Marlene "Molly" Wilke

Marlene M. Wilke, 89, of Willmar, formerly of Murdock, died Monday, February 3, at Bethesda Grand in Willmar. Her funeral service will be 10:30 am, Wednesday, February 12, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Murdock. Visitation will 4:00-6:00 pm, Tuesday at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar and one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at the church cemetery. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson & Johnson Funeral Home in Willmar. www.hafh.org

Marlene “Molly” Schoen was born October 6, 1935, to Frank and Irene (Bailey) Schoen in Montevideo. She was baptized and confirmed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Murdock. Molly lived in Clara City before her family moved to Murdock, where she graduated from Murdock High School in 1953. On July 17, 1954, Molly married Donald Wilke at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. They were blessed with three children, Robert, James, and Kim.

The family later moved to Starbuck, and in 1960, Donald and Molly’s adventurous spirit led them to Anchorage, Alaska. In Alaska, they enjoyed the stunning mountain views and natural beauty for six years before returning to the family farm in Murdock. After Donalds passing, Molly moved to Willmar.

Molly was an active member of her church’s quilting group and lunch committee. She had many passions, including traveling, gardening, flowers, sports, the mountains, loons, and painting ceramics.

Molly is survived by her son, James Wilke (significant other, Tina Hutchinson); son-in-law, Leon Braaten; 10 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald; children, Robert and Kim; parents, five brothers and four sisters.

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