Marlene Marie Belden

Marlene Marie Belden, age 83, of Austin, MN, passed away at her home peacefully on Sunday, April 20, 2025.

Marlene Marie Belden was born on October 4, 1941, in Austin, Minnesota, to Edna and Marvin Ronquist of Austin. She attended school in Austin, graduating with the class of 1960, from Pacelli High School.

Marlene was united in marriage to Robert Belden on August 20, 1960, at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Austin, MN. They were married for 63 years, raising two children.

Marlene retired from the Austin Public Schools. She enjoyed playing Bingo, cards, and visiting with friends at the Austin Senior Center. Marlene loved her church and all the many friendships that were developed throughout her life. She loved to sing and attended many musicals with her singing group “The Young Oldies”. She was blessed with the opportunity to sing for the Pope at the Vatican. Marlene was an excellent baker and was known for her homemade apple pie. She also loved to travel, which took her to many beautiful places, including Germany, Poland, Ireland, Belize, and Rome. Marlene traveled 49 states with her husband, Bob and friends on their Goldwing motorcycle.

Marlene found great joy spending time with her children, family, friends, and Grace Lutheran family. She enjoyed laughing and celebrating life events and accomplishments with her loved ones. She was always so kind and volunteered in helping everyone. Marlene was a supportive wife, mother, sister, and friend.

Marlene is survived by her children, Jim (Theresa) Belden of Austin, MN and Robin Weber of Charles City, IA; her grandchild, Joshua Belden (Haylie) of Austin; brother, Charles Ronquist of Hartland, MN; sisters, Julie Bjorge of Austin and Janie Mckean (Wade) of Montana; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Belden; son-in-law, Ken Weber; great-grandson, Raphael Belden; brothers, Roger Ronquist, Steven Ronquist; and sisters, Rose Christinson and Laura Griffith.

Thank you to everyone for the love, caring and compassionate presence in our mother’s life. Your dedication and unwavering support for our mother is deeply appreciated. Thank you for making our mother’s life brighter each and every day.

Thank you to all the wonderful caregivers and the Mayo Hospice and the wonderful Mayo Hospice Team for providing our mother with such tender care and comfort during this difficult time. Your kindness and patience have made a huge difference in our mother’s life. We are eternally grateful for the warmth and compassion you have provided to Marlene. You truly have been a blessing in our mother’s life.

A funeral service for Marlene will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 28, 2025, at Grace Lutheran Church in Austin. The visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Austin. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.