MaryLou Gutting

MaryLou (Frana) Gutting, age 70 of Marshalltown, passed away in the comfort of her own home in care of her family and the support of Iowa River Hospice on Sunday, March 15, 2026.

MaryLou Barbara Frana was born on July 24, 1955 in Decorah, Iowa, the daughter of Cyril Stephen and Mildred Marie (Hron) Frana. She attended St. Wenceslaus Catholic School, Ossian Public School, and graduated from South Winneshiek High School in Calmar.

On July 28, 1979, MaryLou was united in marriage with the love of her life, Robert Gutting, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Spillville, Iowa.

MaryLou began her lifelong calling in caregiving at just 15 years old, working at the Aase Haugen Home in the rural Decorah area. She later served at St. Joseph’s Hospital in New Hampton. MaryLou went on to Hawkeye Community College to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and devoted more than 30 years of her life at the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, until her retirement. Nursing wasn’t just her career—it was her calling. She devoted her life to helping others with compassion, strength, and a genuine love for the people she served. MaryLou was a devoted supporter of St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, St. Joseph’s Indian School, Boys Town, and St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Lively and fun, she was unforgettable. She treasured every moment with her best friend and late husband, Robert, especially their trips and vacations together. MaryLou loved dressing up for Halloween parties, enjoying a casino trip, or singing her favorite karaoke songs. She loved cooking and baking, especially her famous pies and pickles. MaryLou cherished the time with her siblings, nieces and nephews, as well as spending time with her wonderful neighbors and special friends, Sister Chris, Doris, and of course the Loftus gang known as The Three Musketeers.

MaryLou found joy in the outdoors: walking, feeding the birds, caring for stray cats like her beloved Ginger Joe, and tending to her flowers. Her garden was known for its beauty, a reflection of the love she poured into everything she did.

In death, MaryLou is reunited with her husband and best friend, Robert Anthony Gutting; her parents: Cyril and Mildred (Hron) Frana; in-laws Bob Miene, Larry Gutting, Debbie Powers, Lorelei Johnson, Edward (Kathleen) Gutting, Bill Brunell, Richard Peacock Sr., and Brian Nelson. Left to cherish her memory are her siblings: Carol Miene, Bill (MaryJo) Frana, and Betty Smith (Larry Jacobson Jr.); in-laws Chris (Heidi) Gutting, Gloria Brunnell, Phil (Sandy) Gutting, Bernadine Peacock, Mary Nelson; numerous nieces and nephews; and several God children. Among her greatest comforts was her treasured cat, GracieMae, who held a special place in her heart and life.

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