Lillian "Marian" Kjolberg, age 90, of Mahnomen, MN, died Tuesday, April 3, 2007 at the Mahnomen Health Center Nursing Home in Mahnomen.

Marian Lillian was born September 9, 1916 in Waubun, MN, to Frank and Louise (Buschette) Bellecourt in rural Waubun. She grew up near there and attended school in Waubun and later at St. Benedicts Mission School. As a young woman, Marian worked at the Ranch of Mahnomen and did various jobs for area neighbors. On October 17, 1936 Marian was united in marriage to Robert Kjolberg in Mahnomen. The couple made their home near Waubun where they farmed together for many years. Marian was also employed for several years at The Swift & Co plant in Detroit Lakes, MN. After Robert's death in 1979, Marian remained on the farm until entering the Mahnomen Health Center in 2003, where she continued to make her home.

Marian was a dedicated wife and mother. While raising their children, she spent many hours making quits. Marian always had a large garden so canning and freezing was a very rewarding treat she shared with friends and family. Marian often expressed her appreciation and was deeply grateful for the kindness and compassion that was shown to her at the Mahnomen Health Center Nursing Home. She will always be in the hearts and missed by all who knew her. Peace be with her.

Marian is survived by two sons, Robert of San Francisco, CA, and Rodney (Cheryl) of Waubun; one daughter, Margie Ellis of Albert Lea, MN; one son-in-law, Chuck Leonard of Crookston, MN; eight grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; 2 great-great granddaughters; and one sister Tillie Duval of Anderson, CA; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Robert; one daughter, Ginger Leonard; one son, Rusty; one son-in-law, Bill Ellis; one daughter-in-law, Shirley; a grandson, Billy Ellis; and a great granddaughter, Hope Rose Storrbakken; Also preceding her were, six brothers and four sisters-in-law: Raymond (Vada), Carl (Elva), Clarence (Bessie), Herman (Biddy), Eugene, and Francis; four sisters and four brothers-in-law: Bertha (John) Starkey, Pike (Art) Story, Lena (Jerome) LaChapelle, Anna (Pat) Paulson; a brother-in-law, Buck Duval; as well as all of Roberts brothers, sisters, and their spouses.

Blessed be the memory of Marian Kjolberg.