Marlene Edith (Neudahl) Potter, age 87, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2025, just twenty days after the passing of her beloved husband, Ed.

Marlene was a servant leader whose life was defined by love, faith, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. She lived actively and purposefully—surrounded by family, guided by her Christian faith, and enriched by her passions for gardening, travel, birdwatching, time at the cabin, and crafting.

Born on October 8, 1937, Marlene was the third of four children born to Emil and Eva Neudahl. She was baptized, confirmed, and later married at St. Stephanus Lutheran Church in St. Paul—a spiritual home she lovingly served in many roles over the years.

A 1955 graduate of Wilson High School, Marlene went on to attend nursing school at Anchor Hospital (now Regions Hospital). Her nursing career began in obstetrics, where she found great joy in helping deliver new life. She later worked in early childhood education at Central Lutheran School, and her compassionate care extended into geriatric nursing, where she served as a charge nurse, staff trainer, and nursing lead at Lyngblomsten Care Center, Presbyterian Homes of Arden Hills, and Brightondale Senior Living.

On August 16, 1958, Marlene married the love of her life, Edward Potter, at St. Stephanus. Together, they raised two children, Barbara Jean and Steven Wayne, and instilled in them strong values, deep faith, and a commitment to family. Marlene adored her four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who lovingly called her “Grandma Kitty.”

Marlene’s life of service extended far beyond her career. She was a devoted church and community member, recently contributing to archival work at St. Stephanus. She taught CPR and AED use, led Girl Scout troops, and rang bells for the Salvation Army alongside lifelong friends. As the keeper of family traditions and the creator of cherished memories, she held a special place in the lives of all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ed; her parents, Emil and Eva (Smith) Neudahl; and her brothers, Richard and Eugene.

She is survived by her children, Barbara (Scott) Kloetzke and Steven (Margit) Potter; grandchildren Emily (David) Cullen, Joseph (Katie) Kloetzke, Travis Potter, and Reilly Potter; great-grandchildren Henry, Cameron, and Callahan; her sister Mary (Ron) Bisping; sisters-in-law Shirley and Dorothy Neudahl; and many treasured nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

A memorial gathering and celebration of Marlene and Ed’s lives will be held at St. Stephanus Lutheran Church in St. Paul on Saturday, August 16, 2025 with visitation from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. and a luncheon. A private burial will take place at a later date.

Memorials may be made in Marlene’s honor to St. Stephanus Lutheran Church, Leaf Mountain Lutheran Church, Grace Hospice, or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Marlene’s legacy of compassion, faith, and gentle leadership will live on in the countless lives she touched and the enduring love she shared.