Marlyn Marie Wedan, known for her warmth and dedication to family, passed away on September 13, 2025, at Lakewood Hospital in Staples, Minnesota. She was surrounded by her loved ones, receiving comfort care during her final moments. Born on May 7, 1939, in Sanborn, Iowa, to Eldred and Helen Strang, Marlyn’s life was filled with cherished memories and deep connections.
Raised in the small community of Barrows, just south of Brainerd, Minnesota, Marlyn’s childhood was shaped by a close-knit family. She fondly recalled moments of dressing up as an old lady, fishing with her father, and enjoying outdoor adventures with her two brothers. Her teenage years included taking the train to Brainerd for movies and social outings, where she embraced the freedom of youth.
At the age of 13, Marlyn attended the ‘Girl Guard’ program at the Salvation Army, where she met and accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. This pivotal moment instilled a strong faith that guided her throughout her life.
Marlyn’s journey took a significant turn when she met her future husband, Eugene E. Wedan, at a basketball game. The couple married on November 23, 1956, and soon began their family in Brainerd. Over the years, they welcomed four daughters and a son, creating a vibrant household filled with love and laughter.
In 1976, Marlyn and her family became founding members of the Pequot Lakes Baptist Church. Their commitment to faith was evident when they helped lead Marlyn’s mother, brother, and sister-in-law to Christianity during a Crusade meeting in Brainerd.
Throughout her life, Marlyn was known for her exceptional cooking and baking skills, particularly her famous old-fashioned baked beans. In 1982, she transitioned to a career as a Nurse’s Aide after attending the Brainerd Vo-Tech, dedicating 18 years to the St. Joseph’s Hospital Homecare program before retiring to care for her husband.
Family was at the heart of Marlyn’s life. She cherished her role as “Gramma Dan” to her seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. From babysitting to attending concerts and sharing meals, her life was enriched by the time spent with loved ones. Marlyn enjoyed playing games, hosting gatherings, and sharing her love for reading, creating lasting memories with family and friends.
Marlyn’s passing leaves a profound void in the lives of her daughters: Pam, Diane, and Janet Wedan, along with Marge (Terry) Hines and son Gary (Kristen) Wedan. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Wesley (JoEllen) Hines, Joe (Amber) Hines, Beau (Sam) Bacon, Leah Ahmann, Garrett (Adrienne) Wedan, Molly (Thomas) Moman, and Tanner (Haley) Wedan, as well as her great-grandchildren: Dylan, Riley Hines, Brianna, Kiara Bacon, Gabe Ahmann, Eliza, and Laila Moman.
Marlyn is preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Gene, her parents, and siblings Eldred Jr. and Cecil Strang.
A memorial service will be held at Christ Community Church, located at 24646 Hazelwood Drive, Nisswa, Minnesota, on October 11, 2025. Visitation will begin at 13:00, followed by the memorial service at 14:00, concluding with a luncheon. Attendees are encouraged to honor Marlyn’s memory by wearing their finest earrings, a testament to her vibrant spirit.
Marlyn Marie Wedan’s legacy of love, faith, and family will continue to inspire those who knew her.
