Marlene Branden

Marlene Y. (Schroeder) Branden, 86, passed away Saturday, November 25, 2023, at Oak Crossing with her family by her side. 

Marlene was born in Cavalier, ND on December 20, 1936, a daughter of the late Alfred G. and Katherine (Falk) Schroeder.  Marlene came with her family to the Audubon area in 1946.  She married Arvin M. Branden at the First Lutheran Church of Audubon on July 25, 1954. She and Arvin spent several years in North Dakota, while Arvin helped build several of the major dams in that area. They finally settled for good in Audubon, MN, where they raised their five children. Marlene was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother and homemaker.  She enjoyed reading and gardening and was involved in the First Lutheran Rachel Church Circle for many years.  She will be sadly missed. 

Marlene is survived by her children: Morris (Marjorie) Branden of Romeoville, IL; Daniel Branden of Audubon, MN; Richard (Linda) Branden of Detroit Lakes; Yvonne Branden of Frederick, MD; and DeLane (Diane) Branden of LaVista, NE.  She also leaves a sister, Pat Chapman; 11 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Arvin, and her siblings: Carol, Kay and Thomas. 

The visitation for Marlene will be Thursday, November 30, 2023, from 10:00 – 11:00 AM at the FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH OF AUDUBON (373 3rd Street, Audubon, MN 56511).  A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM with Pastor Melissa Pickering officiating.  Marlene’s final resting place will be in the First Lutheran Cemetery next to her husband, Arvin. 

Memorials can be made to the First Lutheran Cemetery fund. 

The family wishes to thank the staff of Oak Crossing, as well as Hospice of the Red River Valley for their “awesome” care of Marlene.  Your kindness will not be forgotten. 

David-Donehower Funeral Home is serving the family.  For more information, please visit DavidDonehower.com or call (218) 847-4147.