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Marlene A. Lenz (nee Franz) passed away April 13, 2024 at Encore Memory Care in North Branch following a battle with Alzheimer's disease. 

Marlene was born June 19, 1936 in St. Paul, MN. She graduated in 1954 from Harding High School with honors. Marlene met her loving husband Roger while they both worked at 3M Corporation. They wed in 1957, and raised their family on North Center Lake in Lindstrom until Roger’s career moved the couple to the Middle East. 

Marlene shared many interesting stories of her time overseas. Following their return, they resided in Lindstrom until Roger’s passing in 2021. 

Marlene held positions with the Chisago Lakes School District and Chisago Health Services. Prior to her decline in health, Marlene enjoyed lunch with high school friends, get-togethers with close friends, the birthday club with a group of local gal friends, volunteering at Family Pathways and Meals on Wheels, and being with family.

The family would like to send out a special Thank you to Encore Memory Care and St. Croix Hospice for taking wonderful care of Marlene. 

Marlene is preceded in death by her devoted husband Roger; parents August and Dorothy Franz;  beloved sister Barbara and sister-in-law Patricia Franz. 

Marlene is survived by daughter Heidi Nelson and her three children Nicole, Adam, and Jacob;  son Michael, his wife Paula and their son Tanner; brother John Franz, his seven children and their families;  nephews Scott and Mark Reller and their families, and niece Karen Jensen and her family. Also, special cousin Don Stary, his wife Peg and their six children.

Celebration of life will be held 11 am, Friday, April 19, 2024 at Chisago Lake Lutheran Church, Center City,  with a visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Arrangements are with Grandstrand Funeral Home, Lindstrom. Condolences may be expressed online at www.grandstrandfh. com. 

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