Marlene F. Neilson

Marlene F. Neilson, 91 years of age, of Mankato passed away Thursday, August 14, 2025, at her home peacefully surrounded by her beloved family. She was born on July 12, 1934, in Fairfield, Nebraska, to Wesley and Vera (Wallenberg) Shunkwiler.

She married Murlin Neilson on September 13, 1952. Six children were born to this union, Donald, Roger, Debra, Kathy, Mona, and Michael.

She enjoyed gardening, bowling, coffee with the girls, reading, traveling, cooking and most of all, time spent with family.

Marlene was a member of the Harmony United Methodist Church, V.F.W. Post #783 Aux., of Mankato, Kansas.

Marlene was a home maker, farm wife, bookkeeper, and worked for Mankato School District USD #278 in the cafeteria department as a cook. 

Marlene is survived by her three sons, Donald (Laurie) Neilson, Roger (Jo) Neilson, Michael Neilson; two daughters, Kathy (Fred) Putman, and Mona Terry.; grandchildren, Billy, Megan, James, Jesse, Krystal, Lara, Kari, Mikkie, Melissa, Daana, and Morgan; 21 great grandchildren; 6 great-great grandchildren; 1 sister, Linda Herbek; 1 brother, Bill Shunkwiler and longtime companion, Carlyle Saint.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wesley and Vera, her Husband, Murlin, Daughter, Debra Fogo, brothers Wesley, Curtis, Kenneth, David, and Keith Shunkwiler.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, from 1-8 p.m. with the family receiving friends from 6-8 p.m. at the Melby Mortuary, Mankato, Kansas. Funeral Services will be held 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 21, 2025 at the Harmony United Methodist Church, Mankato, Kansas with Pastor Jim Rice officiating. Burial will follow in the Mount Hope Cemetery, Mankato, Kansas.

Memorials may be given to Solomon Valley Hospice or Harmony United Methodist Church in care of Melby Mortuary, PO Box 384, Mankato, KS 66956. Condolences may be left online at www.melbymortuary.com