Marilyn Ann Kiefer, 88, passed away peacefully with family members by her side on May 28, 2026 at Mayo Clinic- Saint Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.
She was born Marilyn Ann Wilson on February 5, 1938 in Bluffton, Indiana. She was the first of two children born to Samuel Sylvester “Vet” Wilson and Alta Mae (Decker) Wilson. Her father passed away when she was only 10 years old, and she took on many responsibilities in the home-helping her mother and younger sister Delores. She also took a job as a young teenager at Johnloz Grocery in Murray. She was a dedicated student and graduated first in her class from Lancaster High School in 1956.
While in high school Marylin met and fell in love with Fred A. Kiefer. They were married on August 31, 1957 at Murray Missionary Church and went on to have two children: Scott and Kathy. The family resided in Northern Wells County. Fred and Marilyn were a great example of love and commitment, and were married over 55 years until Fred’s passing in 2013.
In addition to being a wife and mother, Marilyn also took pride in working outside the home. She spent many years as an executive secretary at Hoosier Soil and as a secretary/treasurer at Agro Enterprises. She also worked at Caylor Nickel Clinic in telecommunications.
Marilyn had a strong faith in Jesus Christ and attended church at Murray Missionary Church and Grace Baptist Church.
Marilyn enjoyed plants and flowers, had an eye for detail, a strong fashion sense and loved interior decorating. She was a fancy Grandma. She had a talent for putting together the perfect gift. She was organized and observant, and would be the first to notice if you had a new hairstyle or outfit. She also enjoyed shopping, cooking, and sharing meals with family and friends. Her family always requested she bring her famous banana pudding to get-togethers. Marilyn actually did not like bananas, but she made the pudding anyway. She would never turn down a strong cup of black coffee, regardless of the time of day. She also loved a little something sweet with her coffee.
Marilyn truly enjoyed being involved in the lives of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. After Fred’s passing Marilyn eventually moved to Pagosa Springs, Colorado in 2015 and later moved to Rochester, Minnesota in 2020. She was able to be near family during her time in both locations and also developed new friendships.
Marilyn is survived by two children: Scott (Liz) Kiefer of Pagosa Springs, Colorado; Kathy (Mike) Pate of Rochester, Minnesota. She is also survived by three grandchildren: Adam (Joy) Pate of Chesapeake, Virginia; Amanda (Andrew) Tucker of Rochester, Minnesota; Ryan (Chelsa) Kiefer of Pagosa Springs, Colorado. She is also survived by five great-grandchildren: Luke, Bethany, Elly, Andrew and Leanna.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and her sister Delores M. Gerber.
A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, June 8, 2026 at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Ossian with Pastor Mike Gilbert officiating. After the service a light reception of desserts and refreshments will be served at Murray Missionary Church.
Memorials may be made to the charity of donor’s choice.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Lemler family of Thoma/Rich, Lemler Funeral Home. Friends may share online condolences with the family at www.thomarich.com.