Marilyn Graves

Marilyn Gertrude Graves, age 94, longtime resident of Rochester, Minnesota, died at Riley Crossing Senior Living in Chanhassen, MN on July 8, 2024.

Marilyn was born December 29, 1929 to Harold and Bonita (Bruce) Strom in Marshalltown, Iowa. She grew up in Jackson, MN and attended St. Olaf College, going on to participate in the Miss Woods Kindergarten Program and Macalester College. Continuing her professional studies, Mari obtained her Master's Degree equivalency in Education. She married Roland Graves on June 15, 1951 in Jackson. They moved to Rochester in 1967.

Mari taught in Heron Lake, Okebena, Oronoco, and Rochester. She also enjoyed singing with the Robert Oudal Chorale and at the Autumn Ridge Church. Mari loved traveling, especially to Alaska.

Mari is survived by children Cindy (Scott) Jorgenson of Highlands Ranch, CO and Scott Graves of Chanhassen, MN; 4 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband Roland Graves; brothers Ronald Strom and Wallace Strom; and sister Laura Strom.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 15, 2024 at Autumn Ridge Church Timothy Chapel with visitation held one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at Oakwood East.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks if you would please consider donations to the Feed My Starving Children - Eagan.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Graves family; To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.