Marilyn J. Kroeger

Marilyn (Martens) Kroeger, age 89 of Marshalltown, Iowa, passed away on Friday, September 12, 2025 at East Troy Manor in East Troy, Wisconsin.

Born Marilyn Joyce Martens on April 23, 1936, the daughter of Frederick A. and Beulah M. (Albert) Martens. She grew up on a farm near Gladbrook, which sparked her lifelong love of animals. Marilyn graduated from Gladbrook High School in 1954.

On January 16, 1955, Marilyn was married to Leo Kroeger at the Peace United Church of Christ in Gladbrook. From this union, they welcomed a daughter, Kathy and son, Kent.

Marilyn worked for H.D. Osborne veterinary clinic in Gladbrook as an assistant and bookkeeper. Later she had an in-home daycare for nearly 15 years, and was a bookkeeper for her husband at the Kroeger Farm Center.

Marilyn was a lifelong member of Peace United Church of Christ in Gladbrook. She was a part of the afternoon bowling league in Marshalltown and a card club in Gladbrook and the ladies 500 marathon. Marilyn also enjoyed cross-stitching, ceramics, and worked tirelessly on her annual flower garden. Marilyn cherished her time with her family and friends, celebrating with an abundance of food, laughter and a friendly game of cards.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leo in 2016; and her son, Kent in 2020. Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Kathy Kroeger (Paul Steinhoff) of East Troy, WI and her sister, Carol (Walter) Mytych of Fargo, ND; along with several nieces and nephews.

Per Marilyn’s wishes, cremation rites have taken place. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at Peace United Church of Christ. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services. Interment will be in Maple Hill Cemetery in Gladbrook. Memorial donations may be directed to Peace United Church of Christ in Gladbrook.

Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted to care for Marilyn and her family. To leave online condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com. Ph. 641-844-1234.