Obituary of Marilyn Delores Branch

Branch, Marilyn, Delores, 99, of Richfield, MN passed away peacefully surrounded by family on November 19, 2023. She was preceded in death by her father Arthur DuVall, mother Elizabeth DuVall, husband James E. Branch, and daughter Laurie Gehl Branch. She is survived by her son Bruce Branch, Cathy Branch and grandchildren Marla Branch, Michelle (Erik) Tollefson, and Aria Branch. Great grandchild Theodore Tollefson. Marilyn grew up in New Rockford, ND where small town character traits and the love of family were instilled throughout her childhood. In 1943, she set her sights on the big city of Minneapolis, MN and embraced the uncertainty of life with confidence supported by her faith.  Marilyn attended night classes at the University of Minnesota to hone her God given artistic abilities. She showcased her artistic talents through numerous paintings which reflected her inner beauty, imagination, and creativity. Marilyn was hired by the Donaldsons department store in Minneapolis to set up their window displays. Her “works of art” were a ringing success, which won her many awards. Marilyn met Jim on a blind date, playing Bridge and they were married a few years later. They were the perfect match as he was an Artist as well. They settled in Richfield which proved to be an amazing place to raise a family   Her notable achievement was seen through her dutiful devotion and dedication as a wife, mother, and grandmother.  For 51 years, she served her husband with love and absolute humility, never wavering from her role. She was the ideal wife as noted in the book of Proverbs; loyal, merry, capable, selfless, and strong. Quite simply, she was the perfect helper for her husband of 51 years. As a mother, she influenced her children through her character which undoubtedly reflected the character of Christ. She provided nurturing, tenderness, and understood the most important attribute she conveyed was that “life will be challenging and difficult at times, but the bible promises that God will never leave us, nor will He forsake us.” Her role as mother not only impacted our life but the lives of our friends as well. Marilyn was the epitome of Grandmothers! Each of her grandchildren possessed unique traits and she understood and enhanced those traits with unconditional love. She was nonjudgmental, always supportive, and extremely proud of the people they became in life today. Marilyn faithfully served her church and her community. As a member of Hope Presbyterian church for 68 years, she served as Sunday school teacher and was always the first to volunteer her artistic talents, decorating the church on Easter and Christmas. She also served her community as she participated in fundraises for the United Way and the American Heart Association. She was tireless in her service to her church and dedicated to organizations geared to help others in need. Marilyn had an ear for the “Big band” sound of Swing. She organized “Date” nights with close friends and the big band sound propelled her guest to “Swing dance” the night away. These nights were capped with unquenchable laughter and joy. One of her favorite past-times was tailgating and watching the Vikings, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. Marilyn’s last days were in the hands of the caring professionals at the Breck Home. Her caretakers described her as; adorable, caring, the sweetest person we have ever served. Marilyn always managed to see the good in people regardless of their position or title in life. There was a special authenticity about her that one could see through her smile, and eyes, kindling the light that glows ever so brightly within her soul. There are many other things Marilyn did, which if were written in detail, the world itself would not contain the books that would be written. Her foundation lies in Hope, Faith, and Love, but the greatest is love! Marilyn put into practice the “Love” for others as she understood its meaning. Simply put, she was a loving wife, mother, grandparent, and friend…” Well done thy good and faithful servant!”

     A Celebration of Life Service will be held Monday December 4th at 11:00 AM. A one-hour visitation  will start at 10:00 Luncheon to follow service at Hope Church 7132 Portland Ave S Richfield, MN