Marilyn J. Hardel, age 95, formerly of Lena, IL, passed away on Wednesday February 19, 2025, in Middleton, WI. She was born on September 2, 1929, in Waddams Township, IL, the daughter of David and Mildred Altenbern. She married Paul Hardel on December 25, 1950, in Lena.

Marilyn and Paul farmed outside of Lena for 30 years. She also worked in the cafeteria for the Lena-Winslow School District. Marilyn was a lifelong member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. She enjoyed crocheting, needlepointing, and making quilts for family. After moving from the farm, Marilyn and Paul enjoyed traveling and visiting family. They began the tradition of family vacations "Up North" which will be continued by their family. Marilyn loved her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Marilyn is survived by 3 children- David (Ann) Hardel of Madison, WI, Sharon (Richard) Moore of Milwaukee, WI, and Deborah (Keith) Iborg of St. Charles, MO; daughter-in-law- Rita Martin of Verona, WI; 8 grandchildren- Michael (Tracey) Hardel, Melanie (Jedd) Axford, Jennifer (Michael) Chapman, Eric (Ahna) Hardel, Rachel (Evan) Croen, Allison (Joe) Plazyk, Nicholas (Tamra) Iborg, Amanda (Joshua) Zeller; 14 great-grandchildren- Emilie, Zoe and Tristan Hardel, Troy and Caleb Axford, Megan and Brinlee Chapman, Asher and Payton Hardel, Adira and Isaac Croen, Rainer Plazyk, Kearse and Annistyn Iborg, and two on the way.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years Paul, son Jeffrey Hardel, brothers Robert and Duane.

Visitation will take place from 11:30 a.m. til 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the Leamon Funeral Home in Lena.

Private family graveside service to be held.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in her memory.