Born June 26, 1933. Passed away peacefully on February 12, 2013, age 79. Marilyn was a graduate of Macalester College and long time resident of the Lake Nokomis area. She was a special education teacher in the St. Paul Public School System for over 25 years. Marilyn was a quiet philanthropist whose interests included Macalester College, St Olaf College, Minneapolis Institute of Arts, the Minneapolis Orchestra and the Minneapolis Foundation. Her love of animals was reflected in her giving to the Minnesota Zoo and the Humane Society. Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Hazel and Palmer Benson and brother Don Benson. She is survived by her cousin, Patty Smith, two nieces and one nephew, two cousins in Colorado and a group of close friends including her beloved cat Doy Doy. Many thanks to the staff at Presbyterian Homes of Bloomington and to the wonderful group of caregivers Marilyn was blessed with over the years, especially Nancy Brooks. A memorial service will be held in the chapel at Presbyterian Homes located at 9889 Penn Avenue S on Thursday February 28th at 3:00pm. Memorials may be sent to Donor's choice.
Published in Pioneer Press on February 24, 2013
