Marilyn Elizabeth Garretson

Marilyn Elizabeth Garretson went to be with Jesus July 30, 2026. She was born December 7, 1929 to Amanda Ohlenkamp Ruwaldt and William Ruwaldt in Beecher, Illinois.

After graduating from Beecher High School in 1947, Marilyn earned her BA from Iowa State Teachers College, now University of Northern Iowa, in 1950, and earned her MA in 1952 from Colorado State Teachers College, now University of Northern Colorado.

That fall she began her professional career as a business teacher in Holyoke, Colorado later moving to Haxtun to teach business at Haxtun High School.

Marilyn married Loren “Pat” Garretson in August 1955. Her greatest joy was being mother of their three sons: Bob, Bill, and Brett. When Brett began first grade, she returned to teaching at Haxtun High School until she retired in 1996.

Another major joy in her life was family, especially the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Attending their school activities, graduations and other milestones were proud occasions.

FBLA played an important role while she was teaching and many years after retirement; she coached hundreds of students to compete at district, state and national levels. As a result of her success in FBLA she was the first advisor to receive an Advisor of the Year award, and is listed on the Wall of Fame at the FBLA National Headquarters.

Marilyn didn’t let retirement slow her down. She played bridge well into her 90’s and also enjoyed playing pitch and Mahjong, bowling, and square dancing.

Marilyn was an avid traveler. She traveled to numerous countries on six continents in the company of family and friends, including her three high school classmates.

She was active in the Haxtun Methodist Church as a member, chair of the deacon’s committee, liturgist, greeter and whatever was asked of her.

Marlyin is survived by her three children, Bob (Nancy), Bill (Darcy), and Brett (Susan), 8 grandchildren (Jennifer, Christopher, Courtney, Tim, Kelsey, John, Rachel and Lauren, and 7 great grandchildren (Oliver, Matthew, Garret, Grant, Isla, Indi and Margot).

She was a blessing to many and her legacy will continue in the lives of all those she touched – family, students and friends.

Memorial contributions may be made to Haxtun High School FBLA Contests.