Marlene Braun, 74, of Glenwood, died on Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, at the Glacial Ridge Hospital in Glenwood.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6, at the Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home in Glenwood with Rev. Mark Manning officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Glenwood Lutheran Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home.

Marlene Olivia Braun was born on May 19, 1950, to proud parents Ellert and Marlys (Alsaker) Mithun. Marlene was the third of six children and her early years were spent in the nurturing community of Glenwood, where she attended local schools and attended the Lutheran Church.

Marlene’s heart found its match when she united in marriage with Stephen Robert Braun on Dec. 6, 1968, in Watertown, S.D. Their loving union was blessed with three children, and together, they built a life filled with joy and dedication. The family initially made their home in Fergus Falls, then moved to Big Lake, and after many cherished years, they settled in Coon Rapids for three decades before returning to their roots in Glenwood.

A dedicated employee, Marlene spent 25 years at Honeywell in Golden Valley, where her work ethic and commitment to her colleagues were evident. Her involvement with the Local Chapter 1145 of the Teamsters Union as a union steward reflected her belief in fairness and her advocacy for workers’ rights. Additionally, Marlene was a proud member of the American Legion Auxiliary, contributing to her community and supporting veterans and their families.

Marlene’s interests were a tapestry of creativity and service. She was a talented artisan, skilled in crocheting, sewing and knitting, and took great pleasure in cooking. Her annual chili fest on Halloween became a beloved tradition, eagerly anticipated by family and friends alike. Marlene’s generous heart extended beyond her immediate circle as she crafted beautiful items for charity, sharing her warmth with those in need.

Known for her love of Cher and country music, Marlene’s passion for life was infectious. Her kitchen was a place of learning and laughter, where she taught her family and loved ones the art of sewing and the joy of cooking. Marlene’s presence was a comforting one, her selfless nature making her the cornerstone of her family. She had a unique ability to make each person feel valued, and her passionate love for her family will be remembered for generations to come.

Marlene is survived by her three children, Keith (Tina) Braun of Montrose, Tina (Robert) Kwakenat of Buffalo and Kimberly (Aaron) Goings of Mankato; six grandchildren, Samantha, Karina, Steven, Christian, Mara and Molly; six great-grandchildren, with one more on the way, Kaidyn, Tyler, Jaaron, Archer, Jaaxon and Scarlet; her siblings, Helen (Tim) Rannow of Blaine, Gary (Barb) Mithun of Maplewood and Nancy (David) Armstrong of Glenwood; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends, along with her beloved pets, Toby, Chance and Kapton.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Stephen Braun in 2022; sister, Maisie Mithun; brother, Ervin Mithun; nieces, Patricia Schumann and Becky (Braun) Krone; nephews, Danny Braun Jr. and Lief Olson; and a brother-in-law, Richard Olson.

To send online condolences, visit hoplinhitchcockfuneralhome.com.