Marlys Ellen Evenson

Marlys Ellen Evenson, age 78, of Mankato, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Mankato. Visitation will be from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 13, at Northview-North Mankato Mortuary, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Burial will be at Woodland Hills Cemetery.

Marlys was born on October 12, 1947, to Raymond and Irene (Bartsch) Kunkel in Rapidan, MN. She grew up in Rapidan and married Lowell Evenson on April 18, 1970, at Rapidan Lutheran Church.

In 1984, Marlys and Lowell built a home in Mankato, where they shared so many memories . As devoted members of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Mankato, Marlys was an active part of the community.

Marlys had a warm and caring heart, spending many years working as a friendly teller at Security State Bank, where she formed lasting friendships with her coworkers and customers. Outside of work, Marlys had a passion for puzzles and spent countless hours solving puzzle books. She was also known for her talent in making beautiful afghans. She was especially fond of watching the shopping network!

However, what defined Marlys most was her selflessness and devotion to her family. From a young age, Marlys became a dedicated caregiver, looking after her younger siblings. Her love and care extended to her husband, children, and grandchildren, with whom she shared a deep and abiding bond.

Marlys is survived by her beloved husband, Lowell Evenson; daughters Rachel (Clif) Oachs and Christina (Dennis) Johnson; grandchildren Chris Evenson and Ashley Johnson; brother Dennis (Connie) Kunkel, Derek Kunkel, and Lyle (Trudy) Kunkel; sister Paula Schuster; sister-in-law Kim Kunkel; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Irene Kunkel; son Stefan Evenson; and brother Lyndon Kunkel.

Marlys' kindness, nurturing spirit, and unwavering love for her family will be missed by all who knew her.