Mary Ann Hepler

Mary Ann Hepler passed away peacefully on March 17th, 2026 with her daughter Karen Haywood at her side. Born on November 6th, 1934 during the depression, life wasn’t easy for the Buckley family but they made the best of it with their seven children in rural Nebraska. Mary was the last baby and the only one of the children that was born in a hospital.

Mary was known for her wicked sense of humor, her undying faith in her Catholic upbringing. She was always supportive with her friends and loved ones. Always being there anytime they needed her.

It wasn't easy raising three children alone in rural Apple Valley. She worked for Vons Grocery Co. for over 30 years and during that time she met her lifelong girlfriends. Life at that time was a struggle but over time things got much better. Mary took her children on 2 cross country trips, to Florida and Canada. A trip to Cabo San Luis and a lot of mini trips to see family and friends were also on the list.

Mary is survived by her brother Robert Buckley, her children Kurt Hepler, Kathy Hepler and Karen Haywood, her son in law Joe Haywood, her grandsons Joseph Haywood and Kyle Haywood and many nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by her daughter Karen Michelle Hepler and her grandson Kevin Patrick Toon.

Mary was actively involved with the catholic church during most of her adult life, giving her time, attention and donations with the building Our Lady Of The Desert Catholic Church in Apple Valley, Ca. She was there from the beginning.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Paraclete High School in Lancaster, Ca or to your local Catholic Charities.

A Funeral Service will be held at Our Lady Of The Desert, 18386 Corwin Rd, Apple Valley, CA 92307, US, on April 13, 2026, from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm.

A Committal Service will take place at Sunset Hills Memorial Park, 24000 Waalew Road, Apple Valley, CA 92307, US, on April 13, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm.

A Reception will follow at Sunset Hills Mortuary, 24000 Waalew Road, Apple Valley, CA 92307, US, on April 13, 2026, from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm.