Marsha Carol Sapp

She was born on April 1st,1957 in Waverly, Iowa, the third of six children born to Robert Ebert and Joan (Ryan) Ebert. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Ann Ebert and Laura (Ebert) Bewley and her brother Tommy Ebert.

She is survived by her son, Joseph Sapp and her daughter Kristy Downing; her sisters Lisa Wade and Grace (Ebert) Orsi; her husband Thomas Sapp, her partner Luis Villa and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and friends who became family.

Marsha's family was the center of her life. She had a rare gift for making people feel seen, valued and loved. She told stories that could fill a room, laughed easily and spoiled those she cared about without hesitation- Especially her only son and every child she helped raise, teach or guide over the years.

She lived a full and varied life working in many roles across her years. She was first and foremost an artist and poet., who carried that creativity throughout everything she did. Her career included work at Searle in Illinois, to delivering commodities to those in need, supporting children through the Boys and Girls Club, decorating cakes and creating and sewing everything from star quilts to lamp shades and managing crews of family and friends with humor, heart and energy.

Marsha was a woman of deep and layered faith and spirituality. Raised Catholic, attending church with her grandfather and school at St. Cecilia's carrying that foundation throughout her life. She later walked a spiritual path as a Sundancer and Chanupa carrier, while still holding space for mystery, stories and the unseen world. She often shared ghost stories and wonder filled reflection that made her unforgettable around any campfire.

She loved deeply and lived fully. She moved through many chapters of life- from Iowa to Nebraska, California to Illinois. Finally settling back in Nebraska collecting experiences, friendships, music and memories along the way. She embraced life with humor, style and a fearless sense of self.

Some of her greatest joy came from motherhood. Starting with taking him swimming, reading him his favorite bedtime story the Hobbit and encouraging his imagination and supporting all his interests. She never missed a chance to be present in his life. Whether serving as a Boy Scout chaperone, teaching life skills and attending every play or sporting event or just simply being there, she always made sure her son always felt her love.

Marsha was creative, strong willed, compassionate, funny, stubborn, imperfect and deeply human. She was loved by many. She will be remembered for her stories, her laughter, her generosity and her ability to make every person feel important.

She will be deeply missed, but her love, lessons and presence will live in all who knew her.