The community of Stewartville, Minnesota, is coming together to honor the life of Marilu Mullenbach, who passed away at the age of 83 on January 15, 2026. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 A.M. on January 27, 2026, at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, with Rev. Kevin Connolly officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery.
Marilu Mullenbach, born August 8, 1942, in Minneapolis, was raised in Austin, Minnesota. She graduated from Austin Pacelli High School in 1960 before beginning her professional career at Thorpe Financial in Rochester. On September 19, 1964, she married Melvin G. Mullenbach at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in Austin. The couple initially resided in Rochester and Stewartville, later moving to rural Racine, where they raised their five children.
As a dedicated mother, Marilu took pride in being a stay-at-home parent. Her husband, Mel, worked at IBM in Rochester until his retirement. In 2020, they moved to Prior Lake to be closer to their family. Melvin Mullenbach passed away on January 8, 2022, leaving Marilu to cherish their memories together.
Marilu was an active member of her community. She belonged to St. Bernard’s Catholic Church and was involved with the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 Auxiliary. Her interests included golf, downhill skiing, gardening, and canning. She was also a devoted fan of the Minnesota Twins and the Minnesota Vikings.
Family was central to Marilu’s life. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, often attending their school events and sporting activities. Marilu is survived by her daughter, Monica Gay of North Branch, Minnesota, and her four sons: Matthew Mullenbach of Victor, Idaho; Mitchell Mullenbach of Apache Junction, Arizona; Martin Mullenbach of Grand Forks, North Dakota; and Marshall Mullenbach of Prior Lake. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren and one great-granddaughter, as well as a sister, Barb Duren of Arlington Heights, Illinois, along with many nieces and nephews.
A time of visitation for family and friends will be held from 9:30 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. on the day of the service at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church. The arrangements are being handled by Griffin-Gray Funeral Home in Stewartville. Those wishing to share their condolences and memories of Marilu can do so at www.griffin-gray.com.
Marilu Mullenbach’s legacy of love, community involvement, and family devotion will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.
