Marilyne Countryman-Thompson

Marilyne Countryman Thompson, age 88, passed away on December 25, 2024, in Cambridge, MN. She was born on November 4, 1936, in Rolfe, IA to Frank and Thelma (Kesler) Porter.

Marilyne graduated from Armstrong High School in 1954 and married Charles Countryman on December 31, 1954. Together, they raised five children in Maple Hill, IA. A gifted artist, Marilyne found joy in gardening and knitting, and spent many years working as a Nursing Assistant at long-term care facilities in Estherville and later at Dickinson County Memorial Hospital in Spirit Lake, IA, until her retirement. Her beloved husband, Charles, passed away in 1993.

On February 21, 1998, Marilyne married Jerry Thompson, and the couple resided in Estherville. They spent their winters in Abilene, TX, where Marilyne became a dedicated volunteer in her community. As a certified volunteer ombudsman, she visited senior citizens, advocating for their rights and helping them access resources. Her heart for service continued after Jerry’s passing in 2012, and she remained a compassionate and tireless volunteer.

Though her health began to decline in 2016, Marilyne was blessed with excellent care in Estherville, Abilene, and Cambridge. Despite the challenges she faced, her sharp mind, sense of humor, and love of BINGO never wavered. She had an innate ability to connect with others and was never shy to strike up a conversation with anyone. An avid reader and woman of deep faith, Marilyne lived a life marked by kindness and an unwavering commitment to others.

Marilyne is survived by her five children: Bruce (Marcy) Countryman of Estherville, IA; Vicki (David) Larson of Cambridge, MN; Cindi (Rick) Hanson of Ringsted, IA; Jill (Bill Nowaskey) Countryman of Woodstock, IL; and Cathy (Juan “J”) Herrera of Abilene, TX. She is also survived by ten grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; her brother, Dennis (Rolaine) Porter of Red Wing, MN; and sister-in-law, Karen Porter of Armstrong, IA. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Charles Countryman and Jerry Thompson; her parents; and her brother, Ronald Porter.

In lieu of services, the family will gather for a celebration of life in the spring.

Marilyne’s family is grateful for the love and care she received throughout her life, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May her memory live on in the many lives she touched through her compassion, humor, and volunteer spirit.

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