After five joy-filled years with half a heart, Maci Renee Whisner found her wholeness in heaven on Sunday, September 19.

Born on April 14, 2016, in Columbus to Josh and Karissa (Gildenmeister) Whisner, Maci won the world's hearts early in life. Her Facebook page, "Maci's Mended Heart," gleaned thousands of followers who rooted for her through three open-heart surgeries and the ups and downs of a life with multiple medical complexities. With "half a heart, twice the fight," she grew into a lovable personality who touched the lives of everyone she met and countless others.

Maci's bright eyes and infectious smile showed the world that joy can be found in simple things. With each surgery and procedure she pulled through, she gave humanity a reason to hope. With each small milestone she surpassed, she proved that determination and prayer are powerful weapons.

In five short years, her spunk, kindness and zest for life left an indelible imprint on her community.

Famous for her abilities as a world-class cuddler, Maci adored spending time with her mom, Karissa; being serenaded by her dad, Josh; being doted upon by her loving big brother, Jake; and sharing special giggles with her little sister, Everly. She also enjoyed cuddles with her family's two pups, Callie and Olaf.

In addition to her immediate family, Maci is survived by her paternal grandparents, Kathy and Randy Whisner; maternal grandparents, Jay and Evelyn Gildenmeister; uncles, Jason (Ashley) Whisner and Nick (Lorie) Gildenmeister; and cousins, Conner and Madison Whisner and Axel and Alexis Gildenmeister.

She was preceded in death by several great uncles and great grandparents.

Memorial contributions may be made in Maci's memory to Boston Children's Hospital- CHD Research, 401 Park Drive, Suite 602, Boston, MA 02215 .

Visitation will be Friday from 4-8 PM at the Brucker and Kishler Funeral Home, 985 N. 21st St., Newark, where the funeral service will be Saturday at 10:00 AM with Pastor Russ Gumm officiating. Burial will follow the service in Wilson Cemetery.

To sign an online guestbook, please visit www.brucker-kishlerfuneralhome.com

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