Marilyn E. (Hermanson) Persen

Marilyn Eileen (Hermanson) Persen, a loving mother with a strong faith in Jesus her Savior, completed her earthly journey on August 22, 2025, at Abbott NW Hospital in Minneapolis, MN. Born on October 21, 1938, in Duluth, MN, Marilyn's life was a testament to the power of kindness and the strength of the human spirit.

Marilyn's early years were shaped by the love and guidance of her parents, Theodore and Mabel (Johnson) Hermanson. Alongside her sister Lorraine (Wilbur) Reichel, she learned the values of family and faith that would become the cornerstones of her remarkable life. Her beloved husband, Donald Persen, predeceased her, leaving a legacy of enduring love.

Her journey as a caregiver began at St. Luke’s School of Nursing, where Marilyn honed her skills to serve others. She dedicated her professional life as a Registered Nurse first at Abbott NW Hospital and later at Cambridge Medical Center, touching countless lives with her healing hands and compassionate heart. Marilyn's nurturing nature extended beyond the hospital walls as she became a foster parent to over 100 children in 10 years and a day care provider for 18 years. Her home was a haven of warmth and acceptance, a place where every child found love and care.

Marilyn's faith in God was the compass that guided her through life. She found joy in reading her Bible, attending online church services, and immersing herself in the melodies of hymns. Her Christian walk was not just a personal journey but a path she shared with others, encouraging and uplifting those around her with her unwavering belief in God's grace. It was very important to her that everyone she met knew about Jesus’ love for them and His plan of salvation for their lives.

Her interests were as varied as they were heartfelt. Marilyn was an avid sports fan, knitting enthusiast, and a friend to many. She cherished the moments spent with her children Cheryl (Joe) Morin of Cambridge, Steven (Sherri) Persen of Dayton, OH, and Susan (Trent) Olson of Breezy Point, MN. Marilyn's legacy continues through her seven grandchildren Jill (Jon) Kast, Daniel (Rachel) Morin, Caitlin Pierson, Michael Persen, Chelsea Olson (Patrick Fleming), Elyssa Olson (Jonathan Hiles), and Brittany Olson, and six great-grandchildren Peyton, Kendall, and Silas Pierson, Sophia and Beckett Morin, and Elena Hiles who will remember her for her boundless love and the stories she shared.

Marilyn's life was a living example of the words that best describe her: loving, friendly, and faith-filled. Her presence was a gift to all who knew her, and her memory will be cherished by her family, including her nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

As we celebrate Marilyn's life, we are reminded of the impact one person can have on the world around them. She taught us the beauty of simple acts of kindness, the strength of unwavering faith, and the joy of living a life dedicated to others. Marilyn will be dearly missed, but her life will continue to inspire and guide us, just as her favorite hymns echo the promises of everlasting life.

Her memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church, 304 Main St S, Cambridge, MN on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 2:00pm with visitation one hour prior. Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.

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