Marlyne Morgan

Marlyne Morgan, 89, passed away from our world on October 13, 2018, surrounded by her loving family at Sanford Hospital in Bismarck. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 am on Friday October 19, at McCabe United Methodist Church, 1030 N 6th St, Bismarck, with Rev. Mark Ehrmantraut officiating. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery, Bismarck. Visitation will be held from 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm on Thursday October 18, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck, where a prayer service will begin at 7:00 pm. Mar was known to be a humble servant with quiet strength. The twinkle in her eyes, sweet smile, and caring nature were a blessing and comfort to those who knew her. She was a classy lady and intent listener whose take on life and scripture was refreshing. She had a thirst to grow and learn more about herself, God, and the world around her. This was reflected in the books she read, the various groups and bible studies she was involved with, and in her multitude of jottings found in her books/journals/calendars/random pieces of paper that would harness her thoughts, Bible verses, and inspirational sayings. Mar was born on December 23, 1928, in Marshalltown, Iowa. She was the daughter of Clarence Eaton and Alice Nichols. Her younger siblings, brother Ed and sister Pat have always been very dear to her. She had fond memories of growing up with them as well as the neighborhood “Eaton/Varnum gang” playing outdoors. Mar was a bit of a tom-boy playing softball (catcher), skating, biking and other outdoor activities. The summer after her Freshman year at Iowa State Teacher’s College she met her soulmate, Robert Morgan on the steps of the YMCA, the popular place for young people to gather at that time. She married Bob on September 4, 1949, in Marshalltown Iowa. Together they raised two daughters, Sandy and Deb, and son, Jim. Mar was a loving mother enjoying taking care of and nurturing her children. She was always the rock of support for the family over the years putting the needs of others in front of her own and providing a safe, positive, and loving atmosphere to grow up in. The love for her family was undeniable, cherishing every single moment spent with the growing family she & Bob created. The family started out in Marshalltown, later moving to Minot, and eventually settling in Bismarck in 1957. Mar enjoyed meeting people and making long-lasting friendships. Her early work with the Welcome Wagon in Bismarck encouraged this. She worked for years as a secretary at Hughes Junior High School where she valued the friends and students she got to know. Mar was an active member of McCabe United Methodist Church for over 60 years. She served on multiple boards, sang in the choir, was very involved with Sojourners, Tuesday Workshop, and other Bible studies as well as being an eager volunteer. She had a passion for music, beginning in her youth with playing the piano. She enjoyed singing in the Bismarck Civic Chorus for many years and attending any musical event she could - especially her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren’s programs. Mar was very active all of her life and had a strong passion for outdoor activities in harmony with Mother Nature including bird watching, camping, fishing, walking, and spending time at the lake. She had a special love for gardening. She entertained the heavens and herself just days before she passed away by joyfully tending to her gardens in preparation for the winter ahead…feeling content and satisfied with the long growing season (and life’s journey) she had enjoyed so much. Mar’s spirit will live on through her children, Sandy Brewster, Deb (Dave) Arthan, and Jim (Jane) Morgan; 7 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren; her brother, Ed (Micki) Eaton; sister, Pat (Ron) Turner; sister-in-law, Jean Morgan; and several nieces and nephews.Mar was preceded in death by her husband Bob of 65 years; her parents; son-in-law Randy Brewster; brother-in-law Raymond “Rock” Morgan; and nephew Bill Eaton.