Marlene I. (Bryan) Ditzler was born on Dec. 31, 1939, in Iowa to LaVerne and Iona (Godfredsen) Bryan. She spent her early childhood in Iowa before moving as a young girl to Stickney, S.D., where she was raised and graduated from high school. From an early age, Marlene’s passion for education and helping others was evident, guiding her toward a lifelong career in education.

Marlene’s career path began in Mitchell, S.D., where she attended college and earned her teaching degree. She began teaching in a one-room schoolhouse in South Dakota, where her patience, kindness, and commitment to her students made a lasting impact.

On July 11, 1959, Marlene was united in marriage to Donald L. Ditzler, in Luverne, Minn. Together, they built a life centered on love, hard work, and family. They were blessed with four children; Rhonda, Christi, Donnie and Marti, who were the heart of Marlene’s world.

The family made their home in Plankinton, S.D., where they owned and operated a drive-in diner, creating cherished memories for their community. During this time, Marlene continued teaching, balancing her professional calling with her role as a devoted wife and mother.

The family later moved to Fairmont, Minn., where Marlene continued her work in education with the Fairmont Public Schools as a librarian. Her dedication to the school went far beyond the library. Over the years, she served in countless roles such as cheerleading coach, prom organizer, and staff at sporting events. Marlene took immense pride in being a Fairmont Cardinal, and her commitment did not go unnoticed. In Sept. 2026, she will be honored with induction into the Fairmont High School Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing over 50 years of devoted service to the Fairmont Public Schools.

Marlene’s life was deeply rooted in faith. She was a dedicated member of the United Methodist Church in Fairmont, where she served in many capacities, always willing to lend her time and energy to her church family.

Above all, Marlene cherished her family. She found great joy in celebrating holidays, preparing special meals, and decorating her home to reflect the beauty of each season. She was known for being both strict and loving, instilling strong values while surrounding her family with warmth and care.

Marlene had a remarkable energy that seemed endless. She carried herself with grace and pride, always dressed to the nines, leaving a lasting impression wherever she went. She will be

remembered for her vibrant spirit, her deep love for her family and community, and the countless lives she touched through her dedication and service. Marlene’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Donald Ditzler and his wife, Lori of Fairmont, Minn., Rhonda Swanson and her husband, Dave of Fairmont, Minn., Christi Redenius and her husband, Kyle of Fairmont, Minn., and Marti Wolter and her husband, Scott of Fairmont, Minn.; grandchildren, Melissa Klein, Brianna (Ren) Smith, Megan (Carson) Ricard, Paige (Shawn) Graplar, Elijah Redenius, Olivia Ditzler, Bryan Ditzler, Jordan (Kelsi) Wolter, Hailey (Jesse) Marin, and Noah Wolter; great grandchildren, Grace, Kathryn, Kingston, Monroe, Cora, Dylan, Robbie, Leo, Zella, Benny, Mack, and Adrian; three sisters-in-law, Betty Dobbs, Jody Bryan, and Jane Bryan; as well as many other extended family and friends.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents, LaVerne and Iona Bryan; husband, Don Ditzler; brothers, Dale Bryan, Don Bryan, and Gary Bryan; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Dale and Esther Ditzler; brother-in-law, Ronald Ditzler and Warren Dodds.

www.lakeviewfuneralhome.net

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