Marianne K. Klein

Marianne Klein, 71, of Minot, ND, passed away peacefully in her home on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, surrounded by love.
Marianne Stach was born on February 12, 1954, in Minot, the second child of Balzar and Evelyn (Nienow) Stach. She grew up in Minot and often reminisced about her happy childhood-spending endless winter days ice skating at the outdoor rink, then returning after dinner for more. She adored her mother's cooking and proudly shared that no one's food ever compared to Mom's. Marianne was also deeply proud of her father, the neighborhood handyman who could fix anything-from kids' bikes to toys.
Marianne began working at Town and Country Piggly Wiggly as a bookkeeper, where she earned the nickname "Smiley" for her cheerful spirit. Her kindness extended far beyond her job; she often befriended and helped elderly customers, many of whom became lifelong friends.
In her 20s, Marianne played softball and earned the nickname "Short Legs" for her quick moves as a talented shortstop. Her teammates became like family, and she cherished the memories they made together.
Marianne was a devoted mother who never missed a school event for her daughters. Whether delivering hot chocolate to freezing cheerleaders or joining other moms in a dance routine to support the team, she was always their biggest fan.
On May 19, 2000, Marianne married the love of her life, Wilfred "Willy" Klein, in Minot. Together they shared a deep bond and enjoyed gardening, camping, fishing, cheering on their grandkids, and cozy nights watching NCIS and Fox News. Willy remained faithfully by her side, providing loving care throughout her courageous battle with cancer.
Creative and thoughtful, Marianne loved sewing, crafting, and making gift baskets to surprise others. At her job in the Lewis and Clark lunchroom, she delighted students and coworkers alike-designing seasonal aprons for the kitchen crew and dressing up in fun costumes throughout the year, her favorite being a leprechaun handing out "gold" candy.
Marianne shared a special companionship with her beloved dog, Molly, who was never far from her side.
Her greatest joy was being "Crazy Grandma." Known for her fun-loving antics, she filled her grandchildren's lives with laughter-dressing in silly costumes, riding tricycles, jumping on the trampoline, and even sliding down the slip 'n slide just to make them giggle. She poured her heart into every handmade and store-bought gift, leaving behind a legacy of joy and love that her family will treasure forever.
Marianne was a member of Bethel Quilters and a lifelong member of St. Leo the Great Catholic Church.
She will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 25 years, Wilfred "Willy" Klein; daughters, Kristi (Dean) Feist and Tiffany (Matt) Hawkins; stepsons, Dan Klein and Will (Sara) Klein; grandchildren, Ethan Feist, Cody Feist, Gracie (Logan) Weber, Evelyn Hawkins, Ellie Hawkins, Logan Hawkins, Lila Hawkins, Andrea Klein, and Erik Klein; great-grandchildren, twins expected in March; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Gary (Marilyn) Stach; sister, Kathy Grina.
Mass of Christian Burial: Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, Minot.
Inurnment: Sunset Memorial Gardens, Minot, ND.
Visitation: Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Thompson-Larson Funeral Home, Minot.
Vigil Prayer Service: Monday at 7 p.m. at Thompson-Larson Funeral Home, Minot.
Memorials: are preferred to St. Philip Neri Catholic School: 1121 Felix Place, Midwest City, OK 73110.