Marlene Melinda (Ruter) Freeman

Marlene Melinda (Ruter) Freeman, 68, of Willmar, died Tuesday, October 29, 2019 at Carris Health Care Center and Therapy Suites.  Her funeral will be 1:00 pm, Friday, November 1st at Bethel Lutheran Church in Willmar with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in the church cemetery.  Funeral arrangements are with Harvey Anderson Funeral Home.   www.hafh.org

Marlene was born June 6, 1951, in Willmar, the daughter of Henry G. and Mildred “Millie” (Skoglund) Ruter.  She grew up in Willmar and graduated from Willmar High School in 1969.  She continued her education at Willmar Community College, earning her AA Degree in 1971.  While attending college, Marlene worked at Elmquist Jewelers.  Upon graduation she moved to Eagan where she went to work for Blue Cross Blue Shield. 

On June 20, 1981, she was united in marriage to William “Bill” Freeman in the same church she was baptized and confirmed, Bethel Lutheran Church. To this union two children were born, Matthew and Molly.  Her greatest joy was staying home and raising her two children while living in Apple Valley for over 30 years.  After raising her children, Marlene worked for Amcon Construction for many years. In September of 2017, Marlene returned to Willmar to be near her family.

She will be remembered for her beautiful smile, joyful laugh and selflessness love for others.  Marlene loved to be with people, was a lifelong friend to many and was always concerned for the wellbeing of others.

Surviving are her children, Matthew Freeman of Willmar; Molly (and Ryan) Gonzales of Orcutt, CA; and William “Bill” Freeman of Willmar; grandchildren, Braxton and Avery and siblings: Lily Ruplinger of Willmar; Deborah (and Richard) Otte of Spicer; Douglas (and Lisa) Ruter of Willmar and Sharon (and Jon) Rambow of Willmar; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry G. and Mildred “Millie” Ruter and in-laws, George and Valerie Freeman.

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