Marian Kathleen Lepp

Marian K. Lepp of Lincoln, Nebraska passed away on August 27, 2026. She was born in Lincoln Nebraska on January 21, 1930, to Bertram and Ethel Ellsworth. While Marian was a youth, her family moved to North Platte, Nebraska where she graduated from High School in 1948. She then attended Hastings College, where she met her husband, Calvin Lepp. They were married on August 20, 1950 and moved to Lincoln where Marian completed her bachelor’s degree at Nebraska Wesleyan University having majored in music and minored in journalism. In 1952, she and Calvin moved to Central City, Nebraska.

As an avid musician, Marian enjoyed playing the organ and directed the choir for over 50 years at the United Presbyterian Church in Central City. Later, she started the church Bell Choir which not only played at the church but also traveled to play at other churches and events.

Marian also taught piano and organ lessons at her home for many years. She was a prominent organist and collaborative pianist for different musical organizations in the area and frequently accompanied community events, choirs, weddings, funerals, and the Madrigals in Grand Island, Nebraska. She wanted to be remembered as someone who inspired and taught others the skills necessary to be musicians. Music brought her joy and as she shared it, she brought joy to others as well.

Along with her passion for music, Marian was a reporter for the Grand Island Independent newspaper as well as the Central City, Nebraska Republican Nonpareil in the late 70’s and 80’s. She enjoyed watching the Nebraska Volleyball games and was a long-time follower of Cornhusker football. Marian had a green thumb and before she moved back to Lincoln in 2020, the city she always loved, she tended a beautiful backyard flower garden.

Marian also enjoyed travel throughout the United States and internationally. She was a life-long learner, had an independent spirit, and persevered in all she endeavored. When asked what bit of advice she’d like to leave to family coming behind her she responded with, “Stay grounded and close to your family…And keep the faith!”

Marian is survived by three daughters: Cynthia (Don) Williams, Lincoln; Laura (Keith) Kanegawa, Lodi, California; and Gail (Walter) Armatys of Richmond, Texas. She is also survived by seven grandchildren, and nineteen great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Calvin Lepp.

A private family funeral service will be held at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Central City Presbyterian Church.