Marieta Ann (Albrecht) Balius

March 23, 1931 - July 22, 2017

mccookgazette.com

MCCOOK, Neb. — Marieta Ann (Albrecht) Balius, age 86, of McCook, lost her valiant battle with Alzheimer’s Disease on July 22, 2017, at Hillcrest Nursing Home in McCook.

Marieta was born March 23, 1931, in McCook to parents, Lloyd Ernest and Margaret Elizabeth (Gillen) Albrecht. She was one of six children born to this union. Growing up, Marieta attended McCook Public Schools. After her graduation from McCook High School in 1950, Marieta went on to attend McCook Community College, graduating in 1952. She then obtained her master’s degree in elementary education from the University of Nebraska, Kearney.

Marieta married the love of her life, Eugene Balius on June 14, 1950, in McCook. The couple recently celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary. Marieta and Gene were the proud parents of son, Terry and daughters, Ann and Patricia. The family made their home in McCook.

Marieta taught fourth grade at Culbertson Elementary School for 28 years. She was also a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church and the Altar Society. Her hobbies included bowling, playing cards and cake decorating. She particularly enjoyed decorating wedding cakes. Marieta also taught classes at McCook Community College and served on the Red Willow County Electoral Board.

Following their retirements, Marieta and Gene began traveling. Spending time with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren was a highlight of their Golden Years together.

Marieta was preceded in death by her parents; son-in-law, Harry A. Strunk; and three brothers, Franklin Albrecht, Richard Albrecht and Daniel Albrecht.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Gene Balius of McCook; son, Terry (Cherri) Balius of Hayes Center, Neb.; daughters, Ann (Steve) Barger of McCook and Patricia Strunk of Key Largo, Fla.; sister, Berniece (Fred) Corey of Pinetop, Ariz.; brother, Robert Albrecht of North Platte, Neb.; sister-in-law, Darlene Albrecht of North Platte; five grandchildren, Stephanie (Casey) Roth, Chelsie (Mike) Slattery, Shane (Kelli) Barger, Todger Strunk and Tanner Strunk; five great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.

A Recitation of the Rosary will be Tuesday, July 25, 2017, beginning at 7 p.m., at St. Patrick Catholic Church, McCook.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, July 26, 2017, 10:30 a.m., also at St Patrick Catholic Church with Father Gary Brethour officiating.

Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, McCook.

In loving memory of Marieta Balius, memorial contributions are suggested to "Nebraska Respite" of Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department. Contributions can be left at the service, the funeral home or mailed to P.O. Box 476, McCook, NE 69001.

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please visit our website at www.carpenterbreland.com to sign the online guestbook for the family.