WOODRUFF - Marilyn L. Eden of Woodruff, Wisconsin passed away on November 21, 2023. She was born on December 29, 1928, in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, to Lawrence J. Rice and Lillian (Matejka) Rice. She was a 1946 graduate of Aquinas High School in LaCrosse.
Marilyn and her husband, Dan, raised their five children on a farm in Pleasant Valley in Monroe County, Wisconsin. After becoming “empty nesters”, they bought a lake home in northern Wisconsin where they enjoyed fishing, boating and exploring the Northwoods until Dan passed away November 1, 1998.
Marilyn’s greatest joys were her five children - Nancy Eden Potter, Kathy Eden Borja, Jim Eden, Thomas (Tommy) Eden, and David Eden. Eleven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren brought more blessings. She is survived by her sister Elaine Levon of Minocqua, Wisconsin. Her son Tommy Eden passed away October 5, 1991, and her oldest grandson, Mike Potter, passed away in June 2023.
Marilyn’s life-long goals were to own a farm and raise horses. She did both. Her curious nature led her to become a life-long learner. She had many interests, including gardening, exploring nature, and playing the piano. She loved music, poetry and Shakespeare, and was a voracious reader until her vision deteriorated late in life.
Marilyn will be remembered as a master gardener and a lover of nature. The family farm in Pleasant Valley was paradise to her and the ideal place to teach her children to love the land and the wild things that share it. These lessons will continue to run strong through her children and grandchildren.
Marilyn referred to the end of her life as “going to that great garden in the sky”. Seasons of Life Hospice House in Woodruff, Wisconsin is known for their amazing gardens and it was the perfect place for her to spend her final week of life with one window facing the woods and the other facing the beautiful memory garden. The family is especially grateful for the professional and compassionate care that she received.
In late Spring or early Summer 2024 when trees are green and wildflowers are blooming, Marilyn’s life will be celebrated at Leon Congregational Church in the village of Leon, Wisconsin.
