Marilyn Riddell

Marilyn Doris Riddell, age 89, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at The Willows in Iola, where she had been a resident for the past 11 years.

Marilyn was born on May 23, 1936, in Rosholt, Wisconsin, to the late Dennis and Mabel (Budsberg) Halverson. After graduating from high school in 1954, she moved to Milwaukee, where she would soon meet the love of her life, Larry Riddell, who was on leave from the U.S. Navy.

The couple married on October 6, 1956, at Alban Lutheran Church in Rosholt. Shortly thereafter, Marilyn joined Larry in French Morocco, Africa, where he was stationed. After a year abroad, they returned to Wisconsin and eventually settled back in Rosholt to raise their family.

While raising their children, Marilyn worked as a typesetter at Krause Publications. In 1983, she and Larry relocated to Fort Myers, Florida. They returned to Rosholt in 1995 to be closer to family, and Marilyn resumed her position at Krause Publications, where she remained until her retirement in December 2000.

Marilyn and Larry later purchased a permanent campsite at Lake Buckatabon in Conover WI, where they spent summers enjoying nature, playing cards with friends, and sharing stories around the campfire.

Marilyn cherished the simple joys of life. She took great pride in being a homemaker, gardener, and canner, always devoted to her family. She enjoyed the challenge of 1,000-piece puzzles and crossword puzzles, and found comfort in sewing, taking walks with her beloved dog Rosie, helping Larry at the airfield, and spending meaningful time with her loved ones.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dennis and Mabel Halverson, and her beloved husband, Larry.

Marilyn is survived by her children: Debbie (Kelly) Wolff, Cheryl (Steve Edseth) Mueller, and Barton (Melanie) Riddell; Grandchildren: Kenneth (Akemi) Wolff, Daniel (Kazuyo) Wolff, Laine (Christopher) Moe, Katelyn (Kyle Stephan) Mueller, and Erik Riddell; Great-Grandchildren: Liam, Amelia, Claire, and one expected in November; Step Grandchildren: Evan and Chloe Holtz; Step Great-Grandchild: Cameron Moe.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Shayla Ambacher for her years of loving support and companionship to Marilyn. They also wish to thank the staff at Living Oaks and The Willows for the dedicated care provided throughout Marilyn’s 11-year residency, as well as the Heartland Hospice team for their compassionate care during her final weeks.

A memorial service will be held at Voie Funeral Home in Iola on August 1, 2025. Visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by the service. Mr. Kelly Wolff will officiate.

Interment of cremains will be held at the Alban Lutheran Cemetery.