Died Saturday, June 13, 2026 at Nye Legacy in Fremont.
Lylas was born on January 9, 1930. She was the daughter of Clifford and Edith 'Hultman' Mallette. She was raised on the Mallette family farm in the Swaburg community and was baptized and confirmed in the Swaburg Elim Church. She graduated valedictorian from Uehling High School. Lylas attended Wayne State College, University of Nebraska and Midland College where she received her BS degree majoring in education.
Lylas taught school in Dodge County public schools for 40 years, with the last 27 years in the Fremont school system. She loved working with children and being a part of their educational experience. After retirement, she became director of the Hooper Public Library, promoting and encouraging the love of reading and literacy.
At her home, she had many interests. She loved nature, raising vegetables and beautiful flowers. Throughout her life, Lylas enjoyed sports, participating in softball, tennis, and playing pickleball until age 92.
Her zest for life, never-give-up attitude, and common sense were constant. Her love and devotion were an everpresent strength and comfort woven throughout the lives of her family.
Lylas married George Wagner in 1953 and to this union her children, Sally and Michael were born. She was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church, where she taught Sunday school for several years and actively attended Bible Study.
She was preceded in death by her parents Clifford and Edith Mallette; sister Vivien Babcock, brothers Mike and Steve Mallette, step-grandson and great granddaughter.
Left to mourn her passing are her daughter Sally Benson and son Michael (Debra) Wagner; 6 beloved grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren and sister Bonnie Larson.
Please join us in celebrating her life on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 10:30am at Redeemer Lutheran Church. Burial will be in the Hooper Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to Redeemer Lutheran Church.
Ludvigsen's Hooper Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Condolences(4)
Randy Peck
Sycamore, IL Thursday, July 9, 2026 Lylas was my teacher when I was a 5th, 6th, and 7th grader at District #88 back in the early 1960s. She taught me many things and I have so many wonderful memories of those years. I have always been appreciative of all she did for us! R.I.P. Sweet Lady!!Chris Villwok
Arlington, NE Friday, June 19, 2026 Sally and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God wrap his arms around you and comfort you during this difficult time.Nancy Schroeder
Blair, NE Thursday, June 18, 2026 Dear Sally, Matt, Kathy and family,We remember you in prayer as you mourn and celebrate Lylas! She was remarkable. She and I were kindred Spirits on many things and I was deeply grateful to her.
She was a Teachers Teacher! Highly capable and Independent. Those years she assisted me at Redeemer Preschool were the same years Matt helped Seth adjust to Logan View and Drumming. The one event where, Along with Bret Dahl, those three DRUMMED at Redeemer to a full house.
Lylas was so proud of Matt and her " Grands".
Peace of the Lord,
Nancy and Joel Schroeder
Jolene Stockamp
Fremont, NE Monday, June 15, 2026 Sending my sympathy and prayers for comfort as you remember. She will always be known as my first teacher - Kindergarten through second or third grade at District 90 south of Scribner. I remember her as kind but fair. She taught us manners and how to get along with everyone besides the usual school subjects. Cherish all the precious memories in her long life.Jolene