It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Heim, who left this world peacefully on March 9, 2026, surrounded by loving family. She was a beloved wife, sister, mother, and nana.
Mary was born May 21, 1943, in Broken Bow to Ellis and Doris (Anderson) Wilmoth. She attended New Hope and Keota rural grade schools and graduated from Merna High School in 1961, where she was active in music, band, pep club and was Color Day Queen. Following graduation, Mary moved to Omaha and worked at Travelers Insurance.
On July 22, 1967, she married Kent Pendarvis. To this union, a daughter, Jodi Lynn, was born on August 8, 1969. After a divorce, she then married Joe Heim on February 25, 1978, in La Motte, Iowa. They were happily married for 48 years. In 1980, they moved back to Merna, NE to work Mary’s family farm. In 2010 they retired and moved to Waverly, NE to be closer to Jodi.
Mary was known for her kindness, her strong devotion to God and her family, and her love of baking for friends and family.
Mary is survived by her husband, Joseph Heim; her daughter, Jodi (Kent) Chase, Columbus NE; grandson, Riley Chase of Lincoln; granddaughter, Kennedy Chase of Omaha; sister, Arlene Halliwill of Broken Bow; and her delightful cat, Polly.
She is preceded in death by her parents Ellis and Doris Wilmoth; stillborn brother; and brothers-in-law, Edwin Halliwill, Jim Heim, Jerry Heim, Norbert Heim, Sam Wolbers
A celebration of her life will be held Thursday, March 26, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Roper and Sons Funeral Home in Waverly.
Funeral services will be held Friday, March 27, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 6711 Morrill Ave., Lincoln, NE with a rosary at 10:00 a.m. preceding the funeral.
Memorials to the family for future designation.
