Thief River Falls – Marlene Owens, born on October 6, 1938, in Thief River Falls, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025, at Oakland Park Communities in Thief River Falls, where she spent her last year. Her family is forever grateful to the caregivers of Oakland Park for their professional and tender care. She will be remembered by all who knew her. Marlene fought the good fight.
Marlene’s life was rich with love, family, and community. Her education went through the 11th grade in the Thief River Falls School District.
She was united in marriage to LaVerne Harold Owens on November 17, 1956, at the First Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls. Their union blessed them with six children: Susan, Cindy, Randy, Gary, Carl, and Bradley. Together, they established their home on a farm in Belgium Township, Polk County, Minnesota, where Marlene embraced the roles of wife and mother while also contributing to the family farm.
Marlene worked at Oakland Park after high school, but her most cherished role was that of a homemaker, especially during the years when her children were growing up. She operated equipment during harvest season and took great joy feeding the crew with her delicious meals. Marlene was a remarkable cook, which brought joy to many gatherings.
Marlene enjoyed and was active in the Town and Country Homemakers group for over 50 years. She was also an active member of Melo Lutheran Church where she taught Sunday School and participated in church events. Marlene endured gardening, canning, and raising chickens. She was an exceptional seamstress, creating and mending clothing. Marlene was often seen visiting neighbors and friends, always ready with a treat in hand. Her home was a warm haven filled with love and laughter. She especially cherished the moments spent with her grandchildren.
In her later years, Marlene and LaVerne enjoyed traveling together, creating lasting memories that they both treasured. Marlene’s personality was characterized by her strength, kindness, warmth, and her ability to remain connected with those around her.
Marlene is survived by her daughter, Cindy (Dewey) Trehus of Mandan, ND; sons, Gary (Nicole) Owens of Euclid, and Brad (Angie) Owens of Euclid; grandchildren, Gina Trehus, Kayla (Cordell) Booke, Matthew Owens, Mykayla Owens, Jacob Owens, Dilon Owens, Mason Owens, and Tanner Owens; brother, Robert “Bob” (Ivy) Myhrer; sisters-in-law, Norma Myhrer and Linda Myhrer; son-in-law, Daniel Holen; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Marlene was preceded in death by her husband, LaVerne “Bud” Owens in 2010; daughter, Susan Holen; son, Randy Owens; infant son, Carl Owens; parents, Thorvald and Olga (Christopherson) Myhrer; daughter-in-law, Debra Owens; and brothers, Lester, Larry, and Donald (Phyllis) Myhrer.
A visitation will be held on December 30, 2025, from 2–3 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 3 p.m., both at Melo Lutheran Church in Angus. Pastor Amber Kalina will officiate. Burial will be at the Melo Lutheran Church Cemetery.
Marlene Owens will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, faith, and strength will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of being a part of her life.
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