Marion H. E. Gruenstern

Marion Helen Eileen Gruenstern (Baerenwald), age 99 of Appleton, WI joined her heavenly kingdom on August 18, 2024. She was born to the late Arthur and Clara (Herzberg) Baerenwald on January 18, 1925 (or January 12, depending on who you asked). Marion met Reinhold Gruenstern when she was 20 and they were married soon after. After some time as a homemaker, she spent the rest of her career as a Nursing Assistant for Parkside Nursing Home in Little Chute. Though their marriage didn’t last forever, they gave each other 8 beloved children who she loved more than anything else in the world.

Most people who knew Marion would probably consider her lovely, but shy, which she was, but she was also very stubborn and set in her ways. Marion loved playing the guitar, especially when playing country music. Her performance even made it on the radio once. She spent a lot of time fishing, gardening, and canning in her youth to feed her family. Marion was an excellent crocheter and knitter too, and her family will always cherish the clothing she made for them. More than anything, though, Marion loved her family and cherished every moment she spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Marion will be deeply missed by her children, Jean Brandt (Dan Pleshek), Ray (Linda) Gruenstern, Ann (Tim) Tynan, Nancy (Paul) Gruenstern, Ron (Carlene) Gruenstern, Terry (Darcy) Gruenstern, and Jeff Gruenstern; her 22 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and dear friends.

Marion is preceded in death by her son, James Gruenstern; her granddaughter, Leanne Smith; her siblings, Doris (Lyle) Behm, Harold (Donna) Baerenwald, and Allen (Laverne) Baerenwald.

A memorial visitation will be held from 9-11 AM on Saturday, August 31, 2024 at Peace United Methodist Church, 2300 E Wisconsin Ave, Kaukauna, WI 54130 with a memorial service to follow at 11 AM. Marion will be laid to rest at Union Cemetery in Kaukauna, WI. 

Marion’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and other supporting staff at Care Partners Assisted Living and St. Croix Hospice for all their care and compassion in Marion’s time of need.