Gergenna Rae Mardesen was born in Exira, IA on June 4th, 1944, to Harvey Mardesen and Gwendolyn Beers.
She attended school in Exira, was crowned Homecoming Queen, graduated, and moved to Des Moines to attend beauty school at the Iowa School of Beauty.
While at beauty school, she met William Horner, who she eventually married on November 22nd, 1964.
She had two sons, Jamie and Jeffrie Horner, and took care of them for many years, working multiple jobs to make ends meet and support her family.
Prior to deciding to retire, she made the transition to living in Johnston, IA where she made many new friends while also managing to keep in contact with and care for many old friends and family.
Mom finally retired at the age of 70 and spent the last few years enjoying time with friends and family members.
Mom was also a long-time member of the Glen Echo Christian Church in Des Moines, IA.
She passed away on February 24th at 6:03 pm, at the Kavanaugh Hospice House, in Des Moines, with her sons by her side.
She is survived by her sister, Rhodetta Jessen, brother-in-law, Charles Jessen, her eldest son, Jamie Horner, youngest son, Jeff Horner, daughter-in-law, Sarah Horner, granddaughters, Lexi & Paige Horner, niece, Jessica Christensen, nephew, Micah Jessen, and many other family members and friends.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Ellipsis PO Box 39 Johnston, IA 50131 https://ellipsisiowa.org/
Celebration of Life will be held at:
Merle Hay Funeral Home
4400 Merle Hay Rd.
Des Moines, IA 50310
Saturday, March 25th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM