Elson Truett Heggen, age 87, of Omaha, Nebraska formerly of Red Oak, Iowa, entered into rest on May 12, 2025, at Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska. Elson was born May 29, 1937, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, to Talmai and Stella Orvick Heggen.

He graduated from high school in Bode, Iowa, in 1954 and Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, in 1958 where he was a member of the Nordic Choir. He taught instrumental music in Adams, Olivia, Wells, Bricelyn, Minnesota and Red Oak, Iowa. His teaching career was followed by employment at Midland Telephone Company. He was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Red Oak where he was a choir member and director of the choir for 9 years and served on the church council. Elson had a fine singing voice and was a soloist for many events.

On June 24, 1960, Elson married Ruth Nielsen. Three sons were born into this union: Todd, Brad, and Scot. On May 29, 1993, he married Judy Knittle Rea. Elson was preceded in death by his parents Talmai and Stella Heggen, and brother-in-law Bill Langston. He is survived by his wife, Judy, sons Todd (Ellen), Brad (Beth), and Scot (Jennifer), and 8 grandchildren; stepchildren Rob Rea (Kathy Thompson), Sherry Rea Wilson (Scott), and 3 step-grandchildren. He is also survived by three siblings: brother Lowell Heggen (Vanetta), sisters Cheryl Langston and Orlys Maassen, and many nieces and nephews.

Elson and Judy were always busy and happy, enjoying their children and grandchildren, traveling to Omaha and Minnesota from their home in Red Oak, Iowa. They shared a love of music and attended many Gaither Vocal Band concerts and Drum and Bugle Corps performances. They also enjoyed traveling and went on bus tours all over the United States and met many friends along the way.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, June 21st, at 11:00 am at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Red Oak, Iowa. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.