Lillian "Marie" Engelson, age 66, of Mahnomen, MN, died Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at Kindred Hospital in Fargo, ND.

Lillian Marie Overby was born January 15, 1946 in Minneapolis, MN, the daughter of Russell and Irene (Pemberton) Overby. Growing up, her family spent time in California before returning to the Twin Cities area. As a young lady, Marie was united in marriage to Richard Hickman. To this union two daughters, Brenda and Shannon, were born. The couple later divorced and Marie then made her home in Mahnomen. In the early 1980's, she met Allen Engelson and they were married on June 9, 1984 in Florida. While living in Florida, Marie worked in restaurant management. After several years, they returned to Mahnomen where they raised two additional sons, Murphy and Michael. Marie began working at the Shooting Star Casino in 1992 in the Marketing Department and due to failing health was forced to take an early retirement.

Marie was a very caring person with a generous spirit and compassionate demeanor. In addition to working at the casino, they opened their doors until 2010, to many foster children for 17+ years. Marie spent the last year and a half at her daughter Shannon's home, where she was able to continue her nurturing and encouragement to her own children and grandchildren. She truly treasured the time she was able to spend with family, especially her grandchildren. As Marie became more stationary she would often take comfort in simply gazing out the window and watching the nearby horses, as to her they portrayed a sense of tranquility.

In Marie's younger years, she enjoyed horseback riding. She also loved to travel, play Bingo, cook and have family get togethers, particularly around the holidays. Marie held a membership with the Mahnomen American Legion Auxiliary and served as past Treasurer.

Marie is survived by her husband, Al of Mahnomen; children: Brenda (Brian) Hickman, Shannon (Scott) Lee; Murphy (Christy) Engelson and Michael Engelson, all of Mahnomen; nine grandchildren: Jamie, T.J., Paul, Kaitlynn, Kimberli, Makenzie, Haylee, Natalee and Trevor; one great-granddaughter, Jaiden; sisters, Jenny Hoglund of Monticello, MN and Carol (Michael) Johnson, of Lengby, MN; brothers: Cliff (Robin) Overby of Arizona, Michael Overby, also of Arizona, David (Arlene) Bradley of New Mexico and Brad (Roxie) Atwood of New Hope, MN; nephew and godson, Scott Hoglund and several additional nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; daughters, Barbie and Amy; son, Lonnie; and a set of infant twins.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, January 28, 2012 at 10:30 am at First Lutheran Church in Mahnomen. There will be visitation one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the church.