Marilyn Ruth Haak

Marilyn Ruth (Ysker) Haak was born on September 18, 1937, in Windom, Minnesota to George and Pauline (Schimnowski) Ysker. She grew up the youngest of six siblings and was confirmed in 1951. She attended public school in Windom and graduated with the class of 1955.

Marilyn met Duane Haak while he was working road construction. He quickly fell in love with this cute farm girl and the two were married soon after on September 24, 1955. Marilyn worked at the Douglas County Hospital from 1956 to 1958.

Together, the couple welcomed two sons, Dana and Danny. They farmed side-by-side on their home farm north of Garfield, Minnesota, with “his” and “hers” tractors. When asked if she gambled, Marilyn responded, “Yes! We farm and gamble every day!” 

After the early passing of the love of her life, Duane, in 1981; Marilyn, Dana and Dan continued to farm together until 1999. Marilyn also worked at Knute Nelson in Alexandria retiring in 2009 after 27 years. While at Knute Nelson, Marilyn was also part of a singing group for the residents “The Joyful Notes”. During her spare time, Marilyn enjoyed playing the organ, guitar and singing, going to lunch with her friends, going on cruises, trips to Alaska and Branson, and collecting stuffed animals, especially Teddy Bears. 

Marilyn passed away at the age of 86 on June 11, 2024 at Alex Assisted Living. Left to cherish her memory is her son, Dana (Brenda) Haak; grandchildren: Justin (Amy), Brady (Melessa), Marissa; great-grandchildren: Shawn and Delaney; daughter-in-law, Julie Haak, and her two sons; sister, Joyce Carmichael; sister-in-laws, Anna Marie Easton, Lola Kvalog, Evelyn Ysker and Joyce Ysker; along with many other beloved nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. 

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Duane; son, Danny; siblings and spouses: Dorothy (Ray) Hochstein, Robert, Dennis, and Vera (Les) Lindstrom; brother/sister-in-laws: Frederick Haak, Rudy(Carole) Haak, Warren Easton, Ron (Joan) Haak, Bob Carmichael, Phil Kvalog, Bonnie (John) Adolph, Elaine (Arnold) Eastvold, Leona (Arnold) Brunner; as well as several other family and friends. 

The family wishes to give special thanks to the staff at Alex Assisted Living and Knute Nelson Hospice for the loving care given to Marilyn.

Memorial services for Marilyn will be held Friday, June 28, 2024 at St. Luke's Church in Garfield, Minnesota at 11:00 AM, with a public visitation starting at 9:30 AM. Burial will be at St. John's Cemetery in Garfield following the funeral luncheon. 

Memorials in Marilyn’s honor are preferred to the Baby Barrett Family or a charity of your choice. Checks can be written to Baby Barrett and be directed to Bell Bank in Alexandria. 

Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria is in charge of arrangements for Marilyn.