Marlyn Marie Wedan, known to many as a beloved matriarch, passed away on September 13, 2025, at the age of 86. Surrounded by family and receiving comfort care at Lakewood Hospital in Staples, Minnesota, she concluded a life rich in faith, family, and community contributions.
Born on May 7, 1939, in Sanborn, Iowa, Marlyn was the daughter of Eldred and Helen (Hardy) Strang. She grew up in the small community of Barrows, just south of Brainerd, Minnesota, where cherished childhood memories included fishing trips with her father and playful adventures with her brothers. As a teenager, she frequently traveled by train to Brainerd for outings, a mere ten-cent ticket granting her access to movies and friendships.
Marlyn’s faith played a central role in her life. At a young age, she attended the ‘Girl Guard’ program at the Salvation Army, where she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. This commitment to her faith remained unwavering throughout her life. In 1956, she met her future husband, Eugene E Wedan, at a basketball game, and they married on November 23 of that year.
As newlyweds, Marlyn and Gene settled in Brainerd, where they welcomed their first two daughters in 1958 and 1959. The family soon purchased a two-bedroom cabin on Round Lake, transforming it into a two-story home. By 1966, their family had grown to include four daughters and a son. They became active members of the Nisswa Community Church and later helped found the Pequot Lakes Baptist Church in 1976.
Marlyn’s nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family. Known for her culinary skills, she became famous for her old-fashioned baked beans while working at various local restaurants. In 1982, she shifted her career path to become a Nurse’s Aide, contributing 18 years to the St. Joseph’s Hospital Homecare program before retiring to care for Gene.
Family gatherings brought Marlyn immense joy, especially her role as “Gramma Dan” to seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. From attending band concerts to playing games like Rook and Yahtzee, her life was filled with meaningful interactions. Marlyn cherished monthly lunches with her brothers and their wives and co-hosted events with friends, highlighting her vibrant social life.
Marlyn is survived by her three daughters, Pam, Diane, and Janet Wedan; a son, Gary Wedan; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Wesley Hines, Joe Hines, and Leah Ahmann. She leaves behind her brother Arnie Strang, sister-in-law Joyce Strang, and best friend Adele Orem, alongside a wide circle of cherished family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Gene, her parents, and her brothers, Eldred Jr. and Cecil Strang. Marlyn’s legacy of love, faith, and family will be celebrated at Christ Community Church in Nisswa on October 11, 2025. Visitation will begin at 13:00, followed by a memorial service at 14:00 and a luncheon thereafter. Attendees are encouraged to wear their finest earrings in her honor, reflecting the vibrant spirit she embodied throughout her life.