Marlys Luedtke

Obituary

Marlys Ilo (Briese) Luedtke of Fairfax met her Heavenly Father on Thursday, September 4, 2025, with a loving family by her side. In her final hours, one could hear harmonic voices singing her most beloved hymns, including one of her favorites, “Have Thine Own Way, Lord.” She was 99. As Marlys entered her eternal home, she was greeted by her husband Warren, her grandparents, and parents: Harvey and Erna Briese.

Marlys was born on January 2, 1926, in Cairo Township in Minnesota to Harvey and Erna Briese. She was baptized in her family’s home on January 17, and confirmed on April 2, 1939 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Gibbon. She attended Stewart High School and graduated in 1943. Marlys married Warren Luedtke on December 21, 1943, at Immanuel. They enjoyed 71 years of marriage in the community area of Fairfax. They were blessed with three children: Carole, Galen and Lana. Marlys had a very strong work ethic and held many jobs while raising her children. Many admired her ability to “do it all”, including travels with Warren to Germany, Hawaii and Las Vegas, which they frequented often to see their favorite artists. She was always eager to share the memories they created and would often tell of seeing Charlie Pride, Dean Martin, Jerry Lewis and countless others. Like Warren, she loved both singing and listening to music. Marlys was a lifelong church choir member and was always ready with her playlist for cabin karaoke.

Those who knew Marlys would all agree, one of her most valued hobbies was baking. Her homemade buns caused a frenzy with family, where close monitoring was needed to ensure everyone got one. Many have had “lessons” and we have attempted to capture her secrets on video, but no one can replicate her magic touch. Other prize winners included her doughnuts, cookies, angel food and overnight cake. When she wasn’t baking, she loved to showcase her card shark skills. Many have tried, but few can beat her in Sheepshead, Golf or 500. Her smarts and competitive edge always gave her the advantage, right until her last game of 500 just a week ago. And we all agree, her favorite place to enjoy baking and card playing was at the cabin alongside her family.

As an avid sports fan, Marlys enjoyed following Minnesota sports teams and rarely missed a Twins game. She also logged countless hours traveling and viewing her grandchildren and great grandchildren’s’ sports and activities. Her ability to make friends quickly naturally extended to the families of those teams. In short, she was their super fan.

Marlys was a thoughtful and caring friend to all young and old alike. She made time for people and valued good conversation, acquiring friends wherever she went. Marlys was the best listener and was never shy to offer advice, whether solicited or not. She had a steel trap memory and a sharp mind. If you needed to know someone’s birthday, recall a story or the outcome of a Minnesota sports game, she was your go-to person.

While Marlys will be remembered for many things, her greatest legacy was her steadfast love for God. She trusted in His promises and shared His word with others.

Marlys’ memory is cherished by her children Carole and husband Ed, Galen and wife Robin, Lana and husband Pat; grandchildren; Carri and husband Scott, Kim and husband Don, Jacob and wife Nicole, Brandolyn and husband Karl, Noah and Madison, Amber and husband Ryan, Riley and wife Hillary; great grandchildren; Chelsea, Hailey, Emma and husband Michael, Afton and husband Brock, Lauryn, Logan, Preston Warren, Roya, Ryker, Hadley Ilo, Ayla, Reis and Reagan; great great grandchildren; Waldon, Atticus and Baker Warren. And a special blessing of Lester Ulrich and wife Edith, Sarah, Rachel and husband Brett, Charlie and Peter. Nieces Nona and Glorianna.