It is with deep sadness, yet hopeful hearts, that we announce the passing of Marlene Rudolph, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Marlene received her hug from Jesus, her Lord and Savior, on July 29, 2024, at the age of 87, in Roseau, Minnesota.
Marlene was born on September 5, 1936, to Mathias and Caroline (Hergott) Mather in Shakopee, Minnesota, where she grew up with her seven siblings and later raised her own family.
In October 1959, Marlene married Michael Belchak in Shakopee, where they raised their three children. Marlene was deeply dedicated to her children, always putting their needs first and supporting them in all their endeavors. She later married Larry Rudolph in April 1982. They enjoyed multiple vacations and fishing trips together before his death in 1988. She had a long and fulfilling career at CertainTeed, where she worked for 25 years. After retiring in 2001, she moved to Roseau, where she continued to be an active and loving presence in her family’s lives. She enjoyed volunteering and working at the Pioneer Farm. Every year, Marlene planned a cherished week at a lake cabin, creating lasting memories with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She is survived by her daughters, Chris Drum of Parkers Prairie, MN, and Pam (Keith) Markstrom of Roseau, MN; her six grandchildren, Jason (Erica) Drum, Tara Jenkins, Jeremy (Abby) Markstrom, Nick Markstrom, and Lorna and Logan Belchak; and her eight great-grandchildren, Jackson, Raegan, Audrey, and Kate Drum, and Landen, Piper, Jack, and Elsie Jenkins. Marlene is also survived by her siblings, Rochelle (Terry) Stone, Dick (Debbie) Mather, Ione (Tom) Renneke, Shiela (Mike) Colling, and Jim (DeLaine) Mather, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Marlene was preceded in death by her parents, Caroline and Mathias Mather; her sisters, Mary Rudolph and Ann Loken; her son, John Belchak; her daughter-in-law, Jolene Belchak; and her husbands, Larry Rudolph and Michael Belchak.
A funeral service celebrating Marlene’s life and faith will be held on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at 11:00 am at Helgeson Funeral Chapel in Roseau, MN with visitation an hour prior and lunch to follow. Family and friends are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, memorial charitable donations can be made to Billy Graham Association, Smile Train, or The Roseau Covenant Church. Burial and celebration of life to follow in Shakopee, MN at a later date.
Marlene’s kindness, dedication, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but we take comfort in knowing she is now in the presence of the Lord.
Last modified: 07/31/2024
