Our dear Mom, Grandma, and friend left this world to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus whom she loved deeply. She will join her adored Bob, husband of nearly 54 years. A reunion she so looked forward to as she fought cancer bravely, strong, and for her family.
Marlys was born on May 8, 1949 in Austin, MN. She lived on their family’s farm in Grand Meadow, MN where she attended elementary school until the Third Grade. Her family then relocated to Stewartville, MN where she attended school until her high school graduation. Marlys then attended Rochester Junior College. Education was always important to her, and a value she passed on to her children and grandchildren. Later in her life, Marlys returned to college to attend and graduate with a Business degree from Mankato State University. Her family proudly looked on as she walked the stage for her degree. They watched her hard work to complete this all the while continuing to raise the family.
Marlys leaned heavily on her faith in Christ during her life. She currently attended Grace Church in Eden Prairie. She faithfully committed to spend time daily with God in His Word and in worship. She shared this example with her family, friends, and so many others of all ages and in all different walks of life. Marlys especially loved working with children in the ministry. It was one of her many passions.
Marlys married Robert “Bob” Jensen on December 1, 1968 at Zion Lutheran Church in Stewartville, MN. They had a wonderful loving life together that included: traveling, home improvement projects, gardening and cooking. Marlys was a fantastic cook and loved doing it for others. Hosting groups from two to 200. Her meals were always made from scratch and always with love. She also enjoyed reading and was talented at sewing.
Marlys is survived by her children: Heather (Martin) Walaszek, Tanya (David) Verhoff, Steven (Nicole) Jensen, Angela (Mike) Messall. She is further survived by her grandchildren she loved very much: Kennedi (Colin), Weston (Kelly), Jaxon “J.T.”, Lynnea, Mariah, Franklin, Ian, Rosie, Liam, Seth, Kaylene, Brielle, Gretta, and one great-grandchild: Jensen.
She is also survived by her sister-in-law Bonnie (Milan) Behr, and dear friends: Nancy & Neil Bonkoski, Ken & Josie Jackson.
A special thank you to the “girls” she so appreciated: game days and Thursday Bible study group.
A Memorial Service for Marlys will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 12:00 PM at the State Street Chapel of Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt Funeral and Cremation Service in Waseca, MN. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be at Woodville Cemetery in Waseca, MN.
711 N State Street, Waseca, MN 56093

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