Marjean Gilbert

Marjean Dawn Gilbert was born on March 3, 1934 in Lake Benton, MN, to Rev. John and Viola (Alberts) Hein. She died on July 7, 2023 in West Fargo, ND.

She was 14 years old when her father died after which she helped raise her 12, 8, and 2 year old siblings while her mother, a teacher, worked to makes end meet for the family.

She graduated from high school in Danville, IA, and then earned her Register Nurse Diploma in Burlington, IA.  She obtained her Baccalaureate degree in Health Care Administration through Ottawa University, Kansas City, MO.

While at nurse’s training, she met the love of her life, an Air Force airman, Ivan Gilbert.  They were married on June 10, 1956, in Danville, IA. They were married for 67 years and lived in MN, KY, SD, and ND.

During her 49 years as a nurse, she worked in many areas including as Director of Nursing at St. John’s Hospital in Fargo, ND.  After she retired, she was an instructor with the Adult Education program for the Fargo Schools, and in the Nursing Department at NDSU.  She also worked as a Chaplain at St. Luke’s Hospital, and a nurse with the Hospice of the Red River Valley.

Marjean loved the Lord Jesus, her family, and friends. Throughout her life she taught Sunday School, led Bible studies, and was an inspiration to many. She played the piano and organ, sang in the church choir and later in nursing homes.

She was a wonderful wife and mother and supported her family’s interests. She was the Matriarch of our ever-growing family.  She was more concerned about others – her family and friends – than herself. Like her mother before her, she had a direct line to the Lord. She was wise, compassionate, loving, and kind. Her greatest concern was that her husband be happy and cared for after she was called to the Lord. Her biggest wish was that all her friends and family know Jesus as their Lord and Savior so that they can be in Heaven with her.

Marjean was preceded in death by her parents, nephew and grandnephew.  

She is survived by her husband, Ivan; daughter, Carlene Gilbert Hinman (Rob); son, David (Wanita) Gilbert; seven grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; brother, Delno Hein (Dorothy);  sister, Darlene Ragan; and brother, Dwight Hein (Terry).

Marjean was greatly loved and admired by her family and her many friends. She was an inspiration to those who knew her. She will be greatly missed.

Visitation for Marjean will begin at 10 AM, with a funeral at 11 AM, Thursday, July 13, 2023, in Bethel Church, Fargo.  The burial will take place in Fargo National Cemetery, Harwood, ND.