Marie L. Verhagen

Marie L. Verhagen, age 69, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at home surrounded by her family. She was born on June 30, 1956 in Appleton, Wisconsin to the late Norman and Harriet (Hibbert) Gilbert. Marie was united in marriage to Peter Verhagen on May 7th, 1976 at Holy Cross church in Kaukauna.

Marie was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who always put her family first. She loved to care for her family by making delicious meals and desserts. She sought to please everyone, making three different kinds of cookies so everyone would have their favorite (chocolate chip, oatmeal, and gingerbread). She spent a lot of time up north at the cabin that she and Peter built, always finding new projects for them to undertake. She was an envied and meticulous supervisor of all he did. Her love for him was constant, and through life’s highs and lows she stood by his side. As a mother she only saw the best in her boys, and was their number one fan. She was an encourager of all they set out to do. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren teaching them to bake, sew, and how to “shop till you drop.” She always was willing to give support and advice, and loved celebrating what was most important to them.

She spent her down time relaxing and reading, and has accumulated her own little library. Marie loved sewing and creating custom designs to fit any decorative need. She looked forward to volunteering yearly at Art’s Camp, teaching young kids how to sew along with the love of Jesus. She made it a priority to attend her weekly women’s bible study, appreciating the relationships and discussion of scripture with her friends.

Marie sought peace in all of her relationships, and was filled with love and a generous heart. She put others first, ready to give anything to her family. Her desire at the end of her life was to feel God’s presence everyday and for her family to have peace. She is done walking her miles, and now has met her Savior. She is sitting on the porch in heaven with her dad, Norman, having that long awaited cup of coffee.

Marie is survived by her husband, Peter Verhagen; sons: Joshua (Andrea) Verhagen, Justin (Karen) Verhagen; grandchildren: Logan Verhagen, Jaden (Emily) Verhagen, Grace Verhagen, Silas Verhagen, Norah Verhagen, Lauren (Ivan) Vinichenko, Lincoln Verhagen, Emerson Verhagen; siblings: Donald (Donna) Gilbert, Dean (Susie) Gilbert, Judy (Steve) Uitenbroek, Sandy (Kelly) McMullin; friend and sister-in-law, Betty Merbach; and numerous other relatives and friends.

Private family services will be held.