Obituary
Marilyn Carlson
Marilyn Carlson, 89, passed away Tuesday May 28, 2024. She was born on her father’s birthday September 4, 1934 to Carl and Lillian (Lorence) Jones. She grew up on the family farm and attended school in Linn Grove, IA, graduating in 1952. That fall she attended Mankato Commercial College. Then she worked for a finance company in Spencer, IA.
Marilyn married her best friend and love of her life, Oscar on August 8, 1954 in the Riverside Presbyterian Church in Linn Grove, IA. They started their marriage by living in student housing (Vista Court) in Storm Lake, IA where Oscar attended BV College on the GI Bill after serving in Korea. Marilyn worked in the courthouse until their first child, Brian, was born. After Oscar received his B.S. Degree at BV College they moved to Ames, IA. They lived in student housing (Pammel Court) as he worked on his Master’s Degree. Marilyn made extra money by babysitting and typing. Brent was born in Ames. They moved to Waverly, IA in 1960 where Oscar taught at Wartburg College. Linda was born there. In 1962 they moved to Estherville, IA. Oscar taught at Estherville Junior College and High School. In 1964 they moved back to Ames where Oscar worked on his Ph.D. Marilyn was a stay at home mom taking in washing and ironing for college boys and typing for extra money. They moved to Menomonie, WI in 1968 where Oscar got a position as professor in the biology department at UW Stout.
The children were in school so Marilyn worked outside the home in Menomonie. She worked at the hospital in admissions and then at First Bank and Trust as Executive Secretary for 16 years retiring in 1989.
During their lives Marilyn and Oscar traveled extensively throughout the United States making 49 of the 50 states. They also traveled internationally to various locations.
Marilyn’s hobbies included sewing, baking (known as the chocolate chip cookie grandma), refinishing furniture, singing in the Sweet Adeline’s, 4-H leader with Oscar for over 25 years and Dunn County Beekeepers Secretary. She was a member of the United Methodist Church and served on many committees.
They moved to Onalaska, WI in 1995 after Oscar had retired from UW Stout in 1994.
She was preceded in death by her parents. Left to cherish her memory is her husband Dr. Oscar Carlson and children: Brian (Jeanet) Carlson, Brent (Debra) Carlson, and Linda (Steve) Fruechte. Five grandchildren: Neal (Joy), Shane, Brad (Amy), Jill, Dan (Bethany) Carlson and six great grandchildren, and other relatives and friends.
The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff at Gundersen Health, Mulder Health Care Facility and St Croix Hospice for their wonderful care and support. A private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers or plants, please make a donation to your favorite charity.
My sympathy to Linda and family. Your Mom was very special and I especially remember her flower gardens and how she supported all the things we did in 4-H. Cherish the sweet memories of a life well lived.