Marilyn Christine Bandelow

Marilyn Christine Bandelow, 88 of Zim, passed away April 29, 2024 surrounded by family. Marilyn was one of six children, born to Mary and John Tomljenovich on May 19, 1935, in Zim, Minnesota.

Marilyn met and married her husband, Gene, in 1951. Together they raised three children, making their homes in Illinois, Alaska, and Minnesota. They eventually planted roots in Minnesota where Marilyn became well known as an entrepreneur in businesses including The Wagon Wheel and Forbes Country Corner. To many she was known as "The Queen of Forbes" or "The pull-tab lady." It is no surprise to those who know her Marilyn was recognized as both a "sweet lady" and a "spit fire." Her work ethic was infallible and evidenced in her assertion over the years that she did not have time to be sick.

Marilyn enjoyed football, cooking, music, and spending time with friends and family. Marilyn honed her culinary skills throughout her life in the hospitality industry. She worked at her mother's restaurant, spent time waitressing, and worked as a hostess in an upscale restaurant in Chicago. Marilyn's love for others shone through her cooking and she never missed an opportunity to remind anyone coming through her door, "…you better eat something…"

Most recently Marilyn made her home at Edgewood Vista where she was loved and cared for like family. She is survived by her children: Vicki (Paul) Thronson, Geno (Tammy) Bandelow, and Lori (Bret) Ojala; as well as 14 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents- Mary Klobechar and John Tomljenovich, brothers Peter and Mike Tomljenovich, sisters Lillian Luukkonen and Rose Dickison, and beloved husband Gene.

A memorial service will be held at the McDavitt Town Hall in Zim, Minn., at 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 7, 2024 with a celebration of life and luncheon to follow. Arrangements have been entrusted to Cron Sheehy Funeral Home of Eveleth, Minnesota.