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Vivian Mae Gilleland was born on March 13, 1951, in Omaha, Nebraska to Earl “Windy” and Beth Darlene (Hulsebus) Thompson. She graduated from Dunlap High School in 1969 and went on to graduate from the nursing program at Iowa Western Community College in 1971. Vivian was united in marriage to Eugene Gilleland on September 28, 1974, at the Methodist Church in Dunlap, Iowa and to this union three children were born, Theresa, Craig and Sarah. She worked for 52 years as an RN, mostly in the ICU, at Mercy in Council Bluffs, Bergan Mercy and then Creighton both in Omaha.
Vivian had a passion for shopping. Her keen eye for bargains was matched only by her love for gardening. She took immense pride tending to her flowers. Family meant everything to Vivian, with an extra special place in her heart reserved for her grandkids. She cared for everyone around her, offering support and comfort in times of need. Her selfless nature and kind spirit were evident in every interaction she had. In the midst of life's challenges, Vivian faced each day with grace and courage.
Vivian died on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 73 years and 6 days.
Vivian was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Gene; and brother, Steve “Biggy” Thompson. She is survived by her children, Theresa Brummer of Arion, Iowa, Craig Gilleland of Ankeny, Iowa and Sarah and her husband Jonathan McDonald of Neola, Iowa; five grandchildren, Tyler, Austin, Kyle, Sydney and Dylan; special friend, Pat Grady of Logan, Iowa; siblings, Beth and her husband Joe Sullivan of Dunlap, Richard “Henry” Thompson and his wife Shawna of Manilla, Iowa and Cindy and her husband Don Vollbrecht of Norfolk, Nebraska; and many other relatives and friends.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
500 Court St, Dunlap, IA 51529

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