Dunklau Gardens, after a lengthy illness.
Mary was born on December 3, 1951, in Akron, IA, to Ernest and Merle (Rustin) Lucken. She graduated from Akron High School in 1970 and attended Wayne State College for two years. On February 26, 1972, she married the love of her life, Larry F. Jirsak. Two children were born to them: Jay and Jennifer.
She held several secretarial/administrative positions throughout her life. Among them purchasing at Valmont Industries, secretary for the Fremont Department of Utilities Engineers, office manager for Dr. Milo Anderson, Fremont, and secretary at First Congregational UCC, Fremont. Mary partnered with her sister-in-law, Mary, to open Two Sisters Quilts and More in 2003, the culmination of her quilting passion, and successfully ran it for nearly 2 years before closing it for health reason.
Mary was wonderfully creative and always learning the latest crafting trends. She had an amazing talent for sewing, crafting, and quilting which she did with many quilting groups including Ties that Bind, Prairie Peace Makers, and Quilts of Valor. She started Sewing for Others where she continued to teach the art of sewing to any willing participants.
When not crafting, she was involved with Eastern Star, Christian Women's Club, Job's Daughters, and volunteered at her church . She loved watching movies, reading, and crafting everything from cross stitch to jewelry to handmade cards. Mary never met a craft store she didn't love. Mary was also musically talented, playing piano, sharing her beautiful voice in choirs, and directing choirs at First Congregational UCC and St. Timothy Lutheran Church in Fremont.
Mary treasured her time with her family. She found pure joy in giving the perfect gift, loved surprises, and was always ready to help someone in need, feeling that was what she was called to do.
Mary is survived by her husband of 51 years, Larry; children Jay Rustin Jirsak (Holly) and Jennifer Baier (Jeremy); three siblings, John Lucken (Mary), Akron, IA, Carol Bean, Ft. Collins, CO, Julie Schmitz, Ft. Collins, CO; three granddaughters, Jazmine Jirsak (fiance Jayden Rannells), Isabel ''Izzy'' Baier, Jennavieve Baier; several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Mary was preceded in death by her father, Ernest, and her mother, Merle.
Visitation will be Friday, August 18, 2023 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Ludvigsen Mortuary Chapel in Fremont. A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 19, 2023, at 10:30 am, followed by a luncheon at First Congregational UCC, 1550 N Broad St, Fremont, NE.
Memorials are suggested to the family.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Condolences(5)
Scott Brannon
Omaha, NE Tuesday, August 22, 2023 Larry:I just heard of Marys passing. I just wanted you to know my thoughts are with you and the family.
Stay strong.
Scott
Rev. Judy Johnson
West Point, NE Friday, August 18, 2023 Larry and family,So sorry to hear of Mary's death. May God comfort and give you strength to meet the coming days, knowing that Mary is in His loving arms. Hugs and prayers, Judy and Dick Johnson
Gina Frerichs
Columbus, NE Thursday, August 17, 2023 Jenn and Family,We will continue to keep your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Roma Roul
Schuyler, NE Thursday, August 17, 2023 Jenn and family,My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. She was such a sweet lady. She will be missed. All my love
Jody Hoffart
Schuyler, NE Wednesday, August 16, 2023 Jenn and family,Sending you all a big hug and prays during this difficult time.