January 12, 1933 - March 21, 2026
Marilyn Ann (neé, Ploog) Bjorklund, 93, of St. Cloud, MN, passed away on March 21, 2026, at Havenwood Memory Care Unit in Richfield, MN surrounded by loved ones. Marilyn was a 57-year member of Redeemer Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN. Born on January 12, 1933, at Clinton, IA , the daughter of Edward and Anna (neé, Anderson) Ploog. She was baptized and confirmed at Grace Lutheran Church, DeWitt, IA. Marilyn lived a life marked by faith, family and kindness and touched the lives of many. After attending and graduating from Iowa State Teachers College, Cedar Falls, IA, (UNI), she was united in marriage to Lorimer Richard Bjorklund on June 3, 1956, at Grace Lutheran Church, DeWitt, IA. They spent their married lives in Cedar Falls, IA, Swea City, IA, Columbus, OH and St. Cloud, MN. Upon retirement, Marilyn and Lorm spent 17 winters in Casa Grande, AZ.
Marilyn spent her working career as an Elementary classroom teacher and Title I Reading teacher, where she was known for her joy in teaching, especially reading. Outside of work, she found joy in spending time with her family, volunteering at her church which included numerous years as a Sunday School teacher, and was always happiest when planting and digging in her flower gardens. Marilyn cherished her family. She is survived by her five children, Kurt (Luanne) Bjorklund of Charles City, IA, Brenda (Dale Dhein) Bjorklund, Alexandria, MN, Terri (Carl) Guggenberger, Alexandria, MN, Kelli (Jody) Schramel, Sartell, MN and Kathi (Tom) Krey, Richfield, MN; brother, Gary Ploog of Queen Creek, AZ and sister, Myrna Hass of DeWitt, IA. Marilyn dearly cherished her 15 grandchildren and 13 (plus 2 on the way) great-grandchildren and their families. She was preceded in death by her dear parents; beloved husband, Lorimer in 2015; brother-in-law, Loren Hass and sister-in-law, Karen Ploog.
Marilyn’s presence brought warmth and steadiness to those around her, and her absence will be deeply felt.
A private family service has been held. Burial will take place at a later date at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Sauk Rapids, Minnesota.
Marilyn leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, family and the memory of her life will continue to inspire all who knew her.