Marlyn Marie Wedan (Strang), a beloved member of her community, passed away on September 13, 2025, at the age of 86. Surrounded by family and receiving comfort care at Lakewood Hospital in Staples, Minnesota, her departure leaves a profound void in the lives of her loved ones.
Born on May 7, 1939, in Sanborn, Iowa, to Eldred and Helen (Hardy) Strang, Marlyn spent her formative years in Barrows, Minnesota, just south of Brainerd. She cherished many memories from her childhood, including fishing trips with her father and playful adventures with her two brothers. A notable moment in her youth was attending the ‘Girl Guard’ program at the Salvation Army, where she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, a faith that would guide her throughout her life.
At the age of 16, Marlyn met her future husband, **Eugene E Wedan**, at a basketball game. They married on November 23, 1956, and began a family that would grow to include four daughters and a son. The Wedans initially settled in Brainerd, where they bought and remodeled a cabin on Round Lake, transforming it into a spacious family home.
As the family flourished, they became active members of the **Nisswa Community Church**, later becoming founding members of the **Pequot Lakes Baptist Church** in 1976. Marlyn found immense joy in her faith, leading several family members to Christ during the Crusade meetings at Brainerd High School that year.
A talented cook and baker, Marlyn gained a reputation for her exceptional old-fashioned baked beans while working in various local restaurants. In 1982, she transitioned to a new career, training as a Nurse’s Aide at Brainerd Vo-Tech. She dedicated the next 18 years to the **St Joseph’s Hospital Homecare program** before retiring to care for her husband.
Marlyn’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family. She embraced her role as “Gramma Dan” to her seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, participating in activities that ranged from pizza outings to attending band concerts. Family gatherings often included games of Rook, Yahtzee, and dominoes, which reflected her warm and engaging spirit.
Marlyn is survived by her daughters, **Pam**, **Diane**, and **Janet Wedan**, along with her son **Gary** (Kristen) Wedan. She is also remembered by her grandchildren, including **Wesley** (JoEllen) Hines, **Joe** (Amber) Hines, and **Molly** (Thomas) Moman, as well as her great-grandchildren. Additionally, her brother **Arnie** (Karen) Strang, sister-in-law **Joyce Strang**, and best friend **Adele Orem** join countless others in mourning her loss.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, **Gene Wedan**, her parents, and brothers, including Eldred (Sonny) Jr., who died as an infant, and **Cecil (Cy) Strang**.
A memorial service will be held at Christ Community Church, located at 24646 Hazelwood Drive, Nisswa, Minnesota, on October 11, 2025, beginning with visitation at 1 p.m. and the service at 2 p.m., followed by a luncheon. Attendees are encouraged to honor Marlyn by wearing their finest dangling earrings, reflecting her joyful spirit and love for life.
