Obituary/Marlys Iris Lefrooth, 83

Marlys Iris Lefrooth, of rural Strandquist, Minnesota, passed away on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Sanford Medical Center in Fargo, North Dakota surrounded by her family and friends. She was 83 years old.

Born on August 14, 1941, in Greenbush, Minnesota, Marlys was the daughter of Melvin and Anna Elizabeth Brekke (née Anderson). She grew up in the Strandquist area and graduated from Strandquist High School in 1959.

Marlys was united in marriage on September 5, 1959 to Donald Lefrooth, with whom she built a devoted life on their family dairy farm. Together they raised their children and grandson, creating a home grounded in love and resilience. Their house was always filled with singing and they would share their singing talents with others at numerous events.

Deeply committed to her faith, Marlys was an active member of Bethesda Lutheran Church. She served as a youth group leader, participated in the church council and ladies group, and taught Sunday school for many years. Her dedication to her church community reflected her generous spirit and her faith and love for Jesus Christ. 

Marlys had a special love for animals, especially her cats and dogs. Her compassion extended to all creatures and added warmth to her daily life. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her great-grandchildren who brought great joy to her life.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband of over 65 years, Donald Lefrooth; her son, Greg Lefrooth; her daughter, Melanie Spencer; her grandson, Austin Lefrooth (Kira Story); and her great-grandchildren, Rhiannon Lefrooth and Harlan Lefrooth. She is also survived by her brother, Dennis Brekke (Louise Brekke); sisters-in-law Adrienne Lefrooth and Elaine Grovum (Dave); brother-in-law Dean Holmstrom; and many nieces and nephews.

Marlys was preceded in death by two infant daughters, Carol Ann Lefrooth and Angela Mae Lefrooth; her parents; her sister Melbelyne Underberg and brother-in-law Norell Underberg; her brother Milo Brekke and sister-in-law MaryAnn Brekke; as well as brothers- and sisters-in-law Vance Lefrooth, Verne and Shirley Lefrooth, Marcelyn and Morris Lindstrom, and JoAnn Holmstrom.

Marlys’s memory will be cherished by all who knew her. May her life be honored through the love she shared across generations.

A celebration of life for Marlys will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025 at Bethesda Lutheran Church in Strandquist, MN with Pastor Amber officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Mission Cemetery, Rural Strandquist, MN. 

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