Obituary for Marlene Cecelia Krekelberg

Marlene Cecelia Krekelberg, age 89, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and devotion to her family and community.

Marlene was born on December 3, 1936, in Humphrey, Nebraska to Arthur and Evelyn (Bender) Ternus. At the age of 14, she moved with her family to Perham, Minnesota, where she grew up and later graduated from Perham High School.

Following graduation, Marlene moved to Minneapolis, where she met the love of her life, Eugene Krekelberg. The couple was united in marriage on December 29, 1956, and shared a remarkable life together. At the time of her passing, they had celebrated 69 years of marriage—a testament to their enduring love and commitment.

Marlene and Eugene were blessed with three children: Randy, Gary, and Janet, who were the center of her world. She shared a close and special bond with each of her children, and the love between them remained strong throughout her life.

Marlene dedicated her life to caring for others. She was a devoted homemaker and later opened her home as a daycare provider. Her compassion extended even further as she and Eugene served as a county foster home and later a PATH treatment home, offering support, stability, and love to many children and families over the years.

Marlene will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to those she loved and served. Her warm heart and nurturing spirit touched countless lives.

She will be deeply missed by her beloved husband, Eugene; her children, Randy (Jeanne) Krekelberg, Gary (Cindy) Krekelberg, and Janet (Mike) Sheils; her grandchildren, Lisa (Joseph) Livesay, John Krekelberg, Amy Krekelberg, Ashley Moore, Zachary Sheils, Jacob (Rebecca) Sheils; her great-grandchildren, Leo Sheils, Evelyn Sheils, Rhette Sheils, and Anne Livesay; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate care teams at Griswold Home Care, Cedar Creek Senior Living, and Allina Health Hospice for the kindness and support they provided to Marlene and her family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026, at 10:30 A.M. at The Church of the Epiphany, 1900 111th Avenue NW, Coon Rapids. The Rosary will be prayed at 10:00 A.M. Marlene had a deep devotion to the Rosary and prayed it faithfully throughout her life.

Mom, your love built this family, and that love will stay with us forever. Thank you for everything you gave us. We love you.