Marlene Ulrich

Marlene Pearl Ulrich, age 87, of Cannon Falls, passed away on Saturday morning, January 4, 2025, at the Northfield Hospital surrounded by family.

Marlene was born on August 4, 1937, in Hector, Minnesota, the daughter of Raymond and Georgia (DeLong) Willhite. She graduated from Hector High School in 1955 and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing in 1958 from Ancker School of Nursing in St Paul.

On September 20, 1958, Marlene married her soulmate, Dennis Ulrich at First Methodist Church in Hector, MN. They bought a farm in rural Cannon Falls in 1965 and together they raised two sons. Dennis's unexpected passing in 1977 left Marlene to care for her family as a dedicated single mother. She was a strong woman and felt blessed to have her family and "neighborhood family" for endless support.

A skilled and compassionate nurse, Marlene worked for 36 years at the Cannon Falls Hospital, eventually becoming the Director of Nursing, where she made a lasting impact on the community. In addition, she spent several years working with the American Red Cross.

Marlene found great joy in caring for the animals on the farm and tending to her garden. She also enjoyed reading her daily devotions, crafting, sewing, antiquing, thrifting, and decorating her home. Marlene's love of her family was evident in all she did, but most of all, Marlene cherished her role as a grandmother.

Marlene is survived by her two sons, Todd (Cassi) and Tad (Stacia), both of Cannon Falls; her grandchildren, Vanessa (Abe) Kamara, Mercedes (Justin) Buchardt, Miley Ulrich, Emerson Ulrich, Broderick Ulrich (Chase), and Braxton Ulrich; great-grandchildren Nathaniel "Moni," Jerusalem "Jeru," Judaea "Daea," and Isryella "Ryella"; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Georgia Willhite; her beloved husband, Dennis; brothers Marvin and Lyle Willhite; sister Lucille Porter; and cherished companion, Jerry Erickson.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 10 at 11:00 am, with visitation from 10-11 am, at First English Lutheran Church, Cannon Falls. This service will be live-streamed and available to watch below. Interment will follow at the Cannon Falls Cemetery.

Active urn bearers will be grandsons, Broderick and Braxton Ulrich. Honorary urn bearers will be granddaughters, Vanessa Kamara, Mercedes Buchardt, Miley Ulrich and Emerson Ulrich.

Memorials may be given in Marlene's memory to the American Red Cross or First English Lutheran Church.

LIVESTREAM INFORMATION: For those who would like to participate in Marlene’s service via livestream, you can watch the service on Friday, January 10 at 11:00 am. It can be viewed by scrolling to the bottom of this page and click PLAY to begin. Please leave a message of support on our Tribute Wall to let the family know you were able to watch the service. If you are having troubles with the Livestream, the service will be available to watch later in the day.