Marilyn Wolner

Remembering Marilyn A. Wolner

Marilyn Wolner, age 84, passed away peacefully in her sleep Monday October 22, 2018 at her home in Kasota, MN.  Funeral service will be held at 11 am, Friday, October 26, 2018 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Mankato, MN.  Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church. Mankato Mortuary is assisting the family.

Marilyn was born December 7, 1933, in Mankato, MN, the eldest daughter of Henry and Grace Sorheim.  Marilyn grew up in Mankato, graduating from Mankato High School in 1951.  She attended Mankato State College studying business.

On August 15, 1953 she and Don Wolner were married in Mankato celebrating over 62 years of marriage.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Don; parents, Henry and Grace Sorheim; and her sister, Karen Phillips.  She is survived by her loving family, including son, Scott (Amy); daughter, Shari Elbert; son, Steve (Julie); and son, Stan Wolner.  She is survived by 8 grandchildren, Jacki Boon (Nicole), Christa Stock (Graham), Lisa Elbert (Larry Fitzgerald), Laura Frederick (Luke), Mike Elbert (Molly), Erika Gatzke (Justin), Christopher Wolner and Elise Wolner.   Marilyn is survived by 8 great grandchildren, Katelyn and Annika Boon, Paige Elbert, Mackenzie Fitzgerald, Grace Frederick, Brekken, Ethan and Eli Elbert. 

Family was the centerpiece of Marilyn’s life.  It brought her great joy and happiness to have her family all together for holidays, birthdays and special occasions.  She loved attending her children’s and     grandchildren’s sporting events and school activities.  She was very proud of all of their accomplishments.

As a working mother, she served as an excellent role model for all, demonstrating much balance in her life as a dedicated mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, wife, daughter, as well as exemplary employee.  She spent many years working for the State of Minnesota, retiring as office manager with the State Board of Nursing in St. Paul, MN, in 1997.

Marilyn enjoyed her retirement immensely.  Upon retirement, she and Don purchased a country home in Kasota, MN, where they enjoyed the beautiful views of the Minnesota River Valley, and the birds and wildlife they attracted to their yard.  During the winter months, Marilyn and Don spent many years vacationing in Cocoa Beach, Florida, enjoying the ocean views and time there with family and friends. 

Marilyn was a lifelong member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Mankato, MN.  She was kindhearted and loved people.  The family prefers memorials be given to Bethlehem Lutheran Church.