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BORN
1927
DIED
2025
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Mary Hergert Obituary
Our sweet and loving mother, Mary Alice Hergert, 97, of Lincoln, left us on March 27, 2025, after a life devoted to faith and family. Mary was born to Emil and Amanda Schmitz in St. Cloud, Wisconsin, on December 3, 1927.
Mary poured her heart into caring for her children, grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren-nothing mattered more. We felt her love in every hug, kind word, and warm meal around the family dinner table. We will never forget the comfort of knowing she was always there for us after school, how she could heal a skinned knee with a hug, and how her steady nature guided our family through the years.
Her grandchildren will always remember the joy of summers spent in her pool, the thrill of jumping off the diving board as Nanny and Papa cheered them on. Always commenting on the size of every splash. She was a beautiful example of kindness, strength, and selflessness, showing us what it means to love unconditionally. Her faith guided her every step, shaping the way she cared for us with endless grace. While we'll miss her beyond words, the love she so freely gave and the lessons she taught us will always be with us.
Her caring heart led her to the St. Mary School of Nursing in Milwaukee. After graduating in 1947, she set off for Los Angeles with her dear friend and fellow nurse, Pat, ready to embrace the next chapter of her life. But fate had something special in store. One life-changing day, Pat introduced Mary to her cousin, Dan, from Nebraska, and from that moment on, their love story unfolded. It wasn't long before our dad convinced Mom that their future belonged together. In one of the fastest courtships in history, she said yes-not just to marriage but to a lifetime of love, adventure, and a move to Lincoln, where they built their beautiful life together. They married on December 27, 1952.
Besides caring for her family, Mary actively participated in the Cathedral of the Risen Christ community. Any free time away from her family was spent supporting her church, especially through the St. Valentine's Altar Society, where she served as president. This devoted group of women became more than just fellow volunteers-they became her lifelong friends. Whether she was organizing art shows, spending quiet moments in Perpetual Adoration, or preparing meals for grieving families, her devotion to her faith and church community never wavered.
Mary is preceded in death by her husband, Dan.
She is survived by her sister, Dolores Pfoertsch, and preceded in death by her brother, Warren Schmitz, and sister, Ellen Lovaas.
Mary leaves behind her children Dan Hergert (Mary), Polly Bowhay (Scott), John Hergert (Maureen), and Mary Sue Papale (Rocky), 11 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.
A mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday April 1, 2025, at the Cathedral of the Risen Christ, 3500 Sheridan Blvd, Lincoln, NE 68506. Rosary will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, March 31, 2025, at Roper and Sons South Chapel, 3950 Hohensee Dr.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the Cathedral of the Risen Christ Altar Society or Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital.
Condolences online at www.roperandsons.com.
Roper and Sons Funeral Home
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Memories and Condolences
for Mary Hergert
Sponsored by Roper and Sons - South Lincoln Roper and Sons.
3 Entries
Misha Fitzgerald
April 4, 2025
What an absolute gem Mary was! I really enjoyed every minute I got to spend with her. She showed me how to make apple sauce from scratch and chocolate syrup for ice cream. I won't be able to look at another humming bird without thinking fondly of Mary. To Slim and the family, I thank you for allowing me to help care for Mary. She was a blessing in my life. More then you know. Misha~
Matt Myers
March 31, 2025
Mary was a very sweet lady ! I worked on there house and there super C stores for many years .. It may have been years in between but she alway knew my name and my kids Names ... Oh and my wife name .. Always asked how everyone was.. She will be missed...
Love the Myers
John Hergert
March 30, 2025
Please note a visitation with family members will take place at Ropers South from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm Monday 3/31/25 before the rosary .. thank you
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