Marilyn Jean Quiram, beloved mother, daughter, and respected member of the community, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2023, at the age of 86, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 25, 1937, in Rice County, MN, to Sidney and Eleanora (Kokoschke) Meschke, Marilyn lived a life defined by love, joy, and unwavering dedication to her family and her community.
Marilyn attended North Morristown School through 8th grade; later graduating from Morristown High School in 1954. Following her graduation, she pursued a degree at Mankato State Teachers College. Marilyn's teaching career took her first to Pemberton and later to North Morristown Trinity Lutheran School, where she shared her love for learning with young minds.
On March 8, 1958 she was wed to Elmer Quiram at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Morristown. Marilyn’s most fulfilling role came when they started a family, welcoming five beautiful children; Tom, Pam, Scott, Jim, and Amy. She embraced motherhood with warmth and selflessness. Annual trips to northern Minnesota to spend time with extended family created lasting memories.
In 1969, Marilyn and Elmer purchased Nelson's Bakery, a local establishment that would soon become a community icon under the new name, Quiram's Bakery. Known far and wide for their mouthwatering bakery items, exquisite catering, and their famous mocha cakes and long johns; their talents brought immense delight to the palates of many. After years of hard work and dedication, Marilyn and Elmer retired from the family business in 2005, leaving a legacy of scrumptious memories.
Through her gentle demeanor, warm smile, and kind heart, Marilyn left an indelible mark on the lives she encountered. She found joy in being an active member of the church, teaching Sunday School, and participating in the ladies' aid group. As a board member at the New Richland Care Center, she brought compassion and kindness to those in need. Together with Elmer, they also delivered meals on wheels, demonstrating her commitment to helping others.
In her past time, Marilyn enjoyed creating beautiful ceramics and engaging in friendly card games with family and friends. She and Elmer enjoyed day trips to the casino, creating lasting memories and enjoying each other's company. Marilyn's giving spirit extended beyond the bakery, as she often shared her delicious homemade treats and canned goods as heartfelt gifts during the holidays.
Above all, Marilyn's greatest joy was becoming a grandmother. She rarely missed a sporting event or activity and was always cheering them on with unwavering support and love.
Marilyn will be lovingly remembered by her children, Tom (Jodi) Quiram, Pam (Steph Albert) Quiram, Scott Quiram, Jim (Jenn) Quiram, and Amy (Jeff) Kitzer; grandchildren, Sarah (Jon) Kubat, Kate (Zac) Walters, Chelsy Quiram, Gina (Dan) Kurtz, James Quiram, Erica (Ryan Bonya) Horton, Ashley Horton, Alexi Kitzer, Levin Kitzer, and Boden Kitzer; great grandchildren, Charlotte and Marc Wyffels, Max and Colton Kurtz, Briggin, Crosby, Mack, and Bo Kubat, and Emmersyn, Ellery, Cletus, and Clementine Walters; brothers, Lyle (Gloria) Meschke and Dave (Sharon) Meschke; sisters-in-law, Florence Taylor and Pat Meschke; brother-in-law, Ardon Buscho; and many nieces and nephews.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, parents-in-law, Rudolph and Lydia Quiram; husband, Elmer in 2016; sister, Marjorie Buscho, brother, Gene Meschke; sisters-in-law, Gladys (Elmer) Schmidtke, Ethel (Ray) Meister, and Arlene (J. Wayne) Kirschner; and brother-in-law, Cliffert Quiram.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 11:00 AM at St Peter Lutheran Church in New Richland, MN; Pastor Scott Williams will officiate. Marilyn's family will greet guests at a visitation on Tuesday, November 7, 2023 from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM at St Peter Lutheran Church in New Richland, MN and one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be at St Peter Cemetery in New Richland, MN.
During this time of remembrance, may we find solace in celebrating all that Marilyn brought to our lives. Her legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. In our minds, she will be remembered as a beacon of strength, compassion, and generosity.