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Marlene Bierlein

Posted By Ballard Sunder Funeral Home On October 23, 2014 @ 8:56 am In 2014,Obituaries | 28 Comments

Bierlein Obit Photo

A resident of Prior Lake, Marlene Bierlein died peacefully in the early morning hours of Thursday, October 23, 2014 at St. Gertrude’s Health Care Center in Shakopee, MN. The visitation will be Sunday, October 26, from 4-6pm, at Ballard-Sunder Funeral and Cremation, 4565 Pleasant Street SE, Prior Lake, MN, with an additional visitation from 10-11am at the church on Monday. The Celebration of Life Service will be Monday, October 27, at 11am at Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church, 3611 North Berens Road NW, Prior Lake. Reverend Les Svendsen will preside. A luncheon will follow services at the church. An additional memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 9 at 3pm, followed by a fellowship supper at Zoar Lutheran Church, 314 East Indiana Avenue, Perrysburg, Ohio. Reverend Tim Philabaum will preside.

On November 16, 1948, Marlene Rae Bierlein was born to parents Rheinhold and Marion Fuhlbrugge in Midland, Michigan, and was later joined by her sister Margaret. At the age of three, her father died suddenly and several years later her mother married Norman Rippee. Marlene was blessed once again to have a father in her life. In her teenage years, she began playing the cello, which began a life-long love of music as Marlene played through high school, college, and with various church and community ensembles. This musical passion also expressed itself through more than 20 years in a hand bell ensemble.

Marlene attended Michigan State University and received her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. Feeling a call to help those in need, she did her student teaching in the inner city of Detroit, not long after the riots occurred in that city. Being a champion and encourager of children, Marlene continued to teach for the rest of her career, working one on one or in small groups with primarily 4th– 6th graders. In June of 2008, and after 20 years of a love for teaching, she retired from the Perrysburg school system. Always an educator, Marlene continued to volunteer in the elementary classrooms of her grandchildren.

During college, Marlene was also active in the Lutheran Campus Ministry and while doing one of her service projects, she became reacquainted with a former friend, Paul Bierlein. After a couple of years of courtship, they were married on August 14, 1971, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Midland, Michigan. They were blessed with two sons, Jeremy and four years later, Matthew.

Nineteen years prior to her death, Marlene was first diagnosed with brain cancer. Despite recurring tumors, her perseverance and determination repeatedly overcame physical challenges and setbacks. She lived life to the fullest, spending as much time as possible with her grandchildren. Marlene’s love for travel included the Canadian Rockies, Alaska, Italy, a Baltic/Nordic cruise and a couple of trips to Europe. She was also an avid gardener, creating and caring for three water garden ponds and tending more than 300 types of floral plantings in her yard. Marlene also loved collecting antiques that needed TLC and reclaiming them into beautiful keepsakes.

A determined woman with perseverance and an adventurous spirit, Marlene will be deeply missed and gratefully remembered by her husband, Paul; sons, Jeremy (Heidi Edmonson) Bierlein of Eagan, Matthew (Jennifer) Bierlein of Columbus, Ohio; grandchildren, Ethan, Micah, Sophie, Ginny, Lyndee, Emmett, Anna; mother, Marion Rippee of Springfield, MO; sister, Margaret (Craig) Erickson of Branson, MO.

Ballard-Sunder Funeral Home and Cremation, Prior Lake Chapel, proudly served the Bierlein family. www.ballardsunderfuneral.com

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Condolences for the family of “Marlene Bierlein”

Condolence from Emily Schroeder Orvik on October 24th, 2014 8:18 am

I was so saddened to hear of Marlene’s passing. I became acquainted with her through my work at the church and we had a number of lovely conversations. I will always remember her interest in and encouragement of my work.
You are in my thoughts and prayers as you grieve. I pray that you are comforted by many happy memories and the knowledge that Marlene impacted many people in wonderful ways.

Condolence from Christine Otam on October 24th, 2014 12:45 pm

Paul and Family,

While I’ve only just met you through SMC, your kind and warm spirit are obvious. I am saddened by your loss of Marlene and wish to let you and your family know that you are not alone. I, and many others, have you all in our prayers.

My sincere condolences,

Christine Otam

Condolence from Sue and David Crockett on October 24th, 2014 3:26 pm

Dear Paul,

We are so sorry to hear of the loss of Marlene. Though we do not know you well, we enjoyed our visits with both of you at the Guthrie tech dinners. Our thoughts are with you as you take this journey. God’s peace be with you.

Sue and David Crockett

Condolence from Shannon and Morgan Martin on October 24th, 2014 4:25 pm

So sorry for your families loss. Thinking of you all during this time.

Condolence from Dale & Jean Torgerson on October 24th, 2014 4:52 pm

We’re so sorry for your loss. It was a pleasure for us to get to know Marlene through SMC events. We remember that sparkling personality and friendly manner. My the God of all creation comfort you and give you His peace.

Dale & Jean

Condolence from Sue Hughes on October 25th, 2014 9:58 am

Feeling your loss, she is in His loving arms. Healing will take time , I know I’m dealing with it. God be with you.

Condolence from Denise Marlowe on October 25th, 2014 11:36 am

Dear Paul, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Marlene. I did not know you or her well but I remember seeing her and you at the Guthrie Tech Dinners. May God bless you and your family. Sincerely, Denise Marlowe

Condolence from Jan & Paul Nuno on October 25th, 2014 11:58 am

Our thoughts and prayers will continue for all of you throughout Marlene’s passing from this life to the next. We loved her strength, faith and cheerful spirit and will miss her presence whenever the Fuhlbrugge cousins reunite. “Be still my soul; the hour is hast’ning on when we shall forever be with the Lord; when disappointment, grief and fear are gone, sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored. Be still my soul; when change and tears are past, all safe and blessed we shall meet at last.”

Condolence from Ann Marshal on October 25th, 2014 3:15 pm

Paul, you and your family have my deepest sympathy. Marlene was a star and I was privileged to know her even for a short time. God bless you in these days of grief and in the years to come.

Condolence from Kim Petersen on October 25th, 2014 3:44 pm

Keeping you and your family in my prayers Paul.
Kim

Condolence from Lynda Jesse on October 25th, 2014 5:09 pm

I met Marlene as she visited her sister Margaret, a dear friend and colleague, but have known of her illness for quite some time. The strength and courage that she exhibited for her family and friends during those dark days of various treatments and surgeries, is an obvious testament to her faith and giving spirit. Many prayers for the comfort of her loved ones. Rest in peace, Marlene. Sincerely, Lynda Jesse

Condolence from Kathy Schlick on October 26th, 2014 7:14 am

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Kathy Schlick

Condolence from Sue and Ward Whiting on October 26th, 2014 11:18 am

Dearest Paul and family, We share so many warm and wonderful memories. You are not alone in your sorrow. I know Marlene is smiling on us all and dancing with the Angels — probably in a fabulous white lame gown, with silver high-heeled sandals (one can never be too tall) and a crown of golden stars in her hair!!! I’m sorry we couldn’t be with you today. Love and Peace as you begin the celebration of her beautiful, courageous and full life today. She brought such joy to all who knew her. We shall miss her always in so many ways.

Condolence from Molly Mika on October 26th, 2014 1:17 pm

I worked with Marlene at Frank Elementary. She was a fantastic person and will be missed. May you find strength in the memories you share in this difficult time. My sympathy to you and your family.
Molly

Condolence from Pat Nopper on October 26th, 2014 3:32 pm

Paul and family
My deepest sympathy on Marlene’s passing. Paul, you were a positive force for me after St. Luke’s so many years ago. Even in your sorrow I am sure you will be your family’s strength.
Deepest condolences,
Pat Nopper

Condolence from Roland & Josphine Freund on October 26th, 2014 4:56 pm

We are saddened to hear of your loss, but yet, we rejoice with you that Marlene is now at peace with her Lord – no more pain, no more suffering, just joy and bliss everlasting. May she rejoice in making music with the hosts around His throne. Our prayers have been with you these many years and we will continue to pray for your comfort and strength. We remember with fondness our association at Michigan State, and Paul and Marlene’s wedding when Jo was privileged to provide the organ music. May our Lord’s peace sustain you all.

Condolence from Keith & Jennifer Dougherty on October 27th, 2014 8:13 am

We are praying for your entire family and asking GOD to be extra close during this time of hurt and sadness.

To my dear “sister” Margaret: I love you! I pray GOD’s comforting peace will embrace you during this painful period of time.

Condolence from Revs. Karen & William Thompson on October 27th, 2014 9:55 am

Dear Paul – We have had updates through various Hospice of NW Ohio friends and are thinking of you at this time. Please know that we hold you in prayer and in Christian love. We are now resettled in Santa Fe, New Mexico. If in time you choose to do some traveling, you are welcome to visit us in this very beautiful city.

Condolence from Mary Beth Lutton on October 27th, 2014 2:53 pm

Paul
I was so sorry to read of Marlene’s passing.
May God bless you and your family.

Condolence from Sandy Adcock on October 27th, 2014 6:25 pm

Dear Paul,
I was so sorry to read about the loss of such a courageous woman…your wife.
You both faced your challenges together which may be so encouraging to many.
May God’s peace be with you and may you and your family be strengthened by the love of those around you …my prayers are with you.
Sandy Adcock

Condolence from Sandra Jones on October 27th, 2014 8:40 pm

I am so sorry to hear of Marlene’s passing. She certainly made a big impact on others with her positive attitude and smiling face. I worked with her at Frank School until she retired and she was truly missed. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to your family at this time of sorrow too deep for words to express.

Condolence from Bob, Lois, Jon, Beth, & Mable Upham on October 28th, 2014 9:54 pm

Mrs. Rippee, Margaret, & Family:
So sorry to hear of Marlene’s death. Jon saw the obit in the MDN & forwarded the link to me. We can only imagine the pain, hurt, & emptiness that you are experiencing with Marlene’s death. Our thoughts & prayers are always here for you. Remember, Martin Luther wrote Ein Feste Berg & that you likewise should anchor yourself in this comforting Lutheran hymn.
If you would like to hear more from us (especially mom), please contact us. Mom always considered you as a friend when you mutually worked together at during WWII.
Bob

Condolence from Scott and Megan Stedjan on October 29th, 2014 7:05 am

What a beautiful life! Your family had been in our thoughts and prayers. We love you.

Condolence from Darlene McLean Gilbert on October 31st, 2014 3:10 pm

Deepest sympathy on the loss of Marlene. I went to Midland High School with Marlene. Thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Condolence from Gary Richard on November 2nd, 2014 7:21 am

Paul,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. You have been a great teacher and support for me in ministry. Marlene invited me to be there when she had a CT scan of her brain while I was a student. May the love of Jesus, and the peace He brings permeate your heart. Gary

Condolence from Jeanne English on November 3rd, 2014 9:09 am

I was so sorry to hear about Marlene’s passing. I enjoyed spending time with you guys at the Chaplain’s conference last year and getting to know Marlene a bit better on our bus rides. She had a wonderful spirit. My prayers are with you Paul for strength and peace in the days ahead.

Condolence from Roseanne Barker on November 5th, 2014 3:13 pm

I am so sorry. Marlene was so much fun to work with and to be around. She was always such a bright presence. I know you will miss her. I was so glad to read about what she has been doing since she left Perrysburg and to know how happy her life has been. My deepest sympathy to the whole family.

Condolence from Carole VanBrandt on February 19th, 2015 1:07 pm

Paul, I was so sorry to hear belatedly of Marlene’s passing. I looked it up on Google and read the lovely tribute to her. I remember her well and her happy friendly personality. I am glad to see that you have several grandchildren. We have 8 and they are truly our joy. I pray that God will give you comfort in the days ahead.

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