Marylin Jeanne Bretzke, 83

Marylin Jeanne Bretzke (Larson) passed away peacefully on April 15, 2012 at the Long Term Care Center, Northfield, MN with family and friends close at hand.  She will be remembered for her amazing energy and love of life.

Marylin was born Feb. 2, 1929 in Albert Lea, MN to Ebba and Kie Larson.  She attended Monmouth College and the University of Minnesota where she received her B.A. degree in Social Work.   While at the university she met her future husband Dr. Carl Bretzke.  They were united in marriage on June 21, 1952 and spent the majority of their married life in Hutchinson, MN where they enjoyed the friendship of so many wonderful people. Marylin is survived by her four children: Margit Bretzke (Jeff Hanson) of St. Paul, Carl (Kristie) Bretzke of Minneapolis, Gwen (John) Daniels of Northfield, and John (D'Ann) Bretzke of Los Alamos, NM; eight grandchildren: Taylor, Claire, Joe, Peter, William, Kylie, Laina, and Morgan; sisters Margit (Tom) Berg of Minneapolis, Jeri Westerman of Golden Valley, and many nieces and nephews.

Marylin's love of children, concern for the disadvantaged, and genuine interest in others led her to a life of caring and volunteering.  Her service included assisting in the establishment of Averyon Homes (a series of homes for people with special needs), service in Parents Anonymous, P.E.O, the Hutchinson Food Shelf, The First Congregational United Church of Christ in Hutchinson, the Hutchinson Community Hospital, and A.F.S.

The family would like to thank her many wonderful friends, the care givers at the Long Term Care Center in Northfield, and the St. Olaf, Carleton, and community volunteers who enriched the last years of her life with companionship and joy. Suggested memorials to Averyon Homes, The First Congregational United Church of Christ, and WINGS.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00AM Tuesday, May 1, 2012, at the United Methodist Church, 14o1 Maple St, Northfield.  A lunch reception will follow.  Visitation will be one hour prior.

Arrangements are with the Benson & Langehough Funeral Home. www.northfieldfuneral.com