Marlin Zitzow

Marlin Zitzow, age 80, of Perham, MN, died Friday, February 18, 2011, at the Perham Memorial Hospital. Marlin was born at home in rural Edna Township to Richard and Mary (Loebrick) Zitzow on April 25, 1930. He was baptized on May 25, 1930, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Perham. He was confirmed in his faith on May 16, 1943, and graduated from Perham High School in 1948. On May 7, 1955, Marlin married his high school sweetheart, Mary Helen Bauck. Together they raised six children. Marlin was an active member of the community. He was a charter member of the Jaycees and the Lions. He was on the fire department for 25 years serving as chief for 12 of them. He was also president of the Northwest Regional Fire District. Marlin was active in starting the Rescue Squad. He was village clerk, city council member and served as Mayor for 10 years. He also served in numerous church offices including Chairman of the Congregation. Marlin began working at Bauck Chevrolet Company in 1954 and became part owner in 1962 until he closed the business in 1987. He drove bus for many years and was a car salesman until he retired. Marlin enjoyed hunting, fishing – anything outdoors. He was also a Viking and Twins fan and followed his kids and grandkids in their activities. The most important thing in Marlins life was family and he was happiest when spending it with his wife, children and grandchildren. Marlin is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mary Helen; five daughters, Kay (Steve) Melgard, Diana (Joe) Saenger, Karen (Bob) Laughlin, Dona Mae Zitzow, and Debra Zitzow; one son, Kent (Ann) Zitzow; eight grandchildren, Kelly (Stacie) Melgard, Casey (Sarah Frugere) Melgard, Krista (Ryan) Dahn, Andrea (Andrew) Darsow, Erin (Dave) Swyter, Jon Laughlin, Ashley Zitzow and Daniel Zitzow; four great grandchildren, Madyson and Brock Melgard, Mackenzie Darsow and Lucas Swyter; two brothers, Lester (Cookie) Zitzow and Dennis (Marilyn) Zitzow; two sisters-in-law, Violet Zitzow and Elizabeth (Lyle) Foster, one brother-in-law, Bill (Sanu) Bauck; and many nieces and nephews. Preceding Marlin in death are his parents, Richard and Mary Zitzow; one sister, Evelyn Ponto; and two brothers, Ellsworth and Joseph Zitzow.