Marlene Swensen

Marlene Swensen, age 74, of Decorah, passed away in Evanston, Illinois, on Wednesday, September 12, 2012, surrounded by her three children and one brother. Her death occurred after a year and a half long struggle with cancer. Memorial Services are at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, September 22, 2012 at Fjelstul Funeral Home in Decorah, with Rev. Chad Huebner officiating. Burial will be held in private. A Beta Sigma Phi Sorority Memorial Service will be at 10:30 A.M. Saturday at Fjelstul Funeral Home. Born October 9, 1937, in Vancouver, British Columbia, and married in Vancouver, September 7, 1956, she lived in many places within the United States of America before settling in Decorah, Iowa for the past 10 years. While she had several occupations over her lifetime, many knew her from her most recent employment at Hart’s Tea and Tarts. Words cannot truly touch upon the essence of Marlene however; in short, she was a wonderful, optimistic, caring, selfless, and beautiful being with an immensely loving presence that touched everyone she met. Survivors include her loving husband, William Swensen; devoted children: David, Eric and Jennifer Swensen; three grandchildren, Michael, Erica and Phillip; her brothers, Allan and Stan Chester and her sister, Gloria Stokes. Her loss will be greatly felt by all of her family and cherished friends.