and Ray; stepbrother, Lloyd Wiersma; and stepsister, Helen Seamen, along with her beloved mother, Mabel Wiersma, and father, Miles Cooley, and stepfather, Martin Wiersma.
As we gather in remembrance of Marlene, we celebrate not just the years she lived but also the profound impact she had on all who knew her. Her unwavering faith, tireless dedication, and boundless love will continue to inspire us. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit will forever remain in our hearts, guiding us with the humor, love, and grace she so effortlessly shared.
Funeral Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, December 12, at the First Christian Church. Inurnment will follow at Downs Cemetery.
Memorials may be given to Downs First Christian Church in care of Schoen Funeral Home And Monuments, 1001 Morgan Ave., Downs, KS 67437.

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Beloit, KS 67420, USA