Marian Schmitz, age 84, of Barron passed away peacefully at home on February 25, 2023, after a short battle with cancer.

Marian was born to Walfred and Florence (Bryngelson) Mickelson on May 3, 1938. She was married on September 20, 1958, in Rice Lake, to Larry Schmitz, who preceded her in death on March 18, 2017. They settled in Barron where they raised their four children: Jeff, Paul, Sue, and Kevin.

Marian was never one to sit idle and was always busy with one of her many endeavors. She was a laborer for many years at Jennie-O and was also known to many as "the Tupperware lady" for several decades. She was active with Royal Neighbors of America and served as chapter secretary. She was also quite thrifty and loved going to garage sales to find treasures almost as much as she loved having her own garage sales! After retirement, she continued her love of thrifting and spent many years volunteering at the Cupboard & Closet in Barron.

Marian was a nurturer. She greatly enjoyed tending to her beautiful flower gardens and numerous house plants. She loved and cared deeply for her family, friends, church family, and those in need across the world with a gentle, loving kindness—never expecting anything in return. She lived her life serving others and was always willing to help in whatever way she could. She also enjoyed cooking and baking and made delicious batches of lefse.

Upon her retirement, Marian became even more involved in church ministries at First Lutheran Church in Barron, where she was a member for over 60 years. She was a devoted Christian who was actively involved in the Women of the ELCA and served on their board. She joyfully dedicated years of her life to leading the church's outreach efforts for Lutheran World Relief. Initially, she gathered supplies and made school, baby, and personal care kits. Later, she took the lead on quilt-making, which became her passion project in retirement. She was still working to support the efforts of the quilters up until her death.

She was a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who will be missed dearly.  We take comfort in knowing she is now fully healed and home with Jesus celebrating a life well lived.  

Marian is survived by her son, Kevin Schmitz of Barron; daughter, Susan Schmitz (Brian Heup) of Bloomer; daughter-in-law, Lori Schmitz of Barron; grandchildren: LeeAnn (Chris) Spring, Gina (Harvey) Sookiayak, Tracy (Tom) Rudolf, Alex Denman, Baillee (Eric) Finley, Laine Emery, Tyler Denman, Katlyn Schmitz, and Shane Schmitz (Katelynn Ellis); 14 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandson; special friend, Dick McClay; sisters, Jean (Ted) Workman, Julie Mickelson, Karen Ruscito; brother, Richard Mickelson; and many nieces & nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sons: Jeff and Paul; sister, Marlene Ringer, and brothers: Butch and Wallace (Billy) Mickelson.

Funeral services for Marian will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 3, 2023, at First Lutheran Church in Barron with Rev. Ron Mathews officiating. Visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to the service.

Arrangements are being handled by Rausch and Steel Funeral Home in Barron.

Last Update: Mar 01, 2023 7:52 pm CST