Vivian Mae Gilleland, 73, died on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha, Neb. She was born on March 13, 1951, in Omaha, 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 Sept. 28, 1974, at the Methodist Church in Dunlap 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 was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Gene; and brother, Steve “Biggy” Thompson. She is survived by her children, Theresa Brummer of Arion, Craig Gilleland of Ankeny and Sarah and her husband Jonathan McDonald of Neola; five grandchildren, Tyler, Austin, Kyle, Sydney and Dylan; special friend, Pat Grady of Logan; siblings, Beth and her husband Joe Sullivan of Dunlap, Richard “Henry” Thompson and his wife Shawna of Manilla and Cindy and her husband Don Vollbrecht of Norfolk, Neb.; and many other relatives and friends.
A memorial service was held on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at United Methodist Church in Dunlap. Pastor Aaron Terwilleger presided over the service. The recorded musical selections were “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong, “In My Life” by The Beatles and “You Got It” by Roy Orbison. The honorary pallbearers were Tyler Brummer, Austin Brummer, Kyle McDonald, Sydney McDonald and Dylan McDonald. Vivian’s final resting place is at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Dunlap.
Fouts Funeral Home in Dunlap was in charge of arrangements. www.foutsfuneralhome.com
