The community of Stewartville, Minnesota, will gather to celebrate the life of Marilu Mullenbach, who passed away on January 15, 2026, at the age of 83. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on January 27, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Stewartville, officiated by Rev. Kevin Connolly. Following the service, Marilu will be laid to rest in the church cemetery.
Marilu Mullenbach, born August 8, 1942, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was the daughter of John and Celeste (Kiefer) Prehatney. She spent her childhood in Austin, Minnesota, where she graduated from Austin Pacelli High School in 1960. Early in her career, Marilu worked at Thorpe Financial in Rochester before embarking on her lifelong journey as a dedicated mother.
On September 19, 1964, she married Melvin G. Mullenbach at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in Austin. The couple initially resided in Rochester and Stewartville, later moving to rural Racine, where they raised their five children. Marilu devoted her time to her family while Melvin enjoyed a long career at IBM in Rochester until his retirement. In 2020, the couple relocated to Prior Lake, Minnesota, to be closer to their children. Melvin passed away on January 8, 2022.
Marilu was an active member of her community, participating in St. Bernard’s Catholic Church and the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 Auxiliary. She had a passion for various activities, including golf, downhill skiing, gardening, and canning. Her love for sports was evident as she was a devoted fan of the Minnesota Twins and the Minnesota Vikings.
Throughout her life, Marilu cherished her time spent with friends and family. She was particularly proud of her children and grandchildren, often attending their school and sporting events.
Marilu Mullenbach is survived by her daughter, Monica Gay of North Branch, Minnesota, and four sons: Matthew Mullenbach of Victor, Idaho; Mitchell Mullenbach of Apache Junction, Arizona; Martin Mullenbach of Grand Forks, North Dakota; and Marshall Mullenbach of Prior Lake, Minnesota. She leaves behind eight grandchildren and one great-granddaughter: Sam Gay, Amanda Innes, Joe Gay, Alyssa Mullenbach, Reyna, Allanah Mullenbach, Matthew Mullenbach Jr., Manni Mullenbach, and Myah Mullenbach. Additionally, she is survived by her sister, Barb Duren, of Arlington Heights, Illinois, along with many nieces and nephews.
Visitation for family and friends will be held from 9:30 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. on January 27, 2026, at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church. Funeral arrangements are being managed by Griffin-Gray Funeral Home in Stewartville. Those wishing to share condolences or memories of Marilu can do so at www.griffin-gray.com.
Marilu Mullenbach’s legacy will live on through her family and the many lives she touched throughout her years.