In loving memory of

Marcella E. Dorn
March 27, 1926 - April 16, 2019

Peacefully, Marcella E. Dorn, in 2019, on the 16th day of April, passed surrounded by loved ones near and far who consider themselves grateful.
To have known a woman with such a good natured heart, sharing with all those around her a tenderness only she could impart.

In Money Creek, Minnesota, March 27th, 1926; in the newness of spring, Albert and Anna (Lind) Carlson, were gifted with what heaven can bring. Arriving after their patient wait, came their youngest daughter Marcella completing the family, now totaling eight.

Just like that, we know how fast time goes by, children grow up to spread their own wings, the urge for independence intensifies. Doing her thing, Marcella worked at Schuler Chocolates and the Winona County court house, self-reliant; flying high. Though, at a dance one night, she caught the eye, of an admiring spectator, a real class act guy. At Central Lutheran church, she and Raymond became husband and wife, to start the next chapter partnering up; settling down to start their real life. It's quite admirable, they were married for 63 years. Who knows where we'd be if love hadn't appeared!

Working their own farm near the town of Bethany, they started what has become their legacy. Three beautiful daughters were in the recipe, to creating their own happy family. From there, generations expanded as they often do, forming more family bonds to help carry each other through. More people to "see" us and for us to connect to.

Marcella, just as social a butterfly can be, did much more than raise a family. She was a part of Bethany Homemakers and Dorcas too, worked at Camera Art/Herff Jones; was a member of the Red Hats, and WELS Seniors and played bingo with the "gang", more and more friends she'd accrue. Oh! and 43 years a school election judge; we can add in too.

She traveled with vigor to many cool places. Germany, Hawaii, Alaska; all cherished vacations. She took a very special trip to Sweden across land and sea, to experience where her parents were born with her daughters three. Making so many precious memories, doing what she loved best, just being with her family, she felt blessed.

This family who loved to share her time, are her daughters Judith (Dave) Pralle, Joyce (Mark) Rusert and Janet Miller. Her seven grandchildren Jerod (Cathy)Hansen, Jennifer (Darrin) Brand, Jason (Amy) Rusert, Joel (Gail) Rusert, Becky (Jeff) Nohava, Brian (Sarah) Miller, Evan Miller and her 15 great-grand children, as well as her dear friend, Roy Holst. Marcella was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond, her siblings, Harry Carlson, Altura Mulholland, Alton Carlson, Alice Goede, Walter Carlson and son-in-law Jerry Hansen. She loved and is further survived by her many nieces and nephews. Of course, it's only fitting we mention Buffy her kitty companion too.
There will be a funeral service for Marcella at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 23, 2019, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Lewiston, MN. Visitation will be at the church from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday and one hour prior to the service on Tuesday. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Hoff Funeral Service in Lewiston is assisting the family with arrangements.
Leave a memory of Marcella and sign her online guestbook at www.hofffuneral.com

Tributes

Lorraine Evenson wrote on Apr 24, 2019:

"Joyce and family, so sorry for your loss. What a lovely woman. May all the good memories carry you through this difficult time. Lorraine Evenson"

Rebecca Splittstoesser wrote on Apr 23, 2019:

"I posted a picture of Marcella - and this tribute to her - on my Facebook page. I could scarcely believe how interested Marcella was in the world about her. I count it a blessing to have known her. MY TRIBUTE: A kind and gentle soul, Marcella Dorn, 93 years old, has passed. Leonard Splittstoesser has an uncle Roy Holst. Roy was married to Leonard's aunt Mildy (short for Mildred). Mildy was a very special person to me; unfortunately she died, perhaps seven years ago now. In the past several years, Roy has spent a lot of time with Marcella Dorn. At every family function Roy invited Leonard and I to, Marcella was there. I got to know Marcella very well. She was actually my oldest Facebook friend - and so enthusiastic! She actually enjoyed reading about my ventures and adventures and commented often. It is not an understatement to say I was in a front row of her fan club. I loved to get Marcella talking about her Swedish heritage. The writers of the beautiful obituary include this very important component of her life: "She [Marcella] traveled with vigor to many cool places. Germany, Hawaii, Alaska; all cherished vacations. She took a very special trip to Sweden across land and sea, to experience where her parents were born; [she went there] with her daughters three. Making so many precious memories, doing what she loved best, just being with her family, she felt blessed." Here is the full obituary, I no doubt written by her three daughters, who traveled twice(?) with their beloved mother. Marcella was failing the last few months. A daughter from Denver had moved in with her to help; another daughter was close by. Marcella adored all three daughters. "

Joann Wolfgram, Eau Claire, WI wrote on Apr 23, 2019:

"She leaves us a memory we will never forget. She was so loved. You never left her home feeling hungry or if you needed a place to stay, she had beds ready. Plus, good conversation and visiting followed. I will always love you, my dear Aunt."

Dian Gappa wrote on Apr 21, 2019:

"Dear family...John Jick and I send to you our heartfelt sympathies upon your loss. Marcella was a beautiful person in so many ways. John painted for Marcella & Ray years ago. When I became friends with John, I helped him and got to know Marcella. We stopped in to visit from time to time, thereafter. She was so welcoming with coffee, cookies and most of all her hugs and smile and kindness. May God comfort all of you with His great love. May you smile each day with your memories you made with her and know she is close always."

Jackson Family wrote on Apr 19, 2019:

"Please accept our deepest sympathy. May those precious memories be foremost in your hearts and minds during this difficult time. Isaiah 25:8"

Mary Fischer Lindell wrote on Apr 19, 2019:

"Condolences to Marcella's family. I recall conversations and times my mother Marcella and Mrs. Dorn worked together at St. John's Lutheran Church. Memories and Grief go hand in hand with each leaving a mark in the heart of many. Sincere Sympathy Mary Fischer Lindell"

Corrine Berry wrote on Apr 18, 2019:

"My Great Aunt Marcella has left me with so many wonderful memories. During summer vacations on the farm to the warm thoughts and visits during these later years. Her energy and love always seemed boundless. Her faith was strong and I look forward to the reunion promised to us by our Lord and Savior! My love and prayers, for the comfort and strength which God freely gives, are with all of you! Love, Corrine"

Norma Simon wrote on Apr 17, 2019:

"So many memories. Thoughts and prayers to the family. "

Beth Drenckhahn wrote on Apr 17, 2019:

"My prayers and sympathy go out to Marcella's family! I worked with Marcella at Herff-Jones and we still kept in touch with each other on birthdays and at Christmas---What a beautiful gal she was and such a great and very,very nice friend--I will miss her! She is amongst the "The Angels!""