Monica Margot Gillman, 74, will be having a celebration of life gathering that will take place from 3:00-6:00 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025, at CB&Q Freight House in Chariton, Iowa. Memorials may be made out to Moni's family or to the Chariton Public Library.

Monica Margot Gillman, affectionately known as Moni, was a beacon of light and laughter whose spirited, generous nature touched everyone she met. Born on September 6, 1949, in Bad Sooden-Allendorf, Germany, she built a beautiful life in Chariton, Iowa, where she passed on March 20, 2025.

Moni shared a love-filled, 45-year marriage with her husband, Mike Gillman. Together, they raised three sons—Michael, Jon, and Mark—along with their spouses: Amanda, Jessica, and Miranda. Her greatest joy came from being "Oma" to her grandchildren: Hunter, Lizah, Kolton, Jacobie, and Lillie.

A graduate of Estherville High School and a Licensed Beautician, Moni lived a life rich in creativity and compassion. She worked in many roles—from hairdressing to factory work to helping international students—but motherhood was always her true calling.

Her laughter, quick wit, and giving heart were the soul of every family gathering. Whether knitting, gardening, or simply lending a listening ear, Moni gave with her whole heart. Her generous spirit knew no bounds; she gave not just material gifts, but the gift of her time, her attention, and her unconditional love and support.

Moni's story doesn't end here—it lives on in the lives she touched. May we carry her light forward by loving deeply, laughing freely, and cherishing the moments that truly matter.

She is survived by her brother Bob and his wife Debbie Berven; her sister Betty and her husband Fred Danner; her sister-in-law Genie and her husband Larry Snuggs; her brothers-in-law Bill and his wife Debbie Gillman, and Steve and his wife Kerry Gillman; and many loved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Wilma Berven, her in-laws, Gene and Barb Gillman, and her niece Cindy Snuggs.