Marlene Friesen

Marlene E. Friesen, age 68 of York, died Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at York. She was born to Benjamin and Esther (Pohl) Brahmsteadt in rural York County on March 3rd, 1941. Marlene excelled in school. She played volleyball and was active in cheer leading. She was homecoming queen and graduated at the top of her class. From an early age Marlene knew she wanted to be a nurse, so after graduating from Thayer High School, Marlene pursued a degree in Nursing from the Vocational School of Practical Nursing. She met Howard Friesen shortly before heading off to school and they continued dating throughout her education. Marlene graduated on March 5th, 1962 and married Howard on December 9th, 1962. On September 24, 1963, Howard Jr. was born, followed by Brenda on October 28, 1966, and Anthony on February 4th, 1975. Marlene continued her career in nursing until 1999 when she retired after 37 years. After her retirement, Marlene stayed busy with bowling, puzzles, gardening, and visiting with family. Due to declining health, Marlene moved to the Hearthstone in December 2005. Marlene passed away suddenly during the evening hours of February 23rd, 2010.

Marlene is survived by her beloved husband of 47 years, Howard of York; daughter Brenda Kollath of Pilger, NE; son Anthony Friesen, wife Angelique (A.J.) and daughter Amethyst of Gibbon, NE. Also surviving are brothers and their spouses, Robert and Linda Brahmsteadt of York and Rolland and Joyce Brahmsteadt of Spokane, WA; sister-in-law Virginia Williams of Broomfield, CO, and several nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her parents Ben and Esther Brahmsteadt, father and mother-in-law Norman and Virginia Friesen, son Howard Friesen Jr., brother John Brahmsteadt and various uncles, aunts and cousins.

Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 1, 2010 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in York. Interment followed in York’s Greenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family.