Marlys Stella Kashmark

Marlys Stella Kashmark was born March 18, 1924 in Hantho Township, Lac qui Parle County, Minnesota, to parents John and Guida (Borstad) Skjei.  She was baptized and confirmed at Minnesota Valley Lutheran Church.  Marlys was raised in the Appleton area and graduated from Appleton High School in 1942.  She was united in marriage to Melvin (Mike) Miller on May 5, 1946.  This union was blessed with two children: Gary and Bonnie.

Marlys called the Appleton area her home for her entire life.  Over the years she worked at the gas company, was a driver for Prairie Five Rides and assisted with the nutritional program.  She was a member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, Zion Lutheran Church (where she was active in women's circle), and for a time belonged to a bowling league.  Marlys had many hobbies and interests throughout her life.  She enjoyed working with needlepoint, crocheting, and quilting…she made special gifts for her children and grandchildren.  Marlys also enjoyed having a flower garden and taking ceramic classes.  She loved socializing with family and friends.  Over the years one of her greatest joys was spending time with her grandchildren and attending their activities.

Marlys passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2017 in Appleton Area Health Services -Care Center.  She attained 92 years, 9 months, 23 days of age.  Marlys is survived by her daughter, Bonnie (Gil) Schroepfer of Shoreview; 5 grandchildren: Kim (Rod) Gruchow, Bridgett (Scott) Ouren, Kristy (Matt) Peterson, Mandy Schroepfer, and Sarah (Marc) Perry; 5 great-grandchildren: Mackenzie and Noah Ouren, Jemma Gruchow, Austin and Siena Peterson; sisters-in-law: Ruth Miller and Arline Skjei, both of Appleton; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Mike Miller and Vince Kashmark, her son, Gary Miller; parents, John and Guida Skjei; brother, Bervin Skjei, and many other family and friends.

Blessed be the memory of Marlys Stella Kashmark.