Marilyn Mae (Larson) Alford

Marilyn Mae (Larson) Alford

Callender

We are sad to announce the passing of Marilyn Mae (Larson) Alford, 96, on Saturday, August 16 at The Views of Marion. She was born on September 29, 1928, in Callender, Iowa.

Marilyn graduated from the Callender School in 1946 and from Iowa State University with a degree in Home Economics in 1950.

After meeting on a blind date in college, she married William (Bill) Alford on December 26, 1950, at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Callender. They were married for 58 years. She was a member of Delta Zeta Sorority, Westminster Presbyterian Church and P.E.O. Chapter LU.

Mom’s greatest happiness was spending time with family and friends. She made everyone she met feel special and had a heartfelt interest in their families and lives. Mom loved unexpected acts or words of kindness, whether it was a phone call, a card, or a shared laugh, and reciprocated tenfold. Despite being a Cyclone at heart, she tried to never miss a Hawkeye Men’s or Women’s basketball game. Her passing leaves an irreplaceable void, and her legacy inspires us to live each day with gratitude, kindness, and joy.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Lewis and Mabel Larson, beloved husband, Bill and sisters Gwen Bailey, Betty Petersen, and Phyllis Jorgensen. She’s survived by daughters; Linda (Jack) Fritts, Amy (Dave) Lunemann, and Susan Boeckmann. Also surviving are grandchildren; Lisa (David) Kesse, Jessica (Devin) Carney, David Nakai, Andrea Nakai (Sheffield Goodrich), Ryan Lunemann, Caty (Chris) Snipes, and great-grandchildren; Adam and Jane Kesse, Kai Goodrich, Archer and Ryker Frederick, plus many cherished nieces and nephews.

Marilyn’s family would like to sincerely thank the staff and residents at The Views of Marion for their loving care and friendship and for the compassionate care provided by Suncrest Hospice.

Per her request there will not be a visitation. A private burial will be at a later date at the Callender Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Camp Courageous or the charity of your choice. The family welcomes memories of Marilyn to share on her tribute page at www.cedarmemorial.com.