Marilyn Peterson

Marilyn Henry Weckman Peterson, 79, long time resident of Hastings MN, died peacefully Sunday, July 3, at The Arbors Care Center in Roseville, MN. Marilyn was born October 27, 1931 to Charles McLean Henry and Evelyn Smith Henry in Marietta OH. She met her first husband, Charles J Weckman, while attending Marietta College as a theater student. They were married October 10, 1953 in Christ Church, Williamstown, WV. They went on to have 3 children, Bill, Anne and Grace, before moving to Hastings MN in 1961. Marilyn continued as a patron of the arts and became very active in community events and the Republican Party. She was a devoted mother and a wonderful friend to many around the world. Marilyn and Charlie lived in Hastings from 1961 until 1968 where they were very active in politics and community events. In November 1968, Charlie died of cancer. On March 21, 1971 she married Norman E Peterson. They remained in Hastings where they too were active participants in community events and affairs. They, together, raised Marilyn's 3 children and Norm's youngest son Mark . Marilyn and Norm together have 6 children, 18 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Norman died of cancer on December 19, 2010. The greatest joys of Marilyn's life were her family, her many friends, her books, her music, her gardens, her 'boys' the Minnesota Twins, live and televised musical and dramatic performances. Marilyn was an aspiring writer and her family will always have her stories to keep her close to them. Her spirituality was evident in all she did in her life and Marilyn will be fondly remembered for her inspired scripture readings at the Methodist Church of Hastings. Marilyn spent her last days at The Arbors at Eaglecrest in Roseville MN being attended to by family and staff who loved and honored her. A staff member relayed our feelings about Marilyn best when she said 'It's so easy to love Marilyn. She loved us first.'A memorial service will be held on her birthday October 27 at 3:00pm at Wise Family Funeral Home, 400 Spring St, Hastings with a visitation 30 minutes prior to the service. Arrangements are being handled by the Wise Family Funeral Home (651)437-3752. Please visit www.wisefamilyfh.com to sign the online guestbook for Marilyn.