Marlys Bakken, 58, died Monday, June 28, 2004 at Northwest Medical Center, Thief River Falls, MN.

Marlys Elaine Schwartz was born on October 3, 1945 in Thief River Falls to Henry Otto and Evelyn (Runnestrand) Schwartz. She was baptized on May 23, 1946 at the Nazareth Lutheran Church in Holt, MN. She attended school through the 8th grade in Holt before graduating from the Newfolden High School in 1964. During that time Marlys was confirmed on June 4, 1961 at Nazareth Church in Holt.

Marlys was united in marriage to Marvin Glen Bakken on December 5, 1970 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, MN. The newlyweds made their home in Thief River Falls for a short time. They then moved out to a farm in Excel Township for four years. Then in 1975 they returned to living in Thief River Falls, MN. Marlys worked at Arctic Cat Enterprises on the assembly line from 1968-1971. She then worked at the hospital cafeteria for a short time. Marlys was a homemaker for the years while her boys were growing up, tending to the needs of three sons. In 1982 she began working for Jims Steammagic cleaning for many years until her health forced her into retirement.

Marlys was a member of the Faith Lutheran Brethren Church in Thief River Falls where she was active teaching Sunday school for many years. She also belonged to the Ladies Mission Friends Group at church. Marlys was an excellent cook and baker. She also enjoyed gardening and canning the rewards from her garden. Another of Marlys favorite activity was camping with her family.

Marlys is survived by her husband Marvin, Thief River Falls, MN; three sons: Ryan (Jamie) Bakken, Rob (Tanya) Bakken, and Kevin Bakken; all of Thief River Falls, MN. She also has two special grandchildren Noah and Adriel. She is also survived by her mother Evelyn of Thief River Falls, MN; one sister Marjorie (Gary) Iverson, of Goodridge, MN; and some aunts, nieces, and nephews.

Preceded in death by her father Henry, and one brother David.

Family condolences may be sent by visiting www.johnsonfuneralservice.net

ARRANGEMENTS WITH JOHNSON-GREEN FUNERAL SERVICE, THIEF RIVER FALLS, MN 218 681-4331 218 681-4534

ORGANIST: Phyllis Dalager
SOLOIST: Diane Johnson
SELECTIONS: Jesus Loves Me Medley, Be Not Afraid, The Lords Prayer
CONGREGATIONAL HYMNS: Children of the Heavenly Father, Amazing Grace
CASKETBEARERS: Her three sons: Ryan, Rob, Kevin, Chris Iverson, Ross Dalzell, Tony Greene