Marlys Annette Benolken, 83

Marlys Annette Benolken, age 83, of New Prague, formerly of Lonsdale, died peacefully with her family at her side on Monday, July 22, 2024, at her home at Praha Village.  Marlys was born on September 22, 1940, in Fargo, North Dakota, to James A. and Catherine M. (Kreyer) Stage.  She grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, attending Holy Name Catholic School from kindergarten through graduation from high school.  Once Marlys had raised her five children, Marlys entered the work force, serving as an administrative assistant for Rice County Corrections for 15 years.

 Marlys’s activities reflected the importance of God in her life.  She was both faithful to her Catholic faith and had a faith-filled spirit, serving as an example of devotion to her values.  She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Council of Catholic Women and the church choir, a former secretary of a Christian Women’s group in Faribault, a member of Our Lady of Fatima group, and enjoyed Bible studies.  Her artistic side led to many family heirlooms of her drawings where she used multiple mediums, including pencil, charcoal, and India ink.  Each of her children were honored with a portrait drawn by Marlys.  Her love of gardening showcased her green thumb in producing beauty in the flowers and plants of her gardens.  Her greatest joy came from time with her family, where her humble nature, her exceptional listening skills, and her quick wit have left a lasting legacy.

 Marlys is survived by her children, Gene (Nancy) Benolken of Cleveland, Karen (Owen) Bingham of Crestview, FL, Carol (Peter) Dietz of New Prague, William (Khristine) Benolken of Apple Valley, Brian Benolken of Apple Valley; siblings, Jeanette Rasmussen, James (Jo Carrol) Stage, Robert (Carol) Stage; 13 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren.  She is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Jeanne Logsdon.

 Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Lonsdale with Father Nick VanDenBroeke officiating.  Visitation will be held Monday, July 29 from 4-7 p.m. at Bruzek Funeral Home in New Prague.  There will be NO morning visitation on Tuesday.  Burial will take place after Mass at Calvary Cemetery in Lonsdale followed by lunch at the Lonsdale Legion Club.  

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